News briefs

Leaders sought for ed foundation
The SLV Education Foundation announced that it is revitalizing itself and seeks leaders interested in developing new ideas to improve public education for all San Lorenzo Valley students. Those who are energetic and committed to the idea that local students deserve the best opportunity to excel that the community can provide are asked to attend the SLV Education Foundation planning meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, in Room 12 at the SLVUSD District Office, 325 Marion Avenue in Ben Lomond. For information: George Wylie, 338-0578 or ge*********@***oo.com. 
Artists sought for public murals
The County of Santa Cruz requests submissions from artists as part of its “Outside the Box” public art program, which endeavors to beautify unincorporated areas of the County by contracting local artists to decorate traffic-signal controller boxes. Those selected will each paint one of seven boxes located throughout the County. Interested artists should mail proposals addressing plans for each side of a particular box to the County Parks Department no later than 5 p.m., July 12. The County Parks website, www.scparks.com, provides dimensions and descriptions of each box and further information on how to submit a proposal.
Backpack project underway in Mount Hermon
For the 10th consecutive year, the Lynda and Kidz Back-to-School Backpack Project is collecting backpacks, supplies, and monetary donations to distribute to shelters and other community centers that serve school-aged children. Last year the program delivered 324 stuffed backpacks to kids in need and organizers hope to stuff 350 packs this year.
Monetary donations of $25 will fill a backpack and $35 will purchase and fill one.
Donations may be made through PayPal (ID lh******@***il.com) or by mailing gently-used or new backpacks and supplies to Lynda Hall, P.O. Box 97, Mount Hermon, CA 95041-0097, or street address 8 Madrone Avenue, Mount Hermon, CA 95041-0097. Donations may also be dropped off at True Olive Connection, 106 Lincoln Street in Santa Cruz. For information: email Lynda Hall at ki***********@***il.com or call (831) 332-6371.
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