Newsletter – April 2025
Hello,
Welcome to the April 2025 edition of the Ben Lomond Village Alliance newsletter! Happy April Fool’s Day! Spring has officially sprung, and Ben Lomond seems to be buzzing with excitement. The blossoms are popping, the birds are belting out their greatest hits, and the Village seems a bit more lively these days, doesn’t it?
Here at the BLVA, we’re leaning into the sunshine (and refreshing showers!) with a fresh lineup of events and opportunities to get involved. The biggest news of the month is that the new farmers/makers market is moving forward! The Wee Kirk Market will debut on Sunday, June 1 from 9 am to 1 pm at the Wee Kirk Church in Ben Lomond. More information below!
Last month, about 140 history lovers and friends attended the second part of Ronnie Trubek’s Tales of Ben Lomond history series, and it was a fascinating, in-depth look at our town from 1890 to 1940, when a lot of the familiar buildings and roadways that we know and love were built. The plan is to upload video of both Parts 1 and 2 soon, and we’re hoping to schedule Part 3 in the Fall. Many thanks to Ronnie for her incredibly hard work piecing together the story of our Village. Brava!
We are really ramping up our efforts to improve the Village infrastructure, increase funding for a variety of impactful projects, schedule some very fun and engaging events, and more! But we can’t do it without your support. We are on a shoestring budget with an all-volunteer crew. We could do so much more with better funding. We don’t ask often, but please consider donating to help the BLVA make Ben Lomond even more awesome than it already is.
Read on for all the latest news!
Free Screening of The Power of Small
Friday, April 18, 2025, 7 PM – 8:30 PM Free
***Doors open at 6:30 pm, film begins at 7 pm***
Park Hall Community Center
Get ready for an inspiring evening of film and conversation at a free exclusive screening of the 40-minute documentary The Power of Small on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Park Hall. Following the film, attendees will have the unique opportunity to participate in a live Q&A session with the film’s subject, Terri Bullock, whose creative kindness initiative has sparked change both small and significant. Come learn about her “Kindness Ambassadors” and how you can make a real difference here at home. Tickets are free. Please click here to RSVP and go to www.tdbff.org/tpos/ to watch the trailer. You don’t want to miss this charming and inspiring film!
Calling All Farmers, Artisans, and Makers
We are excited to announce the launch of the Wee Kirk Market, an old-fashioned, fun-filled monthly farmers/makers market at the historic Wee Kirk Church. We are now accepting vendor applications for our 2025 summer/fall markets, taking place from 9 am to 1 pm on First Sundays from June through October. If you’re a local farmer, artist, musician, food vendor, or craftsperson looking for a vibrant space to connect with the community and showcase your products or services, we’d love to have you apply! Spaces are limited, so fill out the application today and be part of this exciting new tradition in the heart of Ben Lomond. For more details on vending, click here.
Wee Kirk Market – First Market of the Summer!
Sunday, June 1, 2025, 9 AM – 1 PM Free
Wee Kirk Church
Mark your calendars! The Wee Kirk Market officially opens on Saturday, June 1 at the historic Wee Kirk Church in Ben Lomond. From 9 am to 1 pm, come enjoy a delightful day of shopping, savoring, and connecting with neighbors. Featuring local farmers, artisans, and creators, the market offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and unique finds. There will also be live music, tasty bites, and a welcoming community vibe. Bring your family, meet new friends, and support local vendors. We can’t wait to see you there! For more information, visit the Wee Kirk Market webpage.
VOLUNTEER AT THE MARKET!
If you’d like to help bring the Market to life beyond shopping, we have several positions open including Assistant Manager, Greeters, and Monitors. Sign up HERE!
Walk with a Doc!
Thurs, April 17 10 AM – 11:30 AM Free
Fall Creek State Park
We’re happy to announce a new program from our Health and Happiness Committee – Walk with a Doc! Experience the combined power of physical activity, health education, social connection, and the healing magic of nature by joining our Walk with a Doc program. Each walk takes place at Fall Creek and begins with a short discussion of the latest evidence-based lifestyle approaches to the prevention of chronic diseases and the enhancement of the healthiest lifespan. For the remainder of the 1.5 mile walk, you will stroll at your own pace while having the opportunity to connect with others in a relaxing and beautiful forest environment. There will be ample time to interact with Dr. Steve Leib to get your general lifestyle questions answered. Upcoming dates are April 17, June 19, August 21, and October 16. Group size is limited and advanced registration is required. Please visit https://www.mountainparks.org/rx-classes/2025-04-17 for more information and to register.
First Friday Opening Reception for Spring Into Art Exhibit + Ceramics Seconds Sale
Friday, April 4, 5 PM – 7 PM Free
Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center
Join the Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center for the Opening Reception of their Annual Youth-Only Exhibit, Spring Into Art! This is a unique opportunity to see the incredible artwork created by
young artists in our Santa Cruz County community. Their passion and creativity shine through in every piece, making this event one you won’t want to miss! Location: Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center, 9341 Mill Street, Ben Lomond See all of their upcoming events and classes here.
High Tea with Harry Potter
Saturday, April 12, 2025, 1 PM – 3:30 PM
Highlands Park Senior & Community Center
A magical gathering for High Tea and Harry Potter fans to enjoy classic tea, scones, finger sandwiches, and desserts! Special Guest baker Colly Cruczelak will demonstrate how to make scones. This is a wonderful intergenerational event, bring a grandchild or other friends. Attendees are welcome to wear their favorite Harry Potter character costume (but not required). Tickets are $35 for adults, $20 for children under 10.
Local Theatre Shines with “Steel Magnolias”
Presented by Mountain Community Theater through April 13
Park Hall Community Center
The basis for the Academy Award-nominated film starring Dolly Parton and Julia Roberts, this bittersweet comedy explores the dynamics of life, love, friendship, and loss in a small-town Louisiana beauty parlor. Directed by Peter Gelblum. More info here: https://mctshows.org/current-show/
Native Habitat Restoration
Saturday, April 15 10AM – 12 NOON
Highlands Park
Be a part of beautifying and restoring a treasured community hub. The Valley Women’s Club Native Habitat Restoration Program has volunteer work days the third Saturday of every month January – October. Click here for more information.
Monthly Pancake Breakfast Returns
Sunday, April 20, 2025, 8:30 AM – 12 NOON
Highlands Park Senior & Community Center
After a winter break, the monthly Pancake Breakfasts are back at the Highlands Park Senior Center! Taking place on the third Sundays of the month into the Fall, this well-loved tradition kicks off with a special Easter Special Pancake Breakfast from 8:30 am to 12 noon on Sunday, April 20! For the price, it’s a great deal! No RSVP is required. For more information, click here. Highlands Park Senior & Community Center, 8500 Highway 9, Ben Lomond See their full calendar here.
MURS Radio Communication Training
Saturday. April 26. 2025, 1 PM – 3PM
Ben Lomond Firehouse
Slots are filling for the new MURS (Multi-Use Radio Service) Training in Ben Lomond brought to you by SLV Emergency Network (SLVEN). Learn how to effectively use MURS radios for communication during emergencies or community events. This hands-on training is a great opportunity to build your neighborhood’s preparedness and stay connected when it matters most. Don’t miss out on this valuable and practical session! Space is limited. You can register HERE.
Sign up for the BLVA Supper Club
The BLVA Supper Club is getting off the ground! Designed to be a way to foster meaningful connections, strengthen community bonds, support the mission of the BLVA and enjoy some great food together, the Supper Club participants host dinners in their homes (or at other locations). Each month, a different host will curate a unique dining experience, often featuring seasonal ingredients, local flavors, or creative themes. The format and number of guests is up to the host: potlucks, fully catered meals, and other ideas welcome! So far we have Hosts signed up in June and September as well as a Traditional Chinese Tea in May! We are looking for additional hosts to fill out the calendar, so sign up today. If you want to know more or are interested in being a Host, please email Ariel at secretary@BenLomondVillage.org or call 831-218-5172.
New Yoga Studio Opens in Ben Lomond
Exciting news for our community: Heartwood Yoga is the latest addition to downtown Ben Lomond! Located at 9573 Highway 9, the studio offers a variety of classes, including Vinyasa Yoga, Yoga with Weights, and Yin Yoga. Heartwood Yoga aims to create a supportive environment where practitioners of all levels can build strength and make meaningful connections. Located right in the heart of the Village, above the Ben Lomond County Park and the San Lorenzo River, this new studio provides a serene and peaceful setting for people of all levels. For more information and class schedules, visit their website at www.heartwoodyogasc.com.
New Restaurant in Ben Lomond: Dreamers
Please make a point of supporting this new local business! As you probably know, the former home of Casa Nostra in Ben Lomond has come back to life thanks to longtime local resident and restauranteur Allan Strong. After an eight-month renovation fueled by passion, perseverance, and a whole lot of sweat equity, Strong opened the doors to his new endeavor, Guild Kitchen Act 3 Presents “Dreamers,” last February. Currently open for breakfast and lunch 9 to 4 pm at 9217 Highway 9 in Ben Lomond. 831-609-6132.
Happy Hour and Sunday Brunch at Aroma Restaurant
Enjoy delicious bites and refreshing drinks at Aroma Restaurant. In case you didn’t know, Aroma now offers a terrific Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 2 pm with all your favorite bunch classics. Or stop by for Happy Hour daily from 3 to 6 pm with a tempting selection of bar fare, tapas, and drink specials. Whether you’re catching up with friends or winding down after a long day, Aroma is the perfect spot to relax and indulge. https://aromarestaurant831.com/
Mountain Feed and Farm Supply – Spring Veggie and Herb Starts are IN!
As you probably know, our friends at Mountain Feed & Farm Supply are longtime fixtures in Ben Lomond, offering tools, supplies, and resources for gardening, food preservation, and sustainable living. Whether you’re tending a backyard garden, trying your hand at fermentation, or exploring other homesteading projects, Mountain Feed provides plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. Their focus on sustainability and hands-on learning has made them a must-go local place for all things garden and beyond! Check out their latest offerings and classes at www.mountainfeed.com/.
Charlie Brown’s BBQ
Get your BBQ fix every Monday with Charlie Brown’s BBQ, serving up mouthwatering smoked meats and classic sides right in front of Henfling’s Tavern. Starting at 12:30 pm until they’re out, you can swing by for lunch or an early dinner — unless the rain decides otherwise. It’s a perfect way to kick off the week with some delicious local flavor.
GET INVOLVED
We are looking for talented and enthusiastic individuals to join our team and help us move Ben Lomond forward and take our town from awesome to off the charts! Getting involved is a great way to meet/make new friends and make a huge difference in our community. All positions are volunteer, but we’ll pay you in smiles and pride! If you have the skills to contribute to one of the following positions, please email Ariel at secretary@BenLomondVillage.org. If you’d like to join a committee, please visit our Get Involved page.
Upcoming Committee Meetings and Updates
HEALTH AND HAPPINESS COMMITTEE
Thursday, April 10th 6 PM
Wee Kirk Church
The first Health and Happiness Committee meeting on April 10th, 2025 6pm at the Historic Wee Kirk Church, 9500 Central Avenue in beautiful Ben Lomond. Bring your ideas, aspirations, and wish list for our community. We look forward to meeting you!
BETTER STREETS COMMITTEE/BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE JOINT MEETING
Thursday, April 24 6 pm
Wee Kirk Church
The Better Streets and Beautification Committees will meet at the Wee Kirk Church, 9500 Central Avenue. These committees are dedicated to improving and maintaining Ben Lomond’s infrastructure like streets, sidewalks, essential systems, and facilities that support daily operations, economy, and quality of life. Here are some updates from our Committee Chair Jamie Helmer:
Walk Ben Lomond – A sub-committee of the Better Streets Committee is being formed called “Walk Ben Lomond” with its main focus on pedestrian safety, accessibility and project planning; first area to be reviewed is Glen Arbor Road at the Newell-Madrone intersection and the second area will be Mill St. downtown.
Connecting the Trails – Better Streets is undertaking an effort to identify public and private trails and how to connect them and access them from neighborhood streets, downtown, creeks, Loch Lomond and the San Lorenzo River. An announcement will be made calling for volunteers to “take a hike” soon.
Streetlight Update – County Public Works has identified records indicating they are responsible for maintenance of black metal pole post-top streetlights along Highway 9 and is working with their contractor to obtain parts and schedule repairs including pole I.D. numbers. Once repaired, BLVA will explore beautification efforts such as seasonal banners. A big thanks to the brave souls that walked in the dark to identify those lights.
Possible New METRO Service to Cabrillo – Better Streets has begun researching the possibility of a METRO express bus from SLV via Scotts Valley to serve Cabrillo College students. Researching enrollment records has revealed that about 1000 students commute attend classes from the valley, and with Highway 1 including a “Bus on Shoulder Only” lane, this could be a real time and money saver for our students. Although we’re not sure if this is possible, we’ll keep you posted on developments.
BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE UPDATE
We have some exciting updates from the Beautification Committee Chair Kym Morello:
Sycamore Tree Pruning: Great news! The Sycamore tree at the Ben Lomond County Park on Mill Street has been professionally pruned. A big thank you to Santa Cruz County Parks for listening to our concerns and taking action.
Riparian Native Plant Update: Last fall, we planted native plant species in the park, and we’re happy to report that 80% of the plants survived the winter. While a few were damaged by dogs or misplaced mulch, we’re planning to replace those once we complete a full count. If you’re interested in lending a hand with weeding and plant care, we’d love your help!
Park Bathroom and Picnic Tables: Did you know the park on Mill Street has the only public bathroom in Ben Lomond? It’s a valuable resource for delivery drivers, utility workers, market shoppers, and park visitors. Once things dry out, we’ll be painting the bathrooms and giving the picnic tables a good clean. Special thanks to our own Joseph Overby, who has generously offered to power wash the facilities. Keep an eye out for an upcoming community event – we’d be thrilled to have volunteers join in!
Scarborough Landscaping Project: We’re taking on a beautification project along Highway 9 in front of Ace Hardware. The plan is to remove weeds and install water-wise plants, giving the area a fresh, clean look. We’re targeting April for this project.
EVENTS COMMITTEE UPDATE
Here are some of the things the Events Committee is working on, from our Events Chair Sarah Jansen-Mount.
The next Events Committee meeting: Saturday, April 12th at 10AM at the Ben Lomond Park on Mill Street.
Summer Event Planning
We’ve had some twists and turns in our summer event planning journey, and we’re still looking to settle on a date and final vision for our BLVA summer event. Please join us at our meeting on April 12 where we will discuss the latest ideas.
Salsa Night at Bruno’s: Wednesday, April 9
One of the things we’d like to incorporate into our summer events is dancing! So, it’s time to do some research 🙂 Join us at Bruno’s Salsa night on Wednesday, April 9. The lesson is from 7-8pm ($5) with open dancing afterwards until 10pm ($5). Bring a friend if you want!
WhatsApp Group
If you want to receive Events Committee updates on WhatsApp, please join the BLVA Events Committee group! I’ll post meeting dates and updates here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IdvKahtgvyv9heDre26BwB
VOLUNTEER OPPORUNITIES
- Fundraising Committee Chairperson – We are looking for a person with a passion for fundraising and a love of Ben Lomond to take on leadership of this committee.
- Treasurer – We are seeking nominations to fill this board position. The ideal candidate would have a background in finance and leadership experience with nonprofits.
- Committee Members – All of our committees – Economic Vitality, Beautification, Better Streets, Fundraising, Events, and Health & Happiness – are always welcoming more participation.
- Spread the Word Help us reach more people by sharing our mission and work with your network. Follow us on social media, share our posts, and invite friends to join our mailing list. Follow us on FACEBOOK Fave us on NEXTDOOR.
- Visit our Get Involved page for more information about these opportunities!
Donate
Support the ongoing initiatives to improve the Ben Lomond Village by making a donation.
Click here to donate
RECENT IMPACT
Iconic Ben Lomond Sign
We’re sure you’ve seen the Ben Lomond neon sign out in front of the Ben Lomond Market, right? Ever seen it lit up? Last month, after the First Friday Art Tour at the SCM Art Center, it was ON! Apparently it’s very intermittent these days. We hope to change that. Recently, the Beautification Committee met with a local sign company to see about restoring this landmark to its former glory and getting it working to light up Highway 9 every night! As we learned at Ronnie Trubek’s history talk last weekend, the sign was installed over Mill Street in the early 1930s, so it’s nearly 100 years old. Time for a make-over! We’re still at the beginning stages of making this happen, but look for future news about developments and how you can help support the project.
‘OUT AND ABOUT’ WITH BLVA
Molly Loves Her Veggies!
Longtime Ben Lomond resident and BLVA Advisory Council member Molly Cokeley was seen shopping for spring starts, now available at Mountain Feed! Our favorite nursery just received a huge inventory of all your favorite spring vegetables and herbs. So stop on by and get your summer garden going!
Pizza Shark Spotted at Coffee 9
Last Friday, Coffee 9 held their first-ever Pizza Night and it was a hoot! Several members of the BLVA joined in the festivities, enjoying a variety of slices and whole pies, plus wine and beer. We’re hoping for a repeat performance soon so you can jump the shark and partake in some seriously delicious eats! We’ll keep you posted.
Go Concessions Team!
Who doesn’t like a snack? This amazing team (Steve Leib, Sew Rose Owner Burgundi Thure, and Vivian Leib) put together all of the concessions for the Tales of Ben Lomond talk on March 22. Their selection of tasty treats kept up going through more than 50 years of Ben Lomond history and we can’t thank them enough!
THANK YOU ❤️
We are incredibly grateful for your membership, engagement, and continued support of the Ben Lomond Village Alliance mission. Together, we are making a significant impact in our community.
If you have questions, would like more information about BLVA initiatives, or have Ben Lomond related announcements for us to share in our newsletters, please contact Ariel at secretary@BenLomondVillage.org. You can also visit our website.
Thank you for being a part of the Ben Lomond Village Alliance family.
Warm regards,
Ben Lomond Village Alliance
P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for the latest updates and stories from the field!
