By LOWELL HURST, Watsonville Mayor
Police and Fire Pink Patch Project: For the first time, Watsonville Police Officers and Firefighters are teaming up to help fight the battle against breast cancer. All through October, in honor of breast cancer awareness month they will wear pink patches on their uniforms. They joined forces to design a one-of-a-kind pink patch to generate conversation within the community, raise awareness about the importance of early detection and the ongoing fight against this disease. It’s important to note that all funds are used specifically for families in Watsonville affected by breast cancer. The pink patches are being sold at the Watsonville Police and Fire Departments for $10 each. For more information, contact Michelle Pulido at 750-2959.
Safe Streets Workshop: The community is invited to attend the Safe Streets Workshop on Sunday, Sept. 9 from 2-5:30 p.m. at 37 Davis Ave. Participants will help identify priorities to make walking and biking safer for everyone in Watsonville. Please wear comfortable shoes; a community walk is part of this event for those who are able to participate. For more information, please visit our website at www.cityofwatsonville.org or call (714) 742-2295.
Join F.L.Y.E.R.S.: Looking for safe, educational and fun activities outside of the classroom? Join the F.L.Y.E.R.S. Afterschool Program! Services include transportation from school, homework help, recreational activities and an afternoon snack for first- through fifth-graders. The program runs from Aug. 15–June 7, the hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 2:30–6 p.m. and Wednesday from 12:30-6 p.m. For more information, please call 768-3240.
Gas Tax Funds Keep Roadways Moving: After recognizing that the State of California had a backlog of about $130 billion for maintenance of highways, roads and bridges, the Legislature and Governor passed an increase in the gas tax, known as Senate Bill 1 (SB1). The funding from that tax doubles Watsonville’s road maintenance budget, allowing the city to tackle more projects each year. SB1 funds also support efforts outside of the city that impact Watsonville residents. The next big project the city is working on is a section of Airport Boulevard from Westgate Drive to Aviation Way. This $2.2 million project is funded by a combination of gas tax and state grants. It is expected to begin this fall, and should be completed early next year. This is one of many projects aimed at maintaining our roadways to improve the safety and experience of everyone. Visit our website at www.cityofwatsonville.org for a list of improvements or call Public Works at 768-3100 for more information.
First Time Home Buyers Forum: The city will be hosting another First Time Home Buyers Forum on Wednesday, Sept. 19 from 6-8 p.m. in the Civic Plaza Community Room located at 275 Main St., fourth floor. Come learn about local programs available to assist you. Translation services and light refreshments will be provided. For more information, please call 768-3080 or visit our website at www.cityofwatsonville.org.
Watsonville Police Department is Hiring: The Watsonville Police Department is looking to hire several new officers. Visit our website at www.cityofwatsonville.org to learn more about the process and requirements. For additional information, please call Officer Elizabeth Sousa at 768-3361 or email [email protected].
Music in the Plaza: Don’t miss the last Music in the Plaza concert on Thursday, Sept. 20 featuring La Renovada Banda Guerreros (from Mexico) from 6-8 p.m. in the Plaza.
Annual Coastal Cleanup Day: Join us for the 33rd anniversary of Annual Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, Sept. 15, from 9 a.m.-noon. Together we join forces to remove trash and marine debris pollution, protecting our waterways, coastline and ocean ecosystems. For more information, please email Environmental Projects Coordinator Rachel Kippen at [email protected].
Monterey Bay Birding Festival: The annual Monterey Bay Birding Festival will be taking place on Sept. 29 and Sept. 30. Visit their website at www.montereybaybirding.org for more information.
I love to hear from our community, so please feel free to email me directly at [email protected].
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Lowell Hurst is the mayor of Watsonville. His opinions are his own and not necessarily those of the Pajaronian.
