SANTA CRUZ

1970s Gay Men’s Support Group sets reunion date

In conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Santa Cruz Pride, a reunion luncheon is being planned for the 70’s Santa Cruz Gay Men’s Support Group to be held 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May 30 at the Crepe Place.

The group began meeting in 1978 and hosted hundreds of local gay, bisexual and questioning men over a four-year period. Facilitated by Patrick Meyer and Ken Sentner, it started with 15 participants and soon grew to 90 men each week.

This drop-in group served as a safe place where gay and bisexual men could meet each other, discuss common issues and experiences as they came out, and develop a sense of community that still exists to this day. Group members created several spin-off groups including the Wednesday Night Volleyball Gathering (still going), a Spanish speaking potluck, a Gay and Lesbian Democratic Club, a hiking group, a monthly evening coffeehouse and more. In 1980, they won the Mayor’s Award for their float in the Begonia Parade.

For information and to RSVP, send an email to scgmreunion@gmail.com.

SANTA CRUZ

Jug band sing and play-along

Everyone is invited to attend the harmonica and ukulele night for a free jug band sing, strum and play-along with the Trolley Drops at Pono Hawaiian Grill, 120 Union St., May 1 from 5:45 to 7:30 p.m.

The songs will be an energetic blend of old time jazz, blues and novelty tunes from the ’20s and ’30s. That’s jug band music! Many participants tend to bring out their harmonicas during jam sessions, so of course, bring your regular instrument — and if you have a harmonica, bring that along too! There will be harmonica demos and instructions along with the regular play and sing along fun. Songs will be projected and song books will be available.

Everyone is encouraged to sing and play along with the band. Bring your voices, ukes, jugs, kazoos, washboards, guitars, fiddles, etc. and your good humor. Lots of parking nearby. It’s fun and free, but please plan to buy dinner and have a drink and support Pono for hosting the party.

SANTA CRUZ

Nonprofit Community TV to throw equipment sale fundraiser

You’re invited to shop quality video gear at budget-friendly prices at Nonprofit Community TV’s equipment sale May 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. inside the Satellite Workspace at 325 Soquel Ave. Nonprofit Community TV is clearing out gently used video production equipment, with proceeds helping to support CTV’s programs for community media makers and schools.

There will be a wide range of gear for sale, including cameras, microphones, lighting kits, audio gear, cables, tripods, accessories and more. Perfect for filmmakers, content creators, students or anyone looking to upgrade their setup without breaking the bank. First come, first served — come early for the best selection!

SANTA CRUZ

Vets 4 Vets to host fundraiser at Boardwalk Bowl

Join Vets 4 Vets at Boardwalk Bowl, 115 Cliff St., for a Bowling Fundraiser May 17 at 1 p.m. Bowl three games for $20, including shoes. You can buy tickets at givebutter.com/bowlingfun2025 or in person at Boardwalk Bowl. All proceeds from this event support local veterans.

SANTA CRUZ

Reducing waste talk at the library

Join the Branciforte Branch, 230 Gault St., for an educational conversation on reducing waste in your community, May 3 from 2-3 p.m. A low-waste lifestyle is not only good for our environment and your wallet but it’s also hip! Come learn about all of the Low-Waste Programs that the city of Santa Cruz offers to help our community reduce waste. There will be light refreshments, low-waste giveaways and even a raffle. Come modeling your best thrifted outfit and see you there!

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

Registration open for Italian language classes

Learn the language of “la dolce vita” with the Dante Alighieri Society of Santa Cruz’s native Italian-speaking instructors. Whether you are new to the Italian language, totally fluent or everything in between, the summer 2025 classes are for you! All classes are conducted in Italian by instructors who are university qualified native speakers. These instructors provide training in all basic communication skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing, with a systematic study of grammar.

The summer session begins July 7, so register now to secure your spot and take advantage of the early bird pricing (ends June 8). Pricing and location (online and in-person) varies by class; see individual class descriptions for more information. The last day to register is July 3. For further details, visit dantesantacruz.com/classes or email dantesantacruz1265@gmail.com.

LOS GATOS

Emergency response training class open

When disaster strikes will you know what to do? The Community Emergency Response Team Basic Training course prepares you to help yourself and others at home and in your community in the event of a catastrophic disaster such as wildland fires or earthquakes. The CERT Auxiliary of Santa Cruz County is offering a free 21-hour training over five weeks at the Loma Prieta Elementary School, 23800 Summit Road. Because first responders will not be able to help everyone immediately, this emergency training can help you stay safe, save lives and protect property. You will learn what to do on your own, in your neighborhood and how to help others as part of a Community Emergency Response Team. Topics covered through discussion and hands-on practice include disaster preparedness, disaster and psychological first aid, fire and utility safety, and simple search and rescue.

Class dates are Thursdays May 1, 8, 15 and 22, from 6 to 9:30 p.m., and June 7, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All classes are required. For more information, go to santacruzcountycert.org/cert-training-classes or email BasicTraining831CERT@gmail.com.