Continuing a valuable tradition — bringing our State Assembly Member to address state environmental issues that affect us locally — The Valley Women’s Club’s Environmental Committee presents the 18th Annual Environmental Town Hall. Assembly Member Mark Stone will focus on environmental issues, legislation and regulation at the State level that directly affect our lives, homes, businesses and cherished environs. After his presentation, audience members are invited to participate in a Q&A with him on topics of their choice.

The event also features timely displays and information from crucial environmental organizations and the Santa Cruz County Mosquito and Vector Control Agency. After years of drought, mosquitos and rodents proliferated after last winter’s floods. The County Mosquito and Vector Control will feature guidelines for dealing with these and other disease-carrying pests. The VWC’s Environmental Committee will feature the children’s Art Contest on air quality, on-going efforts to protect endangered fish populations, controversial local development projects, progress on the Monterey Bay Community Power effort, and the Restoration Project (with AmeriCorps). The Coastal Watershed Council will provide information on the San Lorenzo River Alliance, and exciting volunteer testing programs like “First Flush.” The Resource Conservation District provides funding and permitting support for restoration of rural roads, erosion control projects and riparian restoration projects. The Santa Cruz Sierra Club Group will provide insights into environmental concerns shared between the SLV and the Coast.

The program is free and suitable for all ages. Refreshments will be served. For information call Nancy at 831/345-1555, or go to www.valleywomensclub.org. (Come help set-up at noon!)