News Briefs

Shoplifter found guilty
A jury found Bryan Martin guilty of second-degree robbery and assaulting a store employee after he shoplifted several items from Kmart in Scotts Valley in March.
Martin was convicted of attacking an employee with a pair of metal scissors after the employee tried to stop him from taking several music CDs and a pair of headphones from the store on March 11.
The employee approached Martin outside of the store, but Martin took a swing with the scissors.
Police found him hiding in his girlfriend’s car nearby. The stolen merchandise was found behind a vending machine in front of a nearby supermarket in Scotts Valley.
After a three-day jury trial and three hours of deliberation, the jury returned the guilty verdict but discarded a special allegation for use of a dangerous or deadly weapon.
Martin will be sentenced Aug. 23.
Senior center offers van rides
The Scotts Valley Senior Center offers van service to seniors who cannot transport themselves. Canes and walkers are OK. Seniors can call the center at 438-8666 to schedule rides with 24-hour notice.
Van drivers are volunteers, and a small donation is requested for the service.
On Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, drivers will make trips for medical needs, groceries, banking and other errands. On Wednesday, drivers will take seniors to lunch and bingo at the center. On Friday, drivers will go only to the grocery store in Scotts Valley.
For information: 438-8666.
Dulcimer Day registration ongoing
Registration is taking place for the 11th annual Dulcimer Day on July 30 at Boomeria, 60 Verde Drive, in Bonny Doon.
This year, nationally recognized dulcimer stars Leo Kretzner, Peter Tommerup and Neal Hellman and local dulcimer teacher Ron Beadslee will be featured.
The day will include musical instruction, jam sessions and a range of musical styles. The cost is $45 in advance and $55 at the door. Loaner instruments will be available free of charge.
Kretzner will perform in a concert the day at 7:30 p.m. July 29 at the Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, 125 Canterbury Drive, in Aptos. A $15 donation is requested.
For information: www.redwooddulcimerday.com
Valley Churches partners with grocery store
Through July 24, Valley Churches United Mission will have barrels in Safeway stores in Felton and Scotts Valley where shoppers can donate nonperishable foods.
A pre-filled bag with tuna, peanut butter, cereal, canned vegetables, spaghetti, macaroni and cheese and instant mashed potatoes also can be bought and donated for $10 at the stores.
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