Lodato Park trail with redwoods. (Jack Dilles/Contributed)
The official beginning of summer welcomes warmer weather, longer days and many opportunities to be active. Being outdoors makes us feel good and, as we have learned during these past few COVID-filled years, it benefits both our mental and physical health.
For years, I’ve have enjoyed exploring Scotts Valley and the surrounding areas on my road bike. Whether riding with friends or solo, I always notice and appreciate the changing of seasons and the perspective I get from my bike, instead of a car.
This month, I’m excited to highlight what Scotts Valley Recreation Department is bringing to our community in classes and events at our parks this summer – including two newly created outdoor spaces for classes at our Community Center patio and our Outdoor Classroom at Skypark.
This year is a reimagining of the recreation programming and we look forward to the journey. It will not be rebuilding back to previous years with a large staff and scope.
Instead, a team of three Recreation staff is dedicated to connect you with enriching programs and fun educational things to do, at city facilities, through a developing partnership with community organizations and community members. The possibilities with this new model are exciting as we tap into the passions, expertise, skills and experience of our whole community.
The city’s new summer activity guide “What’s Happening in our Parks” was mailed to residents last month and is available at www.ScottsValley.gov. You’ll find recreation-hosted workshops across the city. We have a diverse lineup at the new Performing Arts and Cultural Center and a few thoughtfully curated workshops that the community asked for on surveys. You’ll see that our event listing also includes park happenings planned by dedicated local community groups and nonprofits.
There are so many opportunities to get connected this summer. Look for the debut of a full listing of recreation contracted classes and camps from talented instructors including five summer camps for youth – from Prehistoric Week to Basketball Drills Week. There are chances for adults to get active with yoga at the community center; teen writing workshops in our Outdoor Classroom; and 12 new art classes. You can also join hiking meetups at the Glenwood Preserve or at Lodato Park, or participate in a beginner’s bike maintenance workshop.
In our guide you can also learn about improvements that are being made in city parks including new playground equipment at Skypark. In addition, the pool at Siltanen Park has been refurbished and will soon reopen pending approval as a county-operated program.
We’re also hosting a Trail Passport Program. Just stop by the Recreation office and pick up your passport. Find stickers out on the trails, turn your passport in and you might win a prize.
Thank you for your support as we reimagine recreation in Scotts Valley. As you can see, there is a lot happening in Scotts Valley’s parks. I encourage you to take a look at the “What’s Happening in our Parks” guide, get outside and have some fun.
Jack Dilles is the mayor of Scotts Valley.
