The Right Side of the Tracks
It was summer, 1891. The new town of Ben Lomond rose up several levels—physically and socially. The low ground along the river belonged to commerce. Enterprises of all sorts—store and post office, several salons and, allegedly, houses of prostitution lined the street across from the Pacific Mill. Although Pierce and other promoters hoped to call the road “Ben Lomond Avenue, the name “Mill Street” stuck. Uphill, across the railroad tracks, a sub-division of summer cottages took shape. Prospective residents were lured with the promise of “a perfect system of water works,” and were reminded that the continued presence of the saw mill would provide cheap and accessible building material. Somewhat higher still was the Hotel Ben Lomond, overlooking the river at the north end of town. Pierce had offered to give the site to “any proper and competent party” willing to finish the project, but eventually financed it himself. His assistant, Thomas Bell, architect of the saw mill, supervised the construction. According to W. S. Rogers, the local supervisor at the time, the timber baron was a demanding employer. “We encountered a barley sack lying on the ground, “he recalled. “Mr. Pierce picked it up on the end of his cane and mildly reproved Mr. Bell for permitting such a state of things to exist.” When the new summer resort opened in June, 1889, the San Francisco and Oakland papers touted the convenient railroad station, the local trees and, especially, “good fishing, etc.” The two-story main building was a work in progress. Another twelve rooms were added after the first year and also a children’s dining room. The feature of 1890 was an elegant clubhouse, complete with dance floor, billiard tables, “a lavatory, baths, etc.” The flood of January 1890 rushed harmlessly past the hotel grounds. As the San Lorenzo began to overflow, employees of the store moved its goods across the street to the mill, then they watched as the river knocked a few buildings off their foundations. Hotel Ben Lomond proved popular with society people from the cities that summer. The rooms and cottages were fully occupied, but the profits proved elusive when the landlady left suddenly with the proceeds at the end of the season. Pierce continued to sponsor community amenities. An estimated 3,000 trees were distributed throughout the village —“elm, walnut, ash, locust, red gum and others.” The Land and Lumber Company also constructed a small church and offered it as a free gift to any denomination that promised to initiate regular preaching. The Presbyterians spoke first and claimed the prize. New management was recruited from Santa Cruz and, in the spring of 1891, the resort prepared to accommodate over 100 guests. Water sports — fishing and swimming — were heavily advertised. The Surf liked the combination of cool mountain air and “the pleasure of the piscatorial art.” The Sentinel spoke of “speckled beauties biting at everything bite-able.” Bathhouses, including swimming tanks were erected along Love Creek and the San Lorenzo. Members of Pierce’s large extended family — seven children, including two teenage girls — were frequent guests at his home and the hotel. It is likely that, in addition to business matters, Mr. Pierce discussed his personal plans with his sons and daughters. His wife had passed away several years earlier and the entrepreneur, now in his mid-sixties, intended to marry again. His choice — a widow half his age, who had once worked in his household — did not please his prospective heirs. To keep the peace, Pierce’s lawyers arranged to distribute his corporate holdings before the wedding. In August, a letter from hotel guest Winifred Bowen, Pierce’s 7-year old great-niece, to her sister in England somehow made it into the columns of the Surf. After mentioning the garden and croquet court, she observed that: “There is a nice creek and one day we went down there. There is a pond which I have seen and the men go in swimming. There is a mill pond, which logs used to be pushed into, then taken out and sawed.” Her use of the past tense was correct. The profits from the lumber business had steadily declined, due to competition from mills in Boulder Creek and Santa Cruz, resulting in over-production and price wars. For some time, Pierce had quietly sold off his timber lands and, during the summer of 1891, shut down the Pacific Mill. To Be Continued. Randall C. Brown is a local historian and is a member of the SLVWD Board of Directors
The Mountain Gardener: Dry River Beds – Beautiful and Beneficial
With so many people replacing their thirsty lawns with low water-use plants, I’m getting lots of requests for ideas about what to do with all that empty space. The sky’s the limit when you have a blank slate. Let me get you started.If your old lawn was in the front you might consider putting in a sitting area for a couple of chairs and a bistro table. Use simple crushed gravel or more formal flagstone underfoot and surround the space with a low seat wall to add a bit of privacy.Adding a dry river bed is another good solution. A dry river bed can slow runoff, spread it out and sink it back into the soil. Connected to a downspout they keep even more rainfall on your own property. If we get the El Nino storms that are predicted this will be a welcome addition to your landscape.A dry river bed is a rock-lined swale that uses rounded river rock in addition to vegetation to allow runoff to soak into the ground. Make sure there is a 2-percent slope from beginning to end to ensure that water is conveyed away from your house to the desired location. Non-woven geotextile fabric is often used underneath the rock.You can create a depression or rain garden at the end of your dry river bed and plant it with plants that tolerate wet feet in the winter. Both a dry river bed and a rain garden allow water to sink back into the ground. The plants remove pollutants from the runoff from roofs or other impervious surfaces.A rain garden might be a simple, shallow depression filled with plants that can flourish in both moist and dry conditions. The size and depth will depend on your how much water you need to capture in a winter runoffSometimes a dry river bed will receive so much runoff that a dry well or dispersal pit is installed at the end. If you have a high water table or clay soil the water may not always soak in fast enough and an overflow device like this is needed. The goal is to keep water on your own property and not in the street or the neighbors’ yard.There are good looking dry river beds as well as bad looking ones. A quick Google image search will show you what I mean. Your goal is to create something that looks like it belongs right where it is. The plants, the accent rocks, the cobble, the location – all need to work together.If your property has a natural slope, follow the natural terrain if possible. You can install a dry river bed on flat land also by creating a channel for the river bed to follow. Keep in mind that even a dry river bed is more interesting if it is not all visible at once. Soft, flowing curves and bends create a natural look.Start with the rocks and cobble. Rounded river cobble looks most natural for the creek bed. In nature, water flowing down a river would round off sharp rock edges to produce cobble of different sizes. A river never has just one size of rocks and yours shouldn’t either.Accent rocks can be any type that you like as long as you get a variety of rock sizes and shapes. Use the larger stones to direct and channel water. Placing rocks on the outside of a curve creates a more natural look.As in all gardens there is always a bit of maintenance to keep things looking and working great. Weeding in the first couple of months while plants become established is important. Replenish mulch as needed until the plants grow in.Periodically remove leaves that have landed in your river bed and reposition rocks moved by runoff to keep your dry creek bed working for you when you need it. Also don’t start your dry creek bed too close to the foundation of your home if that area is flat. You can direct the water through a drain pipe connected to a downspout to a lower starting spot in your garden.So whether you are adding a dry river bed to add interest to your lawn-free landscape or to double as catchment for winter storm runoff, make yours look like it’s always been there. -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.
Mr. Money
When Scotts Valley Market lowers the price of ice cream, shoppers will buy more ice cream. When the price is raised, shoppers buy less.That’s how it works in most parts of the economy, but not in the stock market – especially nowadays, as passively managed index funds have become overwhelmingly popular.An index fund is a mutual fund or exchange-traded fund (ETF) that aims to replicate the movements of an index, like the Standard & Poor’s 500, which is composed of the 500 largest U.S. companies. Index funds now account for 31-percent of fund assets, up from 14-percent in 2004.Two factors have caused this popularity: Low cost: Essentially, an index fund is managed by a computer. This is much less expensive than paying a professional manager to research companies and seek out growth and value, as actively managed funds do. Fees for passively managed funds are just 0.2-percent per year compared with 0.79-percent for actively managed funds, according to Morningstar. Better performance: Index funds have provided better investment results recently. Over five years up to the end of last year, 88.7-percent of fund managers investing in large companies underperformed the S&P 500.So, what’s the problem?My goal has always been to buy low and sell high. But that’s exactly the opposite of what index funds do.Index funds are “market capitalization weighted.” Market capitalization is the total value of the shares outstanding. If a company has 1 million shares outstanding and its shares sell for $10 each, then its market cap is $10 million.The bigger a company’s market cap, the more weighting that company has in an index. The more a company’s stock price goes up, the more shares of that stock an index fund has to buy. Stocks that go down in price see their market cap drop, so index funds have to reduce their weighting.In other words, index funds are required to buy high and sell low.The strategy has been working as more investors and advisors accept the idea that index investing is superior to actively managed funds or individual stock picking. The stampede of money into index funds drives them higher as they bid up the prices of a narrow group of richly valued companies.Instead of tried-and-true method of investing in companies with stock prices that are low relative to their current or expected profits, index funds invest in stocks simply because they have been going up.“When you buy index funds, you’re looking to the future through a rearview mirror,” said legendary investor Leon Cooperman last month on the TV show “Wall Street Week.”I’m not opposed to index funds, and many of my clients own them. They offer diversification for low fees. But low fees do not necessarily equal low cost. If a fund is buying stocks at inflated prices, then it’s not really a low-cost investment, even if the management fees are low.Maybe index funds will continue to outperform other investment strategies. But my experience has been that when a trend continues for years and gets too popular, and everyone accepts that what is happening now is the way it will always be, it’s time to think about alternate strategies.Mark Rosenberg is a financial adviser with Financial West Group in Scotts Valley, a member of FINRA and SIPC. He can be reached at 831-439-9910 or [email protected].
Let’s Go Fishin’: Summer Fishing
Ocean fishing has been the best option for fishing as reservoirs are low and we are lucky enough to live close to the coast. Salmon fishing remains tough, rockfish are a great bet as halibut start to show and albacore tuna seem to be a mystery.If you would like to fish for “what’s biting” that would be rockfish and lingcod! The bay water is warm at 60 degrees and is full of mackerel. The mackerel can be a nuisance at times and also make great bait for ling cod. Anglers are stopping outside the Santa Cruz Harbor in the morning and catching live bait (mackerel) to use for ling cod bait. Halibut and the larger model rockfish also see the mackerel as a tasty food source.Private boaters, rental boats, and charters alike, have been scoring limits of rockfish and lingcod. The limit of lingcod is 3 fish and minimum size is 22-inches, it is common to catch your 3 ling cod and limit of 10 rockfish on an outing. Some anglers may consider if they need that much fish and opt to release the smaller lingcod and or large female fish that may be preparing to spawn. Halibut have been caught, but not as many as one would think. The conditions look very good for halibut but they are not showing up in numbers yet.Boaters have steamed offshore recently in search of albacore tuna with the warm water offshore it is a surprise there have been no catches. Boats hailing form northern California and Oregon ports have had success on albacore and the commercial fleet has started fishing with great success. The past few years have had large numbers of albacore along the Oregon coast as central California did not see many fish. Albacore are highly migratory and migrate East in the spring if they move east and remain North on the Latitude line they may not come south. This appears to be the case with albacore again this year. Anglers may have to go north to get albacore or go another season with no tuna for the home canner, we will see.I am always looking for fishing pictures for the column, if you have one please send it to my email [email protected]. Remember to ad who caught the fish and where it was caught.
Press Banner Announcements
New Faces (July 24, 2015) Theodore Francis Lagier, 8-pound 1-ounce boy, was born to Jocelyn Lagier and Jack Lagier of Scotts Valley at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center in Santa Cruz. He was born at 6:30 a.m. on May 13, 2015. Lillian Anne Horsley, an 8-pound 3-ounce girl, was born to Ashley Michelle Cunningham and Edward Justin Horsley of Boulder Creek at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center in Santa Cruz. She was born at 5:31 p.m. on June 24, 2015. Hudson Frank Paulsen, 8-pound 8-ounce boy, was born to Danielle Angellica Sumner and Mark Lars Paulsen of Scotts Valley at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center in Santa Cruz. He was born at 3:40 a.m. on June 30, 2015. Jason Avery Vallance, 8-pound 9-ounce boy, was born to Adrienne Marie La Capria and Jordan Scott Vallance of Ben Lomond at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center in Santa Cruz. He was born at 12:04 a.m. on July 16, 2015. Giovanni Salino Malone, a 7-pound 1-ounce boy, was born to Destiny Anne Malone and Vincent Salino Malone of Scotts Valley at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz. He was born at 6:12 p.m. on July 17, 2015.
Press-Banner Datebook
Friday, July 24Red Cross blood donation opportunitiesWhen: 12 to 6 p.m.Where: Zero Motorcycles, 380 El Pueblo Dr. in Scotts ValleyDetails: The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to help offset a seasonal decline in donations and prevent a shortage this summer by giving blood.Info: 1-800-RED-CROSS or redcrossblood.org to make an appointment Tales of the Basin: A weekend of storytellingWhen: July 24 and July 25 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.Where: Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 21600 Big Basin Way in Boulder CreekDetails: Events throughout the weekend include Big Basin Nature Tails for children of all ages, guided walks that spin a yarn along the trail, and a Storyteller Showcase in the historic Campfire Center.Cost: $10 parking feeInfo: 338-8883 Saturday, July 25Hospice 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 Red Cross blood donation opportunitiesWhen: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Gateway Bible Church, 5000 Granite Creek Rd. in Scotts ValleyDetails: The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to help offset a seasonal decline in donations and prevent a shortage this summer by giving blood.Info: 1-800-RED-CROSS or redcrossblood.org to make an appointment Water tour — Great American Secchi Dip InWhen: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Where: Lock Lomond Recreation area, 100 Loch Lomond Way in FeltonDetails: Join the City of Santa Cruz Water Department and the Coastal Watershed Council on the next water tour to Loch Lomond Recreation Area to participate in the Great American Secchi Dip In and celebrate Lakes Appreciation Month.Info: 335-7424 to RSVP Bonny Doon studio tour 2015When: July 25 and July 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.Details: 30 artists will be opening their studios to the public.Info: www.BonnyDoonStudioTour.comCost: Free KBCZ outdoor movie night fundraiserWhen: 6 to 8:30 p.m.Where: Junction Park on Middleton Avenue in Boulder CreekDetails: Sunday, July 26Ceramic houses — The box transformedWhen: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center, 9341 Mill Street in Ben LomondDetails: Making Ceramic houses using slab techniques and slab roller.Cost: $70 members, $80 non-membersInfo: 336-4ART or www.mountainartcenter.org to register. Music at SkyparkWhen: 2:30 to 6 p.m.Where: Skypark,Details: Aftershock and Skinny Rick & the Casual Encounters perform on outdoor stage; all food concessions support music programs in local public schools.Cost: FreeInfo: KiwanisoftheValleys.org Monday, July 27Vacation bible adventureWhen: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: Felton Presbyterian Church, 6090 Highway 9 in FeltonDetails: Games, crafts, bible stories, snacks, singing, and making new friends.Cost: $25 per childInfo: www.feltonpresbyterian.org or 335-6900 Wednesday, July 29Jazz musicWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Casa Nostra, 9217 Highway 9 in Ben LomondDetails: Jazz duo featuring Paul Trigg & Joe LeonardCost: No coverInfo: 609-6132 Thursday, July 30Jazz musicWhen: 6 to 8 p.m.Where: Trout Farm Inn, 7701 E. Zayante Rd. in FeltonDetails: Live jazz music featuring the Joe Leonard TrioInfo: 335-4317 Friday, July 31Full moon madnessWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 101 N. Big Tree Park Rd. in FeltonDetails: We will have telescopes set up at the Observation Deck to do some stargazing and learn about the planets and constellations around us.Info: 335-7077 Saturday, August 1Annual iris rhizome saleWhen: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: Deer Park Shopping Center on Rio Del Mar Boulevard in AptosDetails: This is your chance to get some beautiful healthy iris rhizomes from the private gardens of the members of the Monterey Bay Iris Society.Info: 335-4949 Sunday, August 2Jazz musicWhen: 6 to 8:30 p.m.Where: Scopazzi’s Deck, 13300 Big Basin Way, Boulder CreekDetails: Live jazz music featuring JOY OF JAZZ.Cost: No coverInfo: 338-6441 Tuesday, August 4SCC Horseman’s Assn. screens 3 Mules documentaryWhen: 7 to 9 p.m.Where: 1145 Graham Hill Road, Santa CruzDetails: Emmy-winner John McDonald’ documentary shownCost: No coverInfo: 425-7352 Thursday, August 6Jazz musicWhen: 6 to 9 p.m.Where: Casa Nostra, 9217 Highway 9 in Ben LomondDetails: Live jazz music featuring JOY OF JAZZ.Cost: No cover.Info: 609-6132 Thursday, August 6Sons in Retirement LuncheonWhen: 11:30 a.m. to 1:35 p.m.Where: Portuguese Hall 216 Evergreen at Coral St (3 blocks past COSTCO)Details: Catered lunch by Barbara & Co. Talk on Conflict ResolutionCost: $17-Reservations requiredInfo: 336-8481 Thursday, August 6Red Cross blood donation opportunitiesWhen: 1 to 6 p.m.Where: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 220 Elk St. in Santa CruzDetails: The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to help offset a seasonal decline in donations and prevent a shortage this summer by giving blood.Info: 1-800-RED-CROSS or redcrossblood.org to make an appointment 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] 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 Tuesday, August 18Jazz musicWhen: 7:30 p.m.Where: Don QuixoteDetails: “When Music Worlds Collide,” Felton, CACost: Call for informationInfo: 335-2526 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 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 ONGOINGEverest 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 Running as a mindfulness based practiceWhen: May 17, through July 4, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.Where: Core Connections Physical Therapy, 108 Whispering Pines Dr., Ste. 120 in Scotts ValleyDetails: An eight-week running group for beginning runners.Cost: $160 for eight weeksInfo: pamelaneimeth.com. 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 womenWhen: 7 p.m. MondaysWhere: Felton Community Hall, 6191 Highway 9, in FeltonDetails: Experience the power of women dancing with women in a friendly atmosphere.Cost: $40 for four consecutive classes, $13 to drop in.Info: 335-4567 Life drawing classesWhen: 7 to 9:15 p.m. TuesdaysWhere: Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center, 9341 Mill St., in Ben LomondDetails: Both beginners and pros are welcome to drop in. The class features a different model each week.Cost: $10 for members, $12 for nonmembers, $8 for students with IDInfo: 335-5000 or www.mountainartcenter.org Raku classesWhen: 6 to 9 p.m. FridaysWhere: Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center, 9341 Mill St., in Ben LomondDetails: The class is weather-dependent, so attendees should call a day in advance. Participants may take bisqueware or purchase pots at the center.Cost: $18 for members, $20 for nonmembersInfo: Dale Bates, 345-7565 Square dance classesWhen: 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. WednesdaysWhere: German-American Hall, 230 Plymouth St., in Santa CruzDetails: Go alone, take a partner or go with a group.Cost: $5Info: 763-9825 or 408-353-4766 Kidz Korner clothing exchangeWhen: 10 to 11:30 a.m., third Saturday of the monthWhere: St. Andrews Episcopal Church, 101 Riverside Ave., in Ben LomondDetails: The exchange is for children’s clothes for newborns through 5-year-olds. Those who don’t have clothes to donate may pick up what they need.Info: Rebecca, 408-875-345
Tasting Under the Redwoods
Enjoy the food, wine and brews at the gala to be held on Sunday, August 9, 1-5 p.m. at Roaring Camp’s Bret Harte Hall in Felton. The event sponsor is Valley Churches United Mission. There will be 25 restaurants, 10 wineries and 4 breweries represented.
VCUM
Enjoy the food, wine and brews at the gala to be held on Sunday, August 9, 1-5 p.m. at Roaring Camp’s Bret Harte Hall in Felton. The event sponsor is Valley Churches United Mission. There will be 25 restaurants, 10 wineries and 4 breweries represented.“Valley Churches United Missions’ first large scale public event promises to be a sell out, which will ensures that ‘Tasting Under The Redwoods’ becomes a signature annual event for the non-profit organization,” said Nancy Lambing who has been volunteering for 9 years at VCUM.VCUM hopes to sell 350 tickets. The tickets cost $4 and they are being offered to people aged 21 and over. There will also be a silent auction. All proceeds will support VCUM.In addition to the tasting, “KSCO’s Rosemary Chalmers will be among several celebrity servers,” said Lambing.For more information, contact David Mills, Valley Churches Executive Director at (831)336-8258 ex. 229.
Final Leg of the Torch Run
The official torch for the Special Olympics World Games Los Angels 2015 is called the Flame of Hope. On July 16, 2015, it was carried through the city of Scotts Valley. A ceremony was held at Canepa Designs, 4900 Scotts Valley Drive. Mayor Dene Bustichi, Chief John Weiss, and Special Olympic athlete and Final Leg runner Jazmine Slama from Utah were speakers. Law Enforcement officers and Special Olympic athletes are selected to be one of the 126 Final Leg Team members based on their commitment and dedication to the Special Olympic movement. During the Final Leg of the Torch Run, Law Enforcement officers from around the world will be spreading the message of inclusion and acceptance for those with intellectual disabilities. On July 25, 2015 the Flame of Hope will complete its journey when it is carried into the Opening Ceremony of the 2015 World Games. The Torch will be used to ignite the flame in the cauldron at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. For more information about the 2015 Special Olympics Word Games, visit www.LA2015.org.
Fatal shooting on Fern Avenue in Boulder Creek
On July 9, Cyrus Hurtado was shot by two deputies from the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Department. Hurtado was 17 years old and now he is dead. The six-foot, 245-pound young man pointed a loaded rifle at the deputies. A short time earlier that evening, the young man had reportedly beaten his grandfather with a club and killed a kitten, said Lieutenant Kelly Kent of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.The deputies were called to the family’s home because they felt endangered by Hurtado. “In 2013, the deputies had been called by the family because they had been threatened with a knife by Hurtado,” said Kent. He explained that the deputies had to put a “mental health hold” on Hurtado at that time.A deputy who is called to a potentially violent scene will seek medical evaluation of an allegedly violent person’s mental condition. When a person exhibits signs that they may be in danger of hurting themselves or others, medical intervention is required. Kent said “in 2013, Hurtado was taken to Dominican Hospital for evaluation.” Kent explained that the duration of a mental health hold is a maximum of 72 hours.In 2015 when the deputies were called, it was a different situation and they were met by a young man with a loaded rifle. The outcome is under investigation said Kent.
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...
