President's Message

Last season, even as we sheltered in place, I am very happy to report that the League was able to present a check for $50,000 as our annual gift to the Symphony. Not bad considering the League held mostly virtual events: free Music of the Month and Jewel Theatre presentation, virtual Home Tour and Boutique, virtual “Ready, Set, Garden” event replacing the gala, and a Stay-at-Home Tea mailing, with only two in-person events at the Laguna Seca Race Track.

Would you believe that the last time we gathered for an in-person event was on January 31, 2020! It was for a Preview luncheon and the room was packed with music lovers listening to Daniel Stewart give us insights about the weekend concert.

Well, almost 21 months later, we will be holding our first Preview of the season at the Civic Auditorium on Friday, October 22 at 4 p.m. with appetizers and refreshments. Maestro Danny will discuss the music that will be performed over the weekend. It will be so wonderful to see you in person again after such a long time connecting via Zoom!

We are very excited about our Virtual Home Tour, with ten incredible homes featuring Indoor and Outdoor living. Tickets are $45 each and will go on sale October 20 via www.hometoursantacruz.org. Our Shops at the Home Tour will kick off this month-long event on the weekend of November 20-21 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. each day at the Capitola Community Center. We will follow County guidelines regarding Covid so that all participants can feel safe. Stay tuned for what those will be. A very in-depth and exciting new Home Tour Magazine will be available at the Shops, exclusively for home tour ticket holders. 

The League will need help at the Shops with table monitors, cashiers, and clean-up crew. Many of you have been home tour volunteers on a regular basis, so you know how much fun it is to participate in this holiday fundraiser for the Symphony. More information will be forthcoming regarding these key assignments. 

I’m looking forward to reconnecting with you, our wonderful League members, during this season’s events.

Cheryl Hammond, President - Santa Cruz Symphony League