Scotts Valley Times: June 2026 by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

County Supervisors Review

Long-Term Strategic Plan

Ambitious Goals Laid Out to Improve Residents’ Lives

By JON CHOWN

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors reviewed a proposed long-range strategic plan May 19 that calls for building more than 2,500 housing units, cutting traffic deaths, expanding mental health care, reducing homelessness and using artificial intelligence to improve county services by 2032.

The proposed “County Strategic Plan 2026–2032” is meant to guide county decisions, priorities and spending over the next six years while reflecting what residents said they want for the future of Santa Cruz County. ... continues on page 4

www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Scotts Valley officials are projecting a difficult financial road ahead as city leaders have adopted a $32.8 million budget for fiscal year 2026-27 that relies on reserve spending and more deficits in the future before it turns around.

Work continues on the 4575 Scotts Valley Apartment project, which will create affordable homes. Projects like this are highlighted in the county’s new strategic plan.

County Supervisors Review Long-Term Strategic Plan: Ambitious Goals Laid Out to Improve Residents’ Lives, By Jon Chown Community News

5 Repairs to Fire Station Cost Nearly $200,000, By Jon Chown

6 The Healthy Way Celebrates 40 Years of Service to the Community June 27

7 SV and SLV High Schools’ Valedictorians and Salutatorians

8 City’s Projected Budget Dips Into the Red: General Fund Reserves Will Have to be Tapped, By Jon Chown • City Unveils $9.4 Million Spending Plan on Improvements: Wastewater Treatment Plant to Get Major Upgrades, By Jon Chown

9 Joe Ortiz to Bring Musical Memoir to Actors’ Theater

10 Summer Shuttle Operating Again At Big Basin • A Pioneer of the Beach: Aptos Woman Writes of Early Life as Lifeguard

16 Proposed County Budget Freezes Hiring, Cuts Vacant Positions: New CEO Nicole Coburn Releases First Spending Plan, By Jon Chown

17 New Fee to Fund Fire Facilities Approved

18 YRB Raises $40,000 at Annual Event • Paving Projects to Continue Through July

19 STS9 Amazes Crowd With Sound and Vision: Santa-Cruz Based Band Headlines Music Festival, By Jon Chown

23 Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Ends on June 7 Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • Pages 11-14

11 Celebrating the People of Scotts Valley • Curious About HELOC and Reverse Mortgages? Join Chamber Chat with Marina Watts • Calendar of Upcoming Community Events

12 Mission Springs Centennial Summer Kickoff and Welcome Center Celebration, By Kelly Gavin, Executive Director

13 Chamber Highlights Community Connection at Valley Women’s Network Mixer • Scotts Valley Chamber Welcomes a New Ambassador

14 Scotts Valley Community Awards Gala

Monthly Horoscope • Page 18 – The Light of Gemini (the Two Brothers) & Mercury with Wings on His Feet, By Risa D’Angeles Community Calendar | Arts & Entertainment • Pages 20, 21 Featured Columnists

22 Honoring our Military and First Responders, By Donna Lind, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley

TPTimes Publishing Group, Inc.

9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003

The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-monthly publication, the Capitola Soquel Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, Aptos’ Fourth of July Parade Official Program Guide and Capitola’s Summer Festivals Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards. Entire contents ©2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission

PHONE: (831) 688-7549

FAX: (831) 688-7551

GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com

Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com

Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com

Editor: info@cyber-times.com

Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com

Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com

Classified Sales: sales@cyber-times.com

Production: production@cyber-times.com

CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement

We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment

COVER STORY

“Strategic Plan” from page 1

“The purpose of the strategic plan is to set forth a vision grounded in the hopes of the people that we serve,” County CEO Nicole D. Coburn wrote in a message included with the report.

The plan lays out a vision for a county that is “healthy, safe, and affordable,” while also being “culturally diverse, economically inclusive, and environmentally vibrant.”

County leaders said the document is designed to act as a roadmap for government decisions, programs and investments through 2032. It includes goals, measurements and strategies in six major focus areas: housing and infrastructure; health, wellbeing and connection; safety and justice; environment, climate and resilience; access to basic needs and support; and economy and job growth.

Among the county’s top goals are permitting more than 2,541 housing units by 2032, cutting transportation deaths and serious injuries by 25%, increasing mental health treatment beds by 50%, and reducing recidivism by 10% over six years.

The plan also calls for reducing homelessness by helping more than half of unhoused households find permanent housing, expanding community gathering spaces, growing family-wage jobs and using artificial intelligence to improve county services.

What’s in the Plan

County officials said the plan is built around three main values: collaboration, accessibility and integrity.

The proposal also includes what county leaders call “implementation lenses,” which are meant to guide decision-making. Those lenses focus on health impacts, equity and financial responsibility.

Housing is one of the biggest parts of the plan. County leaders said the county’s housing shortage affects workers, families and renters across all income levels.

The county hopes to permit more than 2,541 housing units by 2032 by streamlining permits, coordinating infrastructure improvements and supporting affordable housing projects.

Transportation safety is another major focus. The county wants to reduce deadly and serious crashes in unincorporated areas by 25% through safer roads, bike and pedestrian improvements and expanded public transportation options. The plan also mentions continued support for projects like the rail trail.

Mental health care was identified as one of the county’s most urgent unmet needs. The plan calls for a 50% increase in step-down treatment beds and better coordination between health, housing and justice systems.

Second District Supervisor Kim DeSerpa said she was grateful the plan addressed mental health care needs, including more room to care for patients, instead of paying other counties for the care. “It’d be much cheaper to house people in hour own

community, so thank you for putting that in there,” she said.

The strategy on safety and justice focuses on reducing recidivism by 10% over six years.

County leaders said residents want safer communities, stronger support for crime victims and more prevention and reentry programs for people leaving the justice system.

One of the plan’s largest sections focuses on homelessness and access to basic needs.

County officials said homelessness in Santa Cruz County is driven by high housing costs, a lack of affordable housing and gaps in services for people with health or behavioral health needs.

The county wants to maintain a rate where more than half of unhoused households move into permanent housing. The strategy calls for better coordination between housing, health care and social service agencies, while expanding supportive housing and improving access to services.

The report notes that African Americans, Native Americans, LGBTQ+ residents and men are disproportionately represented among people experiencing homelessness. County leaders also said adults with disabilities are becoming a larger part of the unhoused population.

Third District Supervisor Justin Cummings said he’d still like to see the plan address housing more substantively. “How do we build affordable units? Because we can build housing and we can meet all the numbers, but if the number of units that we’re building aren’t ones that people can afford, then were building housing without actually addressing the problem,” he said, also noting that the community and local economy is more stable when community members like teachers could afford homes.

“A lot of middle class people are mostly renting because they can’t afford home ownership, right? And we have a hard time recruiting and retaining people in a variety of different sectors.”

The plan also includes a future federal policy response strategy that is expected to return in fall 2026. County officials said changes in federal funding, immigration enforcement and health and housing policies

could have major impacts on local residents and county programs.

Economic development is another major priority in the proposed plan.

County officials said industries such as biotechnology, health care, aviation and emerging drone technology could help create more family-wage jobs in the county. Tourism, agriculture and hospitality were also described as key parts of the local economy.

The county’s goal is to increase the share of family-wage jobs to 46% by strengthening workforce partnerships, expanding career training and supporting higher-paying industries.

The report points to partnerships with groups such as Cabrillo College, University of California, Santa Cruz and El Pajaro Community Development Corporation as important parts of workforce development efforts.

The plan also highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence in county government.

County officials said AI tools could help reduce paperwork and administrative tasks, allowing employees to spend more time directly serving residents. The county said it hopes to create custom AI systems based on local data while avoiding privacy risks, surveillance concerns and bias.

The proposal includes goals for improving service response times, increasing transparency and making services easier to access across different languages and communities.

How the Plan Was Made

Officials said one of the most important parts of the process was hearing directly from residents.

According to the county, the plan was shaped through more than 4,500 points of community engagement between 2024 and 2026. That outreach included town halls, surveys, focus groups and meetings across all five supervisorial districts.

Supervisor Monica Martinez, District 5, said having the plan in regular language that people can understand has resonated with the public.

Patrice Edwards

Jon Chown

Bill Pooley, Erik Long

Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine

Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti

Oppenheimer

COMMUNITY NEWS

Repairs to Fire Station Cost Nearly $200,000

By JON CHOWN

Astatus update given to the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors during its May 19 meeting has shed a little light on the extent of the damage done by an arson attack at the McDermott Fire Station on March 18.

At approximately 4:43 a.m. on March 18, sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a water tender engulfed in flames at the station. The fire had been extinguished by firefighters at the scene, but the 2024 Kenworth T48 Fouts Fire tanker was a complete loss, according to a press release from the county issued at the time.

Investigators believe it was arson, but all other information regarding the incident has been closely guarded by the county, especially what led investigators to believe it was arson, whether security cameras captured the incident, were working or had even been installed.

According to the county’s status report given to supervisors, the incident originated in the apparatus bay, and more than just the fire tanker was damaged. A Type 3 Engine parked beside it was also damaged, as well as the apparatus bay doors. Smoke damage extended throughout portions of the station.

In all, repairs are expected to exceed $193,393, which does not include replacing the fire tanker, according to the status update.

McDermott Station is located at the intersection of Empire Grade, Ice Cream Grade and Felton-Empire Road. The station was constructed in 2004. According to the

“Strategic Plan” from page 4

“It has just been so refreshing to go through a process that continues to emerge based on real feedback and I think that is reflected throughout this entire document.,” she said.

The county said it made special efforts to reach groups that are often left out of government planning, including farmworkers, immigrants, seniors, youth, people experiencing homelessness, small business owners and rural residents.

County officials said five major themes came up again and again during the outreach process.

Housing was described as the county’s top issue across nearly every community. Residents also said mental health services remain one of the biggest unmet needs.

People repeatedly pointed to the high cost of living as a major barrier, saying wages have not kept up with housing and other expenses.

Residents also stressed the importance

Santa Cruz County Department Long-Range Master Plan created in 2023, it is equipped with sprinklers and there is a security camera in the apparatus bay. The ground floor is occupied by volunteer quarters. The second floor is primarily used for equipment storage.

The station is designed to house three vehicles and act as a disaster center for the Bonny Doon area. There are 16 firefighters assigned between the Bonny Doon and McDermott fire stations, according to the Master Plan. n

of trust in government, especially through bilingual services, trusted community partners and clear communication.

Another common concern was the difficulty of navigating county systems and services.

The county said the strategic plan is meant to stay flexible as conditions change. Two major strategies — a federal policy response strategy and a climate action strategy — are still being developed and are expected to return in 2026 and 2027.

“I’d like to see this continue to be refined down,” said First District Supervisor Manu Koenig. He referrred to the Rule of Three, noting how easy it is to remember and repeat three simple ideas. “What I see here are six things, seven things. Let’s just keep simplifying.”

Supervisors are expected to continue gathering feedback from residents, county staff and community organizations before the final version comes back for approval later this summer. n

Courtesy of Santa Cruz County

The Healthy Way Celebrates 40 Years of Service to the Community June 27

SANTA CRUZ — The Healthy Way has reached a major milestone this year that is a measure of its own health: 40 years in business in Santa Cruz County and the pleasure of serving over 10,000 clients.

There have been some major challenges over the years, like the ’89 earthquake, the CZU fire, Covid, recessionary periods, increased competition, but the company has enjoyed steady growth and has never laid off any employees.

20 years! They really know their stuff and we are like a finely oiled machine, working together to create lasting health benefits.”

Local music icon Sherry Austin, who successfully lost 30 pounds with the help of The Healthy Way several years ago, continues to participate in the maintenance program to ensure her ongoing success.

Bianchini says long-term success rates are the reason for The Healthy Way’s longevity.

The Healthy Way currently employs seven Santa Cruz County residents at their original location: 3251 Mission Drive, near Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz.

The Healthy Way founder and president Cheri Bianchini was a hard-working, 28-yearold nurse when she decided to leave her head nurse position at Stanford Hospital to help people improve their health and lifestyle. She purchased The Diet Center of Santa Cruz County franchise and four years later re-launched the business as The Healthy Way.

“What I am most proud of is that two years after completing The Healthy Way, 60% of clients are within five pounds of when they graduated,” she explained. “That’s unheard of in the industry. Local health professionals realize this and regularly refer us clients.”

The Healthy Way is also proud of their long-standing partnership with Hospice of Santa Cruz County. Dozens of fundraisers over the years have generated over $10,000 in donations to Hospice. Cheri Bianchini is an active volunteer for Hospice, leading Loss of Spouse groups for their Grief Support Program.

“Realizing what we eat is ground zero for all health, we pioneered an approach that continues to be a cornerstone of our successful programs today,” said Bianchini. “We help people overcome their addiction to sugar and highly processed foods and teach them strategies for proper nutrition for long-term weight loss.”

When clients eat well to lose weight, they don’t feel deprived.

“I’ve never eaten so well!” exclaimed Ed Martinez, a Healthy Way graduate who has maintained a 30-pound weight loss.

Open most days 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Healthy Way’s caring staff, who have all been clients, are dedicated to providing extraordinary customer service and ongoing weight maintenance support.

According to Bianchini, “The shining glory at Healthy Way is our long-term staff, all of which have been working here more than

Anniversary Celebration Planned The Healthy Way is holding a 40th anniversary health fair extravaganza to thank its many clients and Santa Cruz County for 4 wonderful decades!

The event will feature a variety of free activities including lots of healthy food sampling and giveaways, cooking demonstrations, health consultations, special pricing on programs, lots of free raffle prizes, health related vendors, and class presentations by internationally known icons of health, Dr. Christopher Hobbs and Rainya Dann.

Music will be provided by KPIG radio who will broadcast live from The Healthy Way parking lot. n

The celebration will take place Saturday, June 27, noon – 3 p.m. at 3251 Mission Drive, Santa Cruz, near Dominican Hospital. For more information about The Healthy Way and the celebration schedule visit www.thehealthyway.us.

COMMUNITY NEWS

SV and SLV High Schools’ Valedictorians and Salutatorians

Scotts Valley High School and San Lorenzo Valley High have announced the valedictorians and salutatorians of the Class of 2026.

The Scotts Valley Times congratulates these students and all the graduating seniors in the Class of 2026.

Scotts Valley High School

Valedictorians

Jacob Berman

Attending: Wesleyan University

Majoring in: Physics

Future Plans: Would like to get into research

Interests: Soccer, reading, chess and rock climbing

Aditya Hannon

Attending: UC Berkeley

Majoring in: Chemistry Engineering

Future Plans: Would like to become an anesthesiologist

Interests: Tennis and chess

Salutatorian

Evan Wong

Attending: UC Berkeley

Majoring in: Physics

Future Plans: Would like to become a medical physicist

Interests: Soccer, guitar & road track

San Lorenzo Valley High School

Valedictorians

Eric Pearson

Attending: Cal Poly SLO

Majoring in: Forestry and Fire Science

Future Plans: Potentially working for Cal Fire

Akuia Reisewitz-Oteng

Attending: Taking a gap year volunteering on a ship

Majoring in: Psychology

Ellawyn Strudley

Attending: Cal Poly SLO

Majoring in: Biology

Future Plans: Would like to study botany and make a big change to the world to help the environment.

Salutatorians

Mason Leopold

Attending: Cabrillo College

Majoring in: Environmental Science

Future Plans: Ecology and hopefully becoming certified in GIS working in watersheds.

Elani Schreiber

Attending: Penn State University

Majoring in: Marketing with a Biochem Minor

Future Plans: Sports or Fashion marketing n

Scotts Valley High School Valedictorians and Salutatorian

San Lorenzo Valley High School Valedictorians and Salutatorians

City’s Projected Budget Dips Into the Red General Fund Reserves Will Have to be Tapped

By JON CHOWN

City Manager Mail LaGoe presented the proposed budget and long-range financial forecast to the Scotts Valley City Council on May 20. The budget includes funding for city operations, infrastructure projects, recreation programs and community investments through the upcoming fiscal year.

According to the staff report, total city revenues are projected at about $32.8 million, including about $16.6 million in tax revenues from sales tax, property tax, Measure Z and Measure X. Total expenditures are projected at about $38 million. That includes $27.3 million in operating costs, about $9.4 million in capital improvement projects and remaining costs tied to special revenue funds.

To balance the budget, the city plans to use about $900,000 in General Fund reserves along with about $4.3 million from other city funds for capital projects, recreation programs and restricted activities.

LaGoe said that a lot of money used from reserves will be for maintenance projects that have been delayed. “So the city is definitely trying to get caught up on a lot of different deferred maintenance,” she said. “So it definitely is a good use of the reserves we have there.”

LeGoe said the actual impact could end up lower because of project delays, vacant positions and operational savings during the year.

The budget includes one new full-time engineering technician position to help manage the city’s growing list of capital projects. It also converts a temporary part-time administrative support position in the Police Department into a permanent part-time job.

City

Unveils

By JON CHOWN

A major focus of the report was the city’s long-range financial outlook.

According to the forecast, Measure Z sales tax revenues continue to be essential for Scotts Valley, but overall revenue growth is expected to remain mostly flat because of economic uncertainty and inflation pressures.

Measure X business license tax revenues are projected to generate about $1.2 million during their first full year in fiscal year 2026-27.

Despite those revenue sources, the report warns that rising labor costs, pension obligations, debt payments and infrastructure maintenance are expected to push expenditures higher than revenues in future years. Under current projections, the city’s General Fund reserve balance could fall below the

city’s minimum reserve target during fiscal year 2027-28. Without additional revenue or spending changes, forecasts show reserves could eventually be depleted within the next decade.

LeGoe said the city is continuing to review staffing levels and funding opportunities to improve the long-term outlook. The report outlined several strategies the city is considering to address future deficits. Those include monitoring Measure X revenues, studying a future hotel tax increase, reviewing vacant positions before refilling them and refining how special revenue funds are used to reduce pressure on the General Fund.

LeGoe said the city is mulling over the idea of a 2026 ballot measure that would increase the transient occupancy tax, or hotel tax, from 11% to 12%, with an option to raise it as high as 13%. The staff report said the increase would align Scotts Valley with nearby cities in Santa Cruz County.

However, the projected deficits do eventually turn around, according to the analysis. Council Member Steve Clarke pointed this out, as well the fact that when more housing is built, as well as more commercial space, tax revenues are going to increase even more.

“So there’s reason for sunshine coming over the horizon at some point,” Clarke said.

The budget also continues the city’s emphasis on infrastructure investment through the proposed Capital Improvement Program, which totals about $9.4 million for fiscal year 2026-27.

During fiscal year 2025-26, the city expects to complete about $4.5 million in capital projects, including roughly $1.8 million in roadway resurfacing that covered 15 lane miles across the city.

“Red Budjet” page 19

$9.4 Million Spending Plan on Improvements Wastewater Treatment Plant to Get Major Upgrades

SCOTTS VALLEY — Scotts Valley city leaders are preparing to spend more than

$9.4 million on infrastructure, equipment and public improvement projects during the 2026-27 fiscal year under a proposed fiveyear Capital Improvement Plan.

The plan, presented to the Scotts Valley City Council on May 20, outlines projects running through fiscal year 2030-31 and focuses heavily on wastewater upgrades, transportation improvements, storm drain repairs, parks and public facilities.

According to the staff report from Public

Works Director Rodolfo Onchi, the proposed Capital Improvement Plan totals $9,426,650 citywide for fiscal year 2026-27. That includes $8,536,150 for major capital projects and $890,500 for capital outlay projects.

The city uses the Capital Improvement Plan, commonly called the CIP, as a longrange planning document for infrastructure, facilities, vehicles and equipment. The plan is updated each year to help guide funding and scheduling decisions.

City staff divided projects into three priority levels. Priority A projects are considered essential for public safety, regulatory compliance or protecting infrastructure.

Priority B projects are important for maintaining services and quality of life, while Priority C projects may be delayed until more funding is available.

Wastewater projects make up a major share of the proposed spending. The wastewater section of the five-year plan totals $1,823,000 in fiscal year 2026-27, followed by $4,790,000 in 2027-28 and $2 million in 2028-29. This includes work on wastewater treatment plant reliability, collection system upgrades, lift stations and continued planning for a membrane bioreactor, or MBR, upgrade.

“Improvements” page 17

Scotts Valley wastewater treatment plant is in line for major improvements.

Joe Ortiz to Bring Musical Memoir to Actors’ Theater

Capitola songwriter and restaurateur

Joe Ortiz will bring his musical memoir Escaping Queens–Over the Roof to the Santa Cruz Actors’ Theater this

The production runs Thursdays through Sundays from July 3 through Aug. 2 at Santa Cruz Actors’ Theater.

The musical tells the story of an immigrant family living near New York’s Queensboro Bridge. The family struggles with poverty and a father’s problems with alcohol, gambling and money. At the center of the story is 12-year-old Joey, who learns about family, music and hope while trying to escape a difficult life.

The show includes colorful characters such as a Puerto Rican father, an Italian mother, a teenage daughter, a neighborhood bookie and a group of Doo Wop singers.

Ortiz based the musical on his memoir, Pastina—My Father’s Misfortune, My Mother’s

Actor Adam Saucedo stars as Herman, the father of the family. Saucedo previously played the lead role in Cabrillo Stage’s production of Sweeney Todd. Lori Rivera stars as Mama, the family’s mother. Rivera has performed in Santa Cruz productions for many years.

The musical is co-directed by Greg Fritsch and Cathy D. Warner.

According to reviewer Wallace Baine, the musical turns “an earthy story full of pain and passion into an elegant and sophisticated evening of cultivated emotional complexity.”

Ortiz is also known in Santa Cruz County as co-owner of Gayle›s Bakery in Capitola. In addition to his bakery work, he has written theater productions including Bread!—The Musical and Smoke Cabaret n

Good Soup. The production first premiered at Cabrillo Stage in 2012.

Greg Fritsch at Rehearsal

Lori Rivera and Darren Daily

Summer Shuttle Operating Again At Big Basin

BOULDER CREEK — Summer shuttle has returned to Big Basin Redwoods State Park beginning Memorial Day weekend, providing expanded public access as the park continues to recover from the devastating 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire.

The seasonal shuttle program will operate weekends and holidays through Labor Day. The free shuttle service will carry visitors between the Saddle Mountain overflow parking lot and the park’s main day-use area near the historic core.

The shuttle, which is ADA-accessible and equipped with a bike rack, will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. When parking in the main day-use area reaches capacity, visitors will be directed to the Saddle Mountain lot at Highway 236 and Little Basin Road. Parking there costs $10, though the shuttle ride itself is free.

The announcement also marks the reopening Friday of the park’s Sequoia Trail and Sempervirens Falls loop for the first time since the fire. The 2.9-mile trail offers views of the 20-foot Sempervirens Falls and can be

combined with part of the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail to create a 4.3-mile loop through recovering redwood forest.

More than 230,000 people have visited

Big Basin since California’s oldest state park partially reopened in July 2022. Since then, officials said an interim visitor center has opened, more than 20 miles of trails have been restored

and camping has resumed on the coastal side of the park at Rancho del Oso through a temporary walk-in and bike-in campground.

Visitors are encouraged to reserve parking in advance online. Reservations cost $8, including a $2 reservation fee that supports park programs through Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks. All California State Parks day-use passes are accepted.

In addition to the shuttle service, visitors can reach the park using Santa Cruz METRO Route 35 bus service, which operates weekends and holidays with five scheduled stops daily. Riders can park for free at the Scotts Valley METRO Station and take the bus directly to the park. Bus riders receive free park entry and guaranteed access.

The CZU Lightning Complex Fire burned more than 97% of Big Basin in 2020, destroying nearly every structure in the park, including headquarters buildings, campgrounds and employee housing. State parks officials said a full reopening will take several more years as long-term rebuilding and restoration plans move forward. n

A Pioneer of the Beach: Aptos Woman Writes of Early Life as Lifeguard

By JON CHOWN

Before Baywatch turned California lifeguards into pop culture icons running in slow motion down the beach, Aptos resident Debbie Friedman was already on the job — pulling swimmers from dangerous surf, responding to car crashes and breaking barriers as one of California’s first female ocean lifeguards.

Now the 66-year-old Debbie Friedman is telling those stories in her new memoir, Guarded: Women, Water, and Saving Lives, which follows the first generation of women

who entered the male-dominated world of California ocean lifeguarding in the late 1970s.

“Nothing had been written about that generation,” Friedman said. “And that’s a big part of why I wrote it.”

Friedman began lifeguarding in 1978 at Huntington and San Clemente state beaches. She said she was the only woman standing on the starting line during her first tryout.

the public touchstone, it’s what people think of when you mention lifeguarding,” she said. “People look for lifeguards now.”

But Friedman said the real experience was far different from the television version.

“Baywatch is still relevant today. That’s

“Think about yourself in the late teens and 20s, and charged with life and death responsibilities, and your coming of age,” she said. “I write a lot about the fear that nobody loses their life.”

She said the work created lifelong friendships and shaped who she became.

“These people are your tribe,” Friedman said. “It just helped balance who I became, the woman I wanted to become.”

Friedman worked as an ocean lifeguard for 12 years before moving to Santa Cruz County in 1989. She now lives in Aptos and said she still walks the beaches below her home and watches the ocean.

In the book, Friedman mixes her own memories with stories from other early women lifeguards across California, including pioneering surfer and lifeguard Joyce Hoffman.

“Different women up and down the coast of California, we experienced different cultures, different beaches with different conditions,” she said. “It wasn’t all the same story.”

But in general, Friedman said conditions on the beach in the late 1970s and 1980s were rougher and more dangerous than they are today.

“There were no jet skis, the paddle boards were heavy,” she said. “Alcohol was allowed on the beach. We dealt with drunks a lot and spent a lot of time dealing with chaos and violence on the beach.”

She also remembered the poor working conditions women faced.

“I talk about how horrible our swimsuits were … and the bathroom,” Friedman said. “There was just great concern over where everyone was going to the bathroom.”

She said many beaches did not provide women with equal access to restrooms or changing facilities.

Big Basin Forest

Debbie Friedman

Celebrating the People of Scotts Valley

The Scotts Valley Community Awards

Gala was a magical evening celebrating the people, organizations, and businesses that make our community so special at Bret Harte Hall in Roaring Camp. The night was filled with connection, appreciation, and heartfelt recognition for those who go above and beyond to serve Scotts Valley.

Congratulations to each of the outstanding 2025 award winners!

Educators of the Year

The Scotts Valley School District Counseling Team

Lauren Hicks • Abbie Stevens

Grace Wahl • Katie Feickert

Sarah Hershey • MacKenzie Keller

Ryan Navaroli • Allison Baumsteiger

Man of the Year

Adam Cosner

Woman of the Year

Monica Aldana

Organization of the Year Arukah Project

Business of the Year Roaring Camp Railroads

Ambassador of the Year

Cheyanne Donald Diaz

Youth of the Year

Dylan Turzak

A huge thank you to everyone who worked so hard behind the scenes to make this incredible event possible. From the donated wine and beer to raffle baskets and auction items, the amazing dinner from Barbara & Co. and delicious desserts from Hot Pink Box.

To everyone that bought tickets and attended, and those who jumped in to help in all the ways. It takes a lot of organization, management and work by many people to pull off a party like this one! We are also deeply grateful to all the

Curious About HELOC and Reverse Mortgages? Join Chamber Chat with Marina Watts

The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce invites the community to an upcoming Chamber Chat: Curious About HELOC and Reverse Mortgages, on Wednesday, June 24 from 11 a.m. to Noon at the Scotts Valley Library. Hosted by local mortgage loan originator

Marina Watts of HighTechLending, the educational seminar is designed for

homeowners age 55+ who are interested in learning more about home equity options, including HELOCs, Home Equity Conversion Mortgages, and Jumbo Reverse Mortgages.

Attendees will learn how homeowners are using equity to support aging in place, fund home improvements, increase monthly cash flow, and help cover healthcare costs.

The discussion will also explore the differences between traditional home equity lines of credit and reverse mortgage options available to older homeowners.

The free event is open to the public and offers an opportunity for community members to ask questions and better understand the financial tools available to them as they plan for the future.

For more information, contact Marina Watts at 831-535-9760 or visit marinawatts.com

sponsors whose generosity and support helped create such a memorable evening celebrating the very best of Scotts Valley.

Photos at end of Chamber Newsletter

Calendar of Upcoming Community Events

Monday, June 22

5 – 8:30p.m. — Business Appreciation and Community Night

Wednesday, June 24 11

Saturday, August 15 •Sunday, August 16

More

Dayna Nedney and Youth of the Year Dylan Turzak

Valley Churches United joined in the fun

Marina Watts

Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce

Scotts Valley Chamber News

Mission Springs Centennial Summer Kickoff and Welcome Center Celebration

By KELLY GAVIN, Executive Director

We were honored to gather at Mission Springs to celebrate the opening of their new Welcome Center and recognize a truly remarkable milestone, 100 years of faith, service, connection, and community at Mission Springs Camps and Conference Center.

As a valued Chamber member and community partner, Mission Springs has long demonstrated what it means to invest in both people and place. Their presence strengthens not only the local economy, but also the spirit of Scotts Valley itself. By welcoming visitors from near and far, fostering meaningful relationships, and creating unforgettable experiences, Mission Springs has impacted generations of families and guests.

Mission Springs serves as a full-service conference center while also offering summer camps for elementary, junior high, and high

school students through Frontier Camp, along with year-round outdoor education and science programs. The organization continues to provide a unique environment where community, learning, and nature come together beneath the redwoods.

During a recent tour with Jennifer Drummond, Mission Springs Director of Advancement, I was immediately reminded

of the beauty and sense of connection Mission Springs inspires. It had been nearly 40 years since my father first brought me there, and I still remembered how impressed he was by the welcoming community atmosphere. Seeing the property again was a powerful reminder of the natural beauty and experiences available right here in Scotts Valley.

3BR/1BA Sunny Spacious Single-Level Stand-alone Home at 14630 Two Bar Road #5 in Boulder Creek. Newer interior paint and ﬂooring throughout. Deck overlooking the creek. W/D hookups. Parking for 2-3 vehicles. No pets.. AVAIL NOW

4BR/1.5BA Charming Single-level Farm House at 8900 East Zayante Rd in Felton. Large eat-in kitchen w/buffet, full-sized appliances, ample cabinetry and walk-in pantry. LR. FR w/wood burning stove. Mud room. Patio. Garden. Driveway parking for 2-3 vehicles. AVAIL NOW

2BR/1BA Single-Level Home at 455 Maple Avenue in Ben Lomond near downtown. Eat-in kitchen. Fireplace in the living room. W/D hookups in single-car garage. Large yard. 1 pet negotiable. AVAIL NOW

Newly Renovated 1BR/1BA Apartment in a Tri-plex at 120 Beulah Court in Santa Cruz. New ﬂooring & interior paint. No onsite laundry. Terriﬁc commute location. Close to shopping & restaurants. Off street parking. AVAIL NOW

Tranquil 1BR/1BA 2-story Apartment at 5344 Taylor Way in Felton. Full kitchen including D/W. New interior paint. New ﬂooring. Lg walk-in closet. Gas ﬁreplace. W/D. 1 pet ok. Private Patio. AVAIL NOW

Since that visit, I have continued sharing the story of Mission Springs and the incredible opportunities it offers. It is especially exciting to think about the many campers arriving in Scotts Valley this summer to spend time away from technology and immersed in nature at Frontier Camp.

Mission Springs’ centennial celebration is also a testament to resilience and vision. Through floods, fires, earthquakes, a pandemic, and decades of change, the organization has continued to grow while remaining true

to its mission of renewal, wonder, and connection. This ribbon cutting represents both a celebration of history and an investment in the future.

The new Welcome Center stands as a symbol of hospitality, growth, and continued commitment to every guest who visits Mission Springs. It reflects their dedication to ensuring this special place continues serving future generations for the next 100 years.

On behalf of the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce, congratulations to everyone at Mission Springs on this Centennial Celebration, the opening of the beautiful new Welcome Center, and this extraordinary milestone. We are grateful for your partnership, leadership, and continued commitment to the Scotts Valley community. We also extend a warm welcome to all the campers and counselors visiting Scotts Valley this summer, how lucky are we that so many come to our area for their summer trips ... pretty cool.

For more information about Mission Springs and its programs, visit: www.missionsprings.com

Chuck Wysong, Executive Director

Chamber Highlights Community Connection at Valley Women’s Network Mixer

The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce was grateful for the opportunity to share who we are and what we do at the Valley Women’s Network Mixer in May hosted by MyTherapyWorks, an event that highlighted the power of connection, collaboration, and local leadership among women in the community.

The mixer offered more than a social gathering; it served as a visible example of how community-centered spaces can help women build professional relationships, share experiences, and support one another’s work across Scotts Valley, San Lorenzo Valley, and the rest of Santa Cruz County.

We had a fantastic time meeting so many amazing women and hope more women looking for like-minded, communityfocused groups will try Valley Women’s Network and attend an upcoming mixer, where newcomers are welcomed and local connections continue to grow, all with some delicious wine.

For more information, visit mytherapyworks.com.

Scotts Valley Chamber Welcomes a New Ambassador

For Beronica Espinoza Garcia, hospitality is all about people, connections, and making others feel like they belong. Now, she is bringing that same energy to her role as a new Ambassador for the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce, alongside her work as Sales Manager at the Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley.

A Santa Cruz local with more than six years in hospitality, Beronica got her start while attending California State University, Monterey Bay, working the front desk at Fairfield Inn and Suites in Capitola. From there, she quickly worked her way up at the Dream Inn Santa Cruz, moving from Sales Coordinator to Event Manager in just a year,

planning everything from corporate meetings to community events.

Today, she is known for building strong relationships and creating memorable experiences, skills that translate perfectly into her role as an Ambassador. Inspired by her earlier involvement with the Santa Cruz Chamber, she saw joining Scotts Valley as a natural next step and a chance to give back to a community she deeply believes in.

Ask her what makes Scotts Valley special, and she will tell you it is the people. She describes it as a close knit, supportive place where showing up for one another truly matters. Whether it is cheering on local businesses, collaborating on events like the Scotts

She brings a positive, welcoming spirit to everything she does and believes the best ambassadors are those who are energetic, genuine, and ready to connect. Her advice for anyone considering getting involved is simple. Jump in. You might be surprised how quickly it starts to feel like home.

In her words, the Ambassador group is a mix of passionate people who come together, lift each other up, and make great things happen. And with Beronica now part of that team, there is no doubt she is helping do exactly that.

Valley Art Wine & Beer Festival, or simply making connections, Beronica believes community is built through action.

Beronica Espinoza Garcia

“Guarded” from page 10

“The bathroom thing was really about otherizing women,” she said. “Women didn’t have access to the same facilities.”

Friedman said sexism also came from the public, especially while working at San Clemente’s military beach.

“A lot of Marines didn’t know how to swim and didn’t want to be rescued by a woman,” she said. “These big guys did not want to be rescued by a woman.”

Still, she said emergencies usually erased those attitudes, but at times she had to shout at them like drill sergeant.

“When a person is in real trouble, they are not going to care who you are,” she said.

Friedman said the job is centered on prevention more than dramatic rescues.

“The idea is always stressed upon to be as preventative as possible,” she said. “You get people out of the water before they even know they are in trouble.”

Over her career, she estimated she saves at least a couple hundred lives while making hundreds of rescues.

“The scariest ones are the ones that have already escalated,” she said.

She also recalled responding to serious traffic crashes along Pacific Coast Highway before paramedics arrived, discovering grisly scenes that she still can’t erase from memory.

“That was a big part of it, unfortunately,” Friedman said.

The book project began about three years ago after Friedman realized there were few written accounts from the first generation of women lifeguards.

“At first I thought I was writing a history,” she said. “Then I started writing about myself.”

She said looking through old photographs and interviewing former lifeguards brought back memories she thought were gone.

“I thought my memory was poor,” Friedman said. “But things came back the longer I worked on it.”

The book also explores the impact of

Title IX, the federal law that expanded opportunities for women in sports and education.

“Fewer women remember what it was like not having sports programs,” Friedman said. “It was a time when women were being introduced into a lot of new professions.”

She said writing the memoir helped her reflect on those years with more perspective.

“You are able to see things with more humor and perspective, and look back without anger and malice,” Friedman said.

“It was not all obstacles. It was just a time of great unknowns and fears.”

Friedman recently held a book event at the La Selva Community Center that drew about 100 people, including old friends and former coworkers.

“Santa Cruz County loves its lifeguards,” she said. “It’s been an incredible experience to feel that.” n

The book is also available locally through Two Birds Books and Bookshop Santa Cruz, and online at www.towerpress.com. Friedman is scheduled to speak about the book July 12 at the Live Oak Library Annex in Santa Cruz County. Register at: santacruzpl.libnet.info/event/16247280

Debbie Friedman holds a copy of her book.

Photo courtesy Ed Vodrazka

Kim Raymont and Debbie Friedman at San Clemente Beach in 1978.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Proposed County Budget Freezes Hiring, Cuts Vacant Positions

New CEO Nicole Coburn Releases First Spending Plan

By JON CHOWN

SANTA CRUZ — County of Santa Cruz has released its proposed $1.29 billion budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, the first budget presented by new County Executive Officer Nicole D. Coburn.

According to a letter Coburn released at the same time, the budget protects essential public services, avoids layoffs and maintains core operations despite a projected $23.2 million General Fund deficit and growing financial pressure from federal policy changes, labor costs and inflation.

The proposed budget includes an $844.1 million General Fund and supports 2,682.28 full-time equivalent positions. That is a reduction of 57.88 funded positions from the current fiscal year, though officials said no employees would lose their jobs because the eliminated positions are vacant.

“When we began developing the FY 2026-27 Proposed Budget, the County faced a projected General Fund deficit of approximately $23 million — one that, absent corrective action, was forecast to exceed $67 million in subsequent years,” Coburn wrote.

According to her letter, federal policy changes under H.R. 1, also known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” are reducing funding and increasing costs for public health, behavioral health and social services programs.

Santa Cruz County families depend on, and those reductions will deepen in the years ahead.”

“This budget arrives at a difficult moment,” Coburn’s budget overview states. “Unprecedented federal policy changes under H.R. 1 are reducing funding for programs that thousands of

To close the budget gap, the county used a combination of spending cuts, hiring restrictions, increased revenues and one-time funding sources.

The plan includes a countywide hiring freeze on vacant General Fund positions, targeted reductions in services and supplies, and the elimination of nearly 58 vacant jobs across county departments.

The largest staffing reductions are in the Health Services Agency, which would lose 23.1 vacant positions, and the Human Services Department, which would lose 25.5 vacant positions. Coburn wrote that those departments face the greatest financial pressure from reduced federal funding.

The budget also increases revenue through higher reimbursement rates at County Health Centers and a new parking fee pilot program at County Parks.

According to Coburn, the county will use $43 million in one-time resources to balance the budget, including $30.8 million from General Fund reserves and $12.2 million from department trust funds and other non-recurring sources.

As a result, county reserves are projected to fall from 12.5% to 10.4% of General Fund expenses.

“This approach has a cost,” the budget document states. “These resources will not be available in FY 2027-28.”

Coburn warned that the projected deficit could exceed $67 million in future years unless the county finds long-term solutions through new revenues, spending reductions or changes to county services.

“The structural imbalance persists,” the budget states. “The most significant ongoing structural drivers are labor cost growth … and the escalating impacts of H.R. 1 on County health and human services programs.”

Coburn called the budget a temporary solution while the county works on broader financial reforms.

“I want to be clear that this budget is a stopgap,” Coburn wrote. “We have challenging work ahead of us, and the Board of Supervisors, County staff, community partners, and members of

the public will need to work together on solutions.”

Despite the financial challenges, the budget continues funding for several county priorities.

The county plans to maintain a $2 million Measure K investment for road paving, culvert repair and striping. Another $1 million in Measure K funding will support parks and environmental projects, with $200,000 allocated to each supervisorial district.

The budget also includes $1 million from Measure K for housing projects and another $1 million for homelessness reduction programs. County officials said the homelessness investments have helped reduce the number of unhoused people through new facilities and services.

Funding will continue for the 701 Ocean Street Housing Viability Study, which officials described as one of the county’s most significant affordable housing sites.

The budget also funds the county’s AI Elevation and Standardization Workplan 2026, including enterprise software licensing, staff training, technical support and pilot projects aimed at modernizing county operations.

“These investments are not luxuries,” Coburn said. “They will allow us to make the best and highest use of our staff, focusing on solving problems and improving services.”

The county is also moving forward with the formation of an Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District in unincorporated areas to help fund infrastructure and economic development projects.

County officials said additional risks remain, including uncertainty over future federal reimbursements for storm recovery costs and potential reductions in state funding tied to the governor’s May budget revision.

“The State of California must step up,” Coburn said. “Counties, including Santa Cruz County, cannot absorb the fiscal consequences of federal policy choices alone.”

Public budget hearings are scheduled for June 10 and June 24 at the South County Government Center in Watsonville and June 11 at board chambers in Santa Cruz. n •••

The proposed budget is available at sccbudget. us.

New Fee to Fund Fire Facilities Approved

Scotts Valley developers will have a new fee to pay after the Scotts Valley City Council on May 20 approved a new fire facilities impact fee aimed at helping fund emergency infrastructure tied to future development and rising wildfire risks.

Council members approved the second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 203, amending the city’s municipal code to establish a Fire Facilities Impact Fee on new development projects within the city. The fee was requested by the Scotts Valley Fire Protection District, which lacks independent authority to impose development impact fees.

City officials said the new fee will support construction and acquisition of fire protection facilities, equipment and other capital assets needed as growth continues in Scotts Valley. The ordinance cites increasing wildfire threats across California and projections showing elevated wildfire probability in Santa Cruz County over coming decades.

Under a memorandum of understanding approved earlier this month, the city will

“Improvements” from page 8

“You can’t help but notice all of the improvements going on over at Wastewater,” said City Council Member Steve Clarke, who went to ask Public Works Director Rodolfo Onchi if there was a way to quantify how much of it could be attributed to the plant having to increase capacity due to new requirements from the state to build more housing.

Onchi said it would be difficult to put a number on, but it was definitely a fair statement to say that a lot of the work is due to the extra capacity required.

The largest wastewater project scheduled for 2026-27 is $748,000 for the MBR upgrade. Another $2.09 million is planned for the following fiscal year. The city also plans to spend $575,000 on collection system pipeline upgrades and $300,000 on wastewater treatment plant collection lift stations during 2026-27.

Transportation projects account for the largest overall category in the plan. The city proposes spending $3,959,150 on transportation improvements during fiscal year 2026-27.

Among the largest transportation projects are $1,575,000 for Scotts Valley Drive corridor improvements, $1 million for annual street resurfacing and repair, and $759,150 for Mount Hermon Road improvements.

The city also included future funding for the Granite Creek Overpass project, with $3 million projected in fiscal year 2027-28. Other transportation projects include bicycle and pedestrian improvements, pedestrian safety lighting on Scotts Valley Drive and traffic signal upgrades.

Storm drain projects total $737,000 in fiscal

... the city will collect the fees on behalf of the fire district and retain 5% to offset administrative costs.

collect the fees on behalf of the fire district and retain 5% to offset administrative costs.

The ordinance takes effect 30 days after adoption, at which point the city will begin collecting the fees on newly permitted development projects. The ordinance authorizes the Scotts Valley Fire Protection District to establish the fee later by resolution. In 2025, the district proposed these rates for new development:

• Residential development: about 52 cents per square foot, averaging roughly $2,485 per new home

• Assisted living: about $10,876 per bed

• Hotel/motel: about $755 per room

• Commercial retail: about $1,057 per 1,000 square feet

• Office: about $680 per 1,000 square feet

• Industrial: about $151 per 1,000 square feet n

year 2026-27. Planned projects include $327,000 for Pinecone Drive drainage improvements, $300,000 for Granite Creek culvert work and $60,000 for a storm drain trash capture system.

Parks improvements include the continuing buildout of Shugart Park. The city plans to spend $1.2 million on the project during fiscal year 2026-27 and another $1.5 million in 2027-28.

General facilities projects total $817,000 during the upcoming fiscal year. That includes $682,000 for public safety answering point radio equipment upgrades and $135,000 for a Siltanen restroom upgrade.

The capital outlay section of the plan includes smaller projects and equipment purchases totaling $890,500.

Wastewater enterprise fund projects include a $75,000 dewatering polymer makedown system, a $65,000 grit pump and a $45,000 recycled water pump replacement.

Government-funded capital outlay projects include an $80,000 police patrol vehicle, a $100,000 boom truck for tree work, a $65,000 parks lighting project and several sidewalk repair projects.

The proposed plan also includes projects that remain partially or fully unfunded in future years. Staff said the city will continue looking for grants, development impact fees and other funding sources to help move projects forward.

The Scotts Valley Planning Commission reviewed the proposed plan on May 14 and found the fiscal year 2026-27 portion consistent with the city’s General Plan.

City staff said the Capital Improvement Plan will be incorporated into the proposed 2026-27 city budget, which is scheduled for final consideration by the City Council on June 3.

The Light of Gemini (the Two Brothers) & Mercury with Wings on His Feet

The Sun is distributing to Earth the light of Gemini — the twins, the two brothers, sign of duality and interplay. “Let instability do its work,” is the keynote on the personality building level of Gemini. These words refer to daily life on earth with its constant vicissitudes, confusions, disharmonies and instabilities. Gemini tells us they have purpose — they spur us to seek comfort, ease, balance and harmony.

Gemini (sign, person, month), is playful, curious, humorous and fun, the “tricksters” of the zodiac. Moving one way, then another, then disappearing without notice, Gemini signifies duality. Gemini always appears as “two” — two ways, two paths, two lights, two directions, etc. When we have two of something we then have choice. Humanity was created with the free will to choose.

Gemini is the butterfly, “the light of interplay, a line of light beams,” revealing all that opposes in our world — basic duality in form and matter. Duality is a relationship of two things seemingly opposed to each other, like Spirit and matter, the original duality. However, the two are one and that is the mystery of Gemini. Two minds, two columns (Masonic columns), two hands, two brothers/sisters, etc., each offering two realities. Gemini points out the relationship between them. Pondering these words, we begin to understand

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 9)

As you acquire multiple new abilities, it’s important to learn to share a few. Sharing is new to you. You research the causes of things. Some call this studying conspiracy theories. But actually, those theories often end up to be true. You’re more energetic, active, forceful and even, at times, overly assertive (shocking!). Rarely are you this way. It’s six planets, including Mars (the 9 tests) in Aries playing havoc in your life. Forge forward, Aries. You initiate and thus create new fields of endeavor. Then Taurus steps in and anchors them.

TAURUS (Apr 10 – May 20)

You are becoming more like a Pisces these days. Meaning? More sensitive, more in tune, reluctant to push the river, a sense of other worldliness, a bit forgetfulness, a bit of disorder, seeing other worlds and walking a different path. You’re working more in secret and can be blamed for things you didn’t do. You sense and intuit the past is merging with the present. For a while everything becomes more private. Dreams (day and night) appear, imagination is sparked, creativity comes alive. Music (more of it) is needed.

GEMINI (May 21 – Jun 20)

It’s most important to ponder upon the word “cooperation” and consider how you interact with, work with and impact those around you. Are you able to cooperate with others? With new and emerging thoughts and ideas, you may be inclined to seek others to work with and co-create with them the new culture and civilization. In the new times to come cooperation is needed, working in teams towards a group goal. On a personal level, create daily agendas, schedules and plans. They become your future’s purpose, context and protection.

CANCER (Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You’re the leader, the voice everyone hears, the one everyone looks to, hopes to become, learns from, seeks, dreams of, is nourished by and emulates. Your accomplishments are recognized. This pleases you. I have written before that for each sign to evolve adequately, others must see, recognize and praise their efforts, gifts and abilities. Praise is how we more fully identify ourselves as valuable and creative. Say, “I am creative and I recognize this in my life.” A sense of new awareness and gratitude follow.

By Risa D’Angeles

Gemini people. We see them accomplishing their spiritual task (job). Notice we especially experience duality during the month of Gemini. Mercury just entered Gemini this past week. Notice everyone begins to talk more, to chatter and to gossip. Disciples never gossip.

The major sign of relatedness, Gemini must connect two seemingly unrelated ideas, realities, people, events. Often Gemini will introduce two people and disappear, their work of relating things complete. Geminis step out of the picture and into their next task of relating things.

Gemini flows through and works with Mercury, gathering information to distribute, share and create new awareness in humanity. Gemini and Mercury build the Rainbow Bridge. Sometimes Mercury offers too much information. Then Venus (Gemini Soul ruler) steps in. Venus balances, synthesizes, unifies and eases us into new realities with grace and beauty. Our God is from Venus. Bees, wheat, corn and ants (communities) are also from Venus. Venus is Earth’s elder sister.

Look for feathers in the wild, from the wings of Mercury. Mercury, working tirelessly with Gemini, has wings on his feet. n

Read Risa’s Daily writings on FB & at https://nightlightnews.org/ daily-postings/

LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

A hunger for expansion, for newness, adventure, a restlessness that won’t accept no for an answer, all these engulf your mind and present you with new ideas and a level of impatience Your life actually does need expansion, new studies, new people, new experiences. All this energy propels you into travel, new interests, new books, opinions leading to disagreements, arguments and discourses. Stay away from gambling, speculation and things illegal. Read the magazine Travel and Leisure. It is a most interesting study.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Careful with projecting anger and/or suppressed passion (from long ago to present) toward others, especially ones close to you. You may be unaware of this. Be aware of issues concerning joint money and resources, conflicts and crises concerning differently learned values. Careful with communication. You may suffer from others’ misunderstandings and/or harshness. Or your own.

Home is where all transformations take place. Guard yourself and loved ones, carefully. Attend church or temple. Pray.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Everything may feel personally challenging. A great wave of change is washing over you. Let’s understand about conflict. Any conflict experienced means harmony, in shadow form, is hidden within the conflict, harmony, a seed of light, seeking to emerge. Libras are ruled by a star in the Big Dipper called Ray 3 which gives them great intelligence and balance, beauty and harmony. Know these things about yourself. Seeking harmony is Libra’s divine task. Relationships are the training grounds for that harmony to come forth.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

It’s possible you feel restricted with Saturn in Aries. At first it can feel like obstacles are a way of life. Saturn, however, is the new Teacher. He informs us of disciplines, new rituals and rhythms. He teaches us restraint, right timing, right direction and right thinking. Saturn teaches us to take care of ourselves with right priorities. Don’t dispute anything (mostly yourself). Recite silent Ohms and laugh more. “Laughter is a meditation,” says Alan Watts. Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=xZ3wWisRtTA

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You also would appreciate the Alan Watts laughter video I posted above for Scorpio. Sag’s love to laugh. Laughing dispels any sense of doom or overwhelm we may be feeling. With Pluto in Aquarius, the depth of responsibility for creating the new culture can overwhelm. Laughter helps. Tend to loved ones, especially your partner (first). The result will be more play, pleasure and sleep. Do you need new items in your home? New pathways, a gate or bridge over water? Gaze at Monet’s Water Lilies painting.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Are you feeling the need for protection and for security? Be clear, ordered and organized and shield your finances and resources. Keep track of monies coming in and going out. It’s possible you could feel lost or confused around money. Unexpected events and outlays of money continue to occur. Remain hopeful, aware and alert. Continue to tell friends and family of your needs. If issues from the past emerge, talk with someone about them. The past appears in order to understand it more deeply.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Work slowly each day on physical tasks. Order and organize all environments. Create greater efficiency. Ponder upon real wants and needs. Soon ideas from the Mind of God come forth. Communicate with more compassion and loving kindness. This is Mercury in Gemini. Mars on the other hand provides new selfawareness and values. You will want to create a foundation. Tend to hands and feet. Sew, draw and paint. Use your heart to make order. A new path appears.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The month ahead sees you working towards and within your sense of values. If you don’t actually know your values, then observe yourself – thoughts, ideas, actions, communications. Note you’re slower than usual, focusing and caring for what you love (and value) with extra care. You see your ambition, the acquiring of possessions, your impatience and impulsiveness. Your senses are more alive. You’re taking on the sturdy and consistent virtues, values and needs of Taurus. Comforting for Pisces.

YRB Raises $40,000 at Annual Event

The Santa Cruz County Youth Resource Bank raised more than $40,000 in community donations its annual “Investing in Our Children” fundraising event on April 25 at the historic cellars of Bargetto Winery.

Guests enjoyed an evening featuring live music by the Matt Masih Trio, a curated selection of Bargetto wines, and gourmet charcuterie provided by The Wild Bite.

Led by award-winning auctioneer Robert Slawinski, attendees participated in both live and silent auctions featuring more than 80 community-donated items. All auction proceeds will directly benefit vulnerable youth and families throughout Santa Cruz County.

Thanks to the generosity of supporters, the YRB will be able to aid an additional 200 local youth and their families this year. Since 1988, the Youth Resource Bank has supported youth and families in need throughout Santa Cruz County. In 2025 alone, the organization provided support and resources to more than 600 youth.

Paving Projects to Continue Through July

Pavementrehabilitation projects on bridges and ramps along three state highways in Santa Cruz County began in late May and will continue through July, according to transportation officials.

The work is taking place on Highway 1 at the Highway 17 onramp in Santa Cruz, on Highway 17 near Granite Creek Road in Scotts Valley and on Highway 129 near Blackburn Street in Watsonville.

Motorists can expect intermittent overnight lane and ramp closures throughout the project areas during construction.

Single-lane closures are scheduled intermittently from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through Friday. No lane closures will be in effect from 6 a.m. Friday through 8 p.m. Monday.

Drivers should expect delays of up to five minutes.

Officials said the pavement rehabilitation work is intended to provide a smoother and safer drive for motorists.

The contractor for the $1 million project is Truesdell Corporation. Construction is expected to be completed by July 31, 2026. n

STS9 Amazes Crowd With Sound and Vision Santa-Cruz Based Band Headlines Music Festival

By JON CHOWN

PLACERVILLE — Santa Cruz-based Sound Tribe Sector Nine helped sell a record number of tickets to the Golden Road Gathering musical festival May 15-17, thrilling the crowd of 3,000+ music fans.

Bob Hollis, one of four partners who put Golden Road Gathering together, said with STS9 headlining the event for the first time, sales were up more than 50% this year over last.

“They had the whole audience mesmerized. You could see, just looking at people’s faces that they were totally tuned into the music,” Hollis said. “People were definitely really into it and I think they contributed a lot to our record sales this year.”

STS9 played two sets, about 2 1/2 hours of music, to headline Saturday’s musical lineup at the event that included nine other bands. For most fans, Sound Tribe Sector was the highlight of the day.

“That was amazing!” said Timothee Smith, who drove from Southern California to see the show. It was the only appearance STS9 would make this summer that was west of Texas.

Weeks before the event, bass player Alana Rocklin said the band was planning something for Placerville. “We’ve got some special things in the works for California,” Rocklin said. She was not kidding.

“I used to live in Santa Cruz and first heard them at the Quarry,” Smith said. “They’ve always been amazing, but tonight was just the best. It was more than just the music, the whole environment. Everything! The light show was off the charts!”

The laser light show that STS9 brought was impressive.

“They said they were gonna go all out for this and bring everything they had for the light show,” said Hollis. “It was fantastic. It added a lot to the whole venue. It was perfectly done to the music they were playing.”

Hollis noted that the Santa Cruz contingent of ticket buyers were stronger than ever this year.

“It’s been growing and growing. We get a lot of people from down in Santa Cruz and we’re talking about possibly doing some run-up shows in Santa Cruz in the

“Red Budjet” from page 8

The city also completed the new Skypark playground project, a $750,000 improvement that staff said was fully funded through grants. Planned projects for 2026-27 include roadway rehabilitation, improvements along Scotts Valley Drive and early phases of the Shugart Park buildout. The city also plans to continue work on the Wastewater Master Plan and Skypark Facility Master Plan.

future, possibly featuring some of the same artists that we booked for next year,” said Hollis.

Santa Cruz resident Steve Engel was at the festival with another one of his crazy hats he invented. He said he not only enjoyed the music, but spent a few days in Placerville shopping at antique stores and enjoying the town.

“I cruised through most or all of the antique and vintage stores and actually bought a pre-dial phone because it had a good magneto that I want to use for a project,” he said. n

Graduation

The proposed budget also includes funding for community programs and youth activities. The city plans to provide $50,000 from the General Fund for the Community Grant Program, which supports local organizations and services.

The budget also includes funding for two participants in the Pathways to Possibility Youth City Liaison Program and partial funding support for the O’Neill Sea Odyssey educational program. n

Photo Credit: Tony Dellacioppa Santa Cruz resident Steve Engel enjoys the music at Golden Road Gathering.

Photo Credit: Tony Dellacioppa Sound Tribe Sector Nine performs at the Golden Road Gathering in Placerville on May 16.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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.

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 inperson 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:

June 22: Gary Snyder

July 27: Dean Young

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Wines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer tastings of three varietals for $10 per person. Details of this and more Sevy’s events at www.sevysbarand kitchen.com/events

Fridays (except First Friday of the Month)

LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP

10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach library.

Call La Selva 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 familyfriendly 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.

Second Saturdays

HISTORICAL AIRCRAFT DISPLAY

10 a.m.-4 p.m., Watsonville Municipal Airport, 100 Aviation Way

HERITAGE DEMONSTRATIONS

Saturday June 20

2 p.m., San Lorenzo Valley Museum, 12547 Hwy 9, Boulder Creek

Join a free heritage demonstration series held on the third Saturday of each month from April through August at the San Lorenzo Valley Museum.

This session features spinning with Lia Tanti at 2 p.m., offering hands-on insight into traditional skills. Visitors are welcome.

For more information, call 831-338-8382 or visit https://www. slvmuseum.org.

/ June 2026 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Watsonville Municipal Airport hosts a Historical Aircraft Display every second Saturday. Admission is free.

Saturdays and Sundays

ELKHORN SLOUGH: FREE TOUR OF THE PRESERVE

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

Docent-led tours offer visitors a guided introduction to Elkhorn Slough’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and tidal wetlands.

Each walk is tailored to participants’ interests and abilities, creating an engaging, educational experience. Space is limited, and tours are first-come, first-served. Guests can sign up at the Visitor Center front desk or call ahead the same morning at (831) 728-2822 for availability.

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

Tuesday June 2

NORTH COUNTY DEMS FIRE PROTECTION AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM

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

The Democratic Club of North Santa Cruz County will host speakers on fire protection, emergency preparedness, and local emergency services.

Felton Fire Chief Isaac Blum, Joni Martin of Felton Community for Emergency Response, and Tami Tracey of the SLV Emergency Network will discuss wildfire preparedness, emergency response funding, and how to prepare a Go Bag.

The public is welcome to attend.

For more information, visit SLV Emergency Network at https:// www.slven.org.

Wednesday June 3

CAPITOLA SUMMER TWILIGHT CONCERTS: THE DELTA WIRES

6–9 p.m., Esplanade Bandstand, Esplanade Park, Capitola

The Capitola Summer Twilight Concert series opens with Rockin’ Big Band Blues by The Delta Wires.

Guests are encouraged to bring low-back chairs, blankets and picnic dinners while enjoying free live music and sunset views along the beach.

The family-friendly event does not allow dogs or alcohol.

For more information, go online at https://www.santacruz.org/ upcoming-events/

Thursday June 4

PICTURE THIS: BELONGING BUILDS COMMUNITY

6–8 p.m., 705 Front St., Santa Cruz

Housing Matters will launch its quarterly “Picture This: Belonging Builds Community” storytelling series focused on connection, inclusion and community care in Santa Cruz County.

The evening includes a featured storyteller, facilitated discussion with a local community partner and smallgroup reflection activities.

For more information or to register, visit https://housingmatterssc.org.

Friday June 5

THE PHENOMENON OF HEALING

10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Community Foundation Santa Cruz County (in the Solari room), 7807 Soquel Drive, Aptos

“The Phenomenon of Healing” is a documentary about events that happened after the death of Bruno Groening in 1959.

Viewers learn how his work developed after his passing and the great extent of help and healing on the spiritual path that is still happening today — irrespective of religious affiliation, skin color and culture.

Fascinating interviews, professional comments by doctors and personal reports from Bruno Groening friends from many countries, give a broad overview of this big Circle of Friends.

Organized by Bruno Groening Circle of Friends: https://www. bruno-groening.org/en.

Friday June 5

Saturday June 6

52ND ANNUAL UCSC PRINT SALE

10 a.m.–6 p.m., UC Santa Cruz Elena Baskin Visual Arts Center & Printmaking Studio Room G-101, 1156 High St. The 52nd Annual UCSC Print Sale will feature hundreds of original prints created in a variety of media, including woodcuts, lithographs, etchings, screen prints and photobased works.

The two-day event is presented in conjunction with the Art Department’s Spring Open Studios and admission is free.

For more information, visit https://arts.ucsc.edu/news-events/.

Saturday June 6

SANTA CRUZ VEGFEST

11 a.m.–5 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville Santa Cruz VegFest brings together thousands of attendees to celebrate plant-based, cruelty-free and environmentally sustainable living.

The event features food vendors, educational booths, speakers and community resources focused on animal welfare and climate-friendly lifestyles at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. For more information, visit https://vegfestsantacruz.org.

Saturday June 6

Sunday June 7

POSTCARDS FROM PARADISE

2 p.m., Market Street Theater and Senior Center, 222 Market St, Santa Cruz

Feel the rhythm. Taste the tropics. Escape to paradise.

Come to the Market Street Theater and Senior Center for two unforgettable performances of “Postcards From Paradise”— where the spirit of aloha comes alive!

From the moment the show starts, you’ll be swept away by the vibrant sounds of live ukulele and island drums, breathtaking hula performances, and captivating songs of Aloha.

Talented performers bring the traditions of Hawaii and the Tropics to the stage with grace, power, and heart.

Don your favorite floral shirt, grab a lei, and be transported to the islands — no passport required. Tickets and information at https://www.marketstreettheater.org.

Sunday June 7

UNITING WITH PRIDE

11 a.m., Downtown Santa Cruz along Pacific Ave., starting at Cathcart St. and Pacific Ave.

Santa Cruz Pride returns with its annual parade and festival celebrating inclusivity, community and equality. The event features colorful floats, live entertainment, local organizations and activities for all ages in downtown Santa Cruz.

The parade begins at Cathcart Street and Pacific Avenue before continuing along the Pride Parade Route. For more information, visit https://santacruzpride.org.

Monday June 8

BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ: DUSTY BAKER BOOK LAUNCH

7–8 p.m., Bookshop Santa Cruz, 1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz Legendary baseball player and manager Dusty Baker visits Bookshop Santa Cruz to discuss his memoir, “Crossroads: A Memoir in Baseball and Life,” with co-author Steve Kettmann.

The free event includes a talk and conversation, followed by a ticketed photo opportunity with Baker. For more information and tickets, visit Bookshop Santa Cruz.

Wednesday June 10

CAPITOLA SUMMER TWILIGHT CONCERTS: THE TRESTLES

6–9 p.m., Esplanade Bandstand, Esplanade Park, Capitola

The Trestles bring Surf and Garage Rock to Capitola’s free Summer Twilight Concert series.

Community members can enjoy live music at the beach while relaxing with picnic dinners, blankets and low-back chairs.

The concerts are family friendly and take place beside the sunset on the Capitola Esplanade.

For more information, go online at https://www.santacruz.org/ upcoming-events/

Friday June 12

GUIDED COASTAL BIRDING WALK AT WILDER RANCH

9 a.m.–1 p.m., Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Coast Road, Santa Cruz

Join a guided 2.5-mile coastal birding walk at Wilder Ranch State Park, exploring trails with naturalists while spotting and identifying birds, plants, and coastal scenery. Expect uneven terrain and frequent stops; bring binoculars, layers, and sturdy shoes. Rain cancels.

Sign up online at https://thatsmypark.org/event/guided-coastalbirding-walk-at-wilder-ranch-2022-08-26/all/ or call (831) 426-0505 for details.

Saturday June 13

DOGS IN A PILE

8 p.m., Felton Music Hall, 6275 Highway 9, Felton Dogs In A Pile brings its energetic blend of psychedelic jazz-funk rock, Americana and improvisational jams to Felton Music Hall for a night of live music and dancing.

The New Jersey-based band has built a devoted following through nonstop touring and genre-bending performances.

This is a 21-and-over standing-room show with limited seating available.

Doors open at 7 p.m. For tickets and information, visit feltonmusichall.com.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

THE HEALTHY WAY 40TH ANNIVERSARY HEALTH FAIR EXTRAVAGANZA

Saturday June 27

12 p.m. – 3 p.m., The Healthy Way, 3251 Mission Dr., Santa Cruz (Near Dominican Hospital)

The Healthy Way wants to thank its many clients and the community for 40 wonderful years in Santa Cruz County! Come and enjoy lots of free, great-tasting food, cooking demonstrations, giveaways, health consults, specials on services, and much much more!

Music will be provided by KPIG radio’s live broadcast from our parking lot and meet the famous morning DJ, Ralph Anybody!

Internationally known, Santa Cruz local Dr. Christopher Hobbs will be the keynote speaker discussing The Science of Weight Loss. Health related vendors will be on hand to offer giveaways, ongoing raffle prizes and educate the public on their services. Free admission. www.thehealthyway.us • (831) 462-5900.

MAV’RIKS KIDS CLUB SUMMER BASH

1–3 p.m., Kaiser Permanente Arena, 140 Front Street, Santa Cruz

Mav’Riks Kids Club Summer Bash is a free familyfriendly event featuring carnival games, face painting, prizes, and a balloon artist at Kaiser Permanente Arena in Santa Cruz.

Guests are encouraged to RSVP online as space is limited and to sign up for the free Kids Club for future experiences. For more information, email awinfield@goldenstate.com.

DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ JUNETEENTH PARADE

12–5 p.m., Pacific Ave. between Water and Locust St., Santa Cruz

The Downtown Santa Cruz Juneteenth Parade celebrates freedom and equality with a community event featuring music, poetry, dance, soul food, arts and crafts, basketball skills contests and a sack race.

Festive dress is encouraged, and the event is free and open to all ages.

SANTA CRUZ JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Noon–6 p.m., Laurel Park behind the London Nelson Community Center, 301 Center St., Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz Juneteenth Celebration returns for its 35th year with the theme “Resilience,” featuring live music, dance, poetry, soul food, craft booths and family activities.

The free event also includes a second-line sidewalk parade, children’s games and a basketball clinic.

For more information, visit https://www.santacruzjuneteenth.com.

FELT STREET FLEA MARKET

9 a.m.–2 p.m., CSL Santa Cruz, 1818 Felt St., Santa Cruz

The Felt St. Flea Market features 18 vendors offering antiques, collectibles, clothing, crafts, books, electronics, toys and tools all in one location.

twists designed to mix youth and adults. Expect food trucks, booths, contests and community fun. Register at bit.ly/svrecreation for details.

HONOR SCOTT ROSEMAN

4 p.m., Temple Beth El Jewish Community Center, Aptos Temple Beth El will host an evening honoring Scott Roseman with stories, music, group singing, appetizers and drinks.

Organizers say the gathering will celebrate Roseman through community, laughter and connection with friends and family.

For more information or to RSVP, visit https://www.tbeaptos.org/ event/fundraiser1.html.

Monday June 15

FIFA WORLD CUP SCREENING: SPAIN V CABO VERDE

9–11 a.m., Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, 705 Front St., Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History will host a free public screening of the FIFA World Cup match between Spain and Cabo Verde.

The family-friendly event includes complimentary popcorn and an all-ages art activity as fans gather to cheer on their favorite teams.

For more information, visit https://www.santacruzmah.org.

Saturday June 20

COMMUNITY WRITERS OF SANTA CRUZ OPEN MIC

2:30 p.m., Porter Memorial Library, 3050 Porter St, Soquel Community Writers of Santa Cruz will host an open mic for prose writers and poets, along with a featured reader, at the historic Porter Memorial Library.

Sign-ups begin at 2:15 p.m.

The group has been meeting quarterly for 15 years and welcomes both new and established writers to participate in this free community event.

Sunday June 21

SOLSTICE VIEWING: JOSHUA MORENO

Visitors can shop a wide variety of unique items and find special gifts in a community market setting. Admission is free and open to the public.

SANTA CRUZ SYMPHONY MOVIE NIGHT

5 p.m. Street Party | 7:30 p.m. Concert, Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St., Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz Symphony presents Movie Night, featuring music from blockbuster films including Titanic, The Lord of the Rings, Interstellar, Avengers, Star Trek, and Howl’s Moving Castle.

The evening begins with a free street party featuring live music, dancing, food trucks, and face painting, followed by the concert.

Movie costumes are encouraged. For tickets or information, call 831-420-5260 or visit www. santacruztickets.com/Online/default.asp.

2ND SATURDAY ON THE FARM: DAIRY DAYS ON THE FARM

11 a.m.–3 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville

The Agricultural History Project will host “Dairy Days on the Farm” as part of its monthly 2nd Saturday on the Farm series.

Families can enjoy hands-on agricultural activities including wooden cow milking, a kid-driven tractor, tractor simulator and puppet theater performances focused on farming and rural life.

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

Sunday June 14

WACKY SOCCER TOURNAMENT

11 a.m.–3 p.m., Skypark, Scotts Valley Scotts Valley Recreation and Santa Cruz County Parks host a free, family-friendly Wacky Soccer Tournament as part of Kick Off Santa Cruz weekend.

Teams play 5v5 round robin matches with playful

12–3 p.m., Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, 705 Front St., Santa Cruz

This final viewing presents the culmination of artist-inresidence Joshua Moreno’s year-long project tracing light and reflection at the decommissioned Davenport Jail. The installation features graphite wall tracings capturing shifting light patterns from the surrounding environment, highlighting Moreno’s experimental, site-specific artistic process developed over time.

Wednesday June 24

CAPITOLA SUMMER TWILIGHT CONCERTS: COFFEE ZOMBIE COLLECTIVE

6–9 p.m., Esplanade Bandstand, Esplanade Park, Capitola Coffee Zombie Collective performs originals and quirky covers during Capitola’s Summer Twilight Concert series. The free beachside event invites residents and visitors to enjoy music, picnic dinners and sunset views from the Esplanade.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or low-back chairs for seating. Dogs and alcohol are prohibited. For more information, go online at https://www.santacruz.org/ upcoming-events/

Wednesday July 1

SANTA CRUZ CIVIC AUDITORIUM BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR

6–8 p.m., Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St., Santa Cruz

Explore hidden corridors, backstage spaces and production areas during a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Guides will share stories about the Art Deco landmark while explaining how concerts, festivals, expos and roller derby events are staged inside the longtime community venue. For more information, go online at https://www.santacruz.org/ upcoming-events/ n

Honoring our Military and First Responders

By DONNA LIND, Mayor, City of Scotts Valley

Memorial Weekend is past, but I still want to take time to remember the sacrifices our military families have made and continue to make. Like many of you, I’m proud of my family who have served, and the children of friends who served and continue to serve.

Particularly during this holiday weekend, as we enjoy barbeques and time with family, let’s remember the reason for the holiday. Not only those who didn’t return home, but also the toll their service has taken on the lives of many of our veterans.

Last summer, I lost a cousin who served in Vietnam. The athletic outgoing man who left the summer after graduating high school and was never the same when he returned. Another family member recently lost his battle with cancer associated with Agent Orange.

It seems appropriate that May was Mental Health Awareness Month, particularly with the rising rates of veteran suicide as well as first responders. The past year, the rate for suicide by women veterans increased from 13.7 to 13.9, while for men it increased from 37.3 to 37.8. The representatives at the Santa Cruz Veterans’ office are very helpful, although there is more need than staff.

Recently, volunteers were able to open a food bank in Watsonville in addition to other services provided by the United Veterans Council (UVC) of Santa Cruz County. UVC accepts donations including clothing, shoes, hygiene kits, and other supplies. If you’d like to donate, call 760-807-8326 or email docrrgarza@ aol.com. Santa Cruz County Veteran Network provides a variety of services, their website: https://www.scveterannetwork.org/providers

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, don’t feel you have to struggle alone. There are resources: Call the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) Helpline at 800-950-6264, text ‘NAMI’ to 62640, or email. In a crisis, call or text 988.

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of participating in the Vets4Vets bowling

tournament at Boardwalk Bowl. This is always a fun opportunity to bowl with local veterans and hear their stories, all while supporting a great cause. Thanks to Vets4Vets and the many volunteers, including Jo Cheney and Andrew Cameron who work to make this event happen each year.

Vets4Vets presents Journey for Change 10 Year Anniversary Walk, Memorial Day, May 25, 2026. Raising Awareness of Veteran Suicide. This is the 10-year anniversary of their walk to Sacramento to: End Veteran Suicide. This year, participants will meet at the Veteran’s

Memorial Building at 842 Front Street and walk to Capitola Beach.

I also want to remember our First Responders who serve and sacrifice for our communities. This year, the week of May 10th through May 16th was National Peace Officer Memorial Week. You may have seen flags lowered to half-staff, particularly on May 15th. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as National Peace Officer Memorial Day. Sadly, both peace officers and firefighters also struggle with rising rates of suicide.

The Fallen Officer Foundation provides support for Santa Cruz County First

Responders in times of crisis or special need: www.scfof.org.

Friday May 15th, the Scotts Valley Exchange Club hosted their annual Blue & Gold Dinner recognizing the Police Officer and Firefighter of the Year. I was honored to participate in recognizing Scotts Valley Police Officer of the Year Aaron Roberts and Scotts Valley Firefighter of the Year Brian Green. We are blessed in Scotts Valley to have some incredible First Responders. Congratulations to Aaron and Brian for their much-deserved recognition and thank you for your service. n

From left: Scotts Valley Fire Chief Mark Correira, Firefighter/Paramedic Brian Green, Exchange Club President Victor Alejandro, Mayor Donna Lind, Scotts Valley Officer Aaron Roberts, and Scotts Valley Police Chief Jayson Rutherford.

SCCAS Featured Pet COMMUNITY NEWS

Run, Lola, Run!

Lola (A331148), a beautiful and active shepherd, came to the shelter because a landlord changed their pet policy.

She’s lived with other animals, including a small dog and a cat, with whom she’d play, and she did well with chickens and peacocks in her old home. While here at the shelter, she’s played readily with some dogs, but she’s also shown some selectivity, so we recommend a structured introduction here at the shelter if you already have a dog.

Lola was indoor-outdoor previously, sleeping indoors at night. She is house trained and lets you know when she has to go out, although anyone who adopts should expect to do a little bit of remedial house-training while a pet gets used to a new environment, new schedules, and a new lifestyle.

She walks well on a harness and she loves to play fetch and retrieve her ball. She’s been sociable and easy to handle by staff and volunteers, and she’ll thrive with an active adopter who can provide her with some daily mental and physical exercise.

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

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Ends on June 7

BEN LOMOND — Mountain Community Theater’s presentation of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? by Edward Albeefrom will continue will ends its run at Park Hall in Ben Lomond on June 7.

The production, directed by Peter Gelblum, features performances at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. All shows are held at Park Hall, 9400 Mill St.

Tickets are priced at $30 for general admission and $20 for seniors and students. More information and tickets are available at MCTShows.org.

Widely considered one of the greatest American plays, “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” debuted on Broadway in 1962 and went on to win five Tony Awards, including best play. A subsequent film adaptation received 13 Academy Award nominations and won five.

The dark comedy examines the volatile

relationship between George and Martha, a middle-aged couple whose late-night gathering with a younger pair unravels into a series of psychological games. As the night progresses, the boundaries between truth and illusion blur, exposing hidden tensions and long-held secrets.

The cast includes Manirose Bobisuthi as Martha, Ian S. Dyer as George, Sarah Mitchler as Honey and Isaac Ludington as Nick. n