News briefs

Memorial Day parade has openings
The Felton Business Association announced that entries into the 17th annual Felton Remember Parade on May 25 are being accepted.
The parade is on Memorial Day weekend to honor U.S. veterans.
Veterans, marching bands, school and community groups, families, classic car owners, equestrians and other groups are encouraged to participate in the parade that runs along Highway 9 through downtown Felton.
Those interesting marching in the parade should contact John Fasolas or Donna Young at 335-9024 or can download an application at www.feltonbusinessassociation.com. Applications are also available at Felton Feed Store, 6221 Highway 9, or at Liberty Bank, 6230 Highway 9 in Felton.
 
Free reusable bags in Felton
Realtor Vicki Wees has decided to give away reusable grocery bags at her office in Felton.
The bags are available until supplies run out from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays at Wees’ American Dream Realty office , 6287 Highway 9, in Felton. The office recently moved next door to Felton Paint and Hardware in downtown Felton.
Wees was inspired to give the bags away after reading in the Press-Banner about a bag give-away by Save Our Shores.
For information: 335-5700
 
Ducky Derby approaches
The 23rd annual Omega Nu Ducky Derby will take place April 27 at Harvey West Park, 300 Evergreen St., in Santa Cruz.
The annual rubber duck race has participants purchase a numbered duck that is sent down a man-made waterway.
The fundraiser benefits the Omega Nu Funds for Fundamentals program, which gives money to teachers at schools in Santa Cruz County. According to Omega Nu, more than $183,000 has been given to 1,269 teachers at 20 elementary schools and seven middle schools since the program was founded eight years ago.
This year nine elementary schools are eligible: Bay View, Bonny Doon, Brook Knoll, Del Mar, Live Oak, Main St. Elem., Rio Del Mar, San Lorenzo Valley, and Westlake elementary schools will receive money for supplies and classroom needs.
Last year, the program gave $8,401 to schools in Scotts Valley, San Lorenzo Valley and Bonny Doon.
For information: www.duckyderbysantacruz.org/
 
Community Grant program launches
The Valley Women’s Club will accept applications for its pilot Community Grant program until 5 p.m. April 24.
The goal of the grant program is to support and strengthen local organizations and individuals who are working to create community programs and projects that align with the mission of the Valley Women’s Club.
The grant program will consider requests between $250 and $3,000 that will go directly to capital improvements, including repairs, tangible equipment and materials.
The Valley Women’s Club hopes to offer the grants on an annual basis.
 For information or to apply: www.valleywomensclub.org.
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