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Downtown for the Holidays

Comcast — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 04:53:21 +0000

Discover holiday magic in Downtown Santa Cruz with free, family-friendly events for all ages. Enjoy parades, Santa visits, craft afternoons, movies, and support local businesses.

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Building Bright Futures

Comcast — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:41:55 +0000

The Lasting Impact of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County Since 1969, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County (BGCSCC) has been a cornerstone for local youth in the area. Over the years, the organization has grown to serve more than 40,000 young people across three Clubhouses in Santa Cruz, Live Oak, and Scotts Valley. Its mission is to inspire and empower all youth, especially those who need it most, to build character and confidence and reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. The Club provides welcoming spaces filled with enriching programs and mentorship to meet the needs of the community. From academic support and career exploration to health and wellness, the Club has a diverse range of programming in a safe, fun, and nurturing environment. Programs include art, music, technology, swim lessons, a basketball league, and even a surf club—each designed to help kids discover their passions and build life skills. The impact of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County is far and wide. For many families, the Club is more than after-school care, it’s a trusted partner that enables parents to work to support their families while their children are safe and sound. For kids, it’s a place where they experience milestones, build friendships, and create memories that last a lifetime. For two Comcast California employees, the impact of the Club shaped who they are today. Joshua Juntado and Todd Hilger grew up in Santa Cruz and were Club members in their youth. Joshua learned skills to become a team player through the basketball league. Grateful for a supportive community, Joshua built confidence to step out of his comfort zone and step into collaboration and leadership. Todd’s family led efforts to champion inclusivity at the Club—a lesson he carries in everything he does in and out of work. To this day, Todd is still friends with the kids he met at the Club. Comcast California is grateful to support the phenomenal work of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County. Its sponsorship of the Club’s newsletter highlights after-school programming and provides information on Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, a valuable resource for families to get affordable Internet for under $15 a month. “To have a sponsor like Comcast support our kids positively impacts our ability to serve local youth, families, and the future leaders in our community,” said Andrew Cunningham, Development Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County. There are many ways for the community to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, gifting an item from the clubhouse wish list, or spreading the word, every action helps. As the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County looks to the future, it is committed to being a place where local youth can grow, learn, and thrive. With support from the Santa Cruz community, the Club is poised to support the next generation of leaders with the same passion and purpose that has defined its work for over 50 years. Visit boysandgirlsclub.info to learn more.

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Prepared, Empowered And United For Santa Cruz County

Comcast — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:14:42 +0000

At its heart, United Way of Santa Cruz County is about connection: helping families find support, preparing neighbors to face challenges, and empowering youth to lead. This fall, as families settle into school routines and think about safety at home, we are reminded that resilience comes from the strength of our community. Preparedness In Action Santa Cruz County has faced its share of wildfires, storms, and earthquakes. Being prepared for the unexpected isn’t just about checklists; it’s about knowing where to turn and who you can count on. Through United4Community, United Way provides resources that make preparedness practical and approachable. One of our favorite tools is the Listos California Neighborhood Block Party Kit, which turns disaster readiness into a family activity. Neighbors and friends gather, share contact information, play games, and walk away feeling more confident about what to do when every minute matters. The message behind it is simple but powerful: while first responders are vital, the very first to act are often neighbors, friends, and family. Preparedness also means knowing our own strengths. At recent Listos summits, participants explored their “Disaster Ready Personality” – some are quick to check on neighbors, while others carefully gather information before acting. By understanding our tendencies and those of the people around us, we create networks to lean on when challenges arise. And when emergencies happen, 211 – United Way’s free, 24/7 helpline, is there to connect people with food, housing, disaster relief, and mental health care. United4Youth: The Power Of Young Voices Preparedness is also about preparing the next generation to lead. That’s the heart of United4Youth, where young people in Watsonville, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Capitola are raising their voices and designing solutions to real community challenges. Youth leaders are addressing issues like mental health, civic engagement, and equity. One student recently shared how being part of United4Youth gave them the courage to speak up for classmates and advocate for more resources at school. That kind of leadership is a form of resilience too, equipping young people not just to face emergencies, but to create healthier, stronger communities for the future. Global observances this month, like conversations around mental health and food security, echo the work our youth are already leading locally. They remind us that big issues become solvable when we trust young leaders to take the microphone and shape the solutions. The Power Of Community Support None of this work happens alone. United Way’s impact is made possible by the generosity of donors who give through payroll campaigns, contributions from local foundations, partnerships with government agencies, and the ongoing support of our broader community These investments allow United Way to respond quickly in times of crisis, sustain long-term initiatives like United4Youth, and ensure 211 remains available for every family, every hour of every day. When neighbors give, advocate, or volunteer, they are fueling preparedness, youth empowerment, and community resilience across Santa Cruz County. Every backpack distributed, every block party kit shared, every youth voice amplified is made possible by people who believe in showing up for one another. United Is The Way For 85 years, United Way has been the place where neighbors come together to solve problems bigger than any one of us. From disaster readiness to youth empowerment, from food access to 211’s safety net, United Way is committed to ensuring dignity, possibility, and resilience for every resident. As the year continues, we’ll keep lifting up the many ways our community shows up for one another, whether it’s honoring caregivers, celebrating veterans, or joining millions on Giving Tuesday and International Volunteer Day. Each is a reminder that resilience takes many forms: generosity, service, and connection. This October, whether you’re running through a fire drill at home, practicing the earthquake “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” or simply having a conversation with your kids about “what if” scenarios, remember: preparedness is not just about emergencies. It’s about people. It’s about relationships. It’s about showing up. Join us! Whether by giving, volunteering, or simply sharing these resources with a neighbor. Learn more at unitedwaysc.org. Because when we live united, we all thrive.

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Jasmine Nájera’s Journey of Service and Leadership

Comcast — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:25:55 +0000

Jasmine Nájera’s path has been deeply rooted in the values of service, community, and empowerment. As someone who knows the heart of Santa Cruz, she is dedicated to nurturing its spirit through her leadership as CEO of Pájaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance (PVPSA). Her journey is a powerful testament to resilience, mentorship, and social justice—shaped by a strong family legacy of giving back and uplifting others. From an early age, Jasmine knew that her life wouldn’t be just about personal success—it would be about helping others. Inspired by powerful role models in her family, she quickly recognized her calling to serve. In her household, service wasn’t just a value; it was a way of life, and that philosophy has shaped Jasmine’s career over the past three decades. Her journey led her to the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC), where she graduated in 1997 with a degree in History. It was at UCSC that she found the support and inspiration that would guide her for years to come. After earning her degree, Jasmine dove into the world of social work, beginning her career with Fenix Services, where she worked with youth under juvenile probation supervision. A year later, she transitioned to Children’s Behavioral Health with the County of Santa Cruz, where she honed her focus on counseling services and spent eight years serving the community. But Jasmine’s drive to further her education and expand her knowledge led her to the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) in 2005. Her time at UT Austin was pivotal. Jasmine recalls, “My Aunt took me to visit UT Austin when I was 11 while she was in graduate school there, and it formed a positive impression in my mind. So, I moved out to Texas to attend their social work program.” It was a move that not only shaped her professional path but also solidified her belief in the power of mentorship and positive role models. After graduating in 2005, Jasmine returned to California, working in the San Francisco Bay Area at Juma Ventures, where she supported youth in financial literacy, college and career development, and counseling. But despite the opportunities in the Bay Area, Jasmine always knew that her heart was in Santa Cruz. After several years, she returned to her roots and worked for Santa Cruz County Behavioral Health in adult services, primarily in the jail system. However, her ultimate goal was always to work with youth, and when the opportunity arose, she seized it. Then, the pandemic hit. The world shut down, and Jasmine found herself navigating the challenges of remote work—a shift that felt out of sync with her hands-on, community-centered approach—this proved to be a challenging adjustment. But her passion for service didn’t waver, and in 2022, she found a new calling at PVPSA. Jasmine’s journey with PVPSA quickly evolved into a leadership role. She fell in love with the organization’s commitment to community-centered care, its dedication to youth development, and the staff’s passion for making a real impact. In October 2022, she officially took the helm as CEO, a role that has allowed her to continue her lifelong mission of serving her community while supporting the development of others in the social work field. PVPSA serves children, youth, and families in the Pajaro Valley region, providing a wide range of services, including mental health support, substance-use prevention, health education, and family-centered programs. In her role as CEO, Jasmine has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s workforce development initiatives, which focuses on hiring directly from the community and offering mentorship and training for the next generation of service providers. “One of the most rewarding parts of my job is mentoring and growing our own staff,” she says. “We are proud to support the supervision and clinical growth of staff for our larger community. If we are going to continue to provide services, we need to make sure we are building pathways for people from our own community to be the ones providing those services.” Jasmine’s dedication to community service was recognized on a national level when she joined Congressman Jimmy Panetta as his guest to the 2023 State of the Union address in Washington, D.C. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I’m so grateful Congressman Panetta uplifted our organization and the importance of youth behavioral health needs and services.” Jasmine’s journey has come full circle. From growing up in Santa Cruz to becoming a leader in the social work field, she continues to live out the values of service that were instilled in her from a young age. Whether it’s providing mental health services to local youth or guiding the next generation of social workers, Jasmine’s legacy is one of service, strength, and a deep love for her community.

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Youth Leading Change in Santa Cruz County

Comcast — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 18:29:28 +0000

What makes a community thrive? At United Way of Santa Cruz County, we believe it starts by listening to young people, walking alongside them, and trusting them to lead. Every year, hundreds of youth across our county step into leadership roles through United Way of Santa Cruz County’s countywide United4Youth initiative. United 4Youth unites our youth-focused programs under a shared vision: to uplift youth voice, expand access to resources, and champion youth well-being. From Watsonville to Scotts Valley, youth are co-creating a stronger, more connected community, one where all young people are seen, supported, and empowered. United4Youth brings together four core programs under this vision: The Youth Action Network, where young people take on leadership roles and serve as city liaisons. The Youth Participatory Action Research initiative, where youth lead research and advocate for the issues that matter most to them. Jóvenes Sanos, based in Watsonville, is a youth leadership program focused on reducing stigma and promoting wellness through peer-led efforts. In Scotts Valley, Pathways to Possibility equips youth to address Adverse Childhood Experiences through policy advocacy and expanded afterschool access. “Youth are taught to listen. From an early age, we are conditioned to absorb information, listen and learn in school, listen and learn from authority figures. But rarely are encouraged to speak on their own experiences. Programs like Jóvenes Sanos and Youth Participatory Action Research change that by giving youth the tools and confidence to share their voices and empower others to do the same.” Gabriel, a long-time participant in Jóvenes Sanos /Youth Researcher “Nowadays it feels like the burden is on the younger generations to fix the problems of the world. With so much information available, it can be overwhelming to imagine fixing major issues that couldn’t possibly be solved alone.” Adrian, Jovenes Sanos Participant. This is why United4Youth is dedicated not to placing more responsibility on young people, but to creating the supportive spaces they need to THRIVE. We invite you to learn more about our initiatives and consider joining our efforts, whether through volunteering, partnering, or donating, to help expand our countywide reach and invest in the future leaders of our community. Want to learn more? Explore highlights, impact stories, and countywide data in our latest United4Youth Annual Report at https://www.unitedwaysc.org/research-reports Or volunteer at the annual Stuff the Bus Event next year. Stuff the Bus is more than a backpack, it’s a commitment to ensuring every student starts the school year prepared and confident. The Santa Cruz County Office of Education and United Way of Santa Cruz County join forces to collect school supplies for students in need. The County Office of Education estimates that over 2,700 K-12 students in Santa Cruz County are currently experiencing homelessness or extreme hardship. Stuff the Bus aims to fill over 2,500 backpacks with new school supplies, helping students focus on learning, build positive self-esteem, and stay engaged in school. Join us in sending our youth back to school with the tools they need to succeed.

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Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop Changes Lives

Comcast — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 05:49:14 +0000

Nestled in the heart of Aptos, “Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop” is more than a store, it is a space for hope, healing, and happiness. What started as a mother’s tribute to her daughter blossomed into a community that impacts lives in Santa Cruz County and beyond. The shop was inspired by Caroline, Christy Licker’s daughter who passed away at the young age of sixteen. Three and a half years after her passing, Christy landed on an idea to navigate healing and honor the life of Caroline. “I wanted to celebrate all the things she was and all the things I learned from her,” Christy shares. That idea became Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop, a volunteer-focused thrift shop where every dollar raised supports local non-profit organizations with programs and services for children and families. Christy never imagined the impact and community ties that would bloom at Caroline’s. The shop opened in 2011 with one location and seven volunteers. After only six months, the shop donated $40,000 to local non-profits. To date, Caroline’s has donated $4,508,000, expanded to two locations, and built an incredible team of over 80 volunteers. Funds raised by the thrift shop have supported organizations that improve the quality of life for children facing health challenges, provide support for youth in foster care and children experiencing food insecurity, and offer equitable access to resources and extracurricular activities. This direct impact is deeply personal for Christy. She recalls a single mother whose child with disabilities attended a one-week summer camp funded by one of Caroline’s partner non-profits. “She told me, ‘I haven’t had a week to myself in over ten years. Now I’m going to the dentist and running errands.’ That’s the kind of difference this support means to families.” Caroline’s is powered by its volunteers. The dynamic group consists of all ages, from junior high students to retirees and everyone in between. They sort donations, repair and refurbish items, create product displays, and greet customers with warmth and joy. “It’s a community within a community,” says Christy. “They rally around each other for birthdays, holidays, or if someone is going through a hard time.”If you have never been to Caroline’s, you are in for a treat. Christy describes the shop as a quirky boutique with a one-of-a-kind charm. It has carefully curated clothes, accessories, furniture, art, crystal, and more. Some of the handmade goods are specially crafted for the shop by seamstresses, artists, and crafters, adding to Caroline’s unique charm. Music and laughter fill the air and customers often say, “This is my happy place.” People can support Caroline’s by donating gently used items, volunteering their time, following them on Facebook (@carolinesnonprofitthriftshop) and Instagram (@carolines_nonprofit), and shopping the store at 8047 Soquel Drive in Aptos. Every purchase has a purpose, fueling Caroline’s mission to support local non-profits to ease their burdens of fundraising. Once a year, the shop hosts a Gifting Reception where non-profits receive a check ranging from $2,500 to $30,000. The reception is a day of empowerment and motivation, and a time to celebrate the community’s commitment to making a difference. “If Caroline could experience the shop today,” Christy says, “she would love it. She loved bright, happy things. She loved people.” Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop has become a catalyst for growth and hope, not just for the local organizations it funds, but for the people it brings together. Caroline’s is a beautiful reminder that heart, generosity, and community can change lives —one thrifted item at a time.

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Building a Thriving Santa Cruz County for Our Youth

Comcast — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:15:08 +0000

Santa Cruz County leader and philanthropist Diane Porter Cooley (1928-2022) knew what it takes to build a thriving community, and she left us instructions. “Community is about living life together. It’s about getting through hard times, floods, and fire; camping with girl scouts; serving meals and building clinics; helping kids and planting trees.” Diane and her husband Don were some of the founding members of Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, a center for giving where people can make philanthropic contributions that have a lasting impact. Since 1982, generous families have empowered $279 million in local grants and scholarships, including $2 million in the Foundation’s 2025 Community Grants. This annual initiative supports over 100 nonprofit organizations. These grants are made possible thanks to the generosity of dozens of families who entrust the Community Foundation with their charitable visions or have made a gift to the Greatest Needs Fund. The organizations receiving grants benefit from the flexibility to apply funds where they’re needed most, rather than for restricted purposes and 25% of those grants go to nonprofits supporting the health and wellbeing of youth through social services, education, and arts and culture. Helping Local Youth Succeed in School & Life A thriving childhood is built on a foundation of play, learning, dance, art, music, cultural celebrations, environmental stewardship, and healthy eating—fundamental aspects nurtured by community grants.One of the thousands of local youth supported by a Community Grant is River Loftus. When River walks into the Live Oak Clubhouse run by Boys & Girls Club of Santa Cruz County (BGCSCC), he feels a deep sense of community and purpose. Currently a junior at Harbor High, River started attending the Live Oak Clubhouse when he was a 6th grader at Shoreline Middle School—right when the Live Oak club opened. But now when he heads to the club after school, it’s as a junior staff member. River is part of the club’s workforce readiness training program that helps teens like him learn how to write a resume, apply for a job, learn how to interview, and work as a volunteer where he gains valuable service hours and experience that strengthen his professional skills and college applications. “I like helping out,” says River simply. “I also like how it helps me build responsibilities and, of course, I like playing with the kids.” At their three sites in Santa Cruz, Live, Oak, and Scotts Valley, BGCSCC serves more than 2,000 youth each year from all social and economic circumstances, helping them develop the skills needed to succeed in school and life. Like many youth organizations across the county, BGCSCC is noticing an increased need for services. Executive Director Lis DuBois says, “Our organization continues to see a growing request for scholarship support as the cost of housing, food, and essentials continue to rise.” She adds, “The $30,000 grant from the Community Foundation will allow us to continue to provide the things local youth need most: meals, mentors, and safe places to create, learn, grow, and play.” Supporting Youth Today… and Tomorrow Kevin Heuer is the Foundation’s Director of Engagement and Impact and runs the Community Grants program. He says, “The charitable funds that families have established here serve as our community’s permanent resource for addressing the issues of today and tomorrow. Thanks to our community’s generosity, we are making a Santa Cruz County where we live life together, and take care of each other, our children, and future generations.” For more information about the Community Foundation, visit: cfscc.org Jenny Kurzweil is the proud mom of two sons, a recent college graduate from Arizona State University and a first-year student at Cabrillo College. She’s also the Senior Communications Officer for Community Foundation Santa Cruz County.

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New CEO Brings Global Experience to Local Housing Efforts

Comcast — Fri, 09 May 2025 07:50:09 +0000

Catherine Stihler’s leadership journey spans the globe, with a proven track record of driving success in two major nonprofits— the Open Knowledge Foundation and Creative Commons. Her strategic vision, financial acumen, and commitment to innovation have propelled both organizations to new heights. With two decades of experience shaping European policy and navigating the complex intersection of regulation and progress, Catherine’s expertise uniquely positions her to lead and inspire. Now, as the new CEO of Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay, she is poised to channel her wealth of experience into creating lasting change and building stronger communities across the region. Today, Catherine is excited about making a difference in her new local community as the CEO for Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay. The mission of Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay is to build decent, affordable homes and provide homeownership opportunities to qualified families who live and work in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay is a community-based organization striving to make a positive impact for as many people as possible. “There is more to our program than just providing affordable homeownership for low and very low-income families. Our partner families attend workshops on budgeting and financial management, gaining skills and knowledge that help them establish a foundation for economic stability and create a brighter future for their children.” -Catherine StihlerHabitat for Humanity works in more than 70 countries and has helped more than 62 million people improve their living conditions since 1976. Habitat works together with families, local communities, volunteers and partners from around the world so that more people are able to live in affordable and safe homes. Their advocacy efforts focus on policy reform to remove systemic barriers preventing low-income and historically underserved families from accessing adequate, affordable shelter. Recently, Catherine joined forces with sister Habitat affiliates in Sacramento, CA for a powerful housing advocacy effort. More than 80 Habitat experts, including CEOs, team members, homeowners, and board members from 33 affiliates across 42 California counties, gathered to champion the cause of affordable homeownership. The topic of discussion: the housing crisis in California continues to worsen. The average age for first-time homebuyers in California is now 49, compared to the U.S. average of 35 and sadly, only 18% of California households can afford to purchase a home. The projected median home price for Californians in 2025 is $909,400. When coupled with rising costs for taxes, mortgage insurance, and wildfire insurance, affordable homeownership is becoming increasingly unattainable for many residents of California. To help combat rising costs and housing insecurities, Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay partners with qualifying homeowners who build and buy their own homes at an affordable price. The goals are to create stability and financial independence, improve health and well-being, and begin to build generational wealth. “Everyday, we see families that can’t afford a safe, stable home,” said Catherine. “Raising our voices is just as important as swinging our hammers when it comes to addressing the affordable housing crisis, and we look forward to working alongside lawmakers to ensure more people have a place to call home. In Monterey and Santa Cruz counties, the lack of affordable homes isn’t just a statistic, it’s a daily reality for families.” Catherine further emphasizes, “The rising housing costs in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties are deeply affecting individuals and families. Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay remains unwavering in its commitment to providing accessible, safe shelter for everyone in our community.” Habitat For Humanity could not make such an impact on communities without the help and support of volunteers. The volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds with a variety of skills. Anyone can come and put decades of knowledge to work building affordable housing or come in with no experience and learn how to construct a home from the ground up. Each home that is built helps keep the Monterey Bay region a place where working class people can continue to raise their families. Together, volunteers and families have built 65 homes supporting 77 families, with further plans extending through the foreseeable future. Catherine Stihler concludes, “At Habitat for Humanity, we build because we believe every person, everywhere, deserves a healthy, affordable place to call home. When a family is part of building or improving their home, they’re not just transforming their own future—they’re strengthening the entire community and creating a better life for everyone.”

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A New Chapter for Chamber of Commerce

Comcast — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 17:32:04 +0000

By Kristen Brown, Executive Director I am excited and honored to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce. With deep roots in Santa Cruz County – working alongside electedofficials, serving as an elected official myself, and collaborating with nonprofit and community organizations – I am committed to the growth, success, and vitality of our local businesses and our community. For over 130 years, the Chamber has been a driving force in advocating for businesses, fostering economic growth, and strengthening community connections. As we look to the future, my vision is to build on this legacy by expanding our membership, deepening our engagement throughout the region, and enhancing the events and programs that provide valuable opportunities for networking, professional development, and collaboration. To achieve this, we must continue strengthening the Chamber’s role as a connector, advocate, and resource for businesses and the community. The Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce represents a diverse range of businesses, from small home-based ventures to large organizations with over 200 employees. Our members span the entire county, from Davenport and Boulder Creek in the north to Santa Cruz and Capitola on the coast, and to Freedom and Watsonville in the south. We are proud to be the tenth-largest business organization in Northern California, with a history of service dating back to 1889. Our longest-standing member has been with us since 1920, and our Board is composed of dedicated volunteers committed to the region’s prosperity.The Chamber serves as a bridge between businesses, workers, residents, community organizations, and local governments, fostering partnerships that strengthen the local economy and improve quality of life. Advocacy is central to our mission, and we work closely with city and county leaders, business owners, and community groups to support policies that promote economic growth, sustainable development, and community well-being. Addressing key issues such as housing, transportation, and workforce development ensures that Santa Cruz remains a vibrant, forward-thinking place to live, work, and play. Santa Cruz businesses – large and small – are the backbone of our community, and the Chamber is dedicated to providing resources, connections, and strategic support to help them thrive. Through education, outreach, networking, and advocacy, we strive to create an environment where businesses can succeed, knowing that when businesses flourish, the entire community benefits. Our dynamic lineup of events throughout the year reflects this commitment, offering valuable opportunities for engagement and growth. These include the Annual Community Recognition Awards Gala, the upcoming Forks, Corks & Kegs Festival on May 17th, a Golf Tournament, ribbon-cutting ceremonies, Business After Hours networking mixers, luncheons, and educational workshops. Another key initiative is our annual Community Leadership Visit (CLV), where local leaders travel to cities facing similar challenges to explore innovative solutions in economic development, housing, sustainability, and business growth. This year, our delegation visited San Luis Obispo, engaging with their Chamber of Commerce, touring the thriving downtown, visiting the Cal Poly Tech Park, learning about new housing developments, and discussing clean energy management at the Diablo Canyon Power Plant. These visits provide critical insights that help shape strategies in Santa Cruz while fostering collaboration among local decision-makers. As I take on this role, my priority is to ensure that the Chamber remains a powerful advocate and resource for local businesses. This means expanding support for businesses at every stage of growth, strengthening our advocacy efforts on issues that impact our community and economy, bringing practical solutions to community challenges, and deepening partnerships across industries and sectors to create new opportunities. The Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce exists to serve our businesses, organizations, and residents. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a community leader, or someone who cares about the future of Santa Cruz, I encourage you to get involved. Learn more about how we can work together at SantaCruzChamber.org or feel free to reach out to me directly at kbrown@santacruzchamber.org.

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5 Visionary Initiatives Shaping Universal Destinations & Experiences in 2025

Comcast — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:16:07 +0000

DNBCUniversal is expanding its theme park portfolio worldwide by introducing thrilling attractions, immersive experiences, and entirely new theme parks and resorts. Discover some of the most eagerly awaited projects that Universal Destinations & Experiences will unveil in 2025. 1. Universal Orlando Resort’s Highly Anticipated Fourth Theme Park Universal Epic Universe Opens The opening of Epic Universe will transform Universal Orlando Resort into a weeklong vacation destination comprised of four theme parks that are home to the most innovative theme park experiences ever created. Epic Universe will present a level of theme park immersion that is unmatched – transporting guests to expansive worlds featuring more than 50 awe-inspiring attraction, entertainment, dining and shopping experiences that come together to create an unforgettable adventure that is nothing short of epic. Universal Orlando Resort’s highly anticipated fourth theme park – Universal Epic Universe – will officially open on May 22, 2025, unlocking the portals to five astounding worlds that will bring to life extraordinary adventures that go beyond guests’ wildest imaginations. 2. Universal Studios Hollywood Introduces Inaugural Universal Fan Fest Nights Universal Studios Hollywood will introduce guests to Universal Fan Fest Nights, an all-new interactive and immersive separately ticketed event that brings the most compelling worlds of Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Gaming and Anime to life from the creators of its highly-acclaimed Halloween Horror Nights event. Featuring a slate of all-new, thrilling and unique fan favorite experiences, the inaugural Universal Fan Fest Nights 2025 at Universal Studios Hollywood will debut these with Star Trek, Back to the Future, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS and more. 3. Universal Studios Singapore Unveils Illumination’s Minion Land Illumination’s Minion Land will open at Universal Studios Singapore at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) in 2025, transporting guests in Southeast Asia into an immersive, new land inspired by Illumination’s beloved Despicable Me and Minions franchise. The highly anticipated land will feature multiple rides, including Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and an all-new carousel exclusive to Universal Studios Singapore, Buggie Boogie, which features dance music remixed by the Minions, as well as a variety of themed retail and dining experiences. The land will take guests into the world of Illumination’s Despicable Me and Minions movies where they will be able to experience three distinct areas: Minion Marketplace, Gru’s Neighbourhood, and Super Silly Fun Land. 4. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ Area Expansion…DONKEY KONG COUNTRY™ is Now Open at Universal Studios Japan Universal Studios Japan recently expanded the popular SUPER NINTENDO WORLD area of the park, which has been visited by many guests every day since its opening in March of 2021. The world’s first-ever “Donkey Kong Country” area, themed on the world of Donkey Kong, enhances and deepens the experiential value of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. With the addition of this new area, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD expanded by 70% with new experiences full of innovation and creativity that take the guest experience to an even higher level. 5. Universal Horror Unleashed Opens Its Doors Universal Destinations &Experiences (UDX), creator of the global phenomenon Halloween Horror Nights, announced that Universal Horror Unleashed – the company’s first-ever year- round horror experience – is coming to Las Vegas in 2025. In a darkened warehouse on the edge of Las Vegas, a relentless spectacle of horror is rising: Universal Horror Unleashed. Now guests can experience it all in a year-round, fully immersive horror experience. The fears only felt in movies will come to bone-chilling life. Enter the evils of four haunted houses, each with its own terrifying story: Universal Monsters, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Scarecrow: The Reaping, and Blumhouse’s The Exorcist: Believer. These haunted houses aren’t for the faint of heart – they are intense and feature elevated moments where the horror surrounds guests in unimaginable ways.

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