CZU Lightning Complex Fire: Five Years Later, a Community Commemorates
Pictured above, a commemorative quilt titled New Growth by quilt artist Laura Fogg. For the Big Basin Art About project Laura wrote, “My assumption, upon visiting Big Basin for the first time after the fire, was that I would be witness to total devastation. Instead I found myself surrounded by health. Almost all of the burned trees are sprouting vigorous new branches. The park is alive with new growth.”
Now, five years after the devastation and aftermath of the CZU Lightning Complex Fire, Santa Cruz Public Libraries invites the public to join commemorating events acknowledging grief and loss, celebrating nature’s renewal power and highlighting the resilience of the San Lorenzo Valley community.
Wednesday, August 5
The 3-part series will kick off at the Felton Branch Library on Wednesday, August 5 at 5pm with the screening of the film: “The CZU Fire In Their Own Words -Fighting Fires, Losing Homes, and Rebuilding Community.” In this moving and powerful film produced by Mountain Community Theater, actors give a voice to the people who fought the fires and those who lost their homes, speaking about evacuating, losing property and possessions, battling with insurance companies, and getting community support. Attendees are invited to bring a picture or item to contribute to the CZU Fire Community Memory Table. Location: Community room at the Felton Library 6121 Gushee St, Felton.
Tuesday, August 12
On Tuesday, August 12 at 3pm, the Boulder Creek Branch Library welcomes California State Parks staff for a Big Basin Redwoods State Park Update, a conversation on the status and plans to rebuild the park after burning in the CZU Fire. State Parks staff will share the vision for rebuilding, plans for shuttle access to the park, and offer tips on visiting the park now and during the next several years before rebuilding is completed. Location: Boulder Creek Library 13390 W Park Ave, Boulder Creek.
Saturday, August 16
Healing Through Art & Community: CZU Fire 5th Anniversary Event Saturday, August 16, 1-4 pm the Felton Branch Library and the Felton Library Friends welcome the community to join Healing Through Art & Community: CZU Fire 5th Anniversary. Join together for an all-ages event honoring our community and its resilience through art, film, music, and more. The event will feature art installations (including interactive art) and short films from artists involved in BIg Basin Art About. State Parks will have a “Reimagining Big Basin” information booth, and Felton Library Friends will provide refreshments. Scheduled activities include:
- 1-1:45 pm “Cycles” interactive sound art-for teens in Teen Room
- 1-3 pm Community Poetry Circle-for adults on the patio
- 2-3 pm Library Rangers story time for families with State Parks staff and craft activity with Felton Librarian
- 3-3:45pm Music from Sugar By the Pound on the patio
There will be a CZU Fire Community Memory Table at the library during August. You are invited to add a picture, an item, or a note about your experience.
This event is a collaboration among California State Parks, Felton Library Friends, and the Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Location: Felton Library 6121 Gushee St. Felton.
Do you have CZU fire commemorative photos or art to share? The team at the San Lorenzo Valley Post welcomes your Santa Cruz Mountains news, story ideas, photos, and letters. Send us an email.
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