Press Banner

San Lorenzo Valley Schools enter a new school year with all recent construction projects completed – a new performing arts center, new library, improvements to its athletic facilities – but the year that begins with “Cougar Day” August 19, followed by the start of classes Aug. 22 will have a few wrinkles.

In a little under three years, the 1440 Multiversity has transitioned from an ambitious agenda item for the Scotts Valley City Council to an almost-complete world-class personal growth center.

Next month, several participants will run the trails through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park marking the 50th anniversary of Felton’s oldest long-distance race.

People with big hearts live in Scotts Valley and the surrounding community!

There is big excitement lately among the members of the local 4-H clubs – the Santa Cruz County Fair is being held on September 16–20, 2015 at the Fairgrounds outside of Watsonville. For the next two weekends, local 4-H groups are building booths and getting ready to participate in equestrian as well as various other events. They will also participate in presentations, entertaining, and leadership opportunities. These kids love their involvement in 4-H projects and community service and this is their chance to show off their talents and shine!Ben Lomond’s Kristin Praly, owner of “HorseSense Education & Advocacy in Felton,” who regularly participates in 4-H events and Ag History Days with daughter Katelyn, said, “There will be a Scotts Valley Section in the Crosetti Building and all local 4-H clubs will have booths showing off their creative talents. Galena Cantey and Katelyn Praly will once again entertain the crowd by singing favorite songs. Claudia Scott of “Claudia’s Kitchen” will be there once again and many more local ‘4-H’ers’ are participating.” In the past, Kristin’s students have driven the beautiful Clydesdales owned by Fred Silva.Two of Praly’s students, daughter Katelyn Praly, and Jordan Randolph, are riding in the 4-H and Gymkhana events. Katelyn will ride “Slipn’Music” (also known as “Ginger”).She is the current President of the Scotts Valley 4-H Club. As a senior Onyx Star member of 4-H, Katelyn is the 2014-2015 All-Star. She just received the Golden Clover Award and Outstanding ‘4-H-er’ of the Year award. Her next goal is to become a 4-H State ambassador next year.Jordan Randolph, age 11, will be riding “Cheyenne,” owned by Mike and CharleneMcIntyre, local community members. Jordan is Treasurer-elect in her 4-H group and she is an intermediate Silver Star winner riding in her first 4-H Show at the Santa Cruz County Fair. Poultry is another one of her interests — she is the Junior State Champion for 4-H’s Avian Bowl.Rusty the Pony, well-known to locals from the memorial mural located on Highway 9 and Graham Hill Road, will be there wearing 4-H green and carting children around once again. He is 17 years old but still frequently teaches children the value of connection, support, and horsemanship from the horse’s point of view in the “HorseSense” program.There are five 4-H Clubs in Santa Cruz County-Boulder Creek, Corralitos, Felton, Scotts Valley, and Soquel. To contact a club near you, go to http://cesantacruz.ucanr.edu/files/161768.pdf