Lisa Catterall, Yesenia Gomez-Carrillo, Jaime McFaden, Lori Butterworth, Elizabeth Borelli, Tarmo Hannula, Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy, Dr. Sepideh Taghvaei
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Bobbi Jo Palmer
AD REPRESENTATIVES
Ann Fitts Meghan Bussing
Sophie Veniel Valerie Duque Bob Pursley advertising@growingupsc.com
CONTACT US
408.656.1519
editor@growingupsc.com
P.O. Box 3505, Santa Cruz, CA 95063
OCTOBER 2024 | VOL. 28 NO. 10 Printed by Folger Graphics.
Even small changes can make a BIG difference.
Triple P is a scientifically-proven, world-renowned positive parenting program available to families in Santa Cruz County.
Triple P strategies address a wide range of parenting challenges by providing a toolbox of easy-to-use tips.
Find a full schedule of Triple P tips and classes at triplep.first5scc.org.
What the Kids Are Saying
My 8-year-old came home last week speaking a new language. No, it wasn’t the Spanish he’s studying on Duolingo. It’s…well, kid speak. It wasn’t just him. I heard him talking to his friends with all these words I didn’t know.
I wasn’t meant to know them. I’m a grown up.
In a sly bit, TV host John Oliver threw out a couple of them a few weeks ago, claiming that kids would stop using them because he used them.
But nope, it didn’t work. They are still out there, mostly popularized by YouTube influencers.
I asked Parker to write a dictionary of his lingo for those of us not in his generation. Do your kids know others? Send them into editor@growingupsc. com and we’ll print them. What do you make of this jargon? What are your favorites or most haters?
Here goes:
Sigma means a person who is not a player and sticks to one girl. It also means a very cool person. You can also say “What the sigma?” and that basically means “what the frick?”.
Brainrot is the definition of all the words you’re going to be reading today. Also a bunch of people think it’s cringe.
Skibidi originally came from skibidi toilet which is from a YouTube channel
and it’s basically a series of toilets with heads fighting camera people.
Rizz is basically charisma but for generation Alpha.
Alpha is also kinda sigma but cooler.
Beta is a very uncool person that is trash.
Gyatt is a butt and there’s three levels of it. Level 1 is very small. Level 2 is medium and level 3 is really big.
Phantom tax is someone stealing food from someone.
Ohio is something really cursed.
Mewing is basically a thing where you put your finger to your jawline and make it bigger but its fake.
Cooking is basically hyping someone up.
Baby Gronk is a football player.
Looksmaxing is looking your best.
Do you think if you try these on your kids, they’ll finally think you’re cool? Nah. I don’t either.
Thanks for reading Brad
Kava, Editor and Publisher
Catch the Social Media Wave
Don’t miss the Growing Up in Santa Cruz videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. To promote your business to thousands of viewers in the area each week, email editor@growingupsc.com or call (408) 656-1519.
On the Cover Baby Contest Winners
Thank you to everyone who submitted entries and voted in our annual baby photo contest. Congratulations to Kade from Watsonville who was voted as the winner. We can’t wait to see your entries again next September.
Runners-Up
18 months to 5 years
Biloxi, Santa Cruz
Chesa, Aptos
Elana, Santa Cruz
Duke, Corralitos
Ella, Watsonville
Madison, Watsonville
Parth, Santa Cruz
Rowan, Scotts Valley
TEACHER’S DESK
Visible and Invisible
BY LISA CATTERALL
This year I have the honor of guiding our senior class in carrying out a capstone project. They came into the first day of classroom work with ideas of wanting to help everything and everybody, locally and around the world, in every possible way. They had no idea how beautiful a concept this was, or what a gift their priorities are to our area.
For anyone who has ever had a loss of faith in the upcoming generation or a draining away of hope for the future, I can assure you, there are young people who are ready to serve.
As the students narrowed their ideas down and honed the scope of their project, they came to the conclusion that what they really wanted to do was bring people’s invisible struggles in our community into the light. They want to make the invisible visible for our county. Specifically, they want to do that for our local children and youth.
When struggles are visible, we in Santa Cruz County are a community of problem solvers. If we see it, we work to make it better, because who among us wants to bear anothers’ suffering in our own local community?
I live in a middle class neighborhood, and several years ago our students illuminated a community living less than a mile away from me that faces abject poverty Hunger, lack of education and healthcare, and a complete lack of resources are problems these humans face every day. Our students worked with the Center for Farmworker Families in a holiday drive for basic supplies and support, and I was stunned to discover
THE MOST CONSISTENT THING ABOUT REAL ESTATE IS CHANGE
that six hundred migrant workers are quite literally my neighbors. My invisible neighbors.
Young people in our county have a special power to bring these issues into our consciousness. I remember, as a high school student, wondering why adults could not see the pressing issues that were right in front of them.
As parents, most of us work to shield our children from the harsher realities of the world, to keep them innocent, or to keep them believing that the world is good and kind, for as long as possible. As students become teenagers and wander out of their parents’ protective bubble, they are novel to the struggles that exist all around them.
Seeing the world through their eyes is a privilege and it is also revealing.
When we “grown-ups” have collected enough experiences of the world at its worst, we develop skills to cope with harsh realities. Sometimes those skills involve, at least partially, shutting things out or denying what is right before our very eyes Does it hurt to have the veil lifted, to see what is really there? My students inspire me to react with action, love and hope, rather than despair
We meet two times a week, and the
Regulations change
Needs change
Climate change... and it all changes again
students assign themselves action items, and then we meet again to update each idea or initiative to reach down off the mountain from our comfortable school. A teenager, at the threshold of adulthood, is a gift to a community.
Too often we view them as problems. What do we do to keep the kids busy after school, so they don’t cause trouble? How do we keep the kids out of trouble? My students, on the other hand, are going to keep the adults out of trouble. They are going to remind us of what a community is, and how we can engage with it in the best way possible.
I can’t wait to see what they do, what they see, what they discover, and to share the activities of their project, MMS Off the Mountain as it develops.
Readers can follow MMS Off The Mountain on instagram, at @off_the_ mountain_2025
Lisa Catterall teaches STEAM, math, science, and art at Mount Madonna School and is a senior associate of the Centers for Research on Creativity. She lectures and trains teachers and administrators on innovation in education in Beijing, China. Lisa has five children and lives in Santa Cruz County.
Choose
Let's talk about your changes today
Early Education Local Families Can Trust
Highlands Park offers a safe place where kids can grow and develop
BY COMMUNITY BRIDGES
Choosing the right early education program for your child is a critical decision that shapes their foundation for future learning. For families in the San Lorenzo Valley, Community Bridges’ Early Education Division (EED) offers a trusted option that stands out for its quality, commitment to child development, and strong parent engagement.
The Highlands Park Early Education Center, a gem nestled in the majestic redwoods in Ben Lomond and alongside the San Lorenzo River, provides a nurturing environment for children aged 18 months to 5 years old. Here, children can grow, learn, and thrive in a setting that feels like an extension of their own home.
What Sets Highlands Park Early Education Center Apart At Highlands Park, our approach to early education is grounded in evidence-based practices, playbased learning, and a deep commitment to social-emotional development using statewide initiatives and data gathering. Here’s what makes us unique: DEVELOPMENTAL ASSESSMENTS AND PARENT ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM
We believe that parents play a vital role in their children’s development. That’s why we provide regular developmental assessments and work closely with families to ensure that every child’s unique needs are met. Our Parent Engagement Program ensures open communication and collaboration between parents and educators, helping to create a shared vision for each child’s growth.
THE ONLY ‘QUALITY COUNTS’ PROGRAM IN THE SAN LORENZO VALLEY
Highlands Park Center is proud to be the only early education program in the San Lorenzo Valley participating in the ‘Quality Counts’ initiative.
This statewide program evaluates and recognizes early childhood programs that meet high standards of quality in key areas, including child development and school readiness. As a participant, we are committed to maintaining excellence and continuously improving our programs to meet the needs of our community.
IMPACT
PLAY-BASED CURRICULUM FOCUSED ON SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
We understand that children learn best through play, exploration, and social interaction.
Our curriculum is designed to foster curiosity, creativity, and social-emotional skills, laying the groundwork for future academic success. Through structured and unstructured play, children build the confidence, communication, and problem-solving skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES FOR WORKING FAMILIES
We recognize that each family’s needs are different, which is why we offer flexible schedules ranging from 2 to 5 days per week during typical working hours. Whether you need full-day or half-day care, we have options to suit your schedule and provide the consistent, high-quality care that supports both children and parents.
HIGHLY TRAINED, CPR AND FIRST AID CERTIFIED STAFF
Our team of dedicated early childhood
educators is committed to creating a positive, nurturing environment where children can thrive. All staff members are certified in CPR and First Aid, ensuring your child’s safety. With extensive training in child development, our educators create a space where children are encouraged to explore, discover and grow.
ENROLL TODAY!
If you’re looking for an early education program that fosters growth, learning, and joy, Highlands Park Center is here for your family. With a strong focus on socialemotional development, high standards of quality, and flexible options for care, our center is a trusted resource for local families.
In addition to Highlands Park, Community Bridges also offers subsidized care for qualified, low-income families at sites in Watsonville, Freedom, Santa Cruz, and Felton through our EED program. We understand that early education is an investment in your child’s future, and we strive to offer high-quality care to all families. If your annual household income is less than $130,000, your family might qualify for FREE care at one of our other
top-notch early education sites: - Vista Verde Center: 1936 Freedom Boulevard, Freedom - Fairgrounds Center: 2667 E. Lake Avenue, Watsonville - Nuevo Dia Center: 135 Leibrandt Avenue, Santa Cruz - Sycamore Street Center: 121 Sycamore St. Ste 100, Santa Cruz - Redwood Mountain Center: 7103A Highway 9, Felton
To begin the enrollment process or explore your options, visit communitybridges.org/eed. We look forward to welcoming your family to Highlands Park Center and our greater EED program, where children can explore, grow, and develop in a safe, nurturing environment designed to meet their needs.
Interested in applying for the Big Brothers Big Sisters JEDI Trans Youth program? Contact them directly 831.464.8691 by phone or text to start the conversation, and let them know how they can best support you on your mentorship journey.
What Can We Do About Kids and Social Media?
BY DR. LORI BUTTERWORTH, PSYD, MED, MA
Back in 1975, I was a typical 12-year-old. After school, my brothers and I played outside until dark. After dinner and homework, if I wanted to call a friend, I would use the phone on the wall in the kitchen within earshot of everyone, often including my younger brother, listening on the phone extension in our mother’s room. Our television choices included family shows on one of the three networks: ABC, NBC, and CBS.
The daily life of a typical 12-yearold today stands in stark contrast to my experience. Forty-some-odd years of biological evolution is minuscule compared to the social, cultural, and technological evolution that has happened since my friends and I ran around our neighborhood without a parent or phone in sight.
Today, kids are facing an unprecedented crisis in their mental health that has left parents wringing our hands about what to do.
Contrary to popular belief, the youth mental health crisis didn’t start with COVID. There was a 134% increase in
in girls between 2010 and 2020. These alarming trajectories were well on their way before our kids faced nearly two years of COVID-19 isolation. What happened? Social media.
If you haven’t yet had the chance to read Jonathan Haight’s latest book, The Anxious Generation, I recommend you grab it as quickly as possible. In it, Haight makes the strongest case yet for the damage social media is having on our kids. He describes the disastrous cultural shift from play-based childhood to phone-based childhood and how as parents, we’ve become irrationally fearful of stranger danger in the real world while handing our kids a device that opens them up to predators worldwide.
What do we do? Let’s start by considering the primary function of social media. For most kids, social media is a way to connect with friends, and social connection is a healthy, necessary developmental activity.
Taking away your child’s phone while “everyone else” has one, isn’t the answer. It’s going to take collective action from parents. Imagine if parents banded
Haight suggests four new norms for groups of parents to agree to:
No smartphones before high school
No social media before age 16
No phones in schools
More independent play I’ve heard people say that the genie is out of the bottle, and there’s nothing parents can do about kids and social media. I disagree.
Back in the 70s when I was running around until dark, there was far more crime than today. But today, parents are irrationally hovering over their kids in the real world and throwing up their hands when it comes to the digital world.
Recently, I asked a mother why she wouldn’t let her 11-year-old daughter walk the two blocks from school to my office for therapy. Like so many other parents, she shared her fear of someone “kidnapping” her daughter. I asked if she knew how long her daughter would have to stand alone on a street corner before, statistically speaking, she’d be kidnapped by a stranger: 750,000 years. The irony is, her daughter has a smartphone.
There is hope. If you’re a parent struggling with how, when, and how much screen time to allow, you’re not alone. We’ve seen an increase in parents
working together to postpone and restrict smartphones and social media. Even better, adolescents are starting to give up social media themselves. In my therapy practice, without exception, each has reported improved mental health.
Here are some resources that can help:
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haight LetGrow.org provides free resources for parents and teachers. Be sure to download the Let Grow Project and Independence Kit
The “Ask Lisa” podcast with Dr. Lisa Damore – practical, scientifically grounded strategies for parents about helping kids manage their digital lives.
The Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health hosts free Parent Drop-In sessions on the last Wednesday of every month on Zoom and in-person parent discussion sessions about how parents can work together to improve youth mental health. Learn more and register at ccamh.org
Dr. Lori Butterworth is the founder of the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services. She can be reached at lori@ccamh.org
PREGNANCY AND BIRTH GUIDE
Alison K. Jackson, DDS
Children’s Dentistry
7545 Soquel Dr, Aptos
831.662.2900
santacruzkidsdentist.com
We are accepting new patients! It’s time for a dental check-up when your child has a first tooth or first birthday. We are preventive-dentistry oriented and we provide comprehensive dentistry in a caring environment for children of all ages. We have a pediatric anesthesiologist on our premises and are able to treat special, challenging children safely and comfortably under a general anesthesia. We have a 24-hour emergency service available for all of our patients.
Coastal Kinetic Physical Therapy
2121 41st Ave, Ste 303, Capitola 831.204.8204
sarah@coastalkinetics.com coastalkinetic.com
We are now open and accepting new patients! Pediatric physical therapy helps improve motor skills, strength, balance, and coordination of infants and children from birth. PT is an important part of the solution for many challenges including not meeting developmental milestones like rolling or crawling, or having increased body tension that impacts sleeping, eating, or playing. Don’t wait, reach out today to book a free discovery session.
Community Bridges WIC Program
South County/Watsonville 18 W. Lake Avenue Suite A 831.722.7121
North County/Santa Cruz 1105 Water Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831-426-3911
Communitybridges.org/WIC
WIC provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health care and social services for millions of families, and it plays a crucial role in improving lifetime health for women, their infants, and young children. Part of the nation’s nutrition safety net for over 45 years, WIC serves pregnant and post-partum women, infants, and children through their fifth birthday.
Annually, Community Bridges WIC program serves over 500 pregnant women, 800 breastfeeding women, 1,100 infants, and 3,800 children offering a comprehensive range of services to promote healthy lifestyles both on-site and online.
“I have received so much help from WIC from nutritional classes to just being able to ask questions like is my child eating enough or are the eating too much and also with breastfeeding support.”
- Paloma, WIC participant
Dientes Community Dental Care
1830 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz 1500 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz 100 Pioneer Street, Suite D, Santa Cruz 1430 Freedom Blvd., Suite C, Watsonville dientes.org
Dientes is a full-service dental provider located in Santa Cruz County. We practice whole family dentistry including kids, adults, and seniors; but children hold a special place in our heart – nearly half of our patients are kids seen by our experienced pediatric dentists. As a non-profit dental provider, our focus is on high-quality, low-cost dental services, including exams, x-rays, fillings, sealants and root canals. We accept Medi-Cal and we have affordable sliding scale fees for uninsured patients. We offer bi-lingual services – Se habla Español! Dientes, providing dignity through dentistry for over 30 years.
First 5 Santa Cruz County
831.465.2217
First5scc.org
First 5 Santa Cruz County promotes the healthy development of children from birth to age 5. Parents and caregivers of newborns can contact First 5 to receive a free “Kit for New Parents” with parenting videos, children’s books, information on caring for babies and local resources. First 5 also offers parenting support through the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, a world-renowned program that strengthens families by building positive relationships. To find Triple P classes or quick tips, visit triplep.first5scc.org or facebook.com/triplepscc
Jim Booth Swim School
Harvey West pool in Santa Cruz and Watsonville 831.722.3500
JimBoothSwimSchool.com
Be a water wonder! From our Little Otters swim class for parents and their babies to Aquaphobics, our adult beginner class, the whole family splashes together at Jim Booth Swim School. Little Otters is a gentle introduction to our 94-degree pools that will make you confident that you are guiding your infant to a happy water experience. Our lessons
Motherhood Fitness Specialist
In-person, virtual, app-based, and hybrid personal training for all mothers and mothers-to-be
Schedule a free discovery call and receive half off your first session
Monicacarltonfitness.com
emphasize quality swimming in an exciting class taught by our caring, well-qualified teachers. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School.
Did you know? Activities for babies and toddlers that stimulate balance, movement, and core strength activate the brain for higher learning concepts and lead to later success in school. Join us at June Bug’s
Gym for Inchworms — our baby development classes — for crawlers to wobbly walkers. Every Monday and Wednesday from 12:15 pm to 1 pm
Monica Carlton Fitness Monicacarltonfitness.com
As a Motherhood Fitness Specialist, I am passionate about empowering women through every stage of their motherhood journey- preparing for pregnancy, thriving during the prenatal months, recovering postbirth, and flourishing as a mom. Mothers bring the future to life, and you deserve to live yours to the fullest
MusicalMe, Inc. offering Music Together™
Locations throughout Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County Call/Text: 831-332-9002
registrar@musicalme.com musicalme.com
The best time to start music classes for your little one? Now! Learning begins in the womb. We’re here to help you create a rich, musical learning environment from the start. Our Babies Class (birth to 8 months) is informative, magical, and full of developmentally appropriate, researchbased activities. Meet new moms and learn how to enrich your baby’s life through music. Or join our Mixed-Age Class (birth to 5 years) for interactive, family-style learning. Siblings and grandparents are welcome! Contact us today for a free preview class and start your musical journey together!
Dental Care During Pregnancy
BY DR. SEPIDEH TAGHVAEI
Pregnancy rites of passage can include pregnancy portraits, baby showers or blessing ways, and many prenatal doctor visits. But visiting the dentist? Yes. Prenatal dental care plays a vitally important role in a healthy pregnancy and healthy start for an infant.
Good oral health is important for everyone throughout life. It supports good nutrition, good speech development, a healthy heart, and even good confidence.
The benefits are even more important for the pregnant parent.
Pregnancy can lead to increased risks for cavities and other oral health challenges. Morning sickness can promote erosion of tooth enamel due to exposure to stomach acid, which can lead to developing cavities. Sweet foods and drinks craved and eaten during pregnancy can increase the risk of cavities.
A new parent may miss regular teeth brushing at home due to fatigue or distraction or will prioritize baby’s doctor and dental visits over their own routine care.
The hormonal changes caused by pregnancy make the gums of the pregnant parent more prone to gingivitis (gum disease). If gingivitis progresses, it can turn into periodontitis (very advanced gum disease), which left untreated can ultimately lead to tooth loss and bone loss in the jaw. Both conditions are also associated with elevated levels of cavity-causing oral bacteria (streptococcus mutans), which has been associated with pre-term labor and low birthweight outcomes. Additionally, when the pregnant parent carries a higher oral bacterial load, they are more likely to transfer cavity causing bacteria to their baby through regular parenting behaviors, such as kissing, sharing spoons, and licking pacifiers clean. A decision to keep the mouth of the pregnant parent healthy and treat cavities is also a decision to help protect the baby from future cavities.
Oral health is such an important part of a person’s health during pregnancy that it is integrated into two of our County’s Public Health nurse home visiting programs: Nurse Family Partnership and Trauma Informed Approach-Field Nursing. Each of these important programs connects a Medi-Cal eligible pregnant person with their own personal Public Health nurse (who are all Bachelor of Science prepared nurses with an added certification in Public Health). Qualified Public Health nurses support pregnant individuals and/ or
parenting families with children 0-5 years of age.
Oral health education is part of the client’s initial assessment when enrolled in the program and throughout their perinatal care. Public Health nurses have established close relationships with our local dental clinics, making it easier to schedule dental appointments throughout their pregnancy and post-partum period.
Fortunately, Santa Cruz County is home to Dientes Community Dental Care and Salud Para La Gente, each offering priority appointments for pregnant people with Medi-Cal insurance to support them during this important and time-sensitive life stage.
If you have Medi-Cal, you have dental coverage for exams, cleanings, fillings, and more. If you have private dental insurance, check for covered dental services. No dental insurance? Ask your local dental office for discounted rates or sliding-scale payment options. You do not need a referral from your obstetrician to see a dentist, but some dentists may still ask for one.
Here are some easy ways to maintain and support good oral health before, during, and after pregnancy:
Go to the dentist! Getting dental x-rays is safe during any trimester. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste 2 times a day for 2 minutes and floss daily.
Visit your dentist 2 times a year for dental cleanings – especially if you are pregnant. Care, Don’t Share: Have separate eating utensils for you and baby and use a clean cloth to wipe off the pacifier.
Take your baby to the dentist for their 1st Tooth or 1st Birthday appointment. For dental providers who accept MediCal Insurance, visit smilecalifornia. org or call at 1-800-322-6384. For local low-cost dental clinics that accept Medi-Cal Dental and have a slidingscale call Dientes at 831.464.5409/ (dientes.org) or Salud Para La Gente at 831.728.0222/ (splg.org). If you have private health insurance, ask your carrier if you have dental benefits or how to get them.
If you are interested in learning more about Nurse Family Partnership or Trauma-Informed Approach Field Nursing, please call 831.454.4339 or visit santacruzhealth.org.
For the latest updates from Santa Cruz County Public Health, follow us on social media.Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @PublicHealthSCC
Dr. Sepideh Taghvaei is the Vp Of Operations At Dientes And Primavera Hernandez, Mph, Health Services Manager, Children and Family Health, Santa Cruz County Public Health.
Dental care while pregnant — It’s good for you and your baby!
Medi Cal / Denti Cal accepted Affordable rates for uninsured patients
Santa Cruz 1830 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz (near Dominican Hospital) Mid County 831.464.5409 open Mon Sat 7:30am 4:00pm
Santa Cruz 1500 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz (near Live Oak Super) Live Oak 831.276.7010 open Mon Fri 7:30am 4:00pm
Santa Cruz 100 Pioneer Street, Suite D, Santa Cruz (near Costco) Harvey West 831.464.5411 open Mon Fri 7:30am 4:00pm
Watsonville 1430 Freedom Blvd, Suite C, Watsonville (near Cardenas) 831.621.2560 open Mon Fri 8:30am 5:00pm
Miriam and Alina pose while waiting for their dental appointments at Dientes.
Photo by Miguel Jaurequi
Learning to Cook Gourmet, Locally Grown Food
BY ELIZABETH BORELLI
Santa Cruz Schools are on a mission to change the way your kids think about vegetables.
For the first time ever, five county school districts jointly participated in a culinary training program designed to present a fresh take on produce to the standard school lunch.
Farm to table came to life recently as lunch staff from Pajaro, Live Oak, San Lorenzo Valley, Soquel, and Santa Cruz school districts met at Del Mar Elementary school, where under the tutelage of a CIA-trained chef, they spent 5 days in an intensive culinary training bootcamp at the Live Oak District Central Kitchen.
Yes, the school cafeteria has evolved since the days when ketchup counted as a vegetable. Today’s school lunches are well-balanced according to federal nutrition guidelines, and in Santa Cruz, most of the produce is organic. Healthy meals are made and served up by the Child Nutrition experts formerly known as lunch ladies.
Flavorful food can seem an afterthought in schools bound by a highly regulated system built on consistency, federal nutrition
requirements and scalability to name a few. Yet Santa Cruz County schools are flexing within the system by improving the way the way they treat the food that comes into their kitchens. And more importantly, the people who prepare it.
Directors on hand for the first-ever multidistrict training were enthused about the benefits they’d already witnessed among the participants. The combination of skill building and opportunity for connection with fellow district colleagues brought a new level of engagement to work not always recognized.
By training culinary staff in preparing new large-scale recipes, schools can offer fresher food from a network of local farming partners. The produce is high quality, and the meats are grass fed, hormone and antibiotic-free. But the big benefit to kids and parents is a school lunch staff devoted to tickling developing taste buds.
The mastermind behind this grantfunded training is Cathy Powers, MS, RD, LD, a founding partner in Culinary Nutrition Associates and CIA-trained chef turned trainer. She developed this program, eight years ago, for the state of Indiana.
She explains, “We did it in Santa Cruz twice last year and they brought us back they loved it so much. The
best thing to see is how the nutrition experts transform. They increase their confidence.
We start with culinary basics. So yesterday, they were learning how to use a shelf knife, practicing different techniques. Today is all about vegetable cooking. The staffers form teams, they’re assigned to different vegetable and they do it three ways, a steamed, a roasted and a cold.”
Powers continues, “They learn there’s so much you can do with vegetable because really, the key for a healthier generation is helping our students learn to love vegetables Today is about creating vegetable lovers because really, that’s what we’re missing.
Kids are not eating enough fruits and vegetables. While this program is not vegetarian, it’s heavily focused on making vegetables delicious. I like to say to the class, ‘if a student’s first experience with the vegetable is negative, you might have created a vegetable hater’.
Because if they tasted the broccoli and it wasn’t seasoned, you know, they may never try broccoli again. However, if you create delicious vegetables, you might create vegetable lovers. And tomorrow we’ll do the same thing with grains. We have sorghum, we have quinoa and couscous, we have brown rice and each team will have
a different grain to work with.”
Since high volume cooking is so different from single-meal cooking, even chefs with a lot of culinary experience need specialized training to manage these large-scale recipes. After this week, the nutrition experts will decide which recipes they want to bring to the cafeteria menu.
They may only adopt one or two to start with, but as Powers says “we’re not teaching them recipes, we’re teaching them techniques. So whether it’s roasted broccoli, or roasted cauliflower or roasted brussels sprouts, the technique is the same. They’re learning how to use seasoning. So, whether its cumin roasted broccoli or ranch roasted carrots, they’re learning the techniques that they can implement according to their students’ palettes”.
And how do the nutrition experts know whether the kids like the food?
New recipes are announced with cards containing a QR code placed on the lunch tables in some schools, so kids can scan to access a form where they can share their opinions.
In the words of Amy Hedrick-Farr, “The combination of nutrition education and outreach allows us to bring our Life Lab grown foods into the classroom and cafeteria. Thanks to our grant funding, we’re able to combine all three very successfully.”
Santa Cruz Schools Selected as America’s Healthiest
All 10 campuses in the Santa Cruz City School District have placed on the Alliance for a Healthier Generation’s list of America’s Healthiest Schools.
The list recognizes schools in a wideranging set of categories relating to the programs and supports available to students.
Santa Cruz City Schools Bay View Elementary, DeLaveaga Elementary, Gault Elementary, Monarch Elementary, Westlake Elementary, Branciforte Middle, Mission Hill Middle, Costanoa High, Harbor High, Santa Cruz High and Soquel High have all been recognized in the categories of: School Wellness, Nutrition/Food Access and Activity/Physical Education.
Additionally, Harbor, Santa Cruz and Soquel High Schools have been awarded for their Health Education programs.
“We are so proud to receive this recognition,” says District Superintendent Kris Munro. “It has been wonderful to see such inspired collaboration between Food Services, Teachers and Staff to support our highest priority: the health & welfare of our students.”
SCCS Food Services Director Amy Hedrick-Farr says she is proud to have been recognized in even more categories than
last year. “We work on the idea that ‘Health’ covers even more than diet,” says HedrickFarr. “Health is the lunch we make available, the activities we support, the mental health we provide for, and the curriculum supporting healthy development. We are so proud to see Food Services, Student Services, Curriculum and the teaching staff work together toward a common goal.”
For over 15 years, national nonprofit Healthier Generation has worked to promote health and wellness in school environments across the country.
The organization approaches “health” as a broad term comprising nutrition, activity, development and emotional support. Santa Cruz City Schools are among the just 879 schools in the entire country who qualified in 2024 for their list of America’s Healthiest Schools.
Fall Financial Tips for Families
Budget-friendly ideas for all ages
As the leaves turn and the cool breeze sets in, fall brings a season of cozy gatherings and family fun. It’s also the time when holiday spending starts to creep in, with Halloween and Thanksgiving just around the corner. But don’t worry – this season is also a great time to teach your kids some valuable money lessons through fun fall activities, all while keeping your budget on track. Here are a few creative ways to help kids of all ages learn about money!
FOR YOUNG KIDS (AGES 3-7)
Fall is such a magical time for young children, with pumpkin patches and costume parades filling their imaginations. It’s also a great time to introduce them to basic money concepts in a playful, hands-on way.
Try creating a “leaf store” where they can use leaves as pretend money to ‘buy’ toys or snacks. This is a fun, visual way to start teaching the idea of exchanging money for goods.
You could also set up a fall-themed savings jar, where they can stash coins to save up for a special Halloween treat, like a small toy or extra candy. This helps show the importance of saving for something special – and they’ll love watching their jar fill up!
FOR TWEENS (AGES 8-12)
Tweens are ready for more responsibility, and fall offers plenty of chances for hands-on learning. If your family celebrates Halloween, let them help budget for costumes and decorations. Give them a set amount of money and challenge them to get creative – maybe they’ll make their own DIY costume or hunt for bargains at a thrift store.
Another idea is to encourage them to start earning their own money. Whether it’s doing extra chores or helping
neighbors with fall yard work, they can save up for holiday gifts or something fun they’ve had their eye on. It’s a great way for them to learn the value of hard work and saving.
FOR TEENS (AGES 13+)
As teens get older, the financial lessons become even more important. Fall is a great time to introduce them to budgeting – especially with gift-giving season approaching. Encourage your teen to set aside part of their allowance or earnings to cover holiday spending. This teaches them not only how to budget but also how to give thoughtfully without
overspending.
You could also talk to them about more advanced money topics, like managing a savings account or debit card. Show them how to track their spending on fun fall activities like pumpkin carving or movie nights, and how to plan ahead for bigger expenses.
FALL ON A BUDGET FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
There are plenty of ways to enjoy fall family time without splurging! Instead of throwing an elaborate Halloween party, consider a neighborhood potluck where everyone pitches in with a dish. For Thanksgiving, why not gather the family
for some quality kitchen time to make delicious homemade dishes that won’t break the bank?
You can also plan budget-friendly fall activities like nature walks to take in the beautiful colors, or get crafty with DIY projects using inexpensive materials. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, encourage your kids to help pick out items to donate to a local charity or food bank – teaching them that giving back is priceless.
Remember, the most meaningful moments don’t have to cost a lot. This fall, focus on spending time with loved ones and creating memories – those are the things that truly matter.
ARTS
Open Studios Art Tour on Deck
BY TARMO HANNULA
The 39th annual Open Studios Art Tour is set to swing its doors open for the public to meet and greet local artists Oct. 5-20.
The tour spreads itself out across the county over three weekends: North County, South County and a final All County tour.
The year 307 artists will show their works, from glass and jewelry, to ceramics, wood furniture, drawings, paintings, sculpture and much much more.
“This will be my 12th year,” said Aptos artist John McKinley who describes his work as imaginative characters in ink, watercolor and acrylic. “Open Studios is great. I like the face to face aspect of the tour where I get to meet the people. It’s an audience that is tailored for me because they chose to come here; it’s the perfect combination.”
McKinley will show his art on his backyard wood and in his studio that is aptly labeled in hand painted letters across its outside wall, Cartoon House.
He has been a freelance illustrator since 1985 with a focus on humorous characters, fantasy creatures, exaggerated animals, people and political cartoons and caricatures. He studied at Art Center College in Pasadena.
“I have published hundreds of pieces of editorial art in magazines and newspapers and illustrated the children’s book, Monster Academy, by Jane Yien and in the Ready, Freddy series for scholastic books.”
He said he draws inspiration from Picasso, Vermeer, Modigliani and was
deeply influenced at a young age by the popular MAD Magazine.
“The show looks great this year,” said Ann Osterman, Open Studios and Events Coordinator. “There are 45 first-time artists this year, loads of veterans and everything in between.
New this year will be the Satellite Shows at the Porter Building in Watsonville and at the Santa Cruz Art League. They are a great way to show artwork from our more remote parts of the county from places in Watsonville Corralitos, Bonny Doone, Davenport, Soquel hills and elsewhere.”
The Porter Building show, which is part of Pajaro Valley Arts, which opened Saturday and runs through Oct. 20, features 35 artists.
“It’s really a nice partnership, Osterman said.”Judy (Stabile) was generous enough to reach out and be a part of the show. It’s a great way to give
a little bit of love to artists who don’t usually get a lot of traffic because of their location. It’s really a jump start to the entire tour.”
McKinley said his artwork offers something for all ages, especially his latest direction of creating colorful, playful and curious bugs.
He is currently pursuing teaching opportunities in Santa Cruz County. His Open Studio shows run Oct. 12, 13 and 19, 20 from 11am to 5pm at 217 Coronado Drive, Aptos. His work can also be seen on his website, mckinleyink.com.
For maps, tour information and schedules, visit santacruzopenstudios.com.
EDUCATION
Students Share Their Creative Projects
BY SUSAN TATSUI-D’ARCY
Last month, TEDxMeritAcademy hosted an inspiring event featuring seven talented teen speakers who showcased their innovative projects aimed at making a positive impact on the world. This year, the event was hosted at the 418 Project in Santa Cruz.
Each young visionary shared their unique ideas, from groundbreaking environmental solutions to cuttingedge technologies and social initiatives.
Their presentations captivated the audience, highlighting the power of youth-driven innovation and the potential for these projects to transform communities and industries alike.
The event served as a platform for these extraordinary teens to inspire others to think creatively and take action toward meaningful change.
BRANDON XU
The 2020 Northern Complex Fire destroyed 318, 935 acres of land and turned the skies over Northern California a dark orange from chemicals trapping carbon dioxide particles.
As a middle schooler, Brandon Xu vividly remembers the acrid air and wondered what could be done to mitigate these types of natural disasters in the future.
As a senior, he investigated whether mycelium, fungal threads that grow in the soil beneath mushrooms, could be used to create a drywall alternative that holds up to construction standards. Not only will his mycelium wall be better in disaster situations, it also reduces carbon emissions.
MILES ELLIOTT
Globally, we have reached a staggering 400 million tons of plastic consumption each year. Americans use an average of .75 pounds of plastic on a daily basis–that’s like throwing away over 35 pens worth of plastic every day.
While some replacement bioplastics exist, Miles Elliott, a senior in the Bay
Area, wanted to see if he could add to the conversation by focusing on plastics for household use.
He created a bioplastic film alternative made from potato, alfalfa, and kelp and discovered that not only was it a viable replacement, but it even looked as clear as the “real” thing!
ABIGAIL MATHEW
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, anxiety rates have risen by 25% and one in five teens experiences symptoms of anxiety or depression. When confronted with growing anxiety among her peers, sophomore Abigail Mathew used her enthusiasm for homeopathic remedies to explore an alternative medication without some of the harsh side effects of prescription anxiety meds. Her research led her to passion flower, a plant native to the southeastern US, that has been used in conjunction with other herbs as an anxiety treatment before, but never studied independently. Preliminary studies show a positive correlation between heart rate reduction and passion flower use.
KATIE LUONG
It is no secret that the education system in the United States is chronically
underfunded. Schools across America suffer from massive teacher shortages, a lack of up-todate technological resources, and a problem with both physical and mental student safety.
To solve these problems, Bay Area senior Katie Luong looks to add to the Department of Education budget through a system of taxing the wealthiest 1%, 0.1%, and 0.01% of Americans using a sliding scale based on income. Her formula would see a negligible percentage of those Americans’ taxes being used to benefit millions of children across the country
ISHA BAJPAI
Stories connect us, but with the growing digital divide between generations, it is harder for those narratives to be shared. More importantly, there is not a straightforward method for saving those stories for future generations.
In an effort to “store the past in the future,” senior Isha Bajpai created Video Time Capsule, an app designed to make it easy for generations to
share stories from their past without the confusion present in social media platforms. Inspired by stories of Isha’s family from India, the app provides prompts to help people feel comfortable sharing the stories that make them uniquely themselves.
KAAVIYA ARAVIND
For years, Delhi has been labeled as one of the most polluted cities in the world as a result of burning waste, unchecked vehicle emissions, and firecrackers lit during religious celebrations.
But while the air quality is so poor that at times it’s like smoking thirty cigarettes a day, small changes have been made and the daily AQI decreased by 29.4% from 2022 to 2023. Inspired by the communal changes made in her hometown, senior Kaaviya Aravind created PlanetPoints, an app that helps users see how their own small efforts towards sustainability can pay off in a big way. Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy is the founder of Merit Academy (one-on-one classes) and Merit Educational Consultants (college and educational advisory). She has written books on projects, free child care, education, and parenting. Susan hosts TEDxMeritAcademy for students to present their innovative projects and solutions. In 2019, she was California Mother of the Year. meritworld.com
Building Healthy Sleep Habits
BY YESENIA GOMEZ-CARRILLO
Isn’t sleep just the best? I definitely love it! As a parent, though, you quickly learn that the blissful slumber you once took for granted becomes a distant memory. Now, I don’t know about you, but I’m far more enjoyable after a good night’s rest. Over the years, we’ve created a bedtime routine that’s been helpful
My daughter is only two, so I’m bracing myself for more nighttime wakeups. But even though we’re not quite back to uninterrupted sleep, I enjoy the nights we do get some quality rest and find comfort in knowing I’ve got a few strategies to help us through bedtime. Here’s to embracing the sleep deprivation phase with grace and a very strong cup of coffee!
This monthly column provides tips for anyone who is helping raise children, based on the world-renowned Triple P - Positive Parenting Program, available to families in Santa Cruz County. If you have a question or idea for a future column, email me at triplep@first5scc.org.
Dear Yesenia,
Bedtime with my 3- and 5-year-olds is such a struggle. They refuse to stop playing and pick up their toys. They take forever to get into bed, then they get up often– they’re thirsty, scared, heard a noise, too hot, too cold. I know they’re just trying to avoid going to sleep. I have to tell them to be quiet many times before they finally fall asleep. We’re always tired and cranky in the morning. How can we make bedtime easier? Nadia
Dear Nadia,
Oh, bedtime battles. For many families, bedtime is stressful instead of a calm, loving way to end the day. And the bedtime struggles can lead to challenges during the day.
Children who do not get enough sleep are often tired, irritable, moody and have difficulty concentrating. This can affect their behavior at home and school. Parents and caregivers can become exhausted, stressed and lose their patience more easily.
Here are a few tips to help your children develop healthy sleep habits that will benefit the whole family: IDENTIFY POSSIBLE CAUSES OF BEDTIME DIFFICULTIES
Some children have difficulty falling asleep on their own when they’ve always been rocked, held or fed until they fall asleep. Other children have a hard time settling down if they haven’t had enough physical activity or they’ve had too much activity before bedtime. Fears, anxiety or stress can also keep children awake. Sometimes, parents accidentally encourage poor sleep habits by giving in to what children want (stay up later, watch more TV) to avoid arguments
These are just a few of the things that can affect children’s bedtime behaviors.
FOLLOW A CONSISTENT BEDTIME ROUTINE
Consistent, predictable routines help children make the transition from being active during the day to being calm and quiet at night. Review your kids’ bedtime routine with them and discuss whether to add or change any steps. Here’s an example of a bedtime routine:
• Play quietly before bedtime
• Brush teeth
• Go to the bathroom
• Go to bed at the set time
• Read a book
• Say goodnightStay in bed until the morning
PREPARE YOUR CHILDREN TO FOLLOW THE ROUTINE
Write a list, draw or print pictures that show each step of the routine. Talk about each step and have your kids pretend to do each step before it’s actually bedtime. This allows your children to practice the routine when everyone is calm.
HELP THEM TRANSITION
FROM DAYTIME TO NIGHTTIME
At least 30 minutes before bedtime, tell your children they will be going to bed soon. Turn electronics off and engage them in a quiet activity such as puzzles, coloring or reading. Then 10-15 minutes before bedtime, tell your children it’s time to finish up the activity. Give them a clear, calm instruction to start their bedtime routine — “It’s time to get ready for bed. Please go brush your teeth.”
GIVE DESCRIPTIVE PRAISE WHEN YOUR CHILDREN FOLLOW THE BEDTIME ROUTINE
This lets your children know you’re noticing their efforts, which encourages them to keep trying. Descriptive praise works best when it’s specific, sincere and focuses on the behavior you want to see more of. For example, “You’ve brushed your teeth and gone to the bathroom. You’re doing a great job following the bedtime routine!” In the morning, give more descriptive praise if your child stayed in bed the whole night.
FINAL THOUGHTS
There’s a reason why sleep is a basic human need. Our bodies and brains need time to rest and prepare for the next day. Developing positive bedtime routines is one way to help children develop healthy sleep habits that will last a lifetime. It’s a gift for both children and parents.
Yesenia Gomez-Carrillo is the mother of a 2-year-old daughter and the Triple P Program Manager for First 5 Santa Cruz County. Scientifically proven, Triple P is made available locally by First 5, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency, and the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department. To find a Triple P parenting class or practitioner, visit triplep.first5scc.org, facebook. com/triplepscc, or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465.2217 or triplep@ first5scc.org.
FEATURE
Children’s Museum of Discovery Celebrates 10 Years
This fall marks an exciting milestone for the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery as it celebrates a Decade of Discovery! For ten years, the museum has been a cornerstone of interactive learning and fun for families in our community, inspiring curiosity and imagination in children. To celebrate this auspicious occasion, the museum has lined up a series of exciting events for families, members, and even adults looking for a night of entertainment.
YOU OTTER KNOW: AN EXCITING TRAVELING EXHIBIT
Kicking off the celebrations this fall, MOD debuted a new exhibit space near its home in the Capitola Mall, which will host Potter the Otter™: A Healthy Adventure interactive traveling exhibit. Designed to help children and their families learn about healthy choices, the exhibit invites children to explore themes like hydration, nutrition, and the importance of exercise, all while following Potter the Otter on his engaging adventure.
Not only does this exhibit bring important lessons about health and well-being, but it also exemplifies the museum’s ongoing commitment to providing educational resources that are accessible and enjoyable.
TWINKLE TWINKLE LITTLE BAT: MAD HATTER TEA PARTIES FOR MEMBERS
In honor of its 10th anniversary, MOD is also hosting *Mad Hatter Tea Parties* exclusively for museum members as a token of appreciation for the community’s continued support. These whimsical and fun-filled gatherings will take place near our mid-November birthday, offering families a chance to step into a magical world straight out of Wonderland. Complete with themed decorations, costumes, and, of course, plenty of tea, the parties are designed to bring children’s imaginations to life while offering a delightful opportunity for families to connect with one another.
LET’S PLAY DOCTOR: TEDDY BEAR CLINICS
This fall also includes a return of our popular Teddy Bear Clinics in collaboration with the Cabrillo Pediatric Nursing Program. Children can bring their favorite stuffed animals (or borrow one of ours) to the museum, where they will simulate a doctor’s visit at their own pace. Kids move through interactive stations, role-playing as doctors while learning about health check-ups and vaccinations. This playful, hands-on experience helps reduce needle anxiety in children through the use of play therapy. The museum is expanding the program to reach more Medi-Cal families this year with a grant from the Central California Alliance for Health.
TIME TO PLAY GALA: A NIGHT OF FUN AND PHILANTHROPY
For those looking for a more grown-
up celebration, MOD is hosting an adults-only Gala on November 16th! This blow-out event will feature a full range of exciting entertainment, including live casino games, a poker tournament, and fantastic food and drinks.
The evening will feature a “Raise the Paddle” segment, where attendees can contribute directly to supporting the museum’s mission. Funds raised will go toward expanding the museum’s outreach and access programs, and exhibits ensuring the continued success and expansion of its mission to bring educational play to all children in the community.
DID YOU KNOW? THIS MUSEUM IS FOR ALL MOD has always been committed to making its exhibits and programs accessible to families of all backgrounds. As part of this mission, the museum offers free or reduced-price admission as a part of the national Museums for All program. Executive Director Rhiannon Crain, Ph.D. says, “Over 25% of our
visitors utilize our free or reduced-price admission. This ensures that all children in Santa Cruz have the opportunity to explore, learn, and discover through play. The moments we help create for families lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy learning and strong relationships.”
In a time when access to educational resources is more important than ever, the museum continues to serve as a beacon of inclusivity. From school field trips to special programs for underserved families, the museum’s goal is to break down barriers and make learning accessible to every child who walks through its doors.
The Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery is more than just a fun place to take your kids on the weekend—it is an integral part of the community’s fabric. Research shows that children’s museums play a critical role in early childhood education, offering unique learning environments that promote creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on discovery.
By blending play with learning, MOD helps prepare children for school and fosters a lifelong love of learning. Beyond its educational impact, MOD also plays an important role in supporting families in the community. For many, it is a place where children can interact with peers, develop social skills, and engage in imaginative play in a safe, welcoming environment. At the same time, parents and caregivers find a supportive community where they can connect with other families, or simply take a pause from the stress of parenting.
As the museum celebrates its 10th year, it is important to recognize the tremendous value it brings to Santa Cruz. Whether through its diverse exhibits, inclusive programming, or community-focused events, MOD has had a lasting impact on generations of local children and families.
Join the museum this fall as it celebrates 10 incredible years of inspiring curiosity, promoting learning, and building community in Santa Cruz!
FRI 4
First Fridays Santa Cruz 5-8pm On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block party-like vibe, the multi-venue event provides an opportunity to discover local creative talent in a fun and festive setting. firstfridaysantacruz.com/event
Trick or Treat Walk 5-8pm Head to Downtown Boulder Creek to enjoy the 3rd Annual Treat Walk where both artists and merchants will be handing out candy and treats to the kiddos.
Gateway School Fall Festival 4-6pm
Enjoy live music, food, fun, hayrides, rock wall, pie contest, games, prizes and more. There will be a Life Lab pumpkin sale. Admission is free. 255 Swift Street, Santa Cruz. Growing Up in Santa Cruz is a proud sponsor.
GUiSC will attempt to update the calendar listings as needed; however, it is the responsibility of the organization listed to provide updated information. GUiSC assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are encouraged to check the accuracy of the information provided. Events that are free or cost less than $10 can be submitted for inclusion in the calendar. GUiSC does not guarantee that a submitted event will automatically be included. Preference is given for events of interest to children and/or parents. Calendar entries must be received by the 15th of the month prior to the month of the event. To find out more about promoting your event further or including a paid event, email advertising@growingupsc.com.
SAT 5
Wharf Invasion 10am-3pm The second annual VW Wharf Invasion is open to the public. Check out some beautiful vintage Volkswagen cars. vdublicious1.univer.se/ wharfinvasion
Harvest Festival noon-5pm Get ready for a celebration of autumn’s abundance in downtown Santa Cruz. Enjoy a day filled with fun, food, and festivities under the crisp fall sky. This family-friendly event brings together a wide variety of local performers, artisans, food vendors, farm stands, classic carnival games and crafts. downtownsantacruz.com/do/harvest-festival
TUE 8
Gateway School Tour 9-11am Come and see what a day at Gateway School is like. Tours are led by current parents or staff, and give you the opportunity to see classes in session, meet teachers and students, and see what the Gateway difference is all about. gatewaysc.org
FRI & SAT 11-12
Festival of Monsters The Festival of Monsters is an academic conference on the social and artistic research surrounding monsters. The festival opens with an evening of free events in front of the Santa
MINDY ABRAHAM
Cruz Museum of Art and History. There will be a free outdoor screening of the 1922 silent film, “Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror” at 7pm Saturday. monsterstudies. ucsc.edu/2024festpublic
SAT 12
Second Saturday on the Farm 11am3pm The Agricultural History Project’s 2nd Saturday events are like taking a step back in time. Grab your cowboy hat and put on your boots and come and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon on the farm! In addition to Summer Fun special activities, you’ll be able to milk a “cow”, drive-a-tractor, and enjoy crafts, hayrides, puppet show, antique engines and museum exhibits. Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic. aghistoryproject. org/2nd-saturday-on-the-farm
T-Birds on the Wharf 9am-3pm
Check out the classic, vintage and retro Thunderbirds on display then stick around to enjoy fabulous shopping and/or grab a bite at one of the many fine local eateries with the best views in Santa Cruz.
Swing Dancing 2-5:30pm You will find music, friends, and food while you improve your dancing digs. All levels, and various styles plus a social dance with great ambiance are welcome! Go Join the fun on the Second Saturday evening of each month at the Santa Cruz Wharf stage. cityofsantacruz.com
Book Sale 10am-3pm. Friends of the Scotts Valley Library Book Sale at 251 Kings Village Road. Gently used books, DVDs, CDs, audio books, puzzles and games will be sold. All proceeds benefit the activities
and programs at the Scotts Valley Library. svlfriends.org/book-sales
Scarecrow Sip and Stroll noon-4pm. This delightful event combines the joy of autumn with the charm of scarecrows. Participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite scarecrows displayed in various businesses while sipping on delicious apple cider. As you stroll through the participating shops, you’ll be serenaded by lively bluegrass music in downtown Felton. downtownfelton.com
SUN 13
Antiques Faire 8am-6pm The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and more. Visit the Antique Faire on Lincoln Street between Pacific and Cedar.
Artisan Faire noon-4pm Head to Abbott Square every second Sunday of the month for free live music while you browse handmade jewelry, soap, clothing, and much more! There is always something at these events that has your name on it! abbottsquaremarket.com/events
Fireworks Extravaganza 7-9:30pm
The 27th annual Monte Foundation Fireworks Extravaganza is back. Finish off your beach town weekend with a grand finale over the newly restored Capitola Wharf. This show is free. capitolavillage. com/event/2024-monte-foundation-fireworks-extravaganza
TUES 15
Pumpkin Decorating Bonanza 1:305:30pm At this tradition kids and adults alike will sit down to celebrate the harvest season at the Felton Farmers’ Market. santacruzfarmersmarket.org/markets/felton
SAT 19
Halloween Mask Making Festival noon-4pm Enjoy the 26th annual Halloween Festival, including mask-making, creepy carnival games, All About Theatre Halloween performances and Thriller dance at London Nelson Community Center.
Band Review See an exciting musical parade as 55 Northern California high school and junior high school marching bands compete next to the Beach Boardwalk. beachboardwalk.com/band-review
Heritage Harvest Festival 11am-4pm Step back in time at the Wilder Ranch State Park Harvest Festival. Enjoy living history demonstrations, crafts, games, live music, food, heritage apple tasting with the California Rare Fruit Growers Association and more. parks.ca.gov/ EventDetails/16408
SUN 20
Downtown Makers Market 10am-5pm Visit the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market featuring 40+ local makers & artists every third Sunday of the month on the 1100 block of Pacific Ave. between Cathcart and Lincoln streets. scmmakersmarket.com
FRI 25
Fall Festival 3:30-6:30pm The carnival is Soquel Elementary School, 2700 Porter St, Soquel. There will be food and entertainment as well as games, inflatables, face painting, bake walk and tons more. Admission is free. The community is welcome. Wristbands are available for $30 or punch cards for $10.
Haunted Halloween Music 12:303:30pm Go to Cabrillo College for some very spooky music of all genres in a collaborative effort of the entire music department. Costumes recommended. Cost: $8 – $10. cabrillovapa.university tickets.com/w/event.aspx?id=1885
SAT 26
Chili Cook-Off 10am-4pm Bring your appetite and join the fun as both professional and amateur chefs work their culinary magic and compete for the title of Best Chili at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. beachboardwalk.com/ChiliCook-Off
Beach Hill Bash 1-4pm Enjoy the Annual Beach Hill Bash on Main Street Between 2nd and 3rd in Santa Cruz. The Joint Chiefs will keep you dancing as you celebrate the anniversary of the hostel. Enjoy food trucks, crafts, local artisans and more. facebook.com/ events/510823487968449
Candy Crawl 2-6pmEnjoy a hauntingly good time as you trick-or-treat your way through downtown Watsonville businesses. watsonville.gov/2263/ Downtown-Candy-Crawl
SUN 27
Capitola Village Halloween Parade 2-5pm Lineup begins at 1:30pm in the lower Beach & Village Parking Lot 2 behind the Capitola Police Department. The parade begins promptly at 2pm. The parade will head down Capitola Avenue, and end at Esplanade Park, where trick-or-treat bags will be waiting. capitolavillage.com/event/2024capitola-village-halloween-parade
THUR 31
Halloween Events Go trick-or-treating downtown from Santa Cruz from 2-5pm. Attend the parade and monster mash in Aptos Village Green from 3-4:30pm. Head to the Santa Cruz Wharf for trick-ortreating from 3-6pm. Enter a Halloween costume contest at the The Crow’s Nest Restaurant from 6-8pm. Go trick-ortreating in Boulder Creek from 5-7pm.
YOUR HEALTH
Why Neighbors Matter for Your Self-Care Routine
BY JAIME MCFADEN
In the wise words of Fred Rogers, “I’ve always wanted a neighbor like you,” something our entire world needs most right now.
In this column, I am sharing one of the most vital elements of self-care and it relates to COMMUNITY. The people we are around. The social relationships we have, impact our lives in a massive way. With election around the corner, I couldn’t help but write about a personal encounter with one of the candidates in our very own community, that has shown me the VALUE of neighborhood and reminds me of Mr. Rogers himself.
As a kid, I loved watching Mr. Rogers - his kindness, empathy, ability to address difficult conversations and educate myself and others on ways that we can show up in the world as a KIND human. Something I believe the world needs more of.
The neighbors in Capitola have all been so sweet - and one in particular: Gerry Jensen. Gerry is someone who raises the bar of what it means to be a high quality neighbor. I met Gerry years ago and he is always the guy who goes out of his way to check in. To see if
anyone needs a helping hand… and I am about to share some of the ways he has impacted my life. He is always the person in the neighborhood helping others, and supporting all of the local business’s. He is so hands on in the community and it has a ripple effect.
A while back, I was home and heard a loud bang at around 3am, my daughter was sleeping and we were alone. I nearly
close the gate and worried our dog would get out… thanks to Gerry… I could go on and on and I know he does this for the whole neighborhood
He started a non profit all about random acts of kindness and this is how he shows up everyday.
He helped to fix our fence when it started to pull from the ground, there have been a number of ways he has shown up and helped, he is the guy who is constantly lending a hand. He’s this way with EVERYONE I’ve ever seen him interact with. A real STAND UP human… like Mr. Rogers.
He and his lovely wife, Heather, are a superstar couple who I recently learned met when they were both single parents. They worked super hard to get to where they are today and endured many challenges along the way.
They have four daughters combined together and are the type of family who showcases the real American dream, and LOVE. Gerry is the dad who made every cheer, sporting event and also helps to raise his grandkids.
They are kind, generous and one of
and support. Reminding us that It takes a village…
This family is one that I believe our community, and our world can learn from. Even the simple things like eating a meal together is a lost family connection in our busy world today. I decided to write this article about Gerry because he is an exemplary parent in our community and I hope to see him on Capitola City council.
Regardless of your personal political views, one thing I am certain we can all agree on is this world would benefit from more kindness and love. Like the ocean in our town, each of us have a ripple effect as we walk through this earth and change starts within our community.
I am thankful for the parents in this community like Gerry Jensen. To learn more about him you can go gerry4capitola.com
Most of all I encourage you to go and meet your neighbors, see how you can get involved in the community and remember that our kids learn by how we show up, not by what we tell them
