Class 37’s day began at the Sandpiper Center within the Pajaro Dunes Resort. Almost
two thirds of the class had never been to this location; thus meeting one of LSCC’s
goals of exposing leaders in the community to places they have never experienced.
After enjoying breakfast sponsored by D’La Colmena, General Manager Carol Turley
(Class 21) greeted the class to the resort, and Beth Carr, President/CEO of the Santa
Cruz County Community Credit Union welcomed the class as the day sponsor.
The first speaker of the day was Watsonville City Councilmember, Casey Clark who shared
some of the opportunities and challenges facing the largest city within the Pajaro Valley.
This was followed by Brian Lockwood, General Manager of the Pajaro Valley Water
Management Agency (PVWMA). He helped the class understand some of the
challenges and successes of dealing with water issues in the south county. The class
hopped on the METRO bus and made their first stop at the Watsonville Airport. They
met the Airport Director, Rayvon Williams and got a tour of the airport. Next they enjoy
a wonderful lunch at Ella’s at the Airport.
Tours of special places within the Pajaro Valley took place after lunch. First, the class
visited the Watsonville Wetlands. Executive Director, Jonathan Pilch took the class on a
walk along a stretch of the Struve slough and shared the importance of this restored
environment. Then onto the Water Recycling Plant adjacent to the Pajaro River.
Outreach Specialist, Marcus Mendiola explained the effort that has gone into water
conservation as a means of staving off seawater intrusion along the adjacent coast
while supplying much needed water to growers. Finally, the day ended with a wonderful
visit to the Martinelli’s Company Store, where the class learned about the international
reach of this local company. The highlight was an opportunity to sample some of the
deciduous juices and ciders produced by the S. Martinelli & Company. All-in-all a very
good day for Class 37.
Thank you to our sponsors!
