The Mountain Gardener: Gardening with Kids
My friend Adelyn came to visit the other day. Adelyn just turned three. We always have a good time exploring my garden and checking out the forest. This time, her visit was even more fun.I didn’t have any cherry tomatoes to share because Mr. Gopher got to the plants first but there are always lots of flowers to admire and some have a wonderful fragrance. Over a dozens hummingbirds visit my feeders daily and they love the flowers that produce nectar, too. Songbirds have their own feeders plus suet to eat and all the little seeds that nature can provide. My sunflowers will soon be ripe for the goldfinches to enjoy.To share one’s excitement and knowledge of the outdoor world with a child is fun and rewarding. The wonder that can be seen on a young person’s face as they discover a swallowtail butterfly or a flower just starting to open or a bird feeding in the garden is priceless.Sure it would be great to have a large vegetable garden to share with Adelyn. We could build a teepee out of fallen branches and plant scarlet runner beans around the outside. Alternatively, we could grow a pizza garden in a circle divided like pizza slices with long wooden stakes. We’d plant tomatoes, sweet red peppers and basil in the slices and use stepping stones to mimic pepperoni slices.But I have lots of other cool things to do, so when Adelyn comes to my house we become a couple of naturalists and horticulturalists and that’s OK with us.For Adelyn’s last visit I made a bird book for her with pictures that I took at my house. It has photos of other things besides birds — butterflies, flowers, a tree frog and pictures of family members when they have visited. It was fun to watch her run around and identify which bird or flower had a picture in her book.In a short time, she had seen the Grosbeak, Junco, chickadee, purple finch, goldfinch and nuthatch all snatching a seed from the feeder. The flowers were easier to find since they can’t fly. She really liked the blue hydrangeas and the red flowering maples. Hiding among the huge hosta leaves was fun for her, too.We took some more pictures during the afternoon and printed them out on the computer to add to her little book. The book is one of those inexpensive four by six inch photo albums with sleeves for the photos. We looked for the chipmunks to photograph for the album but they were out feeding elsewhere in the forest.Finding things to do in the garden is easy. You probably already have some edible flowers in your garden. Tuberous begonia petals taste like lemon. Calendulas are spicy as are carnations and marigolds. Dianthus are clove-flavored, nasturtiums give a hint of horseradish and violas, pansies, hollyhock, squash blossoms and johnny-jump-ups taste like mild lettuce. You can also freeze flowers like violas, fuchsias, geranium, stock and thyme in ice cubes.Flowers that kids can cut will be interesting for them, too, especially when planted in their own garden. Cosmos, planted from six packs, provide instant color as well as attracting butterflies. Zinnias come in a rainbow of colors and are a favorite of swallowtail butterflies. Another easy to grow flower for cutting is the snapdragon.Besides flowers, fragrant plants like lemon basil, lemon verbena, lime thyme, orange mint and other herbs engage the senses and can be included in a kid's garden. Lamb's ears are soft and furry.Get a kid into gardening and nature and they'll be good stewards of the land for a lifetime. Plus you’ll have a lot of fun in the process. -Jan Nelson, a landscape designer and California certified nursery professional, will answer questions about gardening in the Santa Cruz Mountains. E-mail her [email protected], or visitwww.jannelsonlandscapedesign.comto view past columns and pictures.
Fishy Transactions
In the fifth season of the Hotel Ben Lomond, G. L. A. Smith became its fourth proprietor/lessee. A sportsman himself, Smith advertised his resort as a happy hunting and fishing ground. “Five deer,” he advised the Sentinel in August, 1893, “have been killed during the past week within a short walk of Ben Lomond station, and yet the woods are full of them.’ During his second season, the landlord and a guest went angling near the hotel and bagged 117 speckled beauties, including a four-pounder. His message to the press—“Trout are plentiful.”Mr. Smith understood the enthusiasm of his audience. “Since the opening of trout season,” observed the local paper, “the trains bring numbers of visitors and tourists, who enjoy catching the tempting beauties — Wells Fargo and Co. is daily carrying baskets of trout, daintily packed in fern leaves.”“What’s the matter with our trout law?” the Sentinel inquired with tongue in cheek, knowing that there was no one enforcing it. “Our fishermen think it’s all right. It never troubles them, although scores of splendid salmon trout have been pulled in the last two weeks.”California had enacted some tough Fish and Game laws. As early as 1886, when Santa Cruz District Attorney W. T. Jeter protested against obstructions on the San Lorenzo, the head of the State Commission had replied that: “The builder who builds a dam without putting in fish ladders should be punished.” The problem was that enforcement was left to local authorities. The economy was depressed, and the county supervisors felt that the hiring of a Fish and Game warden would be an unnecessary expense.The summer of 1895 not only brought yet another keeper to the Hotel Ben Lomond, but also a new owner. The purchaser of J. P. Pierce’s remaining real estate holdings, D. W. Johnston, was an associate of timber-owning millionaires, Timothy Hopkins and F. A. Hihn.The new regime soon faced a challenge when Thomas L. Bell decided to erect a hotel of his own. Regarded by the Santa Cruz press as Ben Lomond’s unofficial mayor, Bell had accumulated acreage on the Felton side of the river, including the site of the original Pacific Mill.Bell’s plan was gradually unveiled. An official of the Southern Pacific Railroad became a silent partner. “Next year,” it was predicted, there is the possibility of our having a grand hotel which will outrival the famous Del Monte.” A feature of the resort would be a body of water the Sentinel dubbed “Bell Lake.”When Bell’s Hotel Rowardennan opened for business in the summer of 1896, its arrival was celebrated by a bright display. The repurposed mill dam that created the artificial lake was also employed to generate electricity for the hotel buildings. “Lights are scattered about the ground,” noticed the Surf, “and over the water of the river — where boating parties are numerous.”Meanwhile, friends of the fishery were becoming worried. A dam, “south of Ben Lomond, which obstructs passage of the fishes” was singled out for criticism. The Sentinel urged the supervisors to appoint a Fish warden. “The game preserves and fishing streams, which have so long been the resort of rod and gun, need protection, or our game will be killed off entirely and our streams emptied of their fish.”A petition, “signed by almost everybody,” insisted that the owners of dams across the San Lorenzo river be required to provide fish ladders. “Our streams,” insisted the Mountain Echo of Boulder Creek, should be kept free from obstruction by dams, and from the deposit of deleterious substances.”While the editor impatiently awaited a response from the Fish Commission, other citizens took action. “Recently,” the Sentinel reported in February, 1897, “dams at Ben Lomond and Boulder Creek have been blown up with dynamite by unknown parties. Some think it was because the Fish Commissioners failed to put fish ladders in the dam, while others say it was for the purpose of giving the fish a way upstream. It was a fishy transaction, anyway.”Less than a week later, Bell’s large house on the Rowardennan grounds burned to the ground. “Nothing was saved,” reported the Mountain Echo, excepting a few things which Mrs. Bell threw out of the window.”Within a matter of days, the train from San Francisco brought a member of the Fish Commission to Ben Lomond. The offending dam in Ben Lomond had only suffered minor damage and, the State official was pleased to find, was now “furnished with a brand new ladder just put in, and satisfactory to the requirements of the law.” To Be ContinuedRandall C. Brown is a local historian and is a member of the SLVWD Board of Directors
Club roundup
Kiwanis of the ValleysRecent club activities included participation in Scotts Valley’s 4th of July festivities at Skypark. The club teamed with Boy Scout troop 623 to run the carnival game concession, and also joined in the parade down Scotts Valley Dr.The club was proud to award the $2,500 Mike Smith Scholarship to Connor Lydon, an outstanding student who will soon be graduating from San Lorenzo Valley High School.The 7th season of the Kiwanis produced Music at Skypark summer concert series kicked off on July 26th. The first show was a rousing success. Sponsorship support for Music at Skypark has reached an all time high this year, and the best is yet to come with Extra Large and The Joint Chiefs set to play the next show on August 30th.The concerts are free. Sponsorship donations and net proceeds from our onsite vendors benefit the music programs in our local schools. Concert day volunteers are needed. If you can help, please contact us at http://www.kiwanisofthevalleys.org/Kiwanis meets 7:00am every Wednesday morning at Bruno’s BBQ. The second Wednesday of each month is an evening meeting at Bruno’s at 6:30 pm. We invite you to join us. Rotary Club of San Lorenzo Valley On July 29, the Rotary Club of San Lorenzo Valley will be celebratingthe 75th wedding anniversary of Charter Member, Gil Gunn, and hiswife, Marge. Gil has been a Rotarian since 1951.Rotarians are volunteering during Thomas the Train's visit to RoaringCamp Railroad in July and August. Proceeds from these events support severallocal youth projects including scholarships, a speech contest andleadership camps.This summer, the Rotary Club of SLV is meeting every Wednesday at 7:15 amat 9465 Highway 9, Ben Lomond, the future site of the Ben LomondBistro. Meetings are open to the public. If you are interested injoining a service organization, Rotarians always welcome new members.Additional information can be found on our website slvrotaryclub.org<http://slvrrotaryclub.org/. The Valley Women’s ClubOn Saturday, August 29th, Isadora Duncan will come alive as a person and dancer in a performance by Duncan specialist Lois Flood, in a 7 p.m. performance at Park Hall in Ben Lomond. Isadora Duncan was an iconic dancer and inspirational symbol of women’s independence, both in her style of dance, in the schools she established in the US and Europe, and in her rejection of the social strictures of the beginning on the twentieth century. The Valley Women’s Club’s Women’s Issues Committee is bringing Ms Flood back by popular demand, after a sell-out performance and a dance workshop presented locally last year.In May and June, several hundred “Ready for School” bags were distributed by the VWC’s Education Committee to incoming kindergarten and pre-kindergarten youngsters, as they came to enroll at San Lorenzo Valley Elementary and Boulder Creek Elementary Schools. The bags, supported by donations, offer a book, school and learning supplies, and information to help parents prepare their youngsters for the experience of going to school. The inspiration of Dusty Gipson, Boulder Creek Mom and past VWC Board Member, the bags have helped many hundreds of 4 and 5 year-olds gain needed skills as they ready for school.The Environmental Committee was granted funds by the County’s Environmental Health Department (from our taxes designated to help assure functioning septic systems) to print and mail an informative brochure entitled, “Save Our Septics,” to every SLV resident. Filled with information, and entertaining to read, the brochures were designed by VWC member, Nina Moore, printed (at the discount) by Community Printers. We are grateful to Environmental Health for enabling it to be sent to every SLV resident.Plan to help with the 29th Annual River & Road Clean-up, coming to Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond and Felton on Saturday, September 19th, from 9 to 3. The VWC, in conjunction with Save Our Shores, is counting on volunteers to come help remove trash and recyclables from the River and Creeks, and from the roads along the River - before the rains come and wash the debris down the creeks and River to the Bay and Ocean. Volunteers of all ages are needed. check out the VWC website for information, www.valleywomensclub.org, or call Nancy at 338-6578. The Exchange Club of Scotts ValleyThe Exchange Club of Scotts Valley is currently partnering The SVPD with the D.A.R.E. Golf tournament Friday August 21st. D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) is a curriculum that is taught to 5th grade students in the Scotts Valley School District. D.A.R.E. has a common objective of teaching students life lessons that they can use every day. These lessons include building self-esteem, learning assertiveness, managing stress, and reducing violence. D.A.R.E. lessons also include saying yes to positive alternatives and making decisions about behaviors, as well as resisting drugs, alcohol, gangs and other negative situations.Community support of D.A.R.E. through our golf tournament is greatly appreciated and helps make Scotts Valley a safer place for our youth. Proceeds from this event also support our other juvenile programs such as Red Ribbon Week, the Junior Police Academy, etc. The Exchange Club is in the planning stages of a trip to Estonia led by our favorite Exchange Club spouse and Estonian Piret Harmon! The club meets the 4th Wednesday of the month at 5:30 at Bruno'sAll are welcome. For information on any of these events please call Chris at 462-3293
Datebook
Submit Datebook items to [email protected] or drop off press releases or photos at 5215 Scotts Valley Drive, Ste. F, Scotts Valley 95066. Deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday. Entries are subject to editing, and publication is not guaranteed. Saturday, August 8Hospice pet companion informational meetingWhen: 10 to 11 a.m.Where: Oceanview Park, 102 Ocean View Ave. in Santa CruzDetails: Hospice of Santa Cruz County is looking for friendly, compassionate adults with friendly pet dogs to share two to four hours a week with hospice patients and families interested in connecting with a furry friend.Info: www.hospicesantacruz.org Artisanal probiotic beverages: Kombucha and water kefirWhen: 10 a.m.Where: Scotts Valley Farmers MarketDetails: Santa Cruz County Farmers Markets and Mountain Feed and Farm Supply have teamed up for the DIY summer series.Cost: Free Sunday, August 9Tasting under the redwoodsWhen: 1 to 5 p.m.Where: Bret Harte Hall at Roaring Camp,Details: Enjoy food, wine, beer, a silent auction, live jazz, and free parking at this 21 and over event that benefits Valley Churches United Missions. Over 25 restaurants and confectioners, 10 wineries, and four breweries will be serving their special “bites” and “sips.” Cost: $40Info: eventbrite.com for tickets. Find Valley Churches United Missions on Facebook. Sunday, August 9The Interconnected Thread of all Life: Beyond the Separate SelfWhen: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Where: Ben LomondDetails: Meeting in a natural open-air amphitheater surrounded by redwoods. Day of silent meditation.Cost: $40 - $60 suggested donation. Registration required.Info: [email protected] Wednesday, August 12Town Meeting – Article V – Convention of StatesWhen7 to 9 p.m.Where: Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., Scotts ValleyCost: No cover, free parkingInfo: 515-7653 Thursday, August 13Jazz musicWhen: 6 to 8 p.m.Where: Trout Farm Inn, 7701 E. Zayante Rd. in FeltonDetails: Live jazz music featuring the Joe Leonard Trio.Cost: No coverInfo: 335-4317 Saturday, August 15Free ACT practice examWhen: 8 to 11:30 a.m.Where: Higher Standards Academy, 444 Scotts Valley Dr. #7A in Scotts ValleyInfo: 515-7373 to register 2015 Scotts Valley Art Wind & Beer FestivalWhen: 6 to 8 p.m.Where: SkyparkDetails: Art, wine, food and fun.Info: 438-1010 Flea MarketWhen: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Felton Presbyterian Church, 6090 Highway 9, FeltonCost: $20 per spaceInfo: 335-6905 Sunday, August 162015 Scotts Valley Art Wind & Beer FestivalWhen: 6 to 8 p.m.Where: SkyparkDetails: Art, wine, food and fun.Info: 438-1010 Sunday, August 16Poet/Speak: Open poetry reading featuring Nancy HoffmanWhen: 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.Where: Santa Cruz Main Library, 224 Church St., Santa CruzInfo: 464-8983 Create your own Hupertufa planterWhen: 1 to 3 p.m.Where: Quail Hollow RanchDetails: Call for supplies and descriptionInfo: 335-9348 Monday, August 17Memory Loss seminarWhen: August 17, 4:00 -6:00 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley LibraryCall for information: 334-0865 Tuesday, August 18“When Music Worlds Collide,” Felton, CACost: Call for informationInfo: 335-2526Details Tuesday, August 18: “When Music Worlds Collide,” Felton, CACost: Call for informationInfo: 335-2526 Wednesday, Aug. 19Workshop: Going Shopping with Your ChildWhen: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.Where: Felton Covered Bridge Park, at Graham Hill & Mt. Hermon Roads, FeltonInfo: http://first5scc.org/workshop-going-shopping-your-child-1 Friday, August 21American Red CrossDetails: Blood donation opportunitiesWhen: 1:00 – 6:00 p.m.Where: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintsAddress: 9545 Lovecreek Rd., Ben Lomond Wednesday, August 26Jazz musicWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Casa NostraDetails: Live jazz music featuring jazz duo Paul Trigg and Joe LeonardCost: No coverInfo: 609-6132 Thursday, August 27Willing Suspension Armchair TheaterWhen:7 to 9 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley LibraryDetails: Funny Ladies:Musings & Memoir from Hilarious WomenCost: Free, but donations are appreciatedInfo: [email protected] Sunday, August 30Music at Skypark ConcertWhen: 2 to 6 p.m.Where: SkyparkDetails: Two bands, Extra Large and The Joint ChiefsCost: Donation proceeds from refreshments sale go to schoolsInfo: Kiwanis of the Valleys – 439-8018 Thursday, September 3Boating safety and navigation three classes for registrationWhen: 7 to 8:30 p.m.Where: Santa Cruz Harbor Public Meeting Room, 365A Lake Ave. at the Harbor near the boat yardDetails: Boating Skills and Seamanship, Sailing and Seamanship, and Coastal NavigationInfo: [email protected]. Saturday, Sept. 12Women with mood disordersWhen: 3 to 5 p.m.Where: Ease Mountain Yoga, Ben LomondInfo: 440-6970 Sunday, Sept. 13Post card showWhen: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Where: The Hilton, 6001 La Madrona Dr. in Scotts ValleyDetails: An intimate post card experience.Info: [email protected] or 476-3262 Sunday, Sept. 139th Annual Emergency Preparedness DayWhen: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Home Depot parking lot, 2600 41st Ave. in SoquelDetails: Emergency communication demonstrationsInfo: 462-5650 ext. 145 Sunday, Sept. 27Music at Skypark ConcertWhen: 2 to 6 p.m.Where: SkyparkDetails: Two bands, The Coffis Brothers and The Mountain MenCost: Donation proceeds from refreshments sale go to schoolsInfo: Kiwanis of the Valleys – 439-8018 ONGOINGMountain Community TheaterPark Hall in Ben LomondWhen: August 21 through 22What: New Works Night: Frank and StellaDetails: An original play written by Ian McRae; Directed by Robin AronsonInfo and tickets: www.mctshows.org or 336-4777 Everest Vacation Bible SchoolWhen: Aug. 3 through 7 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: San Agustin Catholic Church, 257 Glenwood Dr. in Scotts ValleyWhat: Games, crafts, experiments, songs, drama, and snacks.Cost: $60Info: 438-3633 Registration ends July 27 Vegan potluckWhen: First Friday of the month at 11:30 a.m.Where: Saint Michael’s Community Hall in Boulder CreekDetails: We are the only location around trying to save all life on earth — now declining by over 100 species a day due to 8 billion humans killing everything that lives.Info: 338-3544 to RSVP or email [email protected]. Together in the ParkWhen: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. WednesdaysWhere: Felton Covered Bridge ParkDetails: Parenting resources, craft projects, music, stories and healthy snacks. Parents, family members or caregivers, and their children meet for play and group activities.Cost: Free Center for Animal Protection is recruiting foster families for dogsDetails: The Center for Animal Protection and Education (CAPE) is recruiting new foster volunteers for dogs awaiting permanent homes.Info: Nancy Eaton at 684-2421 San Lorenzo Valley “Women with Mood Disorders”When: The second Saturday of the month from 3:30 to 5:50 p.m.Where: FeltonInfo: [email protected] for details Sound MeditationWhen: First Sunday of every month from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m.Where: Mountain Spirit, 6299 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Discussion and practice on the use of sound to connect in meditation with Bruce ManakaCost: FreeInfo: Shelby at 335-7700 Gratitude WednesdaysWhen: First Wednesday of every month from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.Where: Mountain Spirit, 6299 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Mountain Spirit will donate 10 percent of sales to a local non-profit.Info: Shelby at 335-7700 Mountain Spirit’s Writing GroupWhen: First Wednesday of every month from 5 to 7 p.m.Where: Mountain Spirit, 6299 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Mountain Spirit's Writing Group is a creative writing class led by Wendy Ledger.Info: Shelby at 335-7700 Kids Fun Night at BC RecreationWhen: Tuesdays, 5 to 9 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation Center, 13333 Middleton Ave. in Boulder CreekDetails: Potluck please bring a dish to share. Fun filled evening for kids 2-11years. Movie, crafts, games, and fun.Cost: $20 per kid Cooking and Homestead Class for KidsWhen: Tuesdays, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation CenterCost: $15 per kid Bloom of the Present Weekly Monday Evening MeditationWhen: Mondays except for federal holidays, 7 to 8:30 p.m.Where: The Satellite, 6265 Highway 9 in Felton Info: 831-212-6641 or bloomofthepresent.org Touch Team iPad Memory classes at the LibraryMonday and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.Where: Scotts Valley Public Library, 251 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: Join us in this supportive social setting, for a series of innovative workshops that use Ipads to engage the mind and activate memory. No experience is necessary and iPads are supplied by the library and individual coaches are present to help with activities.Info: Call to Register 427-7700 x 7615 Wilder Ranch Tours and Living History DemonstrationsWhen: Weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Coast Rd, Santa CruzDetails: Visit an early day dairy ranch and step back in time to the late 1800’s at Wilder Ranch State Park. You can also play Victorian games or bring a picnic to enjoy on the front lawn, visit the farm animals and see what activities are taking place on the ranch this weekend, You may learn about hand quilting, watch blacksmithing, or wood stove baking techniques.Info: 426-0505 Redwood Loop WalkWhen: Saturdays, 1 p.m.Where: Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 21600 Big Basin Way in Boulder CreekDetails: Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Meet at park headquarters.Cost: FreeInfo: 338-8883 Old-Growth Redwood WalksWhen: every Saturday at 1 p.m.Where: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 101 N Big Trees Park Rd. in FeltonDetails: Experience a guided forest adventure on a docent-led walk through the magnificent old-growth coast redwood forest. This is .8 mile long stroll lasting around 1.5 hours. The trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible.Cost: FreeInfo: 335-7077 Embroidistry at Om GalleryWhen: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. dailyWhere: Om Gallery, 1201 Pacific Ave. in Santa CruzDetails: Hand-embroidered interpretations of well-known masterpieces, album covers, and original compositions by Ben Lomond artist Mardeen Gordon.Cost: FreeInfo: Mardeen Gordon at 252-7446 First aid-CPR classWhen: Third Saturday of the monthWhere: Felton Fire Protection District, 131 Kirby St., in FeltonDetails: Ray Soler will lead a class for First Aid and CPR certification for community members. Times and registration details are available online or by phone.Cost: Free for district residents and employees of businesses within the district, $36 for all othersInfo: 335-4422 or www.feltonfire.com TOPS club meetWhen: Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m.Where: Meeting room in back of the Felton Fire DepartmentDetails: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) is a group dedicated to loosing weight by encouraging healthy eating and lifestyle habits.Cost: First visit is free Tai Chi and Chi GongWhen: Fridays from 9 to 10 a.m.Where: Sky Park behind Parks and Rec., 361 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: Gentle movement supporting balance, stress reduction, and strengthening.Cost: $8 drop-in feeInfo: Mary Mulligan 335-9390 Valley Churches United Missions Food PantryWhen: Tuesdays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: Valley Churches United Missions Food Pantry, 9430 Highway 9 in Ben LomondDetails: School supplies and back packs for low-income families in need.Cost: FreeInfo: Preregister at 336-8258 x 221 Scotts Valley Senior Center Book WormsWhen: Third Friday of the month, from 1 to 2:30 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: A senior-oriented book club organized by the Scotts Valley Senior Center.Cost: $2 for members, $3 for non-membersInfo: 438-8666 Fridays at Five food distributionWhen: Fridays from 5 to 6 p.m.Where: GateWay Bible Church, 5000 Granite Creek Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: Food distribution to those in need. Every Friday, tables of groceries will be set up near the carport at the church office.Info: [email protected] or 438-0646 Line Dance classesWhen: Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation Center, 13333 Middleton Ave. in Boulder CreekDetails: Line Dance Instructor Amber Blavin will lead a weekly line dancing class. No partners are needed to attend.Cost: $5 per class or donationInfo: (408) 712-2287 or [email protected] SLV Museum exhibitWhen: Wednesday through Sunday 12 to 4 p.m.Where: SLV Museum, 12547 Highway 9 in Boulder CreekDetails: “Crystals, Caves, and Kilns” explores the natural and cultural history of limestone, lime, and marble in the Felton and Santa Cruz areas.Cost: DonationsInfo: 338-8382 Improv theater games and exercisesWhen: Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation Center, 13333 Middleton Ave. in Boulder CreekDetails: Heidi Drew will lead two hours of improvisation theater classes. Beginners are encouragedCost: $5Info: [email protected] Live jazz at Casa NostraWhen: Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Casa Nostra, 9217 Highway 9 in Ben LomondDetails: Casa Nostra will host live jazz music.Cost: FreeInfo: 609-6132 SLVHS bingo fundraiserWhen: Mondays, 4 p.m.Where: Portuguese Hall, 216 Evergreen Street in Santa CruzDetails: A weekly 18-game bingo program to benefit the athletics programs at San Lorenzo Valley High School.Info: 335-4425 Big Basin Trail Crew volunteer dayWhen: Second Saturday of the month, 9 a.m.Where: Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 21600 Big Basin Way in Boulder CreekDetails: Volunteers (18 years of age or older) will meet at Park Headquarters to spend a day — rain or shine — working to maintain and preserve the park’s trails.Info: www.bigbasintrailcrew.org Boulder Creek ZumbaWhen: Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: Boulder Creek Recreation and Parks District, 13333 Middleton Ave. in Boulder CreekDetails: Cecelia Kelly will lead a weekly Zumba class. Participants will get a great workout in a dance party atmosphere.Cost: $10Info: http://ceciliakelly.zumba.com Senior pinochle gameWhen: Tuesdays at 2 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: An open game of pinochle.Cost: $2 for members, $3 for non-membersInfo: 438-8666 Free laughter yogaWhen: Sundays, 10:30 a.m.Where: Luminescence Day Spa and Tea Room, 13140 Highway 9, in Boulder CreekCost: FreeInfo: Lizzie Lochner, 338-7546 Toastmasters clubWhen: Wednesdays, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.Where: St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 5271 Scotts Valley Dr., in Scotts ValleyDetails: The Redwood Ramblers Toastmasters meets weekly to help members build confidence as public speakers and leaders.Info: 435-9308 or http://8203.toastmastersclubs.org Poetry circle, workshopWhen: Third Saturday of the month, 2 to 4 p.m.Where: Scotts Valley Branch Library, 251 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: Magdalena Montague, a local poet and teacher, leads classes for prospective poets of all skill levels.Cost: FreeInfo: [email protected] or 427-7717 Senior line dancingWhen: 12 p.m. Tuesdays and 9 a.m. FridaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: Biweekly line dancing and lessons are offered by the Scotts Valley Senior Center.Cost: $2 for members, $3 for nonmembersInfo: 438-8666 to confirm Zumba for seniorsWhen: 6 p.m. Mondays, 9 a.m. Tuesdays and 9:30 a.m. ThursdaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: An instructor-led Zumba class encourages exercise in a fun, rhythmic environment.Cost: $3 for members, $5 for nonmembersInfo: 438-8666 Beginning ballet for fitnessWhen: 4:30 to 5 p.m. MondaysWhere: Agape Dance Academy, 104 Whispering Pines Dr., Room 5, in Scotts ValleyDetails: This introductory beginner class emphasizes fitness through dance.Cost: FreeInfo: 359-0850 Line dance, weightsWhen: 9:45 to 11 a.m.Where: Highlands Park Senior Center, 8500 Highway 9, in Ben LomondDetails: $2 for members, $3 for nonmembersInfo: 336-8900 BingoWhen: 1 to 3 p.m. WednesdaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: All adults are welcome. The game is sponsored by Project Scout (Senior Citizen Outreach).Cost: 50 cents per card, one card free with four or moreInfo: 438-8666 Tai Chi classesWhen: 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. MondaysWhere: Highlands Park Senior Center, 8500 Highway 9, in Ben LomondCost: $3 members, $5 nonmembersInfo: 336-8900 Genealogical society meetingWhen: 1 to 3 p.m., first Thursday of the monthWhere: Central Branch Library meeting room, 224 Church Street in Santa CruzDetails: Lectures for beginning to advanced genealogy enthusiasts.Cost: FreeInfo: 427-7707, ext. 5794, or Janine Charlton, [email protected] Senior exercise classWhen: 10 a.m. Mondays and FridaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd.Info: The class incorporates strength, balance and coordination exercises for complete body conditioning for men and women age 50 and older, led by retired physical therapist Cherry Nittler.Cost: $2 members, $3 nonmembers Drop-in meditation groupWhen: 7 to 8:45 p.m. MondaysWhere: The Satellite, 6265 Highway 9, FeltonDetails: Beginning and experienced students of meditation will participate in 40 minutes of silent meditation, followed by a dharma talk and discussion by Carla BrennanInfo: http://bloomofthepresent.com Beginners’ line dancingWhen: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. ThursdaysWhere: Boulder Creek Recreation, 13333 Middleton Ave., in Boulder CreekDetails: For dancers age 8 and olderCost: Drop in by donationInfo: [email protected] Water media art classesWhen: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. ThursdaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: Participants will work with watercolor and acrylic paints. Adults of any age and all experience levels are welcome.Cost: $7 for members, $8 for nonmembersInfo: Beverly Martin, 335-0425 or [email protected], or www.portrait-fineart.com. Body Freedom QigongWhen: 10 to 11 a.m. TuesdaysWhere: Felton Covered Bridge Park, 122 Covered Bridge Rd., on rainy days, The Satellite, 6265 Highway 9, in FeltonDetails: Qigong is similar to tai chi and is like a standing yoga with gentle, easy movements for flexibility, strength, health and relaxation.Info: Bonnie Eskie, qigong instructor, 515-4144 SLV Community Band rehearsalsWhen: 7 to 9 p.m. ThursdaysWhere: San Lorenzo Valley High School band room, 7105 Highway 9, in FeltonDetails: Dust off your instrument and try it out. The semester fee benefits school music programs in the San Lorenzo Valley.Cost: $25 per semesterInfo: Jon Christian, 335-3565 Bridge players wantedDetails: Intermediate and advanced bridge players are in demand for ongoing groups in the San Lorenzo Valley. Groups meet depending on availability.Info: Shelby Charette, 335-5956 Advanced bridge players wantedWhen: 12 p.m. on MondaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: Participants can hone their skills against other highly skilled bridge players.Cost: $2 for members, $3 for nonmembersInfo: 438-8666 Chair and gentle yogaWhen: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. ThursdaysWhere: Balance Health of Ben Lomond, 231 Main St. Ste. A, in Ben Lomond.Details: This gentle yoga program is intended to increase circulation, mobility, balance, strength, awareness and confidence.Info: Ruth Caudell, 336-3560 Healing tai chi for seniorsWhen: 9 a.m. FridaysWhere: SV Community Center, 360 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyDetails: Gentle, easy movement for health promotionCost: $7 for members, $8 for nonmembersInfo: Mary Mulligan, 335-9390 or [email protected] Together in the ParkWhen: 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. WednesdaysWhere: Felton Covered Bridge Park, Graham Hill and Mount Hermon Roads, in FeltonDetails: Parenting support, information and age-appropriate activities for children up to 5 years old.Info: Cori Burt, 252-1137 Mindfulness meditation groupWhen: 7 to 8:30 p.m. MondaysWhere: Satellite Telework Center, 6265 Highway 9, in FeltonDetails: Beginning and experienced students are welcome for silent meditation and talk.Info: Carla, 336-0136 Basic yogaWhen: 9 to 10 a.m. MondaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyCost: $6Info: 438-8666 Beginning line dancing classWhen: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. FridaysWhere: Scotts Valley Senior Center, 370 Kings Village Rd., in Scotts ValleyCost: $2 members, $4 non membersInfo: 438-8666 Belly dancing for women
Infant-toddler center opened in Scotts Valley
Established in 1968, Scotts Valley's Baymonte Christian School is an independent, interdenominational Christian school for children ranging from preschool through eighth grades. It also runs three day care centers: one at the main Granite Creek Road campus, Baymonte Christian Preschool Too on Scotts Valley Drive and another one on Bethany Drive. In addition to the existing preschool for students between the ages of 2-years, 6-months old through kindergarten, they just opened an infant-care center.“We consulted Santa Cruz County's Children Development Resource Center before committing to open the infant-care” said Steve Patterson, Baymonte's principal. “Apparently there's a vast shortage of infant-care services, they encouraged us to have 35-beds facility, but we decided to go with just an 8-bed license for now, to see how it goes. We do mostly care about the quality of care” he said. The infant-care center will accept 2-month-olds that will stay at the upstairs unit until they're potty-trained and ready to move to the daycare unit downstairs, which accommodates up to12 toddlers.The bad news for those interested is that both units are already full, and there's a waiting list. At the opening ceremony last week, combined with the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce mixer, city dignitaries mixed with chamber of commerce members, teachers and parents. It culminated in the perfect-PR ribbon-cutting photo, with all yelling “Babies!” in unison.
Fire
On July 30, a wild brush fire on Green Hills Rd. near Highway 17 in Scotts Valley was extinguished by 5:00 p.m. Present to help were fire fighters from Scotts Valley Fire District, Cal Fire, Santa Cruz and Felton Fire. In all, about dozen trucks were seen at the scene of the fire. There was a helicopter dropping fire retardant material and a water tanker flying to assist the helicopter.
The search for Maddy
On July 27, the Santa Cruz Police Department concluded their search for Madyson “Maddy” Middleton. At approximately 7:55 p.m., detectives located the body of a child matching Maddy’s description. It was found in a dumpster at the Tannery Arts Center complex at 1030 River Street. The official cause and manner of death will be determined at a pending autopsy by the Santa Cruz County Coroner. As of July 29, that information had not been made public.
Picnic in the park with some homeless folks
It would have been nice if a table had been available for the food, but Jonney Hughes explained that the maintenance people from the Santa Cruz County Department of Parks had removed the one that used to be in that spot.“They said they were going to fix the table and bring it back, but we could not see that anything was wrong with it,” explained Hughes.The picnic was spread on a cement area under the trees and the hosts sat in canvas folding chairs around a spread of sandwiches, salads, fruit and desserts. “Those of us who can, pool our money and food so we can share with others,” said Hughes.Asked what it was like to be homeless, Teresa Fitzpatrick said “I am not homeless and not all of us are. Some of us have jobs, but don’t earn much –– not enough for rent and food,” said Fitzpatrick. “We all have different stories. Some of us are retired and get social security but it’s not enough for everything so we get stuck in this wilderness,” she said.“We are people who have raised families. We are good people who have fallen on hard times. It happens,” said Fitzpatrick. “The picnic table that used to be here was like a social center where we met to eat, sew, and visit,” said Hughes. She said “we have even held memorial services here for friends who have passed away.”The New Life Church in Santa Cruz provides some help to these folks. Richard Franconi distributes food to people that has been donated by the New Life Church. He walks around the park and hands out burritos. He said “I have been doing this for 15 years. I used to give about 30 and now it is only about 10.” He gives the food to hungry people even if they are not homeless.The people at the picnic were all wearing neat, clean clothes. Lise Lafontaine said that she was one of the homeless. She is a licensed hair stylist who cannot find work. “I cut hair for these people for free,” she said as she gestured at the circled of people. “I never thought that I would become homeless because I am a professional haircutter,” said Lafontaine. “Sometimes we get to shower at the Presbyterian Church,” she said. Otherwise, they have no access to water in order to stay clean.They told their stories and when it was time for lunch, the circle of people bowed their heads while Hughes led the group in a thank you prayer. Lunch was good. It would have been nicer if the picnic table had been there.The good news is that Alan Galran from Santa Cruz County Department of Parks said that the table will be replaced within two weeks.
Dangerous driving on East Zayante Road
There was a collision on East Zayante Road on July 22 when a 19-year old man, Jacob Waring of Felton, let his 1989 GMC truck cross over the yellow line as he was traveling southbound. Dylan Hage, a 21 year old man from Boulder Creek, was Waring’s passenger. Waring collided with Patrick Goldie of Lompico who was driving northbound in a 2001 Saturn.Reportedly, witnesses said that the GMC truck was being driven recklessly prior to the collision. There is an ongoing investigation regarding this claim.All three men were transported to hospitals with major medical conditions. Both Waring and Hage were taken to Valley Medical Center, while Goldie was moved to Stanford for treatment.Investigating California Highway Patrolman M. Diaz reported that the incident occurred at 7:55 a.m. The road was still closed at 10:30 a.m. Traffic was diverted from East Zayante Road to West Zayante Road while the scene of the accident was made
News briefs
NEWSBRIEFSETR Associates announced today that it has acquired Select Media, a producer, publisher and distributor of award-winning and evidence-based programs for promoting positive health behaviors among communities at risk. Select Media has pioneered culturally targeted, award-winning, effective materials used by community groups, health departments, schools, government agencies, and departments of education, youth groups and clinics nationwide. ETR, a leading publisher, educator and designer of science-based health and education prevention programs, will now feature the largest global offering of sexual and reproductive health interventions.City of Scotts ValleyThe Scotts Valley Advocates invites the community to a free movie night at Skypark on Friday, August, 7. The showing of “Big Hero 6” will be at 8:20 p.m.Bring blankets or outdoor chairs for lawn seating. Aunt Lali’s Ice Cream Truck will be there and popcorn and juice will also be available for purchase.
Sandwich shop owner appointed to Scotts Valley Council
As Greg Wimp, the owner of multiple area Togo’s sandwich shop locations, stepped up Oct. 1 to address Scotts Valley City Council about why...
