Growing Up in Santa Cruz, January 2020

DEC 2019

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Local Parks Upgrade Local News....................................5 Ask Nicole.....................................6 Parenting......................................7 Teacher's Desk...............................8 Healthy Eating..............................9 Your Health..................................10 Mindfulness.................................11 Youth Writer.................................12 Birth Matters................................13 Calendar.......................................14 Extremely Sports..........................21 Family Law...................................22 Green Tip......................................23 Photo Story...................................24 Local News....................................25 Local News....................................26 Local News....................................27 Finance.........................................29 County Scoop...............................30 County Scoop...............................31 Independent Schools Guide..........32 Coloring Page...............................34

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Makers Class Needle Felted Animals

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Evenings • Saturday Classes • Birthday Parties 22

Puppet Time for Tots 5 week puppet story circle for birth to 3yrs and their adult caregiver

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January Calendar

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Editor’s Note As we turn the corner into a new decade, Growing Up in Santa Cruz is growing up. It’s hard to believe we’ve been publishing for two years. It’s all gone so fast.

We’re looking for big things in 2020 and we have special topics and interests planned for each month. And we’re always up for your suggestions about things you want us to cover.

So far, we’ve been successful fulfilling last year’s resolutions, to be more local and more colorful and to cover nooks and crannies around our diverse and exciting county. We’ve also monitored the pulse of education and community development.

In 2020 we will continue to feature local voices from politicians to teachers who want to take us behind their desks and into their thoughts. We want to continue to bring you the most complete calendar of cheap and free things for families to do every day of the week.

Things we are excited about for the new year: the completion of Leo’s Haven at Chanticleer Park, the first local park that includes play equipment for disabled kids. It opens at 10 a.m. Jan. 18 and should bring visitors to the city from all over the region (#allkidsneedtoplay).

Our January issue focuses on Independent and charter schools, to help parents see some of the very different and specialized approaches various schools have toward educating our kids.

In February you can look forward to our preschools and childcare issue, which

also has a section on dental health. This is the first place for parents of toddlers to start planning where they should send their kids during and after preschool.

In March and April we swing over to teens and summer camps. We’ll have features on teens who are making a difference and listings for the best places to send kids for the summer. We’ll have our house and home guide in April, with listings of the businesses who can help.

May’s features will include best ways to spend Mother’s Day, planning your summer party and camps. June, it’s dads, grads and pets. We’ll have a cover contest for the best pet and kid photo, with great prizes.

We’ll help with special needs services in July and help you prepare for going back to school in August and September.

October is baby month; November health and wellness and December, holiday shopping and classes you can give for presents.

Last year we co-sponsored Kids Day downtown and it was a huge success, with thousands of families turning up for music, dance, schools and after school activities.

We’ll do that again in early spring.

It’s an exciting year ahead and we’ll keep posting health tips, places and ways to exercise, healthy eating advice and everything you need to know about schools and parenting.

Thanks for reading and cheers to you for growing up with us. We wish you a happy and healthy 2020.

About the Cover Spring Hill School kindergarten students and Teacher Dara celebrate the sunshine in between a couple of winter storms. Dara Thornton has been a shining light on the education scene in Santa Cruz for many years. Her kindergarten classroom is the perfect foray into elementary school and the Spring Hill experience. There is a magic in her classroom, created by imagination and immersive experiences, that inspires curiosity and a love of school. With a background in theatre and puppeteering, subjects like math, literature and science come alive.

As a Design Thinking school, Dara, and all of the teachers at Spring Hill, value the cultivation of a strengths-based learning environment that instills confidence and the willingness to risk imperfection. As practiced at the Stanford Design School,

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JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

and whether it is being used to resolve conflict, address a broad social issue, or to engineer an invention, Design Thinking provides a framework for achieving desired outcomes.

At Spring Hill you will find small class sizes, inspired teachers, and an engaging academic environment that all combine to create a caring community and a positive campus culture.

Spring Hill School wishes you all a happy winter season. springhillschool.org

About the Photographer Kevin Painchaud photojournalist, action-sport photographer and professional family photographer. You can view many of his photos on his instragram page @painchaudkevin. If you’d like to hire Kevin, contact him at kpainchaudphotography@gmail.com

LOCAL NEWS Will New Law Gut Charter Schools?

By Suki Wessling

Charter schools were designed to change the status quo and discover new teaching methods

Santa Cruz County has 15 charter schools that could be affected by the new laws that started this month.

The updated charter school law signed by Governor Newsom last fall, AB 1505, was hailed as a compromise between districts that wanted more control and charter school advocates who wanted to maintain independence.

“For the most part, whatever side you’re on, people see this as an improvement, as a reform that’s going to make the chartering process more effective,” says Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Faris Sabbah.

The mood at some of our fifteen local charter schools, however, could be described as wary. It’s not clear yet what the charter school landscape will look like in the future.

What exactly are charter schools?

The original charter school law of 1992 opened public education to a new breed of public school, independent from district administration and free from the restrictions placed on

neighborhood schools.

Julie Wiley, Administrative Director of Linscott Charter School in Watsonville, describes it this way. “[Charters] provide an alternative setting that could approach educating children without having to follow every single letter of the Education Code, so that parents would have different options to choose from if they wanted a different kind of setting or a different kind of focus.”

“The goal of charter schools is to build a robust self-improving system of public educational opportunity for all students,” Pacific Collegiate School Head of School Maria C. Reitano wrote by email. “Schools like PCS are designed to provide unique learning environments that challenge the status quo and encourage innovation in public schools.”

The intent of the original charter movement was that charters would open public education up as a competitive marketplace, forcing innovation when families took their tax dollars to charters and out of their neighborhood school.

Today, there are two types of charter schools: those created by districts and independent schools created without district approval.

Continue on Page 26

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@holysc GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

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ASK NICOLE January is Positive Parenting Awareness Month

BY NICOLE M. YOUNG, MSW Happy New Year! January is the 8th annual Positive Parenting Awareness Month in Santa Cruz County. Although parenting is a non-stop job that deserves recognition every day of the year, this month is an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a positive parent.

What is positive parenting? It’s an approach to raising children based on collective wisdom and evidence about the skills and support children need to become happy, healthy, confident, independent human beings. Positive parenting promotes children’s healthy development, builds their capacity to handle emotions and solve problems, and teaches skills they’ll need to have healthy relationships at home, school and work. When children grow up in positive, loving, and safe environments with clear and consistent boundaries and limits, their brains are primed to learn in school, get along with others, and succeed as adults in future relationships and careers.

Positive parenting is not about being a perfect parent or raising a perfect child.

Neither of those things exist in real life.

And positive parenting is not about finding a “one size fits all” solution for parenting. That also doesn’t exist.

What does exist are multiple parenting programs in Santa Cruz County that provide families with information and support they need to raise happy, healthy children. One option is the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, backed by over 30 years of international research.

The network of Triple P providers in our community has helped thousands of Santa Cruz County families over the past 10 years learn helpful and effective parenting tools.

This January, join us in celebrating the many biological, foster and adoptive parents, grandparents, relatives and other caregivers who are raising children.

If you’re a parent or caregiver, give yourself a pat on the back (or other reward of your choice), then consider trying or recommitting to these positive parenting strategies: Spend quality time with your child or teen. Remember it can be brief, as long as it’s frequent. This provides reassurance that you’re available and responsive to their needs, which is the foundation of a positive relationship.

Talk with your child or teen about things they’re interested in. Ask questions to keep the conversation going, and show interest in what they have to When children are raised with positive parenting, their grades go up, studies show..

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JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

say. This strengthens relationships and builds communication skills.

Show affection in ways that are comfortable to you and your child or teen. Hugs, cuddles, kisses, a pat on the back, or sitting close to each other are ways to show you care.

Give descriptive praise to acknowledge your child’s or teen’s efforts, behaviors, and accomplishments. Be specific and sincere so they know what they’ve done well, and they can trust that your words have meaning.

Give positive attention to your child or teen. A smile, wink, eye contact, or a “high five” are good ways to maintain a connection with them, without even saying a word.

Have interesting, engaging activities for your child or teen to do. Get creative – use free items or activities that keep them busy (and out of trouble), learning, and growing. Give yourself bonus parenting points for doing the activities with them – it’s quality time!

Set a good example. Remember children often repeat what they see and hear adults do – for better or for worse.

If you want to raise honest, kind, caring children, take extra care to show your children what it looks and sounds like to be honest, kind, and caring.

Create family rules. Family rules work best when they are fair, specific, easy to understand and follow, and focus on what to do instead of what not to do. Involve your child or teen in setting the rules so

they have a chance to tell you what they think is fair, and you have a chance to make sure they understand the rules.

Have realistic expectations of yourself and your children. Remember that it’s human nature to make mistakes, and each child learns and develops at different paces. Forgive yourself if you have a bad parenting day, then try again the next day.

Take care of yourself. It’s hard for many parents to prioritize taking care of their own needs when they feel they have to constantly be “on” and meet the needs of their kids, partner, boss, co-workers, friends, and family. Remember that self-care isn’t selfish, but is necessary to keep being a positive parent throughout the year.

If you have a question or suggestion for next month’s column, please email me at triplep@first5scc.org.  Nicole Young is the mother of two children, ages 16 and 19, who also manages Santa Cruz County’s Triple P - Positive Parenting Program, the world’s leading positive parenting program. Scientifically proven, Triple P is made available locally by First 5 Santa Cruz County, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency (Mental Health Services Act) 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.

PARENTING Happy Healthy Kids

Eight Reasons to Embrace Outdoor Play

BY JAN PIERCE Are you one of those parents who wonder if your child’s schedule is too crowded? Too stressful? Do you watch him play video games by the hour and get a little nervous about the long-term effects? Do you wish she had time to “just play” rather than run from school to lessons to team practices?

If you can relate to the above situations, you’re in good company. It seems today’s busy lifestyles don’t allow much time for healthy, unstructured outdoor exploration and play. As a culture, our children are paying the price in increased anxiety, poor sleep habits, and a higher degree of difficulty with attention and engagement in learning situations. Kids seem fidgety, easily bored, unable to focus.

Take a deep breath. Remember how it used to be when children played freely without a lot of oversight and adult intervention. Can you recall the days when you scraped your knee and just got up and kept playing? When you could sit under a tree and inspect the intricacies of the natural world? When you could dig and build with natural objects? When it seemed there was all the time in the world to just be.?

Today’s children need those same healthy, authentic play experiences.

They need time to explore the out of doors, time to think and dream. Time to wonder and experiment.

How to begin? It’s easier than you might think. Just unplug and send the kids outside. They won’t need an agenda or directions. Once they find themselves in the great outdoors, they’ll do the rest.

Here are eight benefits of unstructured, outdoor play. And they’re important.

Authentic Play

Today’s kids are steeped in a virtual world. They’re adept at computer use, coding, programming and the like, and that’s fine. They need to understand the technological world. But they also need authentic, hands-on experiences that can’t be had in a classroom or computer lab. They need to be grounded in the real world and able to engage in real-life experiences. They need to do real-time observation, exploration and interaction with the real world. They need the sensory experiences of watching a bird find a worm, of tracking the tiny veins and capillaries on a leaf, of squishing dirt and water together into mud. Kids need to play self-created games and make up their own rules apart from adult supervision. They need to learn how to try and fail and try again to make their play creations work.

Enhanced Decision-making

Children need to know how to listen and follow directions in the classroom and in other activities such as sports. But they also need the opportunity to play

independent of adult oversight. They need to decide to create something or explore something and then make their own plan. They need to cooperate with others to follow the rules to their own kid-made games. They need the freedom to adapt rules to their current situation and then evaluate whether or not their plan worked. All of these skills are strengthened when kids are allowed to play outside independently.

Active vs. Sedentary Play

We all know the statistics on the overall health of today’s kids. Too many are overweight and unfit. Too many are lethargic and uninspired. In short, many of our kids don’t move enough to be happy and healthy. But knowing isn’t the same as doing. Parents need to push through a bit of resistance and insist that our children go outside whether it’s for time in their own backyard or access to a larger natural environment. While parks can offer some of the necessary ingredients to healthier play, wilder natural environments such as hiking trails or woodlands are even better.

Nothing inspires kids to build forts and create their own games more than an untouched-by-man setting.

Room for Wonder and Joy

Watching spiders spin a web. Catching grasshoppers in a jar. Hearing birds sing in the trees and seeing them drop bits of food into the open beaks of their hatchlings.

Wandering a beach, picking up beautiful shells or bits of driftwood, smelling the scent of grasses on a warm summer day.

We all need opportunities to absorb the wonder of nature and to experience the joy of being part of the natural world. Give your kids the chance to do these simple things. They’ll benefit immensely.

Better Classroom Performance

Some schools are experimenting with longer recesses and more frequent breaks in their school day and wonder of wonders, every one of them reports better behavior and engagement in the classroom. When kids are given enough time to move and play, they’re better able to focus their attention on classroom work. They feel better, they perform better. It’s not rocket science.

In other studies, it’s reported that children who play more outside get a better night’s sleep. A well-rested child is better able to focus attention and “get into” lessons in class. Children who get enough chances for active play feel more content and happy. Happier kids have lower levels of stress which produces better classroom performance.

Self-reliance Through Exploration

We like it when our children are able to follow directions—when they’re “coachable,” and that is an important skill. But it’s also important for kids

Schools that give more recess and breaks from classwork are finding attention improves during the day. to learn how to operate via their own internal rules and understandings.

Children benefit when they’re able to manage their own behaviors based on their convictions, when they can make a plan and follow it through. When they can try and fail and try again to accomplish a task. All of these skills can only be practiced when kids have the chance to engage in unstructured play free of adult supervision and oversight. It may be hard to break the pattern of overmanaging our kids’ lives, but it’s vital that we do so.

Improved Social Skills and Interaction

If you’ve ever watched a group of kids play a game of softball you might see more arguing about the rules than actual play. But what you’re seeing is social skills in the making. Older kids will make the rules and try to enforce them. Quieter kids will be given chances to play (or not) and bossy kids will try to run the show. In the middle of the chaos, children will learn how the world of rules works and they’ll play a little ball too. When children are free of adult supervision, they build leadership skills and learn to work as a community. Is it pretty? Not always, but there are always lessons learned. In some of the school where increased free play has been introduced with fewer rules and the attitude of “safe enough,” the children earlier seen as bullies have emerged as leaders. Why? Because they’ve been successful in more active, hands-on

play and have been given the chance to expend pent-up energy in all-out activity.

Improved Mental Health

The rise in mental health problems amongst kids as young as pre-school is a testament to our over-managed, overtested and earlier to learn environment.

The skills that used to be taught in first grade must now be mastered in Kindergarten. The results are children with a too-hurried and too stressful world. There will always be expectations in the learning world, but for those children who enjoy more free time, more authentic outdoor fun and more opportunity to run and play, the better they’ll feel about themselves and their life. We give our children a great gift when we encourage and champion free play in the great out of doors.  Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at janpierce.net.

Resources

Elkind, D., The Hurried Child: Growing Up Too Fast Too Soon, 3rd edition, Cambridge, MA, 2001.

Erickson, R.J. Play Contributes to the Full Emotional Development of the Child, Education, 1985.

Ginsburg, Kenneth R. MD, MSED, The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-child Bonds, AMA, 2006.

Piaget, J. Play Dreams and Imitation in Childhood, Norton, New York, 1962.

Vygotsky, L. Play and Its Role in the Mental Development of the Child, Social Psychology, 1967.

GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

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TEACHER'S DESK Look what I made!

Academic Achievement and the Creative Process

BY HEMA WALKER As the sun colors flowers, so does art color life.

– John Lubbock, The Pleasures of Life

Students aren’t too young to start creating their masterpieces. The creative turns they take now will lead to paths in the future The joyful sights and sounds of children creating their own masterpieces and engaging in the creative process reveal more than just a playful diversion from the important work of academics. The process of creating with one’s own hands,

and as a group, is rich with essential skills that enrich and support academic pursuits and give rise to meaningful connections between the student and the academic material. A wealth of research indicates that the inclusion of the arts in education creates well-rounded individuals who possess not just strong academic skills but also the social, emotional and problem-solving skills that support creativity, collaboration, empathy and civic engagement.

High quality preschool and kindergarten programs offer abundant daily opportunities for children to experience the satisfaction and sense of empowerment that comes through engaging in the creative process. From painting at the easel and creating works of art during free choice time, to teacher led art, sewing, felting and baking projects that reflect the seasons and themes of study, students gain vital skills that come through working with their hands. Incorporating artistic self-expression into academic lessons through book making empowers children to create their own ABC and 123, drawing journal and seasonal books

that reflect their unique creative spirit.

Weaving singing, dancing, yoga asanas and dramatic storytelling into the daily curriculum brings the creative process joyfully to life for young children.

And of course, children love to share the fruit of their creative pursuits by presenting what they have learned to the larger school community through performances on stage.

When young children engage in coloring, painting, cutting, gluing, baking, felting and sewing they are exercising and refining their fine motor skills. These activities strengthen handeye coordination and directly support the academic skills of holding a pencil and forming letters and numbers.

Crafting activities encourage both hands to work together, encouraging bilateral coordination, as connections are made between the right and left sides of the brain. The creative process especially strengthens the frontal lobe of the brain, our “control panel,” which manages purposeful mental action and positive personality development. The quiet focus required for creative projects strengthens the child’s attention span and encourages perseverance and patience. The complex tasks involved in the creative process fortify the skills of planning, sequencing, critical thinking and problem solving.

This process involves trial and error, self-regulation when things don’t turn

out as planned, and flexibility to accept “mistakes” or use these mistakes to create something new. Innovative endeavors develop a child’s inner vision, encouraging independent thought and the ability to look at things from different perspectives.

Children’s connections to the natural world and seasons are strengthened by using natural materials and objects collected from nature. Finally, engaging in the creative process builds self-esteem as children experience the satisfaction of creating something on their own, as well as empathy and connection when they engage in the creative process with their peers.

As preschool and kindergarten students delve into the hands-on, engaging activities and academics that constitute the “work/play” of their day, they are fulfilling an essential human need to create and develop their imagination. This creative approach to educating young children addresses the developmental needs of the whole child, as it cultivates the essential skills of capability, creativity and collaboration, as well as a joyful and positive attitude towards education.  Hema Walker is the director of the Mount Madonna School (MMS) preschool/kindergarten program as well as one of its lead teachers. She has taught in the Pre/K program for 18 years and also teaches in the MMS Mountain of Fun summer day camps.

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HEALTHY EATING Stop the Bad Swelling

BY KRIS HOLDEN Inflammation is the body’s natural way of protecting itself from injury, infection and foreign substances. It can be both beneficial and detrimental to our health.

Lack of exercise, unmanaged stress, and inflammatory foods can all contribute to chronic inflammation. Thankfully, studies suggest that you can control and possibly reverse inflammation through a healthy, anti-inflammatory lifestyle.

There are two types of inflammation: acute and chronic (long-term). Acute inflammation, is beneficial and protects our health. It activates our immune system response to an injury, such as a cut or a bruise. This allows our body to repair and heal itself. Chronic inflammation can be harmful to our body. It occurs when the immune system gets flared up too often from continuous foreign invaders. The body doesn’t have time to heal and repair itself, which may cause low-grade inflammation throughout the body. What you eat can play a positive and negative role in managing chronic inflammation.

Foods that may increase inflammation in some people, are: refined carbohydrates (white bread, refined sugars and flour), fried foods, sugar-sweetened beverages, red meat and processed meat (deli meat, hot dogs and sausages), margarine, shortening and consuming an excessive amount of alcohol.

Thankfully there are a variety of foods

that may help decrease inflammation.

Eating more anti-inflammatory foods and less processed foods may allow our bodies to repair and heal. Some examples of anti-inflammatory foods are: tomatoes, garlic, celery, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale and collards), peppers and chili peppers, fresh fruit, especially dark colored berries, nuts, dark chocolate and green tea. Choose foods with high omega-fatty acids such as: organic tofu, organic soybeans, flax seeds and walnuts. Foods with healthy fats are avocados and olives. Incorporate anti-inflammatory spices in your cooking such as: ginger, rosemary, turmeric and cinnamon. Include whole grains with high fiber such as brown rice and whole wheat bread.

Daily exercise, rest and reducing stress are all ways to improve and prevent inflammation. Many people find healing and healthy benefits in meditation, yoga and walks on the beach or the forest.

Take back control of your health, you are worth it.  Kris Holden is a mother of three teens. She’s a Feel Good Coach with focus on healing and energizing through a plant-based whole foods lifestyle. You can view other recipes and healthy food selections on Instagram @ feelgoodpicks reach her by email at feelgoodpicks@gmail.com

Recipe INGREDIENTS:

1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 cups diced onion 2 large garlic cloves, minced 2 teaspoons ground turmeric 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk 3/4 cup uncooked red lentils, rinsed and drained 3 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper, to taste (for a kick of heat!)

1 (5 oz) package baby spinach or kale 2 teaspoons lime juice, or more to taste Recipe by Oh She Glows

Glowing Spice Lentil Soup

DIRECTIONS:

In a large pot, add the oil, onion, and garlic. Add a pinch of salt, stir, and sauté over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes until the onion softens.

Stir in the turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, and cardamom until combined. Continue cooking for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), entire can of coconut milk, red lentils, broth, salt, and plenty of pepper.

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne, if desired, to taste. Stir to combine.

Increase heat to high and bring to a low boil.

Once it boils, reduce the heat to medium-high, and simmer, uncovered, for about 18 to 22 minutes, until the lentils are fluffy and tender.

Turn off the heat and stir in the spinach until wilted. Add the lime juice to taste. Taste and add more salt and pepper, if desired. Ladle into bowls and serve with toasted bread and lime wedges.

Foods that cause inflammation include white sugar and flour, deep-fried treats and processed meat.

GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

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YOUR HEALTH Santa Cruz Gets OK Grades for Lack of Fat STAFF REPORT

The average Santa Cruzan needs to lose 42 pounds, while the rest of the state needs to lose 51 pounds, according to this obesity study.

Santa Cruzans got a decent report card from the national Nutrition Policy Institute last month, showing that locals were healthier than fellow Californians and diet-seeking peers across the country.

The Nutrition Policy Institute, in collaboration with the California Department of Public Health, showed more than 25 percent of all California residents were obese, as of 2014. This percentage has increased by 6 percent since 2001. Though that may seem like a negative thing, in a nation where obesity is often more prevalent than average weight, that 6 percent doesn’t seem so extreme.

Data collected from residents of Santa Cruz County show that average males weigh about 207 pounds with a body mass index (BMI) of 29.7, which is about five points from “normal” BMI of about 25. Women in the county are doing slightly better. Average females weigh about 166 pounds with a BMI of 28.3.

When you compare Santa Cruz County with the rest of the state and the US, you see just how well Californians

in Santa Cruz are doing. The average resident needs to lose about 42 pounds.

That number is 18 percent lower than the state average 51 pounds and 30 percent lower than the US average 59 pounds.

“We are impressed by the steadfast nature of the obesity fight in California,” reported the Department of Healthcare Services, which started the Obesity Prevention Project in October 2015.

The five-year program is designed to collect data that will later be used to create “recommendations for action.”

There’s also the Nutrition Education and Obesity Brand of the California Department of Public Health with a vision to help develop “well-nourished, physically active Californians living in healthy communities.”

All data presented here was collected from visitors to Dietspotlight. The visitors from Santa Cruz County, visited the website in search of tools and resources for weight loss, including reviews on diet programs, fat burners, meal replacements, and more.

10 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

WE OFFER CLASSES FOR CRAWLING THROUGH AGE 8

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MINDFULNESS Five New Year’s Resolutions You Might Keep

BY JAN PIERCE

The first resolution isn’t don’t make resolutions. These are simpler, positive steps.

were things we really want to do, not just things we think we should do? What if we made a list of resolutions that we could actually look forward to trying? It might still take a bit of discipline, but it could be fun.

Here are five categories most of us can identify with. Let’s make it simple— something we can accomplish without gritting out teeth. Before we know it, we’ll have incorporated good habits into our daily schedules and stand proud as we say, “I kept my New Year’s Resolution.”

Choose one or two items from each checklist or write your own. Give yourself permission to change your goal as the year progresses. Keep the goals simple and measurable. Celebrate at the end of each month if you’ve accomplished them.

Exercise When January 1st rolls around, most of us look for fresh starts. This year we’ll lose weight, quit smoking or drinking too much, get along with family members and….the list goes on. Check in with folks about January 20th and most have either given up on their resolutions already, or have forgotten what they were.

Change doesn’t come easily. But what if we made some resolutions for 2018 that

• • • • • •

Spend fifteen minutes outside each day Take the stairs and not the elevator Monitor your daily step count.

Set a goal and track your progress Ride your bike x times per week Take the dog for a walk x times per week Make a home exercise workout and do it while watching a TV show

Giving • • •

• Volunteer once a week in your community Donate money regularly to a legitimate cause Send cards, letters or e-mails to loved ones

Spend time with friends • • • • • • • • • • •

Diet • •

• • • •

Add more whole grains or fresh fruit to your diet Sign up for healthy fruit or vegetable deliveries Learn to make healthy smoothies Observe meatless Monday Try one new grain recipe

Reduce Stress

Pay it forward anonymously to those in need Visit a shut-in or other lonely person Clear out clutter and little-used items to local clearing houses Relationships Take time for coffee or lunch dates Listen to a friend’s problems Do a kind deed for an acquaintance Give a compliment to someone at least once a day Overlook annoying habits Refrain from gossip or criticism Phone or visit an elderly friend or relative

Listen to music Limit television time Plan a vacation to a place you’ve always wanted to go • Declutter your living space • Take a class—music, dance, art, cooking List the things you love and include them in your daily life If you’re a paper and pencil person, you might enjoy tracking the progress for the items you select. When you are ready for a new challenge, feel free to move on to new goals. Setting simple, doable goals and achieving them is a satisfying experience. You’ll find the resolutions aren’t so hard to keep when you enjoy doing them.

Drink x number of glasses of water per day Eat half portion desserts

 Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a freelance writer and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at janpierce.net.

• • •

GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

11

YOUTH WRITER The OK Symbol or a Symbol of White Power?

BY JILLIAN MILLER

Educators now have to be aware of whether a student the OK sign or a white power symbol.

Humans have different ways of communicating with each other; We can communicate through words, actions, and gestures. But sometimes there can be major miscommunications on what someone's intent is and what they are trying to convey to those around them or

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the media. The “White Power Symbol” or also commonly known as the “OK Symbol,” a gesture where the thumb and forefinger are joined together to form a circle, and the remaining three fingers are splayed out behind, is an example of that. This specific gesture has gathered a lot of controversy over the past few years.

In 2017 the gesture became popularized on the internet as an apparent hoax, but from that, it spread to the world of politics, news channels, and those who use it as a symbol of hatred. The New Zealand mosque shooter, a known white supremacist who killed fifty people in early 2019, was shown in court flashing the gesture while handcuffed. The “OK Symbol” has lost its innocence.

Now when it is spotted being used by politicians it can lead to questioning of their moral stances. Our own President, Donald Trump, uses the sign when he is speaking, one of his most popular signature tics. This does not mean he is signaling white power, but it has stirred up some controversy. Among some of his supporters have One High School in Illinois, Oak Park and River Forest High School did not distribute their yearbooks due to several students that showed the symbol in some

JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

of the pictures. Their superintendent, Dr. Joylynn Pruitt-Adams, sent out a statement for their reasoning on not giving the yearbooks out: “We’ve been made aware that this year’s yearbook, which has not yet been distributed, contains several photos of students making a hand gesture that has different meanings. In some cases, it’s in what is known as the circle game. However, the gesture has more recently become associated with white nationalism.

Regardless of intent, the potential negative impact of this gesture has led us to decide that we cannot distribute the yearbook as is.”

I spoke to Steven Sofranko, a teacher at San Lorenzo Valley High School about the symbol to get a teacher’s perspective and what it means to him when he sees students using it, “As a high school teacher I see it as an innocent gesture.

My assumption is always that the student doesn’t know what it means, and there is that harmless game that they play sometimes that involves the same [OK] symbol. I’ve seen counts in the media of people in position using that, but with what intent I’m not sure.”

Most of the students I have spoken to on the topic of the symbol’s controversy

have stated that they either choose to use it innocently, meaning OK or that they were completely unaware of the significance it carries to others that view it as something hateful. I would say the majority of students don’t understand how it can be taken by others when they flash the sign. I did not know it had that negative connotation until this year.

Although the lines on what the gesture means are very clouded and unclear, most of the time it depends on who is flashing it and what their true intent is.

Some white nationalists have started to use the sign unironically. But there are also a lot of young kids and some teenagers do not understand that there is that negative connotation or people who are just using it to innocently sign “OK.” Educating those who are unaware of how it can be taken will lead them to be more understanding of when to use it and how to bring back its positive connotations.  Jillian Miller is a junior at San Lorenzo Valley High School and has been apart of the school’s newspaper staff since her freshman year and is currently an editor. Jillian wishes to continue expanding her journalistic writing in college and is hoping to major in journalism or political science.

BIRTH MATTERS Arrive

BY LAURA MAXSON LM

Mothers can use the last weeks of labor more productively, preparing for birth.

Midwifery care decreases caesarian deliveries, which are 18 percent of California births, up from 5.5 percent in the 1970s.

When parents think about the words baby and arrive they are generally thinking about when labor is going to start. But for more and more families, labor is not going to start on its own – it’s going to begin with an induction of labor.

All thanks to the recent ARRIVE study, Labor Induction versus Expectant Management in Low-Risk Nulliparous Women, which looks at inducing otherwise healthy pregnancies at 39 weeks. Some are interpreting the results as a reason for routine induction of labor at 39 weeks for everyone. “Our data suggest that 1 cesarean delivery may be avoided for every 28 deliveries among low-risk nulliparous women [someone who has never given birth to a live baby] who plan to undergo elective induction of labor at 39 weeks.”

Forty-one different clinical locations, with a variety of induction methods were used in the study of 6000 births, with only 6% of those births attended by midwives. Induction medicalizes birth with hospital beds often occupied for many days. This may raise maternity costs, as well as change the feel of birth from a life event to a medical procedure.

Spontaneous labors generally unfold with early labor spent at home before going to the hospital in active labor.

In response to the study, ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) reminds care providers “…that this recommendation may be conditional upon the values and preferences of the pregnant woman.”

And the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative states, “Specifically, induction of labor at less than 41 weeks 0 days with an unfavorable cervix should only be performed for medical

indications.” Even so, parents can be made to feel that they are endangering their child by opting out of routine induction.

When the standard of care tips in favor of routine induction of labor, prenatal visits may begin to focus on induction information instead of planning for a spontaneous birth. It is not uncommon for it to take 2-3 days to get labor started with induction. This is very different in comparison with continuing to work or puttering around at home waiting for labor to begin. Those last weeks of pregnancy can be an important part of becoming ready to become a parent.

Induction of labor can include:

Folley bulb. An inflatable catheter is inserted through a slightly open cervix.

The catheter is then inflated between the bag of waters and the cervix, applying pressure to help dilate the cervix.

Rupturing the membranes. Breaking the bag of waters is often performed as part of an induction.

Cervical ripening drugs such as Misoprostol. This drug, often referred to as “Miso”, can be given orally or placed vaginally to ripen the cervix and/ or begin contractions. While effective, it can cause hard and strong labor leaving many women shaken or slammed by unrelenting contractions.

Pitocin. Oxytocin (brand name Pitocin) is given via IV to stimulate contractions. While essentially the same hormone that the body produces to make contractions, it is only delivered into the bloodstream via IV. Natural production of oxytocin on the other hand, is released into the brain as well as the bloodstream stimulating the release of natural endorphins to help cope with labor.

The use of Pitocin leads to epidurals for many women. Pitocin and epidural use will require continuous electronic fetal monitoring, as both can cause the baby to become distressed. Days of IV fluids from Pitocin and epidurals can lead to fluid retention, which in turn, can lead to challenges with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding was not addressed in the study.

As families begin to feel the effects

of the ARRIVE study, intended to reduce cesareans, many wonder why other cesarean reduction techniques are not adopted. Routine electronic fetal monitoring in low risk labors, increases cesareans. While there is some movement to adopt intermittent auscultation (using a fetal Doppler to listen to the baby instead) it is still somewhat rare.

Midwifery care decreases cesareans.

Nationwide, fewer than 9% of all pregnancies are attended by hospital midwives. While all three of Santa Cruz County’s hospitals offer midwife deliveries, an increase in midwifery deliveries should help decrease cesareans.

In 2018 licensed homebirth midwives in California had a 7% cesarean rate.

Yet, OBs rarely encouraged families to consider homebirth. No matter what the ARRIVE study may say about reducing cesareans, a primary cesarean rate of 18% for low-risk pregnancies is triple the overall cesarean rate of 5.5% in the 1970s and is still way too high.

Methods of Induction - aafp.org/ afp/2003/0515/p2123.html 2018 Licensed Midwife Report – mbc.ca.gov/ Licensees/Midwives/ Birth Network of Santa Cruz County birthnet.org

Congratulations on breastfeeding your infant! If you have excess milk, we serve pre-term and medically vulnerable babies in need. Donate to our non-profit milk bank!

It only takes ¼ ounce of donated breast milk to help a premature baby thrive.

Call us at 877.375.6645 or visit mothersmilk.org to become a donor TODAY!

py Hap ear!

Y New

Meet the Doulas

Saturday Jan 18, 4pm Pacific Cultural Center

1307 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz Learn more about how doulas support families through the birth and postpartum experience. birthnetsantacruz.eventbrite.com

One-stop-shopping for pregnancy, birth & parenting services: www.birthnet.org GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

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January CALENDAR WEDNESDAY 1 All library branches closed for New Year’s Day. Boardwalk Holiday Ice through Jan 5.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Our new 32’ x 90’ covered ice skating rink is open rain or shine! Each 1-hour session includes ice skate rental. Reservations for ice skating recommended at beachboardwalk.com/ Boardwalk-Holiday-Ice Englesman Loop Backcountry Hike 9am-12pm. Wilder Ranch. On this 7-mile challenging hike, we’ll explore the upper hills of Wilder Ranch. This hike includes several descents and ascents. Bring layered clothing, good walking shoes, water, snacks and lunch, and binoculars. Meet in parking lot. 6 Rain cancels. No pets.

History Under the Trees 10am; 2pm.

Nisene Marks State Park. Delve into forest history—and prehistory—while walking to the abandoned Loma Prieta town site and discovering marine fossils deep in the redwood forest. Bring water, snacks, and layered clothing. Meet at George’s picnic area next to the steel bridge before the winter gate.

Habitat Hike 10am-12pm. Natural Bridges State Beach. On this 1-mile hike, experience the “backcountry” of the beloved park.

Witness the diversity of over 5 distinct habitats and the animals that rely on living in the nooks and crannies of Natural Bridges.

Bring water, snack, hat, warm layers, and rain protection. Meet at visitor center.

Sempervirens Falls Hike 11am. Big Basin State Park. Join us on a 4-mile hike to visit Sempervirens Falls, old-growth redwoods, Ohlone grinding rocks, the birthplace of Big Basin and more! Bring water, snacks, and good hiking shoes. Meet at park headquarters.

Cement Ship History Walk 11am-12pm.

Seacliff State Beach. Learn about Seacliff State Beach and its history on this 1-mile stroll to the Aptos Creek Bridge and back.

Get the lowdown on the Concrete Ship, great storms from 1889 to present, “The Madman of Seacliff,” and more. Bring water and layered clothing. Meet at visitor center.

Children’s Story Circle 12pm-1:30pm.

Henry Cowell State Park. Featuring three different books for different ages, all about the coastal redwood forest. Stories will be repeated. Drop in anytime and stay as long as you wish. No pets. Meet at visitor center.

Amphibian Adventure 2pm. Henry Cowell State Park. Join us for a ramble along the San Lorenzo River and Eagle Creek Trail to search for amphibians! Learn about native and non-native species found in our forest. Bring warm layers, hiking

shoes, and water. Meet at visitor center.

Heavy rain cancels. No pets.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market 1pm-5pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Cedar and Lincoln St.

THURSDAY 2 Boardwalk Holiday Ice through Jan 5.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. See Jan 1.

Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. A 12-step group that helps people not eat addictively one day at a time. There are no fees. foodaddicts. com. 420 Melrose. Entrance is through the yellow gate to the library.

Creative Exploration 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. Children may let their natural curiosity flow as they explore how art and science materials work together.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

Develop early motor, auditory, and visual skills through ramps, rocker balls, parachute play, music, and more. $12 drop in $10 with Inchworm punch card. junebugsgym.com.

Entre Nosotras 6pm-8pm. 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. WomenCARE’s Watsonville Office. Open to Spanishspeaking women with all kinds of cancer.

Groups are led in Spanish. Please call 831761-3973 for details.

Citizen Science 6:30pm-8pm.

1st Thursday. Downtown Library. A presentation and Q&A with local experts in the field discussing life science, ecology, geology, genetics, climatology and more.

A collaboration between the Santa Cruz Public Libraries, SCCMOD, and UCSC.

FRIDAY 3 Boardwalk Holiday Ice through Jan 5.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. See Jan 1.

Free First Friday 10am-9pm. Santa Cruz MAH. Make the MAH a stop on your First Friday Art Tour for three floors of exhibitions, live music, and drop-in craft activities.

Infant/Toddler Workshop 11am11:45am. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. Ages 0-3. Your Engage in fascinating explorations of light and shadows and explore open-ended materials in a safe space while developing skills and exploring cognitive concepts such as cause and effect.

FREE First Friday 11am-7pm. Santa

14 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Cruz Museum of Natural History. Enjoy the Museum for FREE with your family on the first Friday of every month. Enjoy our intertidal touch pool, large-screen microscope, and other exhibit features like our fossil dig pit!

Fun n’ Tumble Open Gym 12pm-3pm.

Ongoing Fridays. JuneBugs Gym 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. Walking to 7 years. Parents may leave children over 3 yrs. Parents can drop off their children for 1, 2 or all 3 hours for tumbling fun! Call 464-BUGS (2847) to sign up or drop by. junebugsgym Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. Get questions answered about connecting to social services, county mental health, addiction recovery options, housing applications, the Homeward Bound and more. Jesse silvaj@ santacruzpl.org.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Hwy 236 at 21600 Big Basin Way. 338-8883.

Watsonville Farmers Market 2pm7pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Watsonville Plaza. This market is in the heart of the famously bountiful Pajaro Valley. Peaceful and family-oriented, the Hispanic heritage of this community gives this market a “mercado” feel.

Watsonville Queer Youth Meet-Up 3:30pm-6pm. Ongoing Fridays. First Christian Church. Youth ages 12 - 18 are invited to join our dynamic team of youth activists and leaders. For more information contact the LGBTQ Youth Program at 831-425-5422x104 or email youth@ diversitycenter.org

Meet at interpretive center. Trail stroller accessible. No pets.

DIY Crafts 11am-4pm Branciforte Library.

Ongoing Saturdays. Time to get crafty.

A Do-It-Yourself craft will be ready and waiting for families, independent-minded kids! Children 8 years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Old Growth Redwoods Tour 12pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Henry Cowell State Park. One of our knowledgeable and friendly docents will lead you through the wondrous old growth forest and answer any questions you may have.

Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike!

12pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Big Basin State Park. This moderately paced hike will be individually tailored to your group. Bring water and good hiking shoes. Meet at park headquarters.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Ranch Tours 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Wilder Ranch.

Discover what life was like a century ago on this innovative dairy ranch. This tour includes the 1897 Victorian home, 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse, 1896 waterpowered machine shop, barns and other historic buildings.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm.

Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. There is no coloring within the lines during Open Art. We let the children’s imaginations soar through art projects.

SATURDAY 4 Boardwalk Holiday Ice through Jan 5.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. See Jan 1.

Aptos Farmers Market 8am-12pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Cabrillo College.

Featuring more than 90 vendors, supplying a variety of fresh produce, prepared goods, items for the home. Live music, coffee, fresh baked goods.

Coffee Talk and Crafts 9am-12pm. Big Basin State Park. Come to the Sempervirens Room next to Park Headquarters for free coffee or hot chocolate! A Docent will be happy to answer your questions about the park and help get you going on the right trail.

And bring the kids for a fun craft activity!

Open Gym 9am-12 pm. Ongoing Saturdays. JuneBug’s Gym. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. Ages walking to 8 (or 80 lbs.). Parents can drop off for up to 3 hours for tumbling fun! Call 464-BUGS (2847) to sign up or drop by. junebugsgym.com Westside Farmers Market 9am-1pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr. UCSC Garden Tour 11am. 1st Saturday.

UCSC Arboretum in front of Norrie’s Gift Shop. Requires admission to the Arboretum.

Coast Nature Walk 11am. Wilder Ranch.

We will explore the plants, animals, and geology of the spectacular coastal bluffs on this 2-mile family-friendly walk. Bring water, hat, closed toe shoes, and layered clothing.

Origami Club 1pm-3pm. 1st Saturday.

Aptos Library. Make beautiful creations in this ancient oriental art of paper folding. We will also demonstrate more contemporary arts of book folding and 3-D modular origami.

Santa Cruz LGBTQ+ Youth MeetUp 1pm-3pm. Ongoing Saturdays. The Diversity Center. LGBTQ+ youth between the ages of 12-18 who want to meet new people, join a welcoming community and learn the tools of activism and leadership, look no further!

Free Baseball Clinic open to all Little Leagues in Santa Cruz County 1:30pm3:30pm. Aptos Junior High. Presented by Paradigm Sports. Contact: Zach Egan c.

(831) 600-5690 zach@paradigmsport.com

January CALENDAR SUNDAY 5 Boardwalk Holiday Ice through Jan 5.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. See Jan 1.

Live Oak Farmers Market 9am-1pm.

Ongoing Sundays.15th and Eastcliff Dr. Overeaters Anonymous 9:05am10:15am. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center. Come join us for a friendly, FREE, 12-Step support group. Teens and adults welcome. Includes compulsive overeating, anorexia and bulimia. 429-7906 santacruzoa.org The Road Less Traveled: A Dog Friendly Walk 9:30am-11:30am.

Ongoing Sundays. Big Basin State Park.

Ongoing Sundays. We tour stunning oldgrowth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. This is a fun and easy, 3-mile walk.

Sidewalk Sales 10am-8pm. Pacific Ave. Stroll along beautiful Pacific Avenue and the side streets, and enjoy a day of shopping and relaxing Downtown.

Redwoods and the Changing Climate 12pm. Henry Cowell State Park.

Walk through the ancient old-growth forest with a docent and discuss our relationship with the forest and the prospective future.

Meet at the visitor center.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm.

Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Ranch Tours 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Wilder Ranch. See Jan 4.

Sunday Seaside Crafts 1pm-3pm.

Ongoing Sundays. Seymour Center. Come create and take home a fun souvenir, an activity for the whole family to share.

Watsonville Nature Walks 1:30pm.

Ongoing Sundays. Watsonville Nature Center. Come experience the incredible bird life that the Wetlands of Watsonville have to offer.

Tour of the UCSC Farm 2pm-3:30pm.

1st Sunday. UCSC Hay Barn. Enjoy a free tour of the UCSC Farm.

Nar-Anon Family Groups 6:30pm8:00pm. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. A 12-step program/support group for friends and families who have been affected by the addiction or drug problem of another.

Newcomers, please come 15 minutes early to get acquainted.

MONDAY 6 Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. A weekly program for families with children ages 1-3 years old. It includes music, movement, stories, fingerplays, rhymes, songs and fun for your child and you.

Knitting 11:15am-1pm. Ongoing Mondays.

Live Oak Library. Get together with other knitters to knit, chat, and make new friends.

No registration required.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Mondays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays,

Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 2.

ARM-in-ARM Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Mondays.

WomenCARE Office. Open to women with Advanced, Recurrent, or Metastatic cancer. Pre-registration (office intake and a conversation with the group facilitator) is required. Please call 831-457-2273.

Kairos Learning Open Program Week for K-8 12:30pm-3:30pm. Kairos Learning 111 Errett Circle, Santa Cruz. Our directors will host open office hours to meet and enroll potential families. We are also offering drop-in classes all week before our Spring 2020 programs begin on 1/13.

Please visit our website to register your child: kairoslearningcommunity.com.

Knitting in the Library 3pm-4:30pm.

Ongoing Mondays. Scotts Valley Library.

Join us for a knitting party. All you need to do is bring some yarn and knitting needles.

All ages are welcome.

The Santa Cruz Poetry Project 4pm5:30pm. Ongoing Mondays. Downtown Library. Our mission is to bring poetry to those who would not have access through our Poetry in the Jails project. We welcome anyone who would like to establish a writing practice in a safe and encouraging environment.

Word Church 4pm-8pm. Ongoing Mondays. Santa Cruz MAH. A community of local poets who recognize and value the power of spoken word. We write together in an open writing workshop from 4-5pm, then host an open mic followed by a featured poet starting at 5:30pm. $2-$7 (Sliding Scale).

Cuéntame un Cuento 5:30pm-6:30pm.

Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library.

Acompáñanos para una hora de cuentos, actividades y canciones en español. Este programa es para niños de 0-8 y sus familias.

Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. Ages walking to 7. Parents may leave children over 3 yrs. Call 464-BUGS (2847) to sign up or drop by. junebugsgym Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Cancer Support Group 12:30pm2pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. WomenCARE’s Office. Open to newly diagnosed women throughout the course of their treatment and up to 4-6 months post-treatment.

Pre-registration (office intake and a conversation with the group facilitator) is required. Please call 831-457-2273.

Kairos Learning Open Program Week for K-8 12:30pm-3:30pm. Kairos Learning 111 Errett Circle, Santa Cruz. See Jan 6.

Genealogical Society Lecture Series 1pm-3pm. 1st Tuesday. Downtown Library.

Learn about a variety of resources, strategies, and tools in the field of family research.

Triple P Seminar: The Power of Positive Parenting (for CalWORKs participants) 1pm-3pm. Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Room 321. Get tips to provide positive learning environments, use assertive discipline, have realistic expectations, and take care of yourself. Free and open to CalWORKs participants only who should contact their Employment and Training Specialists to let them know they’re attending. Presented in English.

Lego and Duplo Fun 1:30pm-3:30pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library.

Children learn through play and bricks provide a wonderful link between structure, patterns and imagination. Ages 3 and up.

TUESDAY 7 UCSC Arboretum: Community Day 9am-5pm. UCSC Arboretum. First Tuesday. The Arboretum is open without charge to visitors.

Exploring Big Basin 9:30am-2pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Big Basin State Park.

Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours.

Meet at park headquarters. Rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 6.

Preschool Storytime 10am-11am Aptos Library; 10:30am-11:30am Scotts Valley Library. Ongoing Tuesdays. We will read books, sing songs and make a simple craft.

For 3-5 year olds.

New Parents with Babies 3 Weeks to 4 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. Classes are drop-in (no pre-reg required) donations accepted (no required fee). 477-2229.

One-on-One Tech Tutoring 10am12pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 5.

Downtown Tuesdays 10am-10pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Santa Cruz. Featuring specials all day throughout Downtown – come relax and meet your friends in your Downtown.

Tumble-On-Tuesdays at JuneBug’s Gym 12pm-3pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. 3910

Chess Club 3:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Aptos Library. Ages 6-18 learn from a master and practice with peers.

Grupo de apoyo femenino del superviviente 6pm-7:30pm. Martes en curso. En Espanol. Ofrece un espacio seguro y de apoyo. Gratis. Actividades de cuidado de niños proporcionadas. 1685 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz. 425-4030.

24hr: 888 900-4232. Wcs-ddm.org

WEDNESDAY 8 Latch Clinic 9am-11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Dominican Rehab Lactation office 610 Frederick St. See Receive personalized, one-on-one breastfeeding

support from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. A Baby Weigh® scale is also available.

Capitola Book Discussion Group 10am-11am. 1st Wednesday. Aptos Library due to the closure.

Mini Mint Mamas Meetup 11am12:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Mini Mint.

Join us for a fun walking mom group! We will meet at Mini Mint then head out along East Cliff for a walk along the ocean with our babes. Join our community of Mamas and enjoy the sunshine! Free Preschool Storytime 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library.

See Jan 7.

One-on-One Tech Tutoring 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library. See Jan 5.

New Moms Support Group 11:30am1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Dominican Rehab Yoga/Pilates Room. 610 Frederick St. Free for babies 0-6 months old and their moms to discuss common concerns with other new moms.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 2.

Kairos Learning Open Program Week for K-8 12:30pm-3:30pm. Kairos Learning 111 Errett Circle, Santa Cruz. See Jan 6.

Dance for Parkinson’s 1pm-2:15pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays except the first Wednesday of the month. Motion Pacific Dance. Classes are appropriate for anyone with Parkinson’s no matter how advanced.

No Dance Experience is Required. Free.

Triple P Workshop: Balancing Work & Family (for CalWORKs participants) 1pm-3pm. Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Room 321. Explore: challenges parents have juggling work and family; preventing work stress from affecting home life; how to create a positive transition from work to home life. Free and open to CalWORKs participants only who should contact their Employment and Training Specialists to let them know they’re attending. Presented in English.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market 1pm-5pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Cedar and Lincoln St. Kids Club for kids K - 5th grade 1:30pm-5pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Felton Presbyterian Church, 6090 Hwy 9. Free after school program which includes snacks, free-play, games, crafts, and Bible lessons.

For more information call 831-335-6900 or go to feltonpresbyterian.org.

DIY Crafts 2pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 4.

DIY Crafternoon 2:30pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library. A DoIt-Yourself craft will be ready and waiting for families, independent-minded kids!

Children 8 years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Tales to Tails 2:40pm-3:40pm.

Branciforte Library. Trained therapy dogs will be available to be attentive, nonjudgmental reading partners for children reading aloud. Children have individual 20-minute appointments. Registration required. To register, e-mail tales2tails@ santacruzpl.org or call 831-427-7717.

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January CALENDAR WEDNESDAY 8 (cont’d)

Code.org 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library. Utilizing block code, we will learn the fundamentals of computer science through games. Ages 8 to 18. Julie Soto sotoj@Santacruzpl.org 831-427-7700 x 7649 or Live Oak Library 831-427-7711 Circus Arts Class with Rock Lerum 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Orchard School. Includes juggling, unicycling, stilt walking, and more. Drop-in basis. Please contact the school at 688-1074, or orchardschoolaptos.org for more info.

Female Survivor Support Group 6pm-7:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Monarch Services. Safe, supportive space for survivors of sexual assault or domestic violence. Childcare provided.1685 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz. 425-4030.

24hr: 888 900-4232. Wcs-ddm.org Scotts Valley Friends of the Library 6:30pm-7:30pm. 2nd Wednesday. Scotts Valley Library. Learn how you can make a difference in your library and community.

All are welcome.

ADHD Support Group 6:30pm. Aptos Fire Station 6934 Soquel Dr. All parents, caregivers and friends of children and teens with ADHD are welcome to join us for conversation, resource sharing and support.

THURSDAY 9 Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. See Jan 2.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Thursdays. Aptos and Scotts Valley Library.

See Jan 6.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am-11:30am.

Ongoing Thursdays. Downtown Library.

See Jan 7.

Creative Exploration 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 2.

Kairos Learning Open Program Week for K-8 12:30pm-3:30pm. Kairos Learning 111 Errett Circle, Santa Cruz. See Jan 6.

Aptos Library Book Discussion Group 1pm-2:30pm. 2nd Thursday. Aptos Library.

Reading selections will be made by the group with an emphasis on thought provoking fiction and challenging non-fiction.

Triple P Seminar: Raising Confident, Competent Children (for CalWORKs participants) 1pm-3pm. Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Room 321. Tips for helping children learn how to treat others with respect, develop good communication and social skills, and develop healthy self-esteem.

Free and open to CalWORKs participants only who should contact their Employment and Training Specialists to let them know they’re attending. Presented in English.

Triple P 8-Week Group: For families with children 2-12 years old 6pm8pm. Ongoing Thursdays through Feb 27. San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School Library, 7155 Highway 9. Learn strategies

to: Strengthen relationships in your family; Encourage positive behaviors; Take care of yourself as a parent. Free child care is available with advance registration.

Presented in English. Register with Cori Burt at (831) 335-6600 x6605 or corib@ cbridges.org or register online at first5scc. org/calendar/parenttrainings Tales to Tails 4pm-5:30pm. Garfield Park Library. See Jan 8.

FRIDAY 10 USA Surfing Prime and Junior and Olympic Team Training. Steamer Lane, 700 West Cliff Drive.

Birdwatching for Beginners 9am-11zm.

Wilder Ranch. Be prepared to hike two miles on uneven surfaces. You will help each other spot and identify birds! Bring your binoculars if you have them (binoculars available) and good walking shoes. Meet at the interpretive center.

Art & Play in the Pre & K! 9:30am.

Mount Madonna School. Parents of toddlers, preschool, and kindergarten age children are invited to come for a morning of activities and fun in the Mount Madonna School Preschool and Kindergarten.

RSVPs suggested to admissions@ mountmadonnaschool.org.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 6.

Infant/Toddler Workshop 11am11:45am. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

Fun n’ Tumble Open Gym 12pm-3pm.

Ongoing Fridays. JuneBugs Gym. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. See Jan 3.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Triple P Workshop: Supporting Your Partner (for CalWORKs participants) 1pm-3pm. Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Room 321. Explore: parenting issues that often cause disagreements between partners; how to take care of your relationship with your partner and create a positive family life; and tools to support each other and work as a team. Free and open to CalWORKs participants only who should contact their Employment and Training Specialists to let them know they’re attending. Presented in English.

Live Oak Book Group 2pm-3pm. 2nd Friday. Live Oak Library. Reading selections will be made by the group with an emphasis on thought provoking fiction and challenging non-fiction. Check with the front desk staff for the current month’s book selection.

Fungus Fair 2pm-5pm. Louden Nelson Community Center. Learn interesting and fun facts about the hundreds of beautiful and fascinating species of mushrooms found in the Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay Area. ffsc.us/fair/2020/about Watsonville Farmers Market 2pm7pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Watsonville Plaza. See Jan 3.

Watsonville Queer Youth Meet-Up 3:30pm-6pm. Ongoing Fridays. First Christian Church. See Jan 3.

Tales to Tails 3:30pm-4:30pm. Boulder

16 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Creek Library. See Jan 8.

Kiersten White, Chosen 7pm.

Bookshop Santa Cruz. Enjoy a presentation of White’s next novel set in the world of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Slayers face the darkness that threatens humanity, but what happens when a Slayer is faced with the darkness inside? The darkness always finds you. And now, it’s coming for the Slayer.

SATURDAY 11

USA Surfing Prime and Junior and Olympic Team Training. Steamer Lane, 700 West Cliff Drive.

Aptos Farmers Market 8am-12pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Cabrillo College. See Jan 4.

Coffee Talk and Crafts 9am-12pm. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Open Gym 9am-12 pm. Ongoing Saturdays. JuneBug’s Gym. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 4.

Westside Farmers Market 9am-1pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr. Volunteer with the Trail Crew 9am-mid afternoon. 2nd Saturday. Big Basin State Park. Please bring your own work gloves, lunch, and water.

River Health Day 9:30am-12pm. 2nd Saturday. Santa Cruz Riverwalk. You and your family can plant new native plants along the river to support birds, bugs, fish and a healthy river ecosystem. RSVP: coastal-watershed.org/san-lorenzo-river/ our-approach/habitat/ Yin Yoga for All 10am-11am. 2nd and 4th Saturdays. Scotts Valley Library. Gentle yin yoga and stretches. BYO yoga mat or towel.

Good for all ages and abilities.

Tales for Tails 10am-11:30am. Downtown Library. See Jan 8.

Pine Needle Basket Making Workshop 10am-12pm. Henry Cowell State Park.

Participate in a marvelous family workshop learning how to make a basket from local ponderosa pine needles. No experience necessary. The class capacity is 20; please arrive on time to reserve your seat. Meet at the visitor center.

Weekend Open House 10am-12pm.

Spring Hill School 250 California St. Preschool and grades K-6th. Children

welcome. springhillschool.org.

Community Day at Spring Hill School 10am-12pm. 250 California St, Santa Cruz.

Storytelling, crafts, design lab, upcycle workshop and more. springhillschool.org Fungus Fair 10am-5pm. Louden Nelson Community Center. See Jan 10.

Imagination Station 10:30am11:30am. Spring Hill School 250 California St. Presented by our own Dara Thornton, Spring Hill will be offering a monthly Storytelling and Craft Hour for children ages 3-6 years old. Free event! springhillschool.org.

DIY Crafts 11am-1pm Garfield Park Library; 11am-4pm Branciforte Library.

Ongoing Saturdays. See Jan 4.

Agricultural History Project 11am3pm. 2nd Saturday. Agricultural History Museum, 2601 East Lake Avenue, Hwy 152, Watsonville. We have created some unique interactive educational activities to help you have fun learning about past agricultural practices.

Old Growth Redwoods Tour 12pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Henry Cowell State Park. See Jan 4.

Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike!

12pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Board in the Library 12pm-5pm. Scotts Valley Library. Adults need playtime too!

Come play with us for hours of tabletop gaming fun. Bring your favorite board game or play some of the library’s many games.

No prior gaming experience is necessary.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See See Jan 3.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm.

Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Santa Cruz LGBTQ+ Youth MeetUp 1pm-3pm. Ongoing Saturdays. The Diversity Center. SeeJan 4.

Boulder Creek Writers’ Group 1pm3pm. 2nd Saturday. Boulder Creek Library.

The group follows a Milford workshop critique format and is open to all genres of fiction. You must be 18 or older to join the group.

Chess Instruction 2pm-3:30pm.

Ongoing Saturdays, except the 1st.

Downtown Library. Children’s chess instruction for students up to 18 years old.

Parents and/or other relatives are welcome to participate.

SUNDAY 12 USA Surfing Prime and Junior and Olympic Team Training. Steamer Lane, 700 West Cliff Drive.

Live Oak Farmers Market 9am-1pm.

Ongoing Sundays. 15th and Eastcliff Dr. Santa Cruz Antique Faire 10am-5pm. 100 Block of Lincoln St. You will find an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and so much more!

Overeaters Anonymous 9:05am10:15am. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center. See Jan 5.

The Road Less Traveled: A Dog Friendly Walk 9:30am-11:30am.

Ongoing Sundays. Big Basin State Park.

See Jan 5.

January CALENDAR Fungus Fair 10am-5pm. Louden Nelson Community Center. See Jan 10.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm.

Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 5.

Ranch Tours 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Wilder Ranch. See Jan 4.

Sunday Seaside Crafts 1pm-3pm.

Ongoing Sundays. Seymour Center. See Jan 5.

Watsonville Nature Walks 1:30pm.

Ongoing Sundays. Watsonville Nature Center (30 Harkins Slough Road). See Jan 5.

Salesian Open House 2pm-4pm. 605 Enos Ln, Watsonville. Discover Salesian Elementary & Junior High School serving TK - 8 since 1978. Feel the Spirit when you join us!

Advisory Council of Teens, East Region 2pm-4pm. Aptos Library. Open to ages 12-18 in the Live Oak, Soquel, Capitola, Aptos and La Selva Beach areas.

Good opportunity to fulfill community service credits, obtain job skills, and acquire college extracurricular experience. imperios@santacruzpl.org Nar-Anon Family Groups 6:30pm8:00pm. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. See Jan 5.

MONDAY 13 Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 6.

Knitting 11:15am-1pm. Ongoing Mondays.

Live Oak Library. See Jan 6.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Mondays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 2.

ARM-in-ARM Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Mondays.

WomenCARE Office. See Jan 6.

Invisible / Alienated Grandparent Support Group 2:30pm-4pm. 2nd Monday. Christ Lutheran Church 10707 Soquel Dr. Led by Dr. Pat Hanson and co-sponsored by Alienated Grandparents Anonymous AGA-FL.org. pat@ invisiblegrandparent.com Knitting in the Library 3pm-4:30pm.

Ongoing Mondays. Scotts Valley Library.

See Jan 6.

The Santa Cruz Poetry Project 4pm5:30pm. Ongoing Mondays. Downtown Library. See Jan 6.

Word Church 4pm-8pm. Ongoing Mondays. Santa Cruz MAH. See Jan 6.

Cuéntame un Cuento 5:30pm-6:30pm.

Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 6.

TUESDAY 14 Gateway School Day Tours 9am-11am.

Gateway School, 255 Swift Street. We

invite you to join us for our January School Day Tours event to experience our dynamic classrooms in action. Come and learn how Gateway School inspires curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking through innovative education for a fast-changing world. You will meet teachers, current parents, students and our Head of School.

Register at gatewaysc.org Exploring Big Basin 9:30am-2pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Big Basin State Park.

See Jan 7.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 6.

Preschool Storytime 10am-11am Aptos Library; 10:30am-11:30am Scotts Valley Library. Ongoing Tuesdays. See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 3 Weeks to 4 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. See Jan 7.

One-on-One Tech Tutoring 10am12pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 5.

Downtown Tuesdays 10am-10pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Santa Cruz.

See Jan 7.

Tumble-On-Tuesdays at JuneBug’s Gym 12pm-3pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. See Jan 7.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. WomenCARE’s Office.

See Jan 7.

Lego and Duplo Fun 1:30pm-3:30pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 7.

Chess Club 3:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Aptos Library. See Jan 7.

Tales to Tales 4pm-5pm. Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 8.

Seminario de Triple P: El poder de ser padres positivos 5:30pm-7pm. Bay View, 1231 Bay St. Conocerán los principios y las estrategias clave para: Crear entornos seguros e interesantes para los niños; Proporcionar entornos de aprendizaje positivos para los niños; Usar una disciplina positive; Tener expectativas realistas de ellos mismos y los niños; y Cuidarse a sí mismos como padres y cuidadores. Gratis y abierto al público. Inscríbase para reservar su lugar y obtener el cuidado de sus niños gratis. Presentado en español. Liliana Zamora al (831) 724-2997 x212 o lilianaz@ cbridges.org o vea el calendario en! first5scc.org/calendar/parent-trainings Grupo de apoyo femenino del superviviente 6pm-7:30pm. Martes en curso. En Espanol. Monarch Services. Ver Jan 7.

How Not to Die 7:30pm-9:30pm. Rio Theater. Dr. Michael Greger, physician, author of How Not to Die, will be presenting the latest in cutting-edge research exploring the role diet may play in our leading causes of death and disability. Tickets on Eventbrite.

WEDNESDAY 15 Latch Clinic 9am-11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Dominican Rehab Lactation office 610 Frederick St. See Jan 8.

Ribbon Arts Guild 10am-1pm. 1st and

3rd Wednesdays. Scotts Valley Library. See Join Roxanne Langan for ribbon work and hand sewing.

Preschool Storytime 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library.

See Jan 7.

One-on-One Tech Tutoring 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library. See Jan 5.

Mini Mint Mamas Meetup 11am12:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Mini Mint.

See Jan 8.

New Moms Support Group 11:30am1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Dominican Rehab Yoga/Pilates Room. 610 Frederick St. See Jan 8.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 2.

Dance for Parkinson’s 1pm-2:15pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays except the first Wednesday of the month. Motion Pacific Dance. See Jan 8.

Aptos Library Writing Group 1pm-3pm.

3rd Wednesday. Aptos Library. Writing exercises and read alouds. Assistance with editing on current writing projects is provided; please bring additional copies if interested in editorial support.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market 1pm-5pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Cedar and Lincoln St. Branciforte Book Discussion Group 1:30pm-2:30pm. 3rd Wednesday.

Branciforte Library.

Kids Club for kids K - 5th grade 1:30pm-5pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Felton Presbyterian Church, 6090 Hwy 9. See Jan 8.

DIY Crafts 2pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 4.

DIY Crafternoon 2:30pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 8.

Code.org 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 8.

Circus Arts Class with Rock Lerum 3:30pm-4:30pm. Last of the year, but will restart Jan 8. Orchard School. See Jan 8.

Triple P Workshop: Teaching Children to do Chores 5:30pm-7pm. Live Oak Community Resources, 1740 17th Ave. Learn:

Tools to introduce your child to household chores; Make chores less stressful for you and your child; Encourage your child to do chores.

FREE and open to the public. Register to reserve your spot. FREE child care is available with advance registration. Presented in English. Gladys Gómez at (831) 724-2997 x220 or gladysg@cbridges.org or register online at first5scc.org/calendar/parenttrainings Female Survivor Support Group 6pm7:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Monarch Services. See Jan 8.

Board in the Library 6:30pm-8:30pm.

Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 11.

Bookshop Santa Cruz’s Winter Reading Program Mixer 7pm. Rosie McCann’s 1220 Pacific Ave. Our annual program challenges adults to read three of our eight recommended books by March 31st for rewards from Bonny Doon Vineyard, Buttercup Cakes, and Bookshop Santa Cruz.

Naturalist Night: Mushroom Cultivation 7pm-8:30pm. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. Explore the process of cultivating mushrooms, from large scale farms to your own backyard. Free with admission and pre-registration is highly recommended.

THURSDAY 16 Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. See Jan 2.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Thursdays. Aptos Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 6.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am-11:30am.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library.

See Jan 7.

Book Discussion Group 11am-12pm. 3rd Thursday. Boulder Creek Library. We discuss the book of the month, watch short videos highlighting authors and interesting side notes about the current book, and share insights.

Creative Exploration 11am-12pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

Munching with Mozart 12:10pm-12:50pm.

3rd Thursday. You are welcome to bring your lunch, and please avoid crunchy food items.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. See Jan 2.

Tales to Tails 3:30pm-4:30pm. Live Oak Library. See Jan 8.

Triple P 8-Week Group: For families with children 2-12 years old 6pm-8pm.

Ongoing Thursdays through Feb 27. San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School Library, 7155 Highway 9. See Jan 9.

Entre Nosotras 6pm-8pm. 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. WomenCARE’s Watsonville Office. See Jan 2.

Miranda Popkey, Topics of Conversation with Elizabeth McKenzie 7pm. Bookshop Santa Cruz. We welcome Santa Cruz native Miranda Popkey for a reading and signing of her searing debut novel, Topics of Conversation. For readers of Rachel Cusk, Lydia Davis, and Jenny Offill—a compact tour de force about sex, violence, and self-loathing from a ferociously talented new voice in fiction.

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January CALENDAR

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 6.

Infant/Toddler Workshop 11am11:45am. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

Fun n’ Tumble Open Gym 12pm-3pm.

Ongoing Fridays. JuneBugs Gym. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. See Jan 3.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Watsonville Farmers Market 2pm7pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Watsonville Plaza. See Jan 3.

Tales to Tails 3pm-4pm. Aptos Library.

See Jan 8.

Watsonville Queer Youth Meet-Up 3:30pm-6pm. Ongoing Fridays. First Christian Church. See Jan 3.

Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Stage Door 7:30pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. Stage Door revolves around a group of young girls who have come to New York to study acting and find jobs. Reservations recommended.

General admission is $12; seniors, student, and military are $8; children under 12 are $4. Please call for group rates. For ticket reservations, please call 831.655.9341 or visit santacatalina.org/tickets.

Park Grand Opening 10am-11:30am.

1975 Chanticleer Ave. Grand Opening Celebration of Santa Cruz County Parks Inclusive Playground for Children of All Abilities! This project is near and dear to all of us, as LEO’s Haven is the first of its kind in Santa Cruz County. Please join us for a day of inclusive play.

DIY Crafts 11am-1pm Garfield Park Library; 11am-4pm Branciforte Library.

Ongoing Saturdays. See Jan 4.

Coast Nature Walk 11am. Wilder Ranch.

See Jan 4.

Old Growth Redwoods Tour 12pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Henry Cowell State Park. See Jan 4.

Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike!

12pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm.

Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Ranch Tours 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Wilder Ranch. See Jan 4.

Santa Cruz LGBTQ+ Youth MeetUp 1pm-3pm. Ongoing Saturdays. The Diversity Center. See Jan 4.

Art Reception: Photographer Michael Singer 1pm-3pm. Scotts Valley Library. From Abstract to Zebra: Our World and Beyond, the photographs of Michael Singer capture the realistic and abstract beauty of the natural and built worlds.

Chess Instruction 2pm-3:30pm.

Ongoing Saturdays, except the 1st.

Downtown Library. See Jan 4.

Meet the Doulas 4pm. Pacific Cultural Center, Gallery room, upstairs 1307 Seabright Ave. Learn about how birth and postpartum doulas can help you before, during, and after birth. Group presentation, plus time to speak with doulas individually.

Open to all - home or hospital, Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Monterey, or San Jose area.

Please note, this is not a drop-in event, ends by 6pm. Preregistration encouraged birthnetsantacruz.eventbrite.com Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Stage Door 7:30pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. See Jan 17.

SATURDAY 18

SUNDAY 19

National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) Surf Event 7am6pm. Steamer Lane, 700 West Cliff Drive.

Aptos Farmers Market 8am-12pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Cabrillo College. See Jan 4.

Open Gym 9am-12 pm. Ongoing Saturdays. JuneBug’s Gym. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 4.

Westside Farmers Market 9am-1pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr. Money Matters 10am-11am. Scotts Valley Library. Informative talk each month on issues of financial literacy, wealth management, and planning for retirement.

Presenters are George Haas and Anthony Rovai, financial advisers.

LEO’s Haven Chanticleer County

Live Oak Farmers Market 9am-1pm.

Ongoing Sundays. 15th and Eastcliff Dr. Overeaters Anonymous 9:05am10:15am. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center. See See Jan 5.

The Road Less Traveled: A Dog Friendly Walk 9:30am-11:30am.

Ongoing Sundays. Big Basin State Park.

See Jan 5.

Admission Open House at Santa Catalina School 10:30am-1:30pm; check in at 10am. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. Come see how your daughter can make her way with an excellent education at Santa Catalina School! Meet our students and faculty and discover how opportunities at Catalina can pave the way for her success in the classroom, on the stage, on the field, and in life. Please RSVP

by Wednesday, January 15 to 831.655.9356.

THURSDAY 16 (cont’d)

Orchard School Open House 4pm5:30pm. 2288 Trout Gulch Rd, Aptos.

Teachers will be giving presentations about curriculum and teaching philosophy.

Current parents and students will help answer questions. Tour our entire campus.

Please be on time and plan to stay for the whole event. We’ll end in kindergarten so those interested in upper grades can leave at 5. RSVPs required. Please contact info@ orchardschoolaptos.org with questions or to let us know you will be there!

FRIDAY 17

18 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

santacatalina.org.

Redwoods and the Changing Climate 12pm. Henry Cowell State Park.

See Jan 5.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Hwy 236 at 21600 Big Basin Way. 338-8883.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm.

Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Ranch Tours 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Wilder Ranch. See Jan 4.

Sunday Seaside Crafts 1pm-3pm.

Ongoing Sundays. Seymour Center. See Jan 5.

Watsonville Nature Walks 1:30pm.

Ongoing Sundays. Watsonville Nature Center (30 Harkins Slough Road). See Jan 5.

Science Sunday 1:30pm-2:30pm. Every 3rd Sunday. Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Lectures are designed to make science interesting and “user-friendly” for everyone. Free with membership, admission, or valid UCSC student ID. Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Stage Door 2pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. See Jan 17.

Womb Song 2pm-3:30pm. Every 3rd Sunday. The Pacific Cultural Center.

Prepare for labor and life through vocal toning and breathing exercises. No musical experience necessary, drop-ins welcome.

More info and details at: wombsong.com Nar-Anon Family Groups 6:30pm8:00pm. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. See Jan 5.

MONDAY 20 Admission Open House at Santa Catalina Lower & Middle School 9:15am-11:30am. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. It all begins here! Join us at our admission open house to see how we introduce our students to the best of everything, right from the start. Open House includes presentations, classroom visits, and student-led campus tours. Please RSVP by Friday, January 17 to 831.655.9351.

santacatalina.org.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 6.

Knitting 11:15am-1pm. Ongoing Mondays.

Live Oak Library. See Jan 6.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Mondays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 2.

ARM-in-ARM Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Mondays.

WomenCARE Office. See Jan 6.

Knitting in the Library 3pm-4:30pm.

Ongoing Mondays. Scotts Valley Library.

See Jan 6.

The Santa Cruz Poetry Project 4pm5:30pm. Ongoing Mondays. Downtown Library. See Jan 6.

Word Church 4pm-8pm. Ongoing Mondays. Santa Cruz MAH. See Jan 6.

Cuéntame un Cuento 5:30pm-6:30pm.

Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 6.

Daniel Levitin, Successful Aging 7pm. Bookshop Santa Cruz. We welcome neuroscientist and bestselling author Daniel Levitin who turns his keen insights to what happens in our brains as we age, why we should think about health span, not life span, and what you can do to make the most of your seventies, eighties, and nineties today no matter how old you are now.

TUESDAY 21 Exploring Big Basin 9:30am-2pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Big Basin State Park.

See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 3 Weeks to 4 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. See Jan 7.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 6.

Preschool Storytime 10am-11am Aptos Library; 10:30am-11:30am Scotts Valley Library. Ongoing Tuesdays. See Jan 7.

One-on-One Tech Tutoring 10am12pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 5.

Downtown Tuesdays 10am-10pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Santa Cruz.

See Jan 7.

Tumble-On-Tuesdays at JuneBug’s Gym 12pm-3pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. See Jan 7.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. WomenCARE’s Office.

See Jan 7.

Lego and Duplo Fun 1:30pm-3:30pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 7.

Movie Discussion Club 2pm-3pm. 3rd Tuesday. Aptos Library. Join our discussion of selective movies currently in the theaters.

All adults are welcome.

Homework Help 3pm-5pm. Ongoing

January CALENDAR Tuesdays. Branciforte and Live Oak Library.

Bring your assignments to one of our FREE drop-in Homework Help sessions. Students to grade 12. 831-427-7717.

Chess Club 3:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Aptos Library. See Jan 7.

Seminario de Triple P: Cómo criar hijos seguros y capaces 5:30pm-7pm.

Bay View, 1231 Bay St. Aprenda a tratar a los demás con respeto; Desarrollar buenas habilidades comunicativas y sociales; Desarrollar una autoestima saludable.

Gratis y abierto al público. Inscríbase para reservar su lugar y obtener el cuidado de sus niños gratis. Liliana Zamora al (831) 724-2997 x212 o lilianaz@cbridges.org o vea el calendario en! first5scc.org/calendar/ parent-trainings Grupo de apoyo femenino del superviviente 6pm-7:30pm. Martes en curso. En Espanol. Monarch Services. Ver Jan 7.

WEDNESDAY 22 Latch Clinic 9am-11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Dominican Rehab Lactation office 610 Frederick St. See Jan 8.

Preschool Storytime 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library.

See Jan 7.

One-on-One Tech Tutoring 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library. See Jan 5.

Mini Mint Mamas Meetup 11am12:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Mini Mint.

See Jan 8.

New Moms Support Group 11:30am1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Dominican Rehab Yoga/Pilates Room. 610 Frederick St. See Jan 8.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 2.

Dance for Parkinson’s 1pm-2:15pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays except the first Wednesday of the month. Motion Pacific Dance. See Dec 11.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market 1pm-5pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Cedar and Lincoln St. Kids Club for kids K - 5th grade 1:30pm-5pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Felton Presbyterian Church, 6090 Hwy 9. See Jan 8.

DIY Crafts 2pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 4.

DIY Crafternoon 2:30pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 8.

Triple P South County Open House 2:30pm-4:30pm. La Manzana Community Resources, 521 Main St, Watsonville (in outdoor courtyard). Stop by for food, games and a chance to win prizes! Meet La Manzana Community Resources’ Triple P practitioners, sign up for a Triple P class or one-on-one services, and learn about other organizations that support children and families.

Tales to Tails 2:40pm-3:40pm.

Branciforte Library. See Jan 8.

R.E.A.D. Reach Every Amazing Detail 3pm-5pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library and Downtown Library. R.E.A.D. is one-on-one reading comprehension

instruction for readers 2nd through 12th grade by California credentialed teachers.

Contact Programs 831.427.7717 or pro@ santacruzpl.org to make an appointment for a 25 minute session.

Code.org 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 8.

Circus Arts Class with Rock Lerum 3:30pm-4:30pm. Last of the year, but will restart Jan 8. Orchard School. See Jan 8.

Afternoon STEAM 3:30pm-5pm. Aptos Library. Lego, not so simple machines and EV3 robotics.

Writer’s Open Mic Night 5pm-7pm.

Scotts Valley Library. Sign-up slots for readers begin at 5 PM. Readings begin at 5:30 PM. Readers can take 5 minutes for reading or 10 minutes for reading and peer critiquing.

Female Survivor Support Group 6pm7:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Monarch Services. See Jan 8.

Reading in the Redwoods 6:15pm7:30pm. Felton Library. The book for January is And The Band Played On: People, Politics, and the AIDS Epidemic by Randy Shilts.

THURSDAY 23 Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. See Jan 2.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Thursdays. Aptos Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 6.

Working Together 10am-11:30am.

Ongoing Thursdays. Downtown Library.

See Jan 2.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am-11:30am.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library.

See Jan 7.

Campus Tour, and a preview of “Pippin” 10:30am-2:30pm. Mount Madonna School. MMS will host a Campus Tour for prospective families, includes lunch and a preview performance of “Pippin”. RSVPs suggested to admissions@ mountmadonnaschool.org.

Creative Exploration 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

Triple P 8-Week Group: For families with children 2-12 years old 6pm-8pm.

Ongoing Thursdays through Feb 27. San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School Library, 7155 Highway 9. See Jan 9.

Tales to Tails 4pm-5:30pm. Garfield Park Library. See Jan 8.

Armchair Travel Adventures 6:30pm8:30pm. La Selva Beach Community Church, 26 Florido Ave. Join travel photographer Mary Altier and her husband John Walker for a slide show covering four countries along the Silk Route: Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.

Tales to Tails 4pm-5:30pm. Garfield Park Library. See Jan 8.

FRIDAY 24 Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 6.

Infant/Toddler Workshop 11am11:45am. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

The MAKE Lab 11am-4:30pm. Scotts Valley Library. Bring your own craft or project to work on in a creative environment, test out new tools before investing in your own, or come in to learn, explore, and have fun!

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Stage Door 12:45pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. See Jan 17.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Watsonville Farmers Market 2pm7pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Watsonville Plaza. See Jan 3.

Watsonville Queer Youth Meet-Up 3:30pm-6pm. Ongoing Fridays. First Christian Church. See Jan 3.

Moana: Free Family Movie Night 6:30pm. Capitola Community Center, 4400 Jade Street. Free popcorn and churros included, but bring your own lowback chairs, pillows, and blankets. Doors open at 6pm.

Mount Madonna School’s high school production of “Pippin” 7pm.

Hawks’ Nest Theater. Tickets are $15 for adults; $10 for students 18 and under.

Tickets on sale December 9 at MMS-Pippin. brownpapertickets.com. All seats reserved.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Old Growth Redwoods Tour 12pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Henry Cowell State Park. See Jan 4.

Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike!

12pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Board in the Library 12pm-5pm. Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 11.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm.

Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Ranch Tours 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Wilder Ranch. See

SATURDAY 25 Independent Qualifier Science Fair 8am. Capitola Mall. For students who would like to participate in science fair, but who do not attend a school with its own fair. Details and registration santacruzscience.org Aptos Farmers Market 8am-12pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Cabrillo College. See Jan 4.

Open Gym 9am-12 pm. Ongoing Saturdays. JuneBug’s Gym. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 4.

Westside Farmers Market 9am-1pm.

Ongoing Saturdays. Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr. Yin Yoga for All 10am-11am. 2nd and 4th Saturdays. Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 11.

Tales for Tails 10am-11:30am. Downtown Library. See Jan 8.

Pine Needle Basket Making Workshop 10am-12pm. Henry Cowell State Park. See Jan 11.

Rockin’ Pop-Up 10am-12pm. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. Join us for these monthly rock-talk days with geologists Gavin and Graham! Bring in a rock to be identified, a question to be answered, or just a curiosity about the earth. Rockin’ Pop-Ups are free with admission.

Coast Nature Walk 11am. Wilder Ranch.

See Jan 4.

DIY Crafts 11am-1pm Garfield Park Library; 11am-4pm Branciforte Library.

Ongoing Saturdays. See Jan 4.

Open House at the Castro Adobe 11am-3pm. 184 Old Adobe Road, Watsonville.

As your family begins a new year, please join us as we imagine the Castros’ experience as one of the first Spanish families to make their home in California.

Jan 4.

Santa Cruz LGBTQ+ Youth MeetUp 1pm-3pm. Ongoing Saturdays. The Diversity Center. LGBTQ+ youth between the ages of 12-18 who want to meet new people, join a welcoming community and learn the tools of activism and leadership, look no further!

Family Literacy Fun Day 1:30pm3:30pm. Downtown Library. Stop by for arts and crafts, story time with the librarians, fun activities and information about the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program and other local services for children and families. Participate in activities for a chance to win prizes!

Mount Madonna School’s high school production of “Pippin” 2pm.

Hawks’ Nest Theater. See Jan 24.

Chess Instruction 2pm-3:30pm.

Ongoing Saturdays, except the 1st.

Downtown Library. See Jan 11.

Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Stage Door 7:30pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. See Jan 17.

SUNDAY 26 Live Oak Farmers Market 9am-1pm.

Ongoing Sundays. 15th and Eastcliff Dr. Overeaters Anonymous 9:05am-10:15am.

Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. See See Jan 5.

The Road Less Traveled: A Dog Friendly Walk 9:30am-11:30am. Ongoing Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 5.

GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

19

January CALENDAR SUNDAY 26 (cont’d)

Salamander Safari 10am. Henry Cowell State Park. Discover some of the secretive salamanders that live in the redwood forest on this 2-mile excursion to Eagle Creek!

Make sure to bring water, proper hiking shoes, and a sense of adventure! Meet at the visitor center.

Bridal Expo 11am-4pm. Boardwalk’s Coconut Grove. See the area’s best photographers, florists, caterers, bakers, wedding and reception venues, entertainment, and other more. Preregister to get $3 off the $8 door admission and be entered to win a romantic weekend getaway!

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm.

Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Ranch Tours 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Wilder Ranch. See Jan 5.

Bachata by the Sea 1pm-3pm (picnic) 3pm-4pm (class) 4pm-7pm (dancing).

Ongoing Sundays. 106 Beach St. See Jan 5.

Good Shepherd Catholic School Open House 1pm-3pm. Good Shepherd Catholic School. Explore preschool through 8th grade.

Sunday Seaside Crafts 1pm-3pm.

Ongoing Sundays. Seymour Center. See Jan 5.

Open House Holy Cross School. Meet the teachers and students, explore the campus, and learn more about the school program.

11:30 am – 2:00 pm. 150 Emmett Street, Santa Cruz For more information call 831423-4447 or go to holycsc.org Watsonville Nature Walks 1:30pm.

Ongoing Sundays. Watsonville Nature Center (30 Harkins Slough Road). See Jan 5.

Mount Madonna School’s high school production of “Pippin” 2pm.

Hawks’ Nest Theater. See Jan 24.

The Testing Block 3pm-4:30pm.

Capitola Community Center, 4400 Jade Street. Enjoy a special centennial showing of the movie, The Testing Block, a silent western shot in Capitola in 1920. There will also be refreshments, a display of theater memorabilia, and a short introductory talk by Curator Frank Perry. This event is presented by the Museum and sponsored by the Cabrillo College History Success Club. Free.

Nar-Anon Family Groups 6:30pm8:00pm. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. See Jan 5.

MONDAY 27 Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 6.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am-11:30am.

See Jan 7.

Death Café 10:30am-12pm. Downtown Library. A group directed discussion of death with no agenda, objectives or themes. It is not a grief support group or counseling session, just some folks getting together to eat cake and talk about death.

Learn more at deathcafe.com. Program provided by Hospice of Santa Cruz.

Bel El Baby Brunch 11am-12:30pm.

Temple Beth El 3055 Porter Gulch Rd, Aptos. Quality social time with parents and babies birth to age 3. Questions? Contact Sarah sclarkson@tbeaptos.org Knitting 11:15am-1pm. Ongoing Mondays.

Live Oak Library. See Jan 6.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Mondays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 2.

ARM-in-ARM Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Mondays.

WomenCARE Office. See Jan 6.

Knitting in the Library 3pm-4:30pm.

Ongoing Mondays. Scotts Valley Library.

See Jan 6.

Dungeons and Dragons 3:30pm6:30pm. Aptos Library. If you’ve been curious but unsure how to start, it’s time to roll the dice and join this campaign for beginners. An experienced D&Der will guide you, and all the necessary materials & manuals will be provided. 7th and 8th grader only.

The Santa Cruz Poetry Project 4pm5:30pm. Ongoing Mondays. Downtown Library. See Jan 6.

Word Church 4pm-8pm. Ongoing Mondays. Santa Cruz MAH. See Jan 6.

Cuéntame un Cuento 5:30pm-6:30pm.

Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 6.

information: (408) 387-0888.

Lego and Duplo Fun 1:30pm-3:30pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 7.

Movie Discussion Club 2pm-3pm. 3rd Tuesday. Aptos Library. Join our discussion of selective movies currently in the theaters.

All adults are welcome.

Homework Help 3pm-5pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte and Live Oak Library.

See Jan 21.

Chess Club 3:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Aptos Library. See Jan 7.

Tales to Tails 4pm-5pm. Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 8.

Seminario de Triple P: Cómo criar hijos resistentes 5:30pm-7pm. Bay View, 1231 Bay St. Ayudar a los niños a desarrollar importantes habilidades socioemocionales, tales como: Reconocer y expresar emociones de maneras saludables; Hacer frente a emociones difíciles. Gratis y abierto al público. Inscríbase para reservar su lugar y obtener el cuidado de sus niños gratis. Presentado en español. Liliana Zamora al (831) 724-2997 x212 o lilianaz@ cbridges.org o vea el calendario en! first5scc.org/calendar/parent-trainings

TUESDAY 28 Exploring Big Basin 9:30am-2pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Big Basin State Park.

See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 3 Weeks to 4 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. See Jan 7.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 6.

Preschool Storytime 10am-11am Aptos Library; 10:30am-11:30am Scotts Valley Library. Ongoing Tuesdays. See Jan 7.

One-on-One Tech Tutoring 10am12pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 5.

Downtown Tuesdays 10am-10pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Santa Cruz.

See Jan 7.

Tumble-On-Tuesdays at JuneBug’s Gym 12pm-3pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. See Jan 7.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm.

Ongoing Tuesdays. WomenCARE’s Office.

See Jan 7.

SLV New Parents Support Group 1pm2:30pm. Felton Library. Meet other new parents in your community. Get resources specific to your needs. Learn tips and tricks with a newborn. Led by postpartum doulas, and lactation counselors. For more

20 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Grupo de apoyo femenino del superviviente 6pm-7:30pm. Martes en curso. En Espanol. Ofrece un espacio seguro y de apoyo. Gratis. Actividades de cuidado de niños proporcionadas. 1685 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz. 425-4030.

24hr: 888 900-4232. Wcs-ddm.org Peggy Orenstein, Boys & Sex 7pm.

Bookshop Santa Cruz. In Boys & Sex, Peggy Orenstein dives back into the lives of young people to once again give voice to the unspoken, revealing how young men understand and negotiate the new rules of physical and emotional intimacy.

WEDNESDAY 29 Latch Clinic 9am-11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Dominican Rehab Lactation office 610 Frederick St. See Jan 8.

Preschool Storytime 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library.

See Jan 7.

One-on-One Tech Tutoring 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library. See Jan 5.

Mini Mint Mamas Meetup 11am12:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Mini Mint.

See Jan 8.

New Moms Support Group 11:30am1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Dominican Rehab Yoga/Pilates Room. 610 Frederick St. See Jan 8.

Friends of SCPL Downtown Book GiveAway 12pm-1:30pm. Downtown Library. We receive so many books that we are giving away the books we aren’t able to sell and make room for new books. Some gems, some books only eclectic lovers of discards would like. These are also great books for Free Little Libraries!

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym! 12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz.

See Jan 2.

Dance for Parkinson’s 1pm-2:15pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays except the first Wednesday of the month. Motion Pacific Dance. See Jan 8.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market 1pm-5pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Cedar and Lincoln St. Kids Club for kids K - 5th grade 1:30pm-5pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Felton Presbyterian Church, 6090 Hwy 9. See Jan 8.

DIY Crafts 2pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 4.

DIY Crafternoon 2:30pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 8.

R.E.A.D. Reach Every Amazing Detail 3pm-5pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library and Downtown Library. R.E.A.D. is one-on-one reading comprehension instruction for readers 2nd through 12th grade by California credentialed teachers.

Contact Programs 831.427.7717 or pro@ santacruzpl.org to make an appointment for a 25 minute session.

Code.org 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 8.

Circus Arts Class with Rock Lerum 3:30pm4:30pm. Last of the year, but will restart Jan 8. Orchard School. See Jan 8.

Afternoon STEAM 3:30pm-5pm. Aptos Library. See Jan 22.

Female Survivor Support Group 6pm7:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Monarch Services. See Jan 8.

Taller: Cómo hablar con adolescents sobre el uso de drogas 6pm-7:30pm.

La Manzana Recursos Comunitarios, 18 W. Lake Ave, Salón E, Watsonville.

Aprender: Cómo reconocer las señas de alerta que su adolescente quizás esté usando drogas; Pasos a tomar si usted cree que su adolescente está usando drogas.

Gratis y abierto al público. Inscríbase para reservar su lugar y obtener el cuidado de sus niños gratis. Presentado en español.

Gladys Gómez al (831) 724-2997 x220 o gladysg@cbridges.org o vea el calendario en! first5scc.org/calendar/parent-trainings

THURSDAY 30 Visit Santa Cruz County LBGTQ+ Hospitality Forum and Training 8am-12:30pm. Hotel Paradox. Hospitality industry training for hotel, restaurant, attraction, and retail staff to serve, enhance, and promote the Santa Cruz County vacation experience to the LBGTQ+ market. Reservations required.

Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting

EXTREMELY SPORTS 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. See Jan 2.

Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Thursdays. Aptos Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 6.

Working Together 10am-11:30am.

Ongoing Thursdays. Downtown Library.

See Jan 2.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am-11:30am.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Downtown Library.

See Jan 7.

Creative Exploration 11am-12pm.

Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

Moreland Notre Dame School Open House 5:30pm. 133 Brennan Street, Watsonville. Moreland Notre Dame School is a TK through 8th grade Catholic school founded in 1899 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. We are a school community committed to providing quality academic preparedness while educating our students for life.

Triple P 8-Week Group: For families with children 2-12 years old 6pm-8pm.

Ongoing Thursdays through Feb 27. San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School Library, 7155 Highway 9. See Jan 9.

Screenagers - The Next Chapter 6pm.

Good Shepherd Catholic School’s Gym. NEXT CHAPTER: UncoveringSkills for Stress Resilience—a film that examines the science behind teen’s emotional challenges, the interplay of social media, and what can be done in our schools and homes to help them build crucial skills to navigate stress, anxiety, and depression in our digital age.

Orin & Manjula Martin, Fruit Trees for Every Garden 7pm. Bookshop Santa Cruz. We welcome Orin Martin, manager of Alan Chadwick Garden at UCSC, and writer/editor Manjula Martin, Orin’s daughter, for a discussion and signing of their full-color guide covering everything you need to know about organically growing healthy, bountiful fruit trees.

FRIDAY 31 Toddler Time 10am-11am. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 6.

Infant/Toddler Workshop 11am11:45am. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

Ask Us: Downtown Outreach Worker Office Hours 12pm-4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm.

Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Big Basin State Park. See Jan 3.

Watsonville Farmers Market 2pm7pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Watsonville Plaza. See Jan 3.

Watsonville Queer Youth Meet-Up 3:30pm-6pm. Ongoing Fridays. First Christian Church. See Jan 3.

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. Calendar entries and photos will be selected by the Calendar Editor.

Adventures in Baja

Many surf there, fewer hike and bike.

BY KAREN KEFAUVER

When she’s not coaching people on using social media, Karen Kefauver is blazing trails on a bike We all know that stretching beyond our comfort zone can be a good thing.

So when I was invited to visit Baja in December, I jumped at the opportunity to renew my passport, rebuild my rusty travel skills and practice my even rustier Spanish. Plus, I’d never been to Baja.

Little did I know that I would bypass the beach, at least at first, and instead hike and bike!

First Step Outside my Comfort Zone

The only plan I had was to meet my Aunt Joy for a week in San Jose del Cabo in mid-December. My first step outside of my comfort zone was gifting myself another week of vacation! Years had slipped by without taking more than a week off, (which can happen easily if you own your own business!) But when I turned 50 a few months ago, I realized there’s no time to waste!

Second Step Outside My Comfort Zone

What did I want to do as a solo woman traveler? I turned to Trip Advisor and discovered Baja Sierra Adventures.

After reading stellar reviews, I took the plunge and signed up to join Edgardo Cortés, the company owner, on a threeday backcountry camping trip that would take us through remote, winding canyons, on steep hikes to secluded waterfalls, over rutted roads and to lush valleys, exploring by foot and by bike.

The details of the trip slowly fell into place though it was uncertain if anyone else would be joining us. Not knowing was

uncomfortable. It was a leap of faith to commit to the trip, show up with a wad of cash in US dollars as requested and hope I’d get to meet some fellow travelers.

When I landed in Cabo, I met Edgardo and instantly liked him. We hit the road to Santiago in his old, dusty Toyota pickup — a sure sign that this wasn’t the typical commercial outfitter. I learned that he had earned an engineering degree in Mexico City and then hunkered down in an office job. Until one day, he ditched it and moved to Santiago (population approximately 750), about an hour north of San Jose del Cabo. About 15 years ago, he launched his adventure tour company as a one-man operation.

Third Step Outside of My Comfort Zone

The trip unfolded like a dream over the next three days as we explored the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve (named for the Sierra La Laguna mountain range). Turns out, Edgardo brought his friend and guide-in-training, Alonso an experienced teacher and traveler with a graduate degree in marine biology. Each day, our trio trekked to different breath-taking destinations in San Jorge Canyon, Agua Caliente and San Dionisio Canyon. We scrambled over huge boulders to visit gushing waterfalls (thanks to unusually heavy rain), soaked in a heavenly, uncrowded hot spring, explored rock formations that looked like a moonscape, trekked narrow, and impossible-to-find trails (and sometimes

bushwhacked). It was fun when Jeff and Debbie, a couple from Washington, D.C. joined us for one day.

Sometimes, we’d pull the mountain bikes out of the truck and ride for miles towards the jagged mountains silhouetted on the horizon. While not a bike trip, per se, riding glorious, stretches on dirt roads or tree-lined paths was ideal given the heat – and no shock absorbers!

We camped at a family-owned, working ranch only accessed by bumping along a rock-strewn canyon road. My tent was pitched for me, amongst the crimson Bougonvilla and margaritas made. For dinner, Elvira, who was born on the ranch, made hot tortillas and served them with beans, rice, and beef, freshly made grapefruit juice, plus a heavenly mango preserve that had taken eight hours to stir by hand in a massive vat.

The biggest step outside my comfort zone was not understanding Spanish as well as I expected and feeling a little lonely when I couldn’t participate.

That vulnerability makes me more compassionate for those who speak English as a second language and also convinced me to improve my Spanish! While one part of my travels has come to an end now, I know my trip is just beginning!  For more information, including family trips for all ages, visit, Bajasierradventures.com.Karen Kefauver is a social media coach and freelance journalist based in Santa Cruz since 1994.

GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

21

FAMILY LAW Finding Common Ground in Parental Disagreements

BY BOB DERBER AND JUDGE PAUL MARIGONDA Parents who co-parent well may still encounter issues they cannot agree upon in raising their children. You might agree 90% of the time, but are stuck on that ‘one issue’ where resolution is difficult. Perhaps it is a summer vacation schedule, or a child who wants to participate in a sport that give you pause.

You know the worst outcome is conflict - as parental conflict always negatively impacts the children. What can you do?

An incredible resource our Superior Court offers is Family Court Services mediation. You may have used this resource when you were navigating custody or parent-time issues years ago during your divorce. But did you know that this mediation remains available, typically free of charge, to help you resolve a difficult issues that may arise years after your divorce is final?

The process is called Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC).

Families are entitled to three free hours of CCRC each year. CCRC is a process where you can present issues to a trained mediator (often a social worker with years of experience) for a recommendation resolution.

Getting started is easy. You agree to mediate using a form available online

(the form is a SUPCV-967, and can be found at santacruzcourt.org/formsfiling/local). Once filed, the court will issue an order that sets a date for the mediation. This is typically four to six weeks from the date the court receives the form.

Mediation occurs at the Watsonville courthouse (3rd Floor, 1 Second Street, Watsonville). Prior to mediation, there is a 4-page form you submit to give the mediator background information and to help you specifically frame your issues and your suggestion as to how they may be resolved. When matters involve a therapist or doctor, you may be asked to sign a release so the mediator can contact these individuals. If so, it is always best that you give these professionals some prior notice to expect a call by the mediator so that they are not surprised by the contact.

At your appointment, you may be interviewed together or separately. If you are able to reach an agreement immediately, the mediator will create a stipulation which you can sign right then and it will be filed with the court. If you are unable to reach agreement, the mediator may then choose to interview your child (if old enough), a teacher or a

health care provider if they think this can help find a solution.

In the mediation itself, each of you are interviewed for about a half-hour. The mediator asks several questions to better understand the circumstance. As well, the mediator has full access to your court records if s/he needs further information from that file.

After the mediator conducts any further background review that s/he deems appropriate, s/he will issue a written report outlining what was learned in the mediation. This report includes a recommended solution. The report is provided to both of you and filed with the court, but it is otherwise confidential.

You do not need to ask the court for an order concerning the issues you present at mediation. But if you want an order, the mediator’s recommendation is submitted to the court for it to adopt as the court’s order. This may be important if the order is needed by a third party, such as a physician or governmental entity. If you still disagree, the report is also available to the judge as input to consider if the matter required a judges decision.

Child Custody Recommending Counseling through our Family Court Services helps parents reach agreement

concerning custody and parenting time with their children. You do not need to be in serious conflict to ask for help through mediation. It is a service intended to help parents come to terms with issues they find difficult to resolve alone. The highly trained individuals at Family Court Services put family first and provide professional insight you may have overlooked. Since they can speak with a doctor, educator, or even your child, they can provide you with valuable information that you did not have. Oh, and did I say it is free?

The Superior Court’s online website has further information to help you determine if this can be helpful to you: santacruzcourt.org/divisions/family-court.  From the Bench: I am a parent as well as a judge. I know parents can both be wonderful caregivers to children but have disagreements in certain areas.

These disagreements can escalate if not addressed early. Take advantage of our court mediation services before they do.

Read us online for the top calendar of family events.

GrowingUpSC .com

Kairos Learning NEW K-8 LEARNING CENTER

We offer integrative homeschool classes & mentorship, nature-connection programs, and after-school activities.

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SPRING 2020 JANUARY TRIAL WEEK 6th-9th ___________________________________________________ Schedule a drop-in so your child can meet our mentors and experience our program before regular sessions begin! Register via our website.

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The Circle Church

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GREEN TIP Calling All Ideas: Waste-Free 2020

BY LISA CATTERALL

This teacher hopes that helping students cut waste will empower them to do more for the environment at home.

Periodically our faculty comes together to review our school’s mission statement and our three pillars of Academic Excellence, Positive Character Development, and Creative Self Expression. Often during our discussions, the idea of “environmental stewardship” as a fourth pillar arises.

Whether it is a pillar of our school, a

curriculum program crossing all ages, or a shared value infused throughout the community, it is something we strive to model for our students and children.

While reducing plastic waste is a very common goal in our homes and at our school, many of us deeply value the ability to bring our children joy during the celebrations of the holiday season.

Simply put, it can be easy to forget our commitment to stewardship of the earth at this time of year. In 12 years of teaching thoughtful and curious kids at Mount Madonna School (MMS), I’ve noticed that they feel empowered when we model the environmental principles we’re asking them to learn, uphold, and disseminate.

This year, I’m thinking more about how to balance my students’ requests for holiday parties and activities with our school’s environmental principles. I’m thinking about how to bring joy into my home without plastic packaging, plastic ribbon, plastic food containers, and without being any part of the limited life cycle of a manufactured product.

On our freshmen class trip to Catalina Island each spring, MMS students experience an institution that is very close to waste-free. It’s a school, and a camp, that grows a good part of its food, and manages to cater to enormous groups of students without one singleuse product. There is a large building where broken things that might be discarded on the mainland are saved and worked back into usefulness.

Once, when I was in Nigeria, I went to sit by the hotel pool and noticed that the cheap white plastic chair I was in had

been repaired. In America, these types of chairs cost just a few dollars and are discarded when they break. This chair had been stitched together carefully with wires; it was painstakingly saved and cared-for, then put back into use.

For whatever reason, economics or principles, these places showed me a mindfulness towards “disposable” objects that I rarely see around me in my daily life off the mountain. Our oceans need us all to embrace that kind of mindfulness, with every decision, every day. While some human effects on the environment are beyond our individual control, the cumulative effect of all of our daily decisions can make an enormous difference to our children’s future.

Will your family, and your class, make an effort to reduce waste this holiday season? If so, how will you do it? More importantly, how will we all do it together?  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.

Year of Less Waste

BY MEREDITH KEET Who has resolved to use less plastic and generate less waste in 2020?! We have! Here are some tips to start you off on your way towards changing your impact on the planet this year:

• • • •

•

•

• •

Eat less meat and dairy, even if just a little. This may be one of the most impactful things you can do.

Skip the air travel and adventure locally.

Try a waste challenge: choose a time period to collect your trash and then evaluate what trash you’ve created. How could you produce less the next time around?

•

Start composting or find a friend who does and can compost for you.

Shop used or repair what’s broken rather than buying new.

Walk/Bike or take public transport when you can.

Learn more about what’s happening with your local recycling center. What are they actually able to recycle and what items will likely end up in the landfill? The answers will suprise you!

Think circular-each product you use or wear, consider what it took to bring it to you and what will happen to it at the end of its life.

Be gentle with yourself. Don’t shoot for perfection, but rather small changes that will become easier with time and add up to make a big difference. You got this!

 Visit us at The Zero Shop!

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23

PHOTO STORY Early to Rise

Winter is the best time of year for sky photos. This is looking at Monterey from Pajaro Dunes. Photo by Brad Kava

Tara Redwood

Watercolor and marker on watercolor paper.

How many counties the size of Santa Cruz have three Nutcrackers?

These two are from the Santa Cruz City Ballet’s performance at Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater. Photos by Brad Kava

Josie Odom-Knight Age 8 Third Grade

Seussical Jr, a Musical Hit

Mount Madonna School's recent production of Seussical Jr

Faith Reyes Age 9 Fourth Grade Bea Miller as the whimsical prankster The Cat in the Hat, Photo by Sara Sobkoviak

Eighth grader Sophia Manzur as the flamboyant and colorful Mayzie le Bird. Photo by Sara Sobkoviak

24 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

LOCAL NEWS What is Cabrillo Planning to do with $274.1 Million?

Great things!

BY SUKI WESSLING Currently IT facilities at both campuses are outdated and not redundant. So if something bad happens to the Aptos campus (such as a fire season power outage), all IT goes offline.

This upgrade will add redundancy and update facilities, hardware, and software so the college is ready to meet IT challenges in the future.

Reconfigure Instructional Classrooms for Larger Lecture Halls - $11 Million

Graduation 2018. Photo By Kristin Fabos and fire agencies,” Wetstein says. “Right now they’re having to train folks over the hill. We should be doing that training here in our county for county jobs.”

And bonus: Yes, they will have a Live Fire Training Tower that they will set on fire, over and over!

IT and Facilities Allocation - $17 Million

The title of this one may be misleading. Wetstein points out that students detest the existing cavernous 250-seat lecture hall with its wooden seats. These new “larger” classrooms would be smaller and more comfortable, fitting a greater number of concurrent 75-seat classes in the same footprint.

Building Modernization – CA State Match - $3 Million

The State has already approved funds; Cabrillo just needs matching funds in order to move forward.

Critical Needs - $2.5 Million

Cabrillo is saving a small piece of the pie for what Wetstein refers to as those “oopsies” that projections can’t foresee.

Sammy the Seahawk giving out high-fives at the fourth grade experience. Photo by Christy Shults Local voters haven’t been fond of passing bonds lately, and Cabrillo hasn’t had one in sixteen years. The college was turned down by voters the last time they asked, so President Matthew Wetstein is trying to make sure this time that it’s clear that this upgrade of Cabrillo’s facilities is a sound investment for our county. Here are some highlights of where the money will go.

New Science Building - $84 Million

When Cabrillo College was founded in 1959, the personal computer wasn’t yet invented. Mobile phones—I mean, tricorders—hadn’t yet made their debut on Star Trek. Hip replacements, LEDs, hoverboards, and Post-It Notes were still in the distant future.

All that is to say, Cabrillo’s facilities are a little out of date.

“The idea here is to build a new building with modern fume hoods, ventilation system, and up-to-code to modern standards,” Wetstein explains.

“Essentially the modern labs that the students are going to see when they transfer or go into the workforce.”

That science is the biggest piece of the bond pie isn’t a surprise—Cabrillo is an important option for local STEM students who want to do their general education near home and then transfer to a four-year university. It also offers plenty of STEM-based AA degrees and certificates.

Library Renovation - $72.9 Million

Students still do read books, Wetstein is quick to point out. But the function of libraries has changed dramatically since the 60s.

“We’re envisioning a modern library rather than your father’s or grandfather’s version,” Wetstein jokes. “So much of our learning today is collaborative.”

Space-hogging periodicals and reference books are no more; these days students are looking for a library with collaborative work space, a tutoring center, and whiteboards...not to mention books!

Co-Locate All Student Services in 200 Building - $60.7 Million

Currently, students enrolling at Cabrillo get a good workout. In the space of a few hours they may be required to visit four different buildings on the hilly campus. As good as that may be for their health, it’s not so great from an administrative perspective.

The new building will have “everything you think about a student needing at the start of their career here,” Wetstein explains. That includes registration, financial aid, counseling, career planning, and even clubs.

Watsonville Public Safety Center - $23 Million

This new consolidated space for training our firefighters, police officers, and other public safety workers will have plenty of room for growth in South County.

“It’s drawn a lot of interest and support from the folks who run police

Breakthroughs happen here™

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GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

25

LOCAL NEWS (continued from page 5)

What’s the Future for Charter Schools? teachers] decide not to go get credentialed, those positions will be open and charters will be looking to fill them.”

Furthermore, charters like Linscott depend on part-time uncredentialed teachers and parents for non-core subjects such as music and PE. Eventually, anyone teaching students will be required to have a credential.

The curriculum requirements will also have a dampening effect on charter schools, effectively outlawing widely used alternative curricula like Singapore Math or Beast Academy if it is not stateapproved.

2. Districts are allowed to reject new charters or material revisions to existing charters on several new grounds, including whether they will have a negative impact on a district’s finances or whether they reflect the demographics of the host district.

Previously, when a district rejected a petition for a charter, the petitioners could go to the

What changed on January 1?

These things change under the new law: 1. Charters will have to adhere more closely to the Education Code in areas like curriculum and hiring.

From the perspective of administration, this is seen as a welcome change. Currently, district-sponsored charters already follow this model, and this change will bring independent charters into line. “[District-supported charters] are treated very much like other traditional public schools, with a little more flexibility,” Sabbah explains. “The teachers are part of the union. [In the] the curriculum and the content, there’s usually a continuity between those schools and other public schools.”

Some charter leaders see these changes as potentially devastating. For example, Wiley responds to the requirement that charters hire only credentialed teachers by pointing out California’s desperate teacher shortage.

“If [currently uncredentialled

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State for approval. The result was a “hostile” charter, operating within a district but completely free from district oversight.

Santa Cruz County has five such charter schools. The one that has gotten the most press is Pacific Collegiate. PCS squeaked under the line by getting its charter renewed before the law took effect Jan. 1. That gives the school a fiveyear window in which to address two issues under the new law, both of which are fundamental to many charters created under the 1992 law The first issue is the law allows districts to reject changes to existing charters or reject new charters that would take students from traditional public schools.

“If we’re creating a new charter school and [it] is going to take 250 students in its first year, then those students would be coming from a traditional public school for the most part,” Sabbah concedes. “I don’t think we could argue that it wouldn’t have a fiscal impact.”

In other words, any district that doesn’t want a new charter, for any reason, will be able to deny the charter simply under the fiscal impact provision. And existing charters will have to cap their student enrollment at current levels.

“Contrary to common belief, charter schools do not take students away from traditional public schools,” argues Reitano.

“Rather, parents and families choose PCS because they see a model of high-quality, rigorous academic and arts instruction.”

“It would be easy for an authorizer to say, ‘You’re going to take kids from regular public schools so of course you’re going to impact us financially,” Wiley points out. “It certainly could gut the whole system.”

The second is a problem that PCS has been working to address: its intense, college-prep atmosphere has not attracted a diverse student body that reflects the overall demographics of Santa Cruz.

Under the new law, the school could face trouble when it is up for renewal in five years.

“Our charter renewal petition for 2020-2025 term includes a Diversity Plan,” Reitano says. “So we anticipate the impact of AB 1505 to be minimal.”

PCS’s plan was set back in December when the District denied its petition to add a sixth

grade. PCS is appealing that decision.

3. There is a two-year moratorium on all new non-classroom based and online charter schools.

This provision of AB 1505 directly addresses a problem identified by Dr. Sabbah.

“Programs would establish themselves and provide IS (independent study) services for students all over the state without any connection with the community or any benefit to the community,” Dr. Sabbah says.

One such program is Ocean Grove Charter School (OGCS), which was chartered in San Lorenzo Valley Unified but serves students in five counties.

OGCS is extremely popular with homeschoolers, who use it as an umbrella organization rather than setting up their own private school. It provides credentialed teachers who guide students in their independent studies, plus funds paid directly to approved outside vendors for materials and instruction.

Given that OGCS is already in operation, it is grandfathered in under the new law, but any planned expansion is on hold for at least two years.

“It’s important to note that these bills came amid a flurry of negative news articles alleging shady business operations of homeschool/virtual charter school operators, specifically Valiant (A3) and Inspire,” Cynthia Rachel, Director of Communications for IEM Schools, OGCS’s parent organization, wrote in a note to staff. “The inappropriate actions of some have ramifications that will impact us all.”

Because the new provisions in this law have not yet been tested on charter renewals, only time will tell whether independent charters will be able to survive combative relationships with their host districts.

LOCAL NEWS (continued from page 5)

Do Charter Schools Work?

BY SUKI WESSLING Charter school proponents point out that, in fact, the competitive marketplace has worked. Dr. Sabbah points out with pride that the County Board of Education created its own independent study program like OGCS with their OASIS program.

Would the district have been moved to support independent study without outside pressure? Charter advocates believe they wouldn’t.

Charter school advocates also point out that the success of charters is based on exactly what the new law is going to do away with: First, taking students from traditional public schools whose needs weren’t being served, and second, offering a fundamentally different approach that is not based on California’s Education Code.

“Now that charter schools are being successful and kids are gaining in academic achievement, it feels like the legislators or powers that be are saying, ‘Well, that’s not fair because you weren’t playing by the same rules everybody else was’,” Julie Wiley points out.

An OGCS teacher who doesn’t want

to be identified says the accusation that charter schools aren’t held accountable angers her. “If any of my students are in the red on the California Dashboard, we have to do a tremendous amount of planning. We have to call a student study team (SST) where we write specific goals, go over curriculum, and plan everything out. There’s a huge push to increase student success. I feel like it’s intrusive on the family and focuses on testing and standards, which is why families are leaving the traditional schools.”

But Dr. Sabbah says that he is very supportive of charters—as long as they are answerable to the district. He says he is particularly proud of the Districtcreated Career Advancement Charter, which serves young adults who are seeking a diploma.

The future for charters: bright or murky?

“When I first came to Linscott, I came home and said, ‘This is nirvana, I’ve died and gone to heaven’,” Cynthia Wiley remembers. “But the changes that have happened in the last few years feel anticharter, though it may not be intended that way.”

What will be the future of charter schools?

“How are we going to get these kids educated if we aren’t given the freedom to do what we promise we will do for them?” asks the OGCS teacher. “If we were doctors and they were doing this, we would be protesting. But we’re all just sitting back and letting it happen.”

Wiley says that the success of her charter school is pretty simple.

“The teachers here are just incredible.

They don’t give up on kids, they keep working until kids make progress.”

Despite the tension between charters and districts, Superintendent Sabbah points out that Santa Cruz is a generally welcoming place for charter schools, especially under his leadership.

“As an administrator, educator, and parent, I believe in choice,” says Dr. Sabbah. “I believe in finding the programs that best have that connection to students. In some cases an ISP may be the best model. In some cases, a more traditional six-period schedule is the best thing for a student. We need to offer choice to families.”  Suki Wessling is a local writer and the mother of two children who attended public, charter, and private schools in Santa Cruz County (including Linscott).

She teaches at Athena’s Advanced Academy and writes about parenting, education, and gifted children. Read more at SukiWessling.com.

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GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

27

NOW ENROLLING for 2020-2021 School Year

ART CLASSES

4 Week Session plus Showcase at First Friday in Downtown Felton Ages 8-12

Character and Cartooning

Students will explore the world of cartooning and creating their own expressive characters using classic techniques and materials. As they invent their characters from their imagination they will get the chance to learn penciling, inking and colored pencil skills.

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Jan-Mar 2020 Tickets for Snazzy shows: Help the Community • Help Local Businesses • Help Local and Traveling Musicians Help Yourself, Family and Friends to an Evening of Great Entertainment and, of course, Snazzy Productions, bringing great entertainment to the Monterey Bay for 35 years.

For Gift Certificates: please visit snazzyproductions.com or call a real person at 831-479-9421.

Fred Eaglesmith Tues, Feb 11 7:30 pm $30 Gen Adv. $40 Gold Circle

Tif Ginn

Riders in the Sky

Sat, Mar 7 7:30 pm $27 Gen Adv. $40 Gold Circle

Snazzy at Michael’s On Main Wed, Jan 8 Sun, Jan 26

7:30 pm 1:00 pm

Shady Rest Band (Dance Show) 21+ Paperboys

Sat, Jan 4

7:30 pm

Chuck Brodsky

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Snazzy at The Ugly Mug

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28 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

$20 Adv/$23 Door

FINANCE California Gets an A for College Saving Plan

BY STEVE DINNEN

More than 320,000 people are taking advantage of California’s college savings plan.

A new review by Morningstar has ranked California’s college-savings plan as one of the best in the nation.

Morningstar, which tracks the performance of mutual funds, said that California’s ScholarShare College Savings Plan was upgraded to its highest ranked Gold category after the state program’s board voted to enhance management of its age-based portfolios.

Starting in February, 2020, those investments will be put on a progressive glide path – an industry best practice, said Morningstar – as “it smooths the transitions from stocks to bonds and reduces the risk of making a large shift out of equities just after a market dip, when there’s a potential to lock in losses.”

The plan’s portfolios also rank among the most affordable in the industry

within their respective categories.

College savings plans offered by most states allow people to set aside money in mutual funds that grow free of taxes when used for qualifying education expenses for a child. While they are branded as college savings plans, recent changes in federal legislation now allow ScholarShare money to be used on qualifying K-12 expenses, as well.

ScholarShare, scholarshare529. com, offers a number of index and actively managed funds, similar to what investors would see in a workplace 401(k) plan. The program is run by the state treasurer’s office, while most of its $8.3 billion in assets are managed by firms such as TIAA-CREF. When you contribute to the ScholarShare College Savings Plan, any account earnings are federal and California income tax-deferred, according to its website.

In addition, up to $10,000 annually per student, in aggregate from all 529 plans, can be withdrawn free from federal tax if used for tuition expenses at a public, private or religious elementary, middle, or high school.

Contributions to a ScholarShare account may help you reduce the taxable

value of your estate. Contributions to the Plan, together with all other gifts from the account owner to the beneficiary, may qualify for an annual federal gift tax exclusion of $15,000 per donor ($30,000 for married contributors), per beneficiary.

More than 20,000 new ScholarShare 529 accounts were opened this year, bringing the total number of accounts to more than 327,000. Plan assets approach $10 billion, and nearly $3 billion of qualified withdrawals are made for higher education since the plan’s inception.

Morningstar said it annually rates plans across five key pillars: Process, People, Parent, Price, and Performance Only four state plans besides California’s merit that Gold rating.

If there is a weak link in ScholarShare’s chain it lies with its tax deductibility.

While most states grant a tax deduction for contributions, California has not allowed that practice. It also taxes withdrawals (though not earnings as they are being accumulated.)

The San Francisco Chronicle reported earlier this year that a bill had been introduced to allow state taxpayers a deduction of as much as $10,000 for money they put into ScholarShare.

Similar legislation has failed in the past.

GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

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COUNTY SCOOP Upgrades Coming to Local Parks

BY ZACH FRIEND, COUNTY SUPERVISOR

LEO's Haven Plan.

Seacliff Parkv.

Many parks in the mid and south county haven’t been fully updated in quite some time. Over time, equipment has become safer, more interactive and also more inclusive - ensuring that children of all abilities have the ability to play in our parks. Over the last few years we’ve begun to upgrade many local parks and new plans are in the works.

Here is an overview of some of the recent upgrades as well as what’s planned for parks in the mid and south county.

inclusive play area, a new parking area, a new restroom building, off-leash dog areas, bike pump track, community garden and more. LEO’s Haven is a remarkable community-County partnership that will ensure that all kids - regardless of ability - will have a place to play in our County. It grand opening is 10-11:30a.m. Jan. 18 at 1975 Canticleer Ave. Santa Cruz.

LEO’s Haven at Chanticleer Park

Phase one of the County’s first allinclusive playground for children of all abilities is well under construction and anticipated to open in the coming year. Park improvements include a new

Seacliff Village Park

When the first phase of Seacliff Village Park opened a few years ago it was the start of fulfilling a promise that had been made to the community well over a decade ago. That promise was for a neighborhood park for all ages and interests that would include

a playground, skateable art feature, walking trail, public art, restrooms and other community-focused features.

Recently, some of these elements have come closer to reality and over the next few months new upgrades will be coming to Seacliff Village Park. Working in partnership with the non-profit Friends of Santa Cruz County Parks and community funders we anticipate a new skate feature to be installed.

Additionally, the County just approved funding for new permanent restrooms at the park.

Hidden Beach Park

We joined with County Parks and the Rio Del Mar Improvement Association for a recent outreach meeting to discuss upgrades to Hidden Beach Park. This park is a local jewel and has created memories for many in Aptos. The park needs some upgrades and the focus here is on ensuring that options exist for kids of multiple age ranges (to ensure that they don’t age out of the park as quickly) as well as kids with differing abilities (as the park doesn’t have many inclusive options) be included. Joining in partnership with some local community members that are helping fundraise for

the park, the County is looking at options that could see a groundbreaking in late winter or early spring. New climbing options, new safe surfaces, modern and safer equipment are all part of the initial thought process. But your feedback is important and any ideas you might have for the park would be appreciated!

Pinto Lake Park

Last year we were able to place a new pump track at Pinto Lake Park - the first pump track in south county. The pump track has varying areas of challenge to encourage young riders as well as older kids to use the space. It’s integrated just across the parking lot from the popular soccer fields, which gives another recreational option for families using the picnic areas or soccer fields. ď ˝ How can I learn more about the Friends of Santa Cruz County Parks?

Visit countyparkfriends.org. Interested in learning more about our local parks?

You can download the free My Santa Cruz County app from the app store or visit the County Parks website at scparks.com. As always, I welcome your feedback. Feel free to stop by my open office hours in Aptos, Corralitos, Watsonville or Seascape or give me a call at 454-2200.

 �� � � ­

30 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

COUNTY SCOOP Judges Matter

BY ANNRAE ANGEL How did United States Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, “the notorious RBG,” attain superstar status, become the subject of multiple biopics and gain a viral Internet following at the age of 86? Is it just because she is one impressive individual? Or is it because Americans are coming to realize how much judges matter? I would say, both. The high-profile confirmation hearings of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh further underscored the gravity and power of the judiciary at the national level, albeit in a different way.

Local county judges in our California superior courts, in contrast, rarely get the careful attention they deserve. When you see a judge election on the ballot, what do you feel? Guilt? Anxiety? Confusion?

As it turns out, many voters just skip the question, or guess. Campaigns for judges are never loud and flashy, and many judge candidates run unopposed. But county superior court judges matter, too.

Whether we are victims of a theft, fighting a traffic ticket, negotiating bankruptcy, settling a divorce, or worse, superior court judges directly touch our lives. Whether we vote or not, we are the people responsible for who becomes a

judge. Judges matter. They matter in the lives of people we don’t know, and then one day they matter in the lives of people we know.

We need to be certain we can trust our judges. We need the system to be fair, to reflect our community values. Judges need to speak to us in a way that helps us to respect the law. But we have trouble knowing much about these people, for good reason. Judges are not supposed to be political, but we vote for them, like we vote for district attorneys, senators and county supervisors. As a result, the legal system can feel confusing and obscure.

This needs to change.

Over my three-decades in civil, family, and criminal law, I have argued thousands of cases in superior courts in front of many judges. I have learned from these judges and seen a range of solutions to problems that confront communities every day. A good judge listens carefully, treats everyone fairly, compassionately and with dignity, and decides each case ethically. These are values that cannot be taken for granted.

The other day, I was sitting in the courtroom, listening to the story of a young man who made a serious mistake

Moreland Notre Dame Educating Students for Life

when he was 16 years old. He stole a bicycle from a neighbors’ garage. The judge in that case treated the offender firmly, but with compassion and warmth.

He held the youth responsible for his actions and provided a clear path forward for him to learn from his mistake and compensate the victim. He connected the young man with help under strict oversight. That’s the kind of judge we need in Santa Cruz, a judge who cares about outcomes.

As a long-time resident of Santa Cruz County, where I have raised two children while working, I have seen the many ways judges matter. In Santa Cruz County, we can protect our community from violent and other crimes by improving how we manage young offenders in the courts, and how we address drug and mental health offenses. We need to take advantage of the best practices from around the state, to bring drug and mental health services into the courtrooms, to improve the juvenile justice system, and to short-circuit the cycle of re-offense. We need to take conscious action to select our judges.

This coming March, a judge race will be on the ballot. Don’t skip it or guess,

Annrae Angel is one of three candidates running for Santa Cruz County Judge. study it and be an informed voter. Judges matter. Early voting starts February 3.  Annrae Angel is running for Santa Cruz Superior Court judge. To hear judicial candidates present their opinions before the March 3 election, check meetings at dwscc.org

Baymonte Christian School offers a distinctively Christian and highly academic education in a loving and supportive environment.

Discover Kindergarten at Baymonte!

Join us for our

Kindergarten Information Event Sunday, February 2

at 2 p.m.

Culwell Den

Learn about our award winning program Explore our classrooms Providing a quality Catholic education that nurtures academic excellence in a faith-filled community for children TK - 8th grade.

Join us for our

Open House January 30th 5:30pm mndschool.org

133 Brennan St. Watsonville 728-2051 Moreland Notre Dame School

mnd_school

Meet our teachers, staff and principal Children are welcome

Receive a 10% Discount Attend our event and complete enrollment by February th to receive a

10% tuition discount for the school year.

RSVP to admissions@baymonte.org or 831.438.0100

www.baymonte.org

Baymonte Christian School 5000-B Granite Creek Road Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831.438.0100

GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE SCHOOLS Baymonte Christian School 5000-B Granite Creek Road Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831.438.0100 baymonte.org Baymonte Christian School serves infants through eighth grade students at our three beautiful Scotts Valley campuses.

Baymonte offers a distinctively Christian and highly academic education in a loving and nurturing environment. Serving the Santa Cruz county since 1968, Baymonte students work together with passionate, qualified teachers, gaining a strong academic and spiritual foundation, graduating well-prepared for what lies ahead. If you or someone you know is interested in getting more information about the infant, toddler or preschool programs or kindergarten – eighth grade classes contact us today! We also offer a generous financial assistance program. baymonte.org Chartwell School 2511 Numa Watson Road, Seaside 831.394.3468 chartwell.org Chartwell School, located in Seaside, educates students who are struggling in mainstream classroom settings; including those students with learning challenges like dyslexia. Chartwell considers each student’s unique needs to provide them with the academic skills, confidence, and creativity needed to meet the challenges of future educational endeavors. Students in grades 2–8 acquire academic skills as they are taught from a research-based curriculum which emphasizes multi-sensory phonemic aware- ness. For students in grades 9-12, the college prep program delivers project- based learning and related field experiences. Students can also experience the 4-week summer program which emphasizes literacy and enrichment skills.

Cypress Charter High School 2039 Merrill St. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831-477-0302 cypress.santacruzcoe.org Cypress Charter High School graduates self-actualized citizens who utilize creativity, critical-thinking, and a comprehensive worldview, to be engaged and informed members of their communities. Cypress fosters a diverse student body through an inclusive community where each individual

is seen and valued. Students utilize critical thinking skills in real-world applications, achieving personal and academic growth through a student-centered learning environment and a college preparatory curriculum.

Gateway School, K-8 255 Swift Street, Santa Cruz 831.423.0341 ext 302 gatewaysc.org Gateway School, founded in 1970 is an independent, co-ed day school in Santa Cruz, CA for students in grades Kindergarten through 8th. We are a community dedicated to nurturing academic excellence and intellectual curiosity, high character and personal compassion, and individual agency and engagement. We seek to prepare children to care for themselves, each other, and the world. We are the only K-8 school in Santa Cruz accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools. We invite all families interested in Gateway School to visit, ask questions, and get to know our community! For more information and to schedule a tour, please call or visit our website.

Good Shepherd Catholic School Preschool - 8th grade 2727 Mattison Lane Santa Cruz 95065 831.476.4000 gsschool.org Welcoming children o f all faiths from preschool through eighth grade, our highly qualified faculty and staff provide a wellrounded curriculum that is project-based and faith driven. Spanish, art, music and coding classes are part of the school’s curriculum with technology integrated throughout the school day. The school’s focus on community service gives the students numerous opportunities to learn and practice Catholic social teachings firsthand. Students may participate in the school’s highly successful interscholastic sports program including golf, flag football, basketball, lacrosse and soccer beginning at grade two. After-school care is available until 5:30 PM. Please join us at our annual Open House on Sunday, January 26 from 1-3PM. For more information, call 831.476.4000 or visit our website at gsschool.org.

Holy Cross School 150 Emmett Street, Santa Cruz 831.423.4447 holycsc.org For 157 years, Holy Cross School has provided children with a Catholic

32 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

education grounded in strong academics and values. Our fully accredited program provides an academically rich experience in a faith-based community from preschool through eighth grade. Highly qualified and dynamic teachers engage students in meaningful learning opportunities. In addition to a core curriculum of math, language arts, science, social studies and Spanish, student programs include technology, art, music, Life Lab, P.E., competitive sports, student leadership and public speaking. Holy Cross is committed to serving the community through service projects, and a hallmark of our school is the strong partnership with parents. Please call (831) 423-4447 for a personal tour of our school!

Kairos Learning 111 Errett Circle, Santa Cruz, CA 95065 831-247-9930 info@kairoslearningcommunity.com kairoslearningcommunity.com Kairos Learning facilitates deep experiential learning for children, by offering K-8 homeschool & after-school programs. The curriculum for our K-5 homeschool programs interweaves foundational knowledge & fundamental academic skills with nature-connection, permaculture, art, music, theatre, and movement. For 6th-8th graders, we offer core & supplemental classes, personal mentors, customized learning plans, and open tutoring hours. Kairos Learning emboldens children to navigate their unique learning pathways, in a community-oriented space. We facilitate this mission by providing mentorship, intentionally crafted learning experiences, opportunities for inspired action within the local community & landscape, and workshops & events for families and the larger Santa Cruz community.

Kirby School Grades 6 through 12 425 Encinal St, Santa Cruz 831.423.0658 kirby.org Kirby School empowers students to shape their futures with confidence.

Our independent, non-sectarian middle and high school has been preparing students for college for 25 years. In classes averaging 12 students, teachers are responsive to each learner’s strengths and interests. Our rigorous academic and arts curriculum, intensive study paths, and inspiring faculty challenge each student based on their interests and readiness, rather than grade level. Kirby graduates go on to attend excellent four-year colleges and universities.

Moreland Notre Dame School 133 Brennan Street, Watsonville (831) 728-2051 mndschool.org Moreland Notre Dame School is a TK through 8th grade Catholic school founded in 1899 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. We are a school community committed to providing quality academic preparedness while educating our students for life. MND seeks to express the goodness of God by fostering a sense of family, a safe environment where each child is treated as sacred, justice and service to others is expected, and diversity

is welcomed and celebrated. Located in the heart of Watsonville, Moreland Notre Dame has been educating students for life for 120 years.

Mount Madonna School, Pre/K12th grade 491 Summit Road, Mount Madonna 408.847.2717 MountMadonnaSchool.org Mount Madonna School: bridging tradition and innovation, where individuals are honored and community is celebrated. Imagine ONE school, where your preschooler can move through to kindergarten and elementary, be part of a middle school community and graduate from high school! Offering a play-based hybrid Pre/K program on a 375-acre forested campus, mixedgrade buddy activities, environmental education, performing and visual arts, competitive middle and high school athletics (2019 D-V California state girls volleyball champions!) and excellent academics. We strive to prepare wellrounded human beings who succeed in college, value collaboration, form meaningful relationships and engage with their communities, nation and the world.

Transportation available, with convenient bus stops throughout Santa Cruz County.

Orchard School K-6 2288 Trout Gulch Road Aptos, CA 95003 831-688-1074 orchardschoolaptos.org Orchard School is a small, independent school set on a 14-acre campus with climbing trees, meadows, an organic garden, farm animals and no concrete.

We create magic together in this amazing setting with a down-to-earth educational philosophy that nourishes the developing child, while honoring and celebrating childhood. Small classes in core academics taught by specialized teachers provide hands-on, individualized instruction. Other weekly classes include drama, circus, art, music, Spanish, leadership training, and gardening. All students participate in theater productions, help grow food for our hot lunch program and care for our animals. Such opportunities provide life-shaping experiences that keep children excited and engaged about learning.

Salesian Elementary and Junior High School TK-8 605 Enos Lane, Corralitos 831-728-5518 info@salsianschool.org salesianschool.org For more than 40 years, Salesian Elementary and Junior High has been empowering youth with knowledge, faith and love! Located five miles from Highway 1, our beautiful hillside campus has the spirit of a home where every child feels loved. Rooted in the Catholic faith, we are a school that celebrates childhood, fosters a passion for learning, and develops moral depth through acts of service. Credentialed teachers and staff educate the whole child with a balanced curriculum that includes art, music, Spanish, and physical education. Our 50-acre campus also provides endless opportunities for students to learn from the natural environment.

We welcome all families to attend our

Open House on January 12th, from 2-4pm.

Personal tours are alsom available!

Santa Catalina School 1500 Mark Thomas Drive Monterey 831.655.9300 santacatalina.org Founded in 1950 and set against the scenic backdrop of Monterey, Santa Catalina School is an independent, Catholic, boarding and day school for girls in grades 9-12 with a diverse student body and strong local roots. We challenge students to achieve excellence in every arena, from rigorous academics—including a marine ecology program that takes advantage of access to Monterey Bay—to competitive athletics in 12 sports to an arts program with professional-quality facilities. In a warm community that values spirituality and service, Catalina girls become young women prepared to lead and achieve in college and beyond.

Santa Cruz Montessori, Ages 18 months – 15 years Main Campus (Primary and Elementary) 6230 Soquel Drive, Aptos 831.476.1646, Enrollment: ext. 12 scms.org Winston Campus (Young Children’s Community and Jr. High) 244 Cabrillo College Drive, Soquel 831.476.1646, Enrollment: ext. 12 scms.org Established in 1964, Santa Cruz Montessori is a non-profit school serving children 18 months to 15 years. Our beautiful classrooms and outdoor environments engage the children’s senses as they learn. Based on a deep understanding of child through adolescent development, our programs meet the interests and needs of our students, engaging and challenging them to do their best. We offer a supportive community of learners and an exciting Montessori curriculum including humanities, math, sciences and arts. Our mission: as a Montessori learning community, we inspire life-long learning and a more peaceful world by nurturing the natural development of the whole child.

Santa Cruz Waldorf School, PreK-8 2190 Empire Grade, Santa Cruz 831.425.0519 enrollment@santacruzwaldorf.org Santa Cruz Waldorf School nurtures the whole human being in every individual, cultivating capacity of head, heart and hands. We offer a rich and balanced curriculum in which intellectual and artistic development are both vital and fully integrated. Specialty teachers work alongside class teachers to provide students with diverse experiences in language, movement, music, arts, athletics and gardening. Our magical, rural campus is nestled in the redwoods above USCS. Our community is warm and joyful. We are committed to protecting childhood, supporting each individual, respecting nature and all life. Santa Cruz Waldorf School cultivates self-directed, empathetic and free-thinking individuals with the courage and capacities to serve an everevolving humanity.

Spring Hill School 250 California Street, Santa Cruz 831.427.2641 springhillschool.org/ Spring Hill - A Design Thinking School, Preschool-6th grade. Spring Hill is a community of educators and families who inspire children’s curiosity and love of learning. As a Design Thinking school, Spring Hill teachers cultivate a strengthsbased learning environment that instills confidence and the willingness to risk imperfection. As practiced at the Stanford Design School, and whether it is being used to resolve conflict, address a social issue, or engineer an invention, Design Thinking provides a framework in which children grow and thrive. Contact us to schedule a tour: info@springhillschool.org 831-427-2641 springhillschool.org Find us on Facebook.

Tara Redwood School Redwood Campus – 5810 Prescott Road, Soquel Village Campus – 4746 Soquel Ave, Soquel 831.462.9632 and 831.475.0201 tararedwoodschool.org Tara Redwood School uses a global curriculum that follows an original framework known as the 7 Steps to Knowledge, Strength and Compassion developed over a period of 30 years. It is a blend of Montessori and Creating Compassionate Cultures (CCC) methodologies to offer children a strong academic foundation, rich in the sciences and emotional intelligence combined with the arts. The CCC pedagogy provides a unique social emotional component that nurtures the children’s innate positive qualities while empowering them to make a positive impact on the world through their thoughts and actions. Our school strives to offer a stimulating learning experience through daily outdoor immersion in our Redwood Campus which is situated on 108 acres of redwood forest in Soquel.

We offer an integrated, environmentally conscientious approach to learning about the world around us and within us.

Preschool – 6th Grade

CHARTER SCHOOLS Pacific Coast Charter School 294 Green Valley Road, Watsonville 831.786.2180 pccs.pvusd.net Pacific Coast Charter School is a K-12 homeschool/independent studies charter within for the Pajaro valley United school District. We offer a unique blend of home, community, and campus-based learning that gives students the opportunity to realize their potential through personalized educational plans which complement their diverse learning styles. Students work 20 hours a week on school work and attend optional on-site general and college prep classes or enrichment workshops 2- 3 times per week. We provide We provide credentialed teachers, free tutoring and a wide variety of standards-based curriculum to assist your child to reach their fullest academic potential.

SLVUSD Charter School 325 Marion Ave, Ben Lomond 831-335-0932 charter.slvusd.org/ Founded in 1993, we continue to maintain student-centered learning built on strong connections between teachers, students, and parents. A responsive social environment and parent involvement are essential to our school. We integrate Life Skills into students learning, using collaboration and creativity to foster personalized interests. We have many program options. Based on the scholaradventurer, Nature Academy (6-8) offers a 5 day-a-week program to challenge students. We have six hybrid-homeschool programs that support individualized pacing and passions Coast Redwood High School (9-12), Quail Hollow Integrated Arts (6-8), Coast Redwood MS (6-8), Quail Hollow (K-5), Fall Creek (K-5), Mountain Independent Study (K-6).

ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES: Adventure Sports Unlimited 303 Potrero St., #15, Santa Cruz 831.458.3648 asudoit.com Adventure Sports Unlimited (ASU) is the premier school for aquatics instruction in Santa Cruz. We teach infants through adults the joy of water through our swim, SCUBA and our many ocean adventure programs. Learning about our natural environment through swim opens the doors to an active and healthy lifestyle for all ages. The ASU Swim School blends comprehensive swim instruction with water play. Our custom-built facility consists of a tropically heated pool, play space for before/after class, deck with umbrellas and heaters, and observation room overlooking the pool. We want to make your entry into the water world truly enjoyable. (use logo) The Bookakery www.BookakeryBoxes.com Looking for a fun, interactive learning experience? Bookakery Boxes are a monthly subscription box filled with a hardback picture book, kid-friendly recipe card, baking tools, and an activity.

Each Bookakery Box is curated to foster a love of reading and baking in kids and encourages parent-child activities.

Bookakery Boxes facilitate activity-based learning of reading, following instructions, counting and more. Bookakery Boxes are perfect for preschoolers and early elementary age children as they head back to school and throughout the year.

International Student Services Santa Cruz 831-419-9633 sandispan@aol.com Host Families being sought now. The making of a friendship between families here and overseas is an amazing experience providing enriching connections for a lifetime. Getting to know about our world through their eyes and the sharing of cultures makes the world smaller and creates an understanding in love and acceptance. It is a lot of fun! Make a friend you can visit. Here's the info to have this happen for your family: Summer groups

from Italy & France, visiting for two & three weeks. High School Term kids from Italy & Germany. Student interests: Tennis, soccer, art, Scouts, cooking!

Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center 2750 B Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz 831.462.0655 Scgym.com We at Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center understand how important physical movement is to develop a healthy brain in children. Healthy brain development leads to proficiency in learning and overall confidence to lead a successful life. Our gymnastics instructors take pride in offering gymnastics training packed with a lot of fun in every class. Each lesson offers a wide range of sensory integration activities through the usage of our gymnastics equipment on floor, bars, balance beam, vault, trampolines, parallel bars and foam pit. We offer a wide range of classes and special activities to the new walking toddlers through teenage girls and boys. Check out our website to see what is available for your children today.

Santa Cruz Soccer Camp 831.246.1517 For over 30 years our vision of joy and adventure remains. Almost all coaches have been young players who joined the harmony and magic of the camp, and have graduated through our Leadership Development Program. From the inspiration and resonance experienced at Delaveaga Park during 10 week long camps, the coaches and directors are in service to the new paradigm celebrating the Evolution of Competition.

PRESCHOOLS Coastal Community Preschool 900 High Street, Santa Cruz 831.462.5437 coastalcommunitypreschool.org CCP serves children ages 2.3 years to entry into kindergarten with a safe, stimulating, and caring learning atmosphere. We have a curriculum that encourages development at each child’s own pace. Among our program highlights, we offer flexible year-round schedules, a highly experienced teaching staff, and a bright, secure West side location overlooking the Monterey Bay. Join us as we continue working with parents and caregivers to raise a community of strong, confident and happy children.

Rose Blossom Preschool & Kindergarten 831.662.8458 roseblossom.org Rose Blossom Preschool & Kindergarten offers preschool, pre-k, and kindergarten for children ages 2.5 – 6.5. Age-appropriate academic games and curriculum are interspersed with free-choice play time.

Music, art, and creative play are included every day. Compassionate Communication provides a foundation on which to build a respectful, cooperative community of children, teachers, and parents. The children thrive and are happy in the safe and peaceful environment. Programs include monthly musical performances by the children, an annual Trike-a-Thon, and community events.

Our goal is for the children at Rose Blossom to enjoy learning and be prepared for their next school experiences.

GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

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COLORING CONTEST

Color this local drawing of winter in Santa Cruz and enter our drawing to win three free tickets to the San Jose Children’s Discovery Museum. Send entries to editor@growingupsc.com or to Box 3505, Santa Cruz, 95063

34 JANUARY 2020 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2020

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JOIN US AT OUR OPEN HOUSE ON SATURDAY, JANUARY 25TH AT 1PM

Independent Thinker. Independent School.

Our outstanding educational program empowers students to shape their futures with confidence. Every student admitted is appreciated for their unique strengths and interests and supported to achieve their best self. Kirby School is accredited by the National Association of Independent Schools, the California Association of Independent Schools, and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Ask us about our Tuition Assistance Program. Learn about the opportunities awaiting your student at Kirby School at KIRBY.ORG or contact our Admissions Director at admissions@kirby.org or 831-423-0658 x 202.

Together is the Place to Be. REGISTER TODAY! Canta y Baila Conmigo® Music Together®

Gift Certificates Available Babies 4 months & under are Free!

Santa Cruz County • Santa Clara County

www.musicalme.com (831) 438-3514