We are still buzzing from the amazing community energy that was NEXTIES 2025! We gathered Friday evening to celebrate the lifetime achievement award presented to our colleague Aniko Kannas-Millan and it was humbling. Thanks to the generosity of Matt Swinnerton and Event Santa Cruz, 14 of our Young Outdoor Leaders were able to attend and be exposed of what community and leadership looks first hand - we are truly grateful. It was a celebration representing the very best of what makes our diverse community so special. ¡Seguimos entusiasmados por la increíble energía comunitaria que se vivió en NEXTIES 2025! Nos reunimos el viernes por la noche para celebrar el premio a la trayectoria otorgado a nuestra colega Aniko Kannas-Millan, y fue una experiencia conmovedora. Gracias a la generosidad de Matt Swinnerton y Event Santa Cruz, 14 de nuestros Jóvenes Líderes de Actividades al Aire Libre pudieron asistir y experimentar de primera mano cómo es la comunidad y el liderazgo; estamos profundamente agradecidos. Fue una celebración que representó lo mejor de lo que hace tan especial a nuestra diversa comunidad. @santacruzcountyparks @eventsantacruz @oci_castateparks Our Young Outdoor Leaders program has been funded by the Outdoor Equity Grants program, created through AB 209 and administered by @ca.stateparks office of Grants and Local Services. We hold out hope that another round will be funded. These youth are proof of the incredible impact and value of the grant. (fb)

Our CA Coast belongs to everyone. 🌊🌊We were proud to join CA Ocean Day on Tuesday in Sacramento to voice our steadfast support for the CA Coastal Act and the CA Coastal Commission. We were heartened to be joined by @asmgailpellerin @asmdawnaddis and @senjohnlaird along with a statewide cohort of advocates. In Santa Cruz County, the Coastal Act and Commission have our back, ensuring everyone can access the precious beaches and ocean that define our identity, health, recreation and economy. We must defend this extraordinary Act, created by the people of CA decades ago. A great day, made extra special by an evening sneak tour of the Capitol Building with Assemblymember Pellerin. 👏 @santacruzcountyparks @surfridersantacruz @oci_castateparks (fb)