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Village Santa Cruz County
Aging Better Together
The Village News
May 2026 | |
All-Member Annual Picnic
Friday, May 15, 11 am- 1 pm
Come Celebrate
Village Santa Cruz County's
9th Birthday!
(Village Santa Cruz members only)
Lunch Provided
RSVP info@villagesantacruz.org
let us know if your diet is vegetarian or gluten-free
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First in the six-part series:
Life information and Legal Essentials
Monday, May 18
in-person slots full
1 opening for zoom
contact info@villagesantacruz.org
Download STEP workshop series flyer for information on the series. All registrants will be automatically enrolled in the entire series.
In-person attendees will pick up their workbooks at the May event. Workbooks will be delivered to participants who are joining on zoom. | | | |
Cultural Outing to
Castro Adobe
Located in the Pájaro Valley, the two-story Rancho San Andrés Castro Adobe is a historic rancho hacienda that was built between 1848-49.
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Joyce Learns How
to Make Tortillas
Rancho San Andres Castro Adobe State Historic Property sits on the homelands of the Awaswas speaking Aptos tribe. Their descendants continue their stewardship and presence here, in partnership with State Parks. | | | |
Grub Club Enjoys Non-Alcoholic Elixirs
Pam and Marc provided the elixir and mixer ingredients,
while others brought appetizers. | |
Celebrating Dee
Village folks gather for Dee's Memorial, remembering our dear friend.
We miss you, Dee! | | | |
Older Americans Month 2026
Champion Your Health
The 2026 theme, Champion Your Health, focuses on prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging.
You are encouraged to take an active role in managing your own health, advocating for yourself, accessing preventive care, and making informed decisions that support independence. |
Virtual Event hosted by
California Senior Legislature
May 6, 2026
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
(Main Program)
Advocacy Program: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Inspiring speakers and panel discussions; Key updates on senior issues and legislation; Opportunities to engage with policymakers; Advocacy training and action.
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Recommendations from
the TV/Movie Discussion Group
"Double Indemnity," a 1944 film noir on Amazon Prime starring Barbara Stanwyck, Fred MacMurray and Edward G. Robinson. This one is fun to watch.
"The Forsytes," a period drama on PBS Passport that is a prequel to "The Forsyte Saga." If you liked the Saga, you'll like this one.
'Kohrra," a 2-season Punjabi detective series on Netflix. When a bridegroom is found dead days after his wedding, two police officers must unravel the troubling case as turbulence unfolds in their own lives and threatens to ruin the case. Highly recommended.
"Virgin River," a long-running series on Netflix taking place in Humboldt County, California, with sometimes silly plot lines, but nevertheless enough emotional depth to hook you in.
"Going in Style," a 2017 crime caper movie with a great cast currently on Netflix. Stars Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine and Alan Arkin. Lots of laughs.
Movie currently playing at local theaters: "Project Hail Mary." Based on a novel of the same name, this is a very good film. Science teacher Ryland Grace (played by Ryan Gosling) wakes up on a spaceship with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory slowly returns, he soon discovers he must solve the riddle behind a mysterious substance that's causing the sun to die out. If you get a chance to see it on IMAX, it's well worth the trip to San Jose. |
May Book Group Read: The Correspondent, by Virginia Evans. The Correspondent is an epistolary novel, following the letters and emails of retired lawyer Sybil Van Antwerp, as she navigates aging, family, and personal reflections.
Recommended Reads by Local Authors:
 Murder Local Style, the latest Orchid Isle Mystery, by Leslie Karst (Village Santa Cruz member). Author talk at the Scotts Valley Library, at 6:00 pm on May 15. Leslie's website
“[A]n enjoyable read filled with Hawaiian ambiance, a likable heroine, and a meaty murder.” Booklist
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 Birds of Santa Cruz by Sophie Wood Brinker, Author Event at Bookshop Santa Cruz, May 7, 2026, 7 PM- 8 PM. Join science illustrator Sophie Wood Brinker for a discussion and signing of Birds of Santa Cruz, a full-color, hand-painted guide to the birds of our region. Author-illustrator Sophie Wood Brinker profiles 25 species you're likely to spot in Santa Cruz, and shares what we can learn not only about them but from them. Co-sponsored by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks. Learn more and register here.
Book Buddies for Homebound Patrons at the Santa Cruz Library! Book Buddy volunteers deliver library materials to homebound patrons as part of our mission to provide library services to people in our community. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, or having books delivered to you, check out these services here. Download the flyer with information about the program Library Services for Homebound Patrons. You can also call 831-427-7700 X 7614, or email homebound@santacruzpl.org for more information.
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FREE but you need a ticket
to insure your space.
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Fall Prevention and Fire Safety Workshop
May 27th, 2026
10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Simpkins Family Swim Center, 979 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
The Scotts Valley Fire Protection District and the Volunteer Center are offering a free Fall & Fire Safety Program for older adults.
Register Here
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Supporting Social Connection
of People Living with Dementia
Dementia is the general term for loss of memory, language, problem solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life and activities.
People living with dementia are at risk of experiencing social isolation and loneliness for reasons that include cognitive changes, relinquishing driving or lack of transportation, and changes in employment or volunteer status. Dementia can make it more difficult for someone to communicate, and it can also change how a person interacts and connects with others.
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National Summit to Increase Social Connection
Save the Dates
June 23 and 24
The 2026 theme will be Champion Your Health and will focus on social connection as a cornerstone of prevention, wellness, healthy aging, and independence. This virtual event brings together local, state, and national leaders from across sectors to address social isolation.
Sessions highlight innovative programs, resources, and leaders to increase the capacity of the aging and disability networks to advance social connections to reduce people’s risk of chronic disease and serious illness and support their whole-person health.
More details, including how to register, coming soon.
They will be included in our Village June newsletter.
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Community Land Trusts
Another solution for housing affordability in Santa Cruz County?
Community land trusts (CLTs) are nonprofit organizations governed by a board of CLT residents, community residents and public representatives that provide lasting community assets and shared equity homeownership opportunities for families and communities. LearnMore
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Ideas Festival:
Smart conversations that spark solutions
Thursday, May 21, 2026.
Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel – Sacramento, CA
The programming will focus on the future of California as new technology, new leadership and new ideas shape how we live our lives in the Golden State. Plus, your ticket includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Register Ideas Festival
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Become a Member of Village Santa Cruz County
|  | Coming UP in May
Members will receive Zoom information in weekly eBlasts.
Friday, May 1, Executive Committee Meeting, 10:30 - 11:30 AM, on Zoom. This is a closed meeting of the Village Executive Committee.
Tuesday, May 5, Pickleball, 10:30 - 11:30 AM, @ Derby Park, 508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz, All levels, including beginners are welcome.
Tuesday, May 5, Rummikub Social Club, 12:00 - 2:00 PM, @ Member's Clubhouse in Capitola. Rummikub is a fun board game for everyone. Easy to learn. We spice up the game with a little wagering on the side, so bring your spare change (pennies, nickels and dimes).
Wednesday, May 6, Aptos Circle Meet Up, 1:00 – 2:30 PM, @ Aptos Methodist Church, 221 Thunderbird Drive, Aptos. Relax with a cup of coffee or tea and catch up on what's happening with your Circle friends. Curious about Village? Open to all. Non-members are welcome to join us.
Wednesday, May 6, SLV Circle Meet Up, 1:00 – 2:30 PM, @ the Empire Grill 6155 Hwy 9, Felton. Relax with a cup of coffee or tea and catch up on what's happening with your Circle friends. Curious about Village? Open to all. Non-members are welcome to join us. Note location change!
Thursday, May 7, Bocce, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, @ Felt Street Park, 1904 Felt Street, Santa Cruz. Come play Bocce with us! All members welcome. Bocce is simple to learn, it's a lot of fun, and good exercise (not to mention the great company). Come try it out. Cancelled in the event of rain or wet court.
Thursday, May 7, Solo Agers, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM, @ Aptos Library, 7695 Soquel Dr., Aptos. Topic for May: TBD. We meet once a month to talk about how we deal with various issues and to offer aid and support.
Thursday, May 7, Westside Circle Meet-Up, 1:00 - 2:00 PM, @ The Abbey Coffeehouse, 350 Mission Str. Santa Cruz. Relax with a cup of coffee or tea and catch up on what's happening with your Circle friends. Curious about Village? Open to all. Non-members are welcome to join us.
Friday, May 8, Village Santa Cruz Men's Luncheon, 1:00 - 2:30 PM, @ Tramonti Italian Restaurant, 528 Seabright Ave. Santa Cruz.
Monday, May 11, Westside Circle Life Stories, 1:00 - 2:00 PM @ a member's home. Topic: What is or has been a passion for you? Some of us may have many passions but please, tell us about no more than 1 or 2. Open to Westside Circle members only.
Tuesday, May 12, Pickleball, 10:30 - 11:30 AM, @ Derby Park, 508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz, All levels, including beginners are welcome.
Tuesday, May 12, Mid County Circle Meet Up, 1:30 - 2:30 PM, @ The Loft Coffee, 2701 Cabrillo College Dr., Aptos. Curious about Village? Open to all. Non-members are welcome to join us.
Wednesday, May 13, ART Play, 1:30 - 3:00 PM, @ The Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz, 1740 17th Ave. First floor Community Room. We'll be painting rocks. Chris will bring acrylic pens and some rocks or you can bring your own favorite rock. If you are a member and would like to join, please contact info@villagesantacruz.org
Thursday, May 14, Bocce, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, @ Felt Street Park, 1904 Felt Street, Santa Cruz. Come play Bocce with us! All members welcome. Bocce is simple to learn, it's a lot of fun, and good exercise (not to mention the great company). Come try it out. Cancelled in the event of rain or wet court.
Thursday, May 14, Advisory Board Monthly Meeting, 12:30 PM - 2:15 PM, Join on Zoom. All Village members are invited to attend our monthly planning meeting. Email info@villagesantacruz.org if you plan to attend, so that we can send you the agenda.
Friday, May 15, Village Santa Cruz 9th Birthday Celebration!, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, @ Anna Jean Cummings Park (Blue Ball Park) in Soquel, 461 Old San Jose Rd. Soquel. Open to Village Santa Cruz members only.
Monday, May 18, STEP Presentation, 12:30 - 2:30 PM, In-person spots full; 1 spot for virtual attendance still available.The first in the six-part series--Life information and Legal Essentials. STEP is a workshop series designed for participants to gather all essential information in one place where it can be easily accessed when needed. For more information, please contact info@villagesantacruz.org
Tuesday, May 19, Pickleball, 10:30 - 11:30 AM, @ Derby Park, 508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz, All levels, including beginners are welcome.
Wednesday, May 20, Aptos Circle Luncheon, 1:00 – 2:30 PM, @ TBD. Open to Aptos Circle Members only.
Wednesday, May 20, SLV Circle Meet Up, 1:00 – 2:30 PM, @ Jia Tellas 18 Victor Square, Scotts Valley . Relax with a cup of coffee or tea and catch up on what's happening with your Circle friends. Curious about Village? Open to all. Non-members are welcome to join us. Note location and date change!
Thursday, May 21, Bocce, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, @ Felt Street Park, 1904 Felt Street, Santa Cruz. Come play Bocce with us! All members welcome. Bocce is simple to learn, it's a lot of fun, and good exercise (not to mention the great company). Come try it out. Cancelled in the event of rain or wet court.
Thursday, May 21, TV/Movie Discussion Group, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM, on Zoom. Look at the recommendations above for suggestions on what to watch.
Friday, May 22, Westcliff Walk, 12:30 - 1:30 PM. This is an hour walk, 1/2 hour out and 1/2 hour back. Meet in the parking lot of Shrine Coffee. 544 Westcliff Ave.
Friday, May 22, Book Group Read: Book: The Correspondent, by Virginia Evans, 1:00 - 2:00 PM, @ Simpkins Swim Center Library Annex, 979 17th Ave. Santa Cruz, Meeting Room C. The Correspondent is an epistolary novel, following the letters and emails of retired lawyer Sybil Van Antwerp, as she navigates aging, family, and personal reflections. Note date change!
Tuesday, May 26, Pickleball, 10:30 - 11:30 AM, @ Derby Park, 508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz, All levels, including beginners are welcome.
Tuesday, May 26, Mid-County Luncheon, 12:30 - 1:30 PM, @ TBD
Thursday, May 28, Bocce, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, @ Felt Street Park, 1904 Felt Street, Santa Cruz. Come play Bocce with us! All members welcome. Bocce is simple to learn, it's a lot of fun, and good exercise (not to mention the great company). Come try it out. Cancelled in the event of rain or wet court.
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In Our Community
Friday, May 8, 2:00 - 5:00 PM, Community Trust of Pajaro Valley 28th Annual Health Fair at Watsonville City Plaza, 358 Main Str. Watsonville. The Community Health Trust’s annual Health Fair is a fun-filled event offering health information, screenings, and a variety of community resources for FREE! Learn more here.
Sunday, May 10, Mother's Day. Thank you to all the women who nurture and care for us!
Monday, May 11, 7:00 - 8:00 PM, Migrant Heart, by Reyna Grande, at Bookshop Santa Cruz, 1520 Pacific Ave. Award-winning author Reyna Grande comes to Bookshop Santa Cruz to celebrate the release of her newest book Migrant Heart—an ambitious memoir in essays that illuminates the hidden cost of the American Dream. Migrant Heart is a moving read that expands what we understand about the United States and the complex people who cross and live within its borders. For more information, go to the event page.
Tuesday, May 12, 1:00 - 2:30 PM, Medicare and U at the London Nelson Community Center, 301 Center Str. Santa Cruz. In-person presentation by the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP), a program of Senior Network Services, a local nonprofit agency to learn how to compare plans and hear what is new with Medicare in 2026. HICAP provides unbiased Medicare Insurance information throughout California. Presentations are free of charge but pre-registration is helpful. Please Call 831-462-5510 to register or for more information.
Thursday, May 14, 12:00 - 1:00 PM, PST, Addressing Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Among Homeless and Housing-Insecure Seniors. This webinar, hosted by The National Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center, focuses on supporting homeless and housing-insecure older adults experiencing cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD).
Participants will learn how to recognize early signs of cognitive impairment in shelter/temporary housing settings and gain practical strategies for engaging seniors in ways that foster meaningful participation. The webinar offers actionable tools to improve outcomes for one of the most at-risk aging populations. Learn more and register here.
Saturday and Sunday, May 16 and 17, 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, San Lorenzo Valley Art Tour. Come and enjoy art of all media, and discover the abundance of artistic talent in the San Lorenzo Valley. Admission to all studios is free. Fluorescent pink signage will direct you to all participating artists. For more information, check out the event flyer here.
Saturday, May 16, 5:00 - 11:00 PM, Free Fireworks Show at the Boardwalk. Celebrate the beginning of the summer season with a free fireworks show in front of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk! For more information, go to the event page.
Friday, May 22, 2:00 - 5:00 PM Senior Resource Fair at the Watsonville Senior Center, 114 E 5th Street, Watsonville, CA 95076. FREE
Fridays in May and June, 8:30 -10:00 AM. Santa Cruz Creative Mornings at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, 705 Front Str. Santa Cruz. What is CreativeMornings? A free, live, monthly breakfast lecture series for creatives, community-builders, entrepreneurs, and more! Each month features a short lecture by a local innovator, framed by opportunities to socialize and spark new connections. Go to the event page.
Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County
Executive Director Position Open
Karen Delaney is retiring. Big shoes to fill but someone has to do it! If you or someone you know, is interested in the position of Executive Director of the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County, go to https://scvolunteercenter.org/careers/ for more information.
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Articles, Videos, and Listening
How to Change the World, Hidden Brain, April 13, 2026. Pop culture and conventional history often teach us that violence is the most effective way to produce change. But is that common assumption actually true? Political scientist Erica Chenworth, who has studied more than 100 years of revolutions and insurrections, says the answer is counterintuitive. Listen to the podcast here.
The Boomers are becoming octogenarians and wanting to change old age. A 79-year-old says he and his elderly compatriots are "like free souls." And they "expect better results and a less confusing, complicated and fragmented system." They have ideas for spending, healthcare, and housing. Read about what they want to change and how in this article from the Wall Street Journal.
Sepsis Explained, Cleveland Clinic, medically reviewed and last updated on 02/18/2026. Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection that causes your immune system to harm healthy tissues and organs. It can develop quickly and lead to organ failure or death without urgent care. Recognizing the symptoms and getting medical help right away could save your life. Learn more here.
8 Best Foods for Acid Reflux That Help Relieve Heartburn. Learn the best and worst foods to prevent GERD in this article from AARP.
The emotional aspects of caregiving can be challenging. At times caregivers may find themselves riding a roller-coaster of mixed feelings. This paper from Del Mar Caregiver Resource Center helps us understand our feelings around caring for a loved one. Read it here.
| Village Santa Cruz County
1740 17th Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95062
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