SLV Water District continues spring main flushing
San Lorenzo Valley Water District is continuing its annual water main flushing program through May 21 to remove iron and manganese deposits from the distribution system.
The naturally occurring minerals are not a health risk, but buildup in water mains can restrict flow, contribute to corrosion and affect water quality. The issue is more common in the southern portion of the system due to increased use of the Olympia wells.
Flushing helps clear sediment and biofilms that can accumulate in pipes and occasionally lead to water discoloration or staining of clothing and fixtures.
Work is taking place between 9am and 4pm in Ben Lomond, Felton, Lompico and Scotts Valley, with neighborhood-specific schedules available from the district. Customers may experience temporary discoloration, low water pressure or brief service interruptions.
Residents are advised to reduce water use during flushing periods, particularly avoiding laundry. The district said it will work to minimize disruptions during the maintenance.
Customers will receive direct mail notifications ahead of scheduled flushing in their area. More information is available at slvwd.com or by calling 831-338-2153.
Renegade Orchestra blends symphony and rock in Santa Cruz show
Renegade Orchestra will bring its hybrid symphony-rock sound to the London Nelson Community Center in Santa Cruz on May 16 at 7pm.
Billed as “the Bay Area’s most rock and roll symphony,” the ensemble blends orchestral musicians with a hard-hitting rhythm section to reinterpret classic rock songs tied to the San Francisco Bay Area music scene.
The program will feature music associated with or recorded in the region, including reimagined versions of Jefferson Airplane’s “Somebody to Love,” It’s a Beautiful Day’s “White Bird” and punk-era selections, such as songs by the Dead Kennedys.
The approximately 15-member group describes its performances as a relaxed but energetic take on the traditional orchestra concert experience, combining classical instrumentation with rock arrangements.
The performance will be held at 301 Center St. in Santa Cruz. More information is available at renegadeorchestra.com.
Encompass names new chief programs officer
Encompass has named Mitali Weiglein as its new chief programs officer, responsible for overseeing delivery of services across the organization’s 20-plus programs.
Weiglein brings nearly 20 years of experience in health care systems implementation, process improvement and program management, with 18 years in operational leadership roles focused on expanding access to care for underserved communities.
A first-generation immigrant, Weiglein has described herself as a sociologist at heart and said she is focused on addressing social determinants of health as a pathway to advancing equity in the community. She holds a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, along with bachelor’s degrees in business administration and sociology.
Weiglein is also active in the community, serving on the Santa Cruz County Disabilities Commission, the Community Advisory Council for the North Santa Cruz County SELPA and the Scotts Valley Unified School District Parcel Tax Oversight Committee.
Encompass also thanked Lisa Russell, who returned from retirement to serve as chief programs officer during a transitional period, including the organization’s Head Start transition.
Motorcyclist dies in crash on Empire Grade
A 21-year-old Pescadero man was killed in a crash on Empire Grade north of Heller Drive on May 4, according to the California Highway Patrol.
CHP said the man was riding a 1999 Harley-Davidson motorcycle northbound at an undetermined speed when, for reasons still under investigation, it collided with a southbound 2025 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup truck towing a flatbed trailer driven by a 46-year-old Ben Lomond man.
The motorcycle rider sustained major injuries and was airlifted to Natividad Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the pickup was not injured.
Authorities said the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet and the truck driver was wearing a seatbelt. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and it is not yet known whether drugs or alcohol were factors.
