Summer is here.
The Capitola Junior Lifeguard program is in full swing, bringing lots of life to our beach and village. I’ve always been in awe of the children and instructors who participate with so much confidence and knowledge.
The Junior Guards program is an exceptional learning opportunity for our youth and helps to shape them into knowledgeable beach goers, surfers, paddlers and the like.
The Capitola City Council recently granted funding to a swim equity program, affording swim lessons and transportation for underprivileged youth who may not otherwise be able to learn proper swimming mechanics and confidence. This program has proven to be very successful as many of the participants are able to move on to the Junior Lifeguard level.
Last week, I was honored to be the first mayor of Capitola to participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics. Running is a huge passion of mine and I felt very lucky to be a part of this awesome event.
The torch run not only supports the Special Olympics, but it also is a great opportunity to bridge some gaps between the Capitola PD and other entities of our city and city Staff. We had a fun group made up of sworn officers, chief Andrew Dally and Capt. Sarah Ryan, community officers, parks and recreation staff and yours truly, the mayor, just to name a few.
Even our unforgettable Parking Enforcement Officer, Oscar Valdez, who is now retired came out to support. I hope to be a part of this event for years to come. Thank you to the Capitola Police Department.
At the June 22 council meeting, the council happily approved to prepare a loan agreement for predevelopment activities for a 100% affordable multifamily rental housing development. The parcel is located at 1098 38th Ave. Not only is the council excited to be a part of generating local, affordable housing, even neighbors of the project are excited. A staff member of the popular O’Neill business on 41st Avenue came to the meeting and spoke of their excitement and support.
The village continues to host the weekly Wednesday night Twilight Concerts at 6 p.m. at the bandstand. A full list of artists can be found on our website. Come out and support your local musicians and village businesses.
Other fun happenings include an upcoming Food Truck Friday event on July 14. Lots of delicious, local, food trucks, drinks, and fun kick off at 4:30 p.m. at Monterey Park. Sunday Art at the Beach is being held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 30 and Aug. 13. Enjoy and purchase local art with the best ocean view around.
Margaux Keiser is the mayor of Capitola.
