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MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

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Editor's Note.......................................4 Ask Nicole...........................................5 Always Amused...................................7 Birth Matters......................................9 Local News: Epicenter.........................11 Santa Cruz Staycation.........................13 Moms Who Make a Difference............15 Mother's Day Gift Guide.....................19 Education...........................................21 Local News: Cirque.Tumble.Cheer.....23 Local Artist.........................................25 Summer Activity Guide......................27 Coloring Contest Winners..................32 Adventures in Momming...................33 Coloring Page.....................................34

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EDITOR | PUBLISHER

Brad Kava and Steve Dinnen ART DIRECTOR | MANAGING EDITOR

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Patty Benson, Susan D'Arcy, Seb Frey, Kimberly Hickok, Brad Kava, Laura Maxson, Jeanette Prather, Suki Wessling, Nicole M. Young AD REPRESENTATIVES

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MAY 2022 | VOL. 26 NO. 5

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Growing Up in Santa Cruz copyright 2022. Printed in the U.S.A. All views expressed represent those of the individual authors. The contents of this publication are meant as information only and should not take the place of a medical doctor’s recommendations. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, in any form, electronic or otherwise is prohibited without permission by the publisher. This publication does not knowingly accept deceptive or misleading advertising. Growing Up is printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks.

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25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

Even small changes can make a BIG difference. Triple P is a scientifically-proven, world-renowned positive parenting program available to families in Santa Cruz County. Triple P strategies address a wide range of parenting challenges by providing a toolbox of easy-to-use tips. Find a full schedule of Triple P tips and classes at triplep.first5scc.org. This program is made possible through a partnership between First 5 Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency (MHSA – Prop 63 funds) & Santa Cruz County Human Services Department.

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Editors’ Note Like so many other readers, we found a camp for our 5-year-old son, Parker, from an article in Growing Up in Santa Cruz. It was a story about an intriguing camp, Thomas Farm Films, which hires movie directors to teach kids how to make films and then makes them on an Aptos organic farm. I was afraid it might be too much for such a young kid. We’d already had a bad experience with a highly recommended preschool, but he hated it. It’s so hard to know what a kid will like. But Parker loved the film camp so much that even though we’d signed up for only a week, he went for four weeks and had one of the greatest experiences of his life. Now, when we watch movies together, he teaches me things about how they were made. He throws out terms like cut scenes and angles and CGI and amazes me. Even more impressive was watching the films he made. I was expecting something shoddy or goofy…you know, kid stuff. But what we saw at the Rio Theatre debut were professionally written and directed movies. It was life-changing for him and for us. It opened a whole new world. We had some other great camp experiences. Our teen daughter went to Camp Catwalk, which taught her to design and make fashionista clothes. She loved it, and costume design is on her list of possible careers. Our son went to a theater camp, put on a play, and has

since been in high school plays that have given real meaning to his schooling. Parker also went to a nature camp, Wolf Camp, over the winter break, which got him started on his love of nature. We are looking at continuing nature education. This issue is filled with suggestions for camps now that things are back to relative normal. We would love your feedback on your best camp experiences. We’ll post them online and in the next issue so readers can get advice from your experience. Tell us something about your kids’ camps and why you would recommend them to our readers. What did they learn? What was fun? How was the balance between learning and enjoyment? Send your reviews to editor@ growingupsc.com and help others find the best places to send kids. Your reviews can really help other families, which is what Growing Up is all about. Thanks in advance for your contributions. Speaking of which, our Family Favorites issue is coming up. You can nominate and then vote on the best family places in the county for food, clothes, schools, camps, after-school programs, etc. Again, this is a way the community can help each other find the best places for kids and families. Thanks for reading, Brad Kava

ASK NICOLE Moms: Your Mental Health Matters! BY NICOLE M. YOUNG, MSW May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s also the time of year when we celebrate our mothers, grandmas, aunties, and other mother figures. As a mother of two (adult) children, I know how fulfilling, demanding, challenging, stressful, and beautiful parenting is. I also know that many mothers feel they need to have all the answers, be ready to handle anything at a moment’s notice, balance multiple demands and schedules, work, find time for their partner AND raise happy, resilient kids — often intuitively or without any additional support. But trying to be everything to everyone at the expense of our own mental wellness is not healthy or sustainable. So if you’re a mom or mother figure, remember that your mental health matters! This monthly column provides tips for anyone raising children, based on the world-renowned Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, available to families in Santa Cruz County. If you have a question or idea for a future column, email me at triplep@first5scc.org. Dear Nicole, I’ve been so focused on my children’s mental and emotional well-being during COVID that I’ve completely neglected my own needs. I was never good at prioritizing self-care before COVID, and now I’m even worse. I alternate between doing a million things at once for work, my kids, my family and then being so stressed and burned out that I can’t do anything except binge watch TV. I feel guilty that I’m not setting a good example for my kids, but I can’t seem to get off this see-saw. Help! - Jenna Dear Jenna, I’m sure many parents and caregivers are familiar with that see-saw. I know I am! Raising children and teens is a non-stop job that’s rewarding but also exhausting. The constant uncertainty and changes during the pandemic has made parenting even more challenging. This is why “taking care of yourself” is one of the core principles of positive parenting in the Triple P program. It’s easier said than done, but here are some tips to try: Allow yourself to slow down. Practice saying “no” to extra commitments if you can. And don’t feel guilty about taking time to rest and watch TV, or doing something else that helps you relax. If you have young children who need supervision, ask your partner or another caregiver to watch them so you get a true, guilt-free break. If your kids are older and don’t need constant supervision, tell them you’re taking a mental wellness break. Talk about and agree on safe, engaging activities they will do so that

you can get a guilt-free, worry-free break. Recognize signs of stress. People feel and respond to stress in different ways. Stress is often felt as physical pain or discomfort, which can intensify mental and emotional distress, creating a cycle that is difficult to break. If you experience tense or stiff muscles, headaches, extreme emotions, difficulty sleeping, constant tiredness, problems concentrating, an upset stomach, or frequent illnesses or infections, those may be signs that your mind and body need a break. Try to notice these signs before you reach the point where you feel you can’t do anything. Practice relaxation techniques. When you notice signs of stress, take a few slow, deep breaths. Inhale slowly through your nose, pause, then let all the air out and do it again. Or tighten the muscles in one area of your body for 10 seconds, then relax the muscles to relieve the tension.

Repeat with a different area of your body, noticing how the tension and relaxation feels each time. Other relaxation techniques include art, exercising, meditating, reading, listening to music, cooking, journaling, or being in nature. Find a technique that helps you feel calm and practice it every day. Use affirmations or coping statements. Thoughts such as, “I can’t deal with this,” or “This will never change” might feel true, but negative thinking can increase stress, anxiety, helplessness, or hopelessness and become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Instead, try replacing negative thoughts with an affirmation or coping statement, such as: I’m doing the best I can. My mental well-being is a priority. Just breathe. I can only do so much. Tomorrow is a new day. Final Thoughts: Find self-care techniques that work for you and turn them into daily habits. Remember that

taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, a weakness, or a waste of time. Nurturing your mental health will reduce the stress of parenting (and everyday life) and provide a healthy model for your children, who are developing their own tools for coping with stress.  Nicole Young is the mother of two children, ages 18 and 22, 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 http://triplep. first5scc.org, http://www.facebook. com/triplepscc or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465-2217 or triplep@ first5scc.org.

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

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MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

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ALWAYS AMUSED The Surprising Things About Legoland BY BRAD KAVA

“

I was so happy that a 6-year-old could appreciate an exhibit I would have figured would be more interesting to grown-ups. It wasn’t just amazing that they did this with Legos, but that they did it so remarkably authentic. It felt like being there.

I took my 6-year-old son, Parker, to his first trip to Legoland last month and it was a blast, but not for the reasons you might expect. Yes, he loves Lego. He’s been doing one or two a week since he was 3. At 6 he does the ones way above his age group and our house already feels like a Legoland. But he couldn’t wait to see the real thing. We expected the highlights to be the rides, as they are at most theme parks, but what we really loved were the unexpected attractions. The first was a trading system they have. You bring in any of your small Lego characters and you can trade them with staff, guests and at little booths around the park. We had no idea that was a thing, but it turned out to be a wonderful one. First off, all the staff members have little Lego clipped to their shirts. If you see one you like they will make a trade.

Also, if you see other kids with Lego figures, you can trade with them. We met so many people from all over the world by sharing our Lego. For Parker it was like we were the ones traveling the globe and it did what is too often lacking at theme parks—It got us talking to strangers and sharing stories, which made every day a friendly learning experience. Even the lines were more chill than at any other theme park we’d been to because we were compelled to talk to each other. Next up was the Lego models of cities from around the world. Our first day in the park we breezed through it, because I was afraid Parker wouldn’t really appreciate it. But he asked to go back there the second day and we spent hours looking at giant models of New York, Washington, D.C., New Orleans, Las Vegas and London. He was most interested in DC and

needed to know what was in every building. Luckily, I was raised there and could answer most of his questions. I had taken him out of school for three days, claiming it was educational. (Don’t judge me.) But as we explored the government buildings in the capital, he spoke up: “See, Dad, it is an educational field trip.”) I was so happy that a 6-year-old could appreciate an exhibit I would have figured would be more interesting to grown-ups. It wasn’t just amazing that they did this with Lego, but that they did it so remarkably authentic. It felt like being there. We also spent time building Lego in various exhibits. It is Legoland, after all, but the chance to make something and keep it was just about worth the price of admission for a Lego fanatic. Last but not least—the hotel. We stayed at the castle, in a room for magicians, rather than ones for knights and dragons. The décor was beyond belief. Every inch was beautiful and magical and worth the expense, which was much higher than an off-campus motel would have been. (It’s considerably cheaper than the $1,000 plus per person Star Wars rooms at Disney. We paid $1,500 which included two-day passes to the park, a great buffet breakfast and all-day entertainment.) But there were two things at the hotel that really thrilled the kid: Every day there’s a treasure hunt. You get clues

and have to explore the building to answer them. When you do, you get a combination to a safe in your room that has free Lego. Again, we interacted with families following the clues and it made the park so much more friendly than others we’ve been to. Aside from having story time, plays, character visits, big screen movies and kid games, there was one unplanned, unsponsored event—the sword fight pit. A fenced off playground that was used by toddlers in the daytime became a medieval battle ground for older kids in the evening, each of them with the ubiquitous soft foam swords and shields sold around the park (like the wands at Universal’s Harry Potter exhibit—every kid had to have them). The kids ran the show while the parents stood a bit nervously outside the fences watching and meeting. But if a park is for the kids, why not let them do their own thing? We’ve never seen anything like it at any other park. When I think of some other parks I remember tedious lines, high prices and feeling like I was in a shopping mall, more than a place for fun. The way Legoland gets people to interact made it one of the best experiences we’ve ever had and could teach some other parks a thing of two. For all the information you need, hit Legoland.com

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

Welcoming the next generation— for generations. Now, with the most comprehensive Birth Center in the Monterey Bay area. Meet Jennifer. She was born at Dignity Health – Dominican Hospital. And when it was time to bring her babies into the world, she wanted to go to the most advanced Birth Center in the Monterey Bay area. So she came back to Dignity Health – Dominican Hospital. Our past gives us the foundation to provide leading care to future generations.

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MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

BIRTH MATTERS Heads Up? BY LAURA MAXSON, LM

Babies, overwhelmingly, go head-down by their due date. Close to 75% are headdown (vertex) by 28 weeks. While some babies linger for a few more anxiety-filled weeks, only 3-4% refuse to turn headdown by 37 weeks. No one plans to have a breech (head-up) baby at term, but everyone should consider the possibility – just in case. There are several reasons a baby might not go head-down on schedule. The uterus might have an unusual shape, a large fibroid or scar tissue, or there might be a very short umbilical cord, unusual placental position, or an abnormal amount of amniotic fluid. Occasionally, a baby might have a condition or anomaly that prevents them from turning, but commonly, no reason is identified. In the past, vaginal breech birth was considered a variation of normal, but since 2000, it has been mostly relegated to cesarean delivery.

•

Acupuncture treatments can help with symptoms of both early and late pregnancy. Chinese moxibustion (burning moxa near specific acupuncture points) and/or acupuncture needles have been shown to help babies turn head-down.

•

Gail Tully’s Spinning Babies website is a wealth of information about the muscular/skeletal factors that can impact a baby’s position (including breech). There’s lots of specific suggestions to try to help babies get into the most optimal position for birth.

•

Rebecca Dekker’s Evidence Based Birth website gives evidence-based information, concrete numbers, and options for parents to consider as they make decisions on breech and External Cephalic Version (ECV) with their care provider.

Instead of skipping that breech information in childbirth books, read it.

There will be a high likelihood that it won’t affect you, but if you do have a breech baby in the last trimester, you’ll be glad you did. In fact, many suggestions to help turn a breech baby head-down can be incorporated into normal pregnancy care to encourage babies to get into the preferred vertex position sooner, rather than later.

Chiropractic care keeps the spine aligned and pelvis in balance during pregnancy, which can help discomforts in general. Chiropractors certified in the Webster technique have specific skills to help the round ligaments relax, potentially creating space for a baby to turn.

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External Cephalic Version (ECV or version) is usually performed by an obstetrician and gives good results. A version is an attempt to turn a baby into a head down position.

An ultrasound is performed just before a version to look at the placenta, cord, amniotic fluid levels and baby – occasionally, a baby will have already turned! Once all is confirmed normal, an IV drug may be given to relax the uterus; sometimes an epidural is placed. A care provider, and often an assistant, applies lubrication to the abdomen and locates the baby’s head and bottom. Often using teamwork and steady, firm pressure, the baby is nudged and encouraged to turn head down. The baby’s heart rate is monitored closely during the procedure and then continuously for a time after to ensure all is well. The success rate for turning is about 50%, and rises with the use of epidural, particularly if a first attempt was unsuccessful. A version is done in the hospital with access to emergency care in the rare instance of fetal distress, ruptured membranes, vaginal bleeding or anything else concerning. While preterm labor or need for immediate delivery is rare, it is why versions are performed near term around 36-37 weeks. Avoiding a cesarean is undoubtedly a safer birth experience for the birthing

person. And avoiding a first cesarean will prevent an automatic repeat cesarean. Guidelines also say that a vaginal breech birth may be considered if the version fails, but admits that OBs rarely have the skills or desire to do a vaginal breech delivery. Thinking about and talking with a partner and/or care provider about the possibility of a breech baby ahead of time will give the best chance of being prepared. Check Birth Network of Santa Cruz County’s listings of acupuncturists, chiropractors and doulas. Find out how often your provider does versions, and how many are successful. Providers less confident or experienced about the procedure may not encourage a version. Find out who in the Bay Area does vaginal breech birth and what their requirements are; most will want to meet with parents before 37 weeks, so quick decisions might need to be made. Being informed is being ready. For more information: Birthnet.org evidencebasedbirth.com spinningbabies.com acog.org/womens-health/faqs/if-your-baby-is-breech

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

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LOCAL NEWS Allison Paradise on Not Fitting In BY JEANETTE PRATHER

“What do I do for a living?” repeated Allison Paradise, Founder and CEO of The Epicenter in Santa Cruz, in response to the question. “That’s such a funny question. I live.” The Epicenter empowers students ages seven through 22 through mindfulness and a reconnection with their authentic selves and limitless potential, according to Paradise. “This is transformative; it can lead to feelings of liberation, awe, clarity, focus, strength, confidence, purpose, joy, and deep gratitude,” said Paradise. How does this happen? “Through intentional design, The Epicenter creates an open space (both physical and virtual) that gives students permission, and the courage, to be what they truly are. We then show them how to cultivate this experience within themselves,” answered Paradise. Set for an official brick-and-mortar opening in 2023, The Epicenter currently reaches students through the Santa Cruz Museum of Discovery, yearlong outdoor sessions (including summer sessions) as well as video series through the company’s website at be-the-epicenter. org. “Our first video asks the question, ‘What sound does a rock make?’” said Paradise. “We invite students to explore this question for themselves, without closing the question with an answer.

At the heart of our work is curiosity, wonder, and exploration, using the natural world as a mirror to reflect back to us what is already within ourselves.” Additionally, Paradise wrote a children’s coloring book titled "The Mistake" that aligns with the mission of The Epicenter. The book deals with a child protagonist who has the courage to be what they are. “The book follows Darcy, a uniquelyshaped child, who was born to octagonshaped parents, the Norms,” explained Paradise. “Darcy spends her days contentedly exploring the world until she has to go to school. On the school bus she is confronted by a sea of circles, squares, and triangles – not one child looks like her. Darcy soon learns that the other children have fit themselves into molds. She decides to try on the molds, but they don’t fit. The book follows her journey from trying to fit in to finding the courage to be what she is.” Paradise, having grappled with her own bouts of self-acceptance, mentioned that as a student in the neuroscience PhD program at Harvard, she still had her doubts. “I stayed in the program for over two years before I had the courage to leave,” said Paradise. “After I left, I thought I might open a school, which was a vision I held in my heart since I was three years old. But I got scared, fearing I lacked the credentials, and went to work

as a consultant instead.” Another leap of faith prompted Paradise to leave her job as a scientific consultant to start a non-profit called My Green Lab in 2013, which sought to create a culture of sustainability through science. “Again, I did not have the courage to follow through on my vision to start a school,” confirmed Paradise, who remained the CEO of the company until she left in June 2020. The company went from a small, California-based start-up to a global enterprise whose work was recently recognized by the UN at COP26, according to Paradise. Still, Paradise’s quest to fulfill her three-year-old self’s vision forged on, leading her to start The Epicenter. “This marks the first time that I am giving everything to the vision I have held within me since I was small,” said Paradise. “The Epicenter is not a school though because I realized that what I wanted to do no longer fits into the guidelines of a school. Instead, it will become a retreat center.” Paradise is hoping that The Epicenter will transform the way generations think about their relationship with themselves, each other, and the planet. “I would say that I live my life differently than most people. I am wholly focused on my work, as it is an expression of who I am. It is through my

work that I continue to grow every day,” said Paradise. “This is my natural state, the way I’ve been since I was a child. The periods in my life when I was not living like this were the most stressful and unnatural.” Paradise admits that, despite many successes, her greatest obstacle has always been herself – “The doubts, anxieties, and old patterns of thinking creep in and prevent me from following my intuition. These thought patterns originated when I was still a child and I do my best to be aware of them, however I often fall back into autopilot,” she said. “This idea of running on autopilot is something we explicitly address at The Epicenter – we identify the patterns in our behavior, work to uncover where they come from, and learn how to shift our energy into a different space.” To all those ambitious and visionary Darcys out there, Paradise says this; “Find the answer to the question, ‘Who am I?’ Beyond the labels and the identifications. Beyond the social expectations and social conditioning. Once you know the answer to this question, it becomes easier to follow your intuition and natural curiosity to realize your limitless potential.”

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

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As summer peeks around the corner and pandemic restrictions begin lifting, the urge to get out of the house and go do something fun is stronger than ever. Fortunately for Santa Cruz area residents, there’s no need to travel far for enjoyable, exciting activities with little and big kids alike. Here are 17 of our favorite Santa Cruz area “staycation” ideas:

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RIDE ROLLER COASTERS AND PLAY GAMES The historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk hosts a plethora of fun rides for kids of all ages – from a kiddie train to the classic Giant Dipper roller coaster. After enjoying the rides, check out the large arcade, piratethemed miniature golf course, or classic bowling alley for some familyfriendly competition.

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FIND LITTLE SEA CREATURES Summer in Santa Cruz means plenty of beach time, but don’t overlook the tidepools. Natural Bridges State Park is a great place for kids to discover small sea creatures hiding in nooks and crannies of the rocky outcropping. While you’re there, take the Monarch Trail for an easy hike among giant eucalyptus trees and check out the nature displays at the visitor’s center.

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PLAY IN A MUSEUM FULL OF GIANT TOYS At the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery, kids can explore and play with interactive displays such as a giant rope spider web, an air wall that shoots balls through hamster tubes, and a horizontal climbing wall.

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PRETEND YOU’RE A SEA OTTER Take a short kayaking tour to experience the bay from a sea otter’s perspective, or rent kayaks and paddle around at your leisure. You can rent kayaks and book tours at Venture Quest on the Santa Cruz Wharf or Kayak Connection, located just above the Santa Cruz Harbor.

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HIKE AMONG GIANTS Gaze up at some of the tallest, oldest trees in the country on a hike through the redwoods. You can find stroller-friendly and dogfriendly hikes at The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, Henry Cowell State Park, Mt. Madonna County Park, and Pogonip.

From parenting to local events to monthly guides and everything in between.

gold, and watch a real blacksmith shape steel. Then take an hour-long ride in an open-air train car through the redwoods and up into the Santa Cruz Mountains or down to the Beach Boardwalk.

SHRED SOME DIRT (OR ASPHALT) Enjoy a family-friendly bike ride on the easy trails at Pogonip and Henry Cowell State Park, or let the kids test their skills at one of the various pump tracks in the area. Check out Harvey West, Chanticleer, West Side, or Depot Park pump tracks in Santa Cruz, or visit the Scotts Valley pump track in North county or the Ramsay Park pump track in South county.

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CRUISE UP THE SLOUGH Birds, otters, and seals, oh my! Take a short trip down to Moss Landing where the whole family can enjoy a wildlife-packed nature cruise up Elkhorn Slough aboard an electric catamaran with Monterey Bay Eco Tours.

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RIDE A STEAM-POWERED TRAIN Explore the historic pioneer village of Roaring Camp where kids can get their face painted, pan for

LEARN ABOUT NATIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS Kids can learn about our region’s diverse plant and animal life at the Santa Cruz Natural History Museum. Life-like dioramas, historical artifacts, and a touch pool will delight kids of all ages. REEL IT IN Try to catch a big one by going fishing from the Capitola or Santa Cruz Wharf. Fishing from either wharf doesn’t require a fishing license, and you can rent all the gear you need at the Capitola and Santa Cruz Boat Rental shops, located in the middle of both wharfs. MAKE ART Let kids get creative at the Petroglyph Ceramic Lounge in downtown Santa Cruz, where they can make a beautiful piece of ceramic art. Kids can use their Petroglyph studio pass to also visit Glow Candle Lounge to craft a personalized candle. Or, let your kids make whatever their heart desires (almost!) at Crooked Beauty Maker’s Space in Felton.

(but no swimming) at Loch Lomond, the only drinking water reservoir for the City of Santa Cruz, tucked away in the Santa Cruz Mountains. On Saturdays and Sundays during the second weekend of each month, visitors can sign up to take a free, hour-long nature tour aboard a pontoon boat. WATCH LIVE THEATER Catch a live performance at one of the many community theaters in the area. Shows are put on by local kids and teens and produced by nonprofit theater companies such as All About Theater, CYT Santa Cruz, and Little People’s Repertory Theater in Ben Lomond. FLY THROUGH THE FOREST Take adventure to new heights at Mt. Hermon Adventures. Older kids and thrillseeking adults will enjoy flying between the tops of redwoods on the zip line tour, or carefully traversing the suspended ropes course. SPOT THE WHALES Take a boat ride around Monterey Bay and look for whales and other charismatic marine life on a half-day whale watching tour out of Santa Cruz Harbor. Book locally with Santa Cruz Whale Watching or Sea Spirit Ocean Safari. DO SOME FARMING There’s not much that tastes better than ripe and juicy freshpicked berries. Take the kids to pick their own at one of the many “U-Pick” berry farms in Davenport or Watsonville, such as Swanton Berry Farm, Gizdich Ranch, Crystal Bay Farm, or Live Earth Farm. SATISFY THE NEED FOR SPEED Take in the thrill and excitement of the stock car races at Ocean Speedway every Friday night during the summer. Races run continuously from 6 pm to 10 pm. Consider bringing ear protection, especially for younger kids, because these race cars can get pretty loud.

PICNIC ON A FRESHWATER BEACH Fish, hike, boat, and picnic 25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

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MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

“

I’m lucky that I feel like some of the work that I do is really for her, so sometimes when I feel like, ‘Oh, I’m working again,’ [I tell myself] I’m doing it for Faye and for her future here.

BY SUKI WESSLING

 Suki Wessling is a local writer, educator, and radio host with two grown children. Read and listen at Babblery.com

Sierra Ryan: Saving Water for Our Children’s Future

“You need a bit of a reminder on the rough days,” admits Sierra Ryan, Water Resources Manager for the County and mom to 3-year-old Faye, about being a full-time working mom. “Like, why are you doing this? How does this fit into your life?” Like many working moms, Sierra has to balance her commitment to her career with her commitment to her child. Sierra found her career as soon as she stepped into her UCSB environmental studies class. She went to University of Edinburgh for grad school, but Santa

Cruz was still the home she planned to return to. She is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the County’s water system. “Groundwater sustainability is the next generation of water management that we’re moving towards in California,” Sierra explains. “We are completely isolated in terms of our water—all of our water sources are locally derived so it’s important for us to be very connected to our water supply.” Having a head full of gnarly environmental concerns is balanced

with a fascination for and admiration of her child. “I’m just blown away now that she’s able to speak so well,” Sierra explains. “The way she can articulate the inner workings of a three-and-a-half year old brain. They think so differently than we do, so much less linear. She draws connections between different parts of her life that I don’t see as connected.” Sierra enrolled Faye in research at the Child Development Lab at UCSC as a baby, and she recounts a recent visit with amusement and awe. The researchers

showed Faye pictures of different things and asked the same questions: Is it alive? Does it have feelings like you do? The first photo was of an animal. “She said yes and I was so proud!” Sierra recalls. “It’s like, yeah, she’s got this empathy. Then they showed her a robot and she responded the same, like yes, this robot, it’s alive and has feelings like me.” In Faye’s magical three-year-old world, even an electric razor is alive and has feelings. “I was so delighted that I got to be in the room to hear her thoughts on life.” Given her career in a field that focuses on the damage humans have done and the dire consequences for the future, Sierra says that it’s hard not to feel negative. But she has come upon a way to teach her child with a focus on her family history. The Santa Cruz she loves is very different from the one her grandparents found in 1919, and perhaps they might even be horrified at what it’s become. “But change has always happened in the world,” Sierra says. “There used to be dinosaurs here and now they’re not. It’s hard to explain that things are changing and to try to say it in a way that’s not as bleak as we might feel that it is.” It’s her child’s optimism and wonder that keeps reminding her that she has a bigger purpose. “I’m lucky that I feel like some of the work that I do is really for her, so sometimes when I feel like, ‘Oh, I’m working again,’ [I tell myself] I’m doing it for Faye and for her future here.” Sierra says that she hasn’t found “the secret sauce” that gives her a comfortable work/life balance, but when she looks around her office, she remembers. “You look at the terrible paintings that you have all over your office which your three-year-old told you were of a worm and a ladybug,” she laughs. “OK, well, that’s why I’m doing this.” Related: Take a look at our April issue for games and books you can use to help your children understand our water system.

If you know of a mom who has made a difference, please email us at editor@growingupsc.com 25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

SUMMER READING PROGRAM PROGRAMA DE LECTURA DE VERANO santacruzpl.org/srp

SUMMER READING PROGRAM PROGRAMA DE LECTURA DE VERANO santacruzpl.org/srp June 1 - July 31 • 1 de junio - 31 de julio Earn a book and raffle entries for reading this summer. Complete activities to collect virtual badges and earn extra raffle entries. $10 Atlantis Fantasyworld credit upon sign-up for kids & teens! Adults who sign up before June 17th receive a raffle entry for a chance to see Santa Cruz Shakespeare! Gana un libro y entradas a la rifa por leer este verano. Completa las actividades para colectar medallas virtuales y entradas extras a la rifa. ¡$10 crédito de Atlantis Fantasyworld para niños y adolescentes al registrarse! ¡ Los adultos que se registran antes del 17th de junio reciben una entrada para participar en la rifa y tendrán la oportunidad de ver una actuación en Shakespeare Santa Cruz!

Learn to Sail this Summer! UCSC Community Boating Center at the Santa Cruz Harbor Junior sailing classes for ages 8-16

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! For a complete schedule of classes and registration information visit

recreation.ucsc.edu/boating or call (831) 425-1164

MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

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“

There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one. – Jill Churchill

May is the month we celebrate mothers - women who give selflessly to those around them. A mother is not always the one who gave birth to you; she may be your aunt, guardian, or friend. She may live next door, across the country, or be watching over you from beyond this world. We celebrate a mother's unconditional love, her ability to be somewhere/someone safe when we are scared, and our cheerleader through life—cheers to all women out there wearing their hearts outside of their bodies. Here in Santa Cruz County, we have a vast selection of locally owned businesses ready to give Mom, Mama, Mommy, Madre, whatever you call that Goddess in your life, the most thoughtful gift this Mother's Day. Find the perfect thing to show her how much you appreciate everything she does every day.

Dell Williams Jewelers

Ethel & Sabel

Hallcrest Vineyards

Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar

Monterey Bay Eco Tours

Mountainside

Scarborough Gardens

Simpatico

1320 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (831) 423-4100 dellwilliams.com Dell Williams is celebrating 95 years in business, serving generations of Santa Cruz and beyond. New to our jewelry showroom is Sethi Couture - designer sisters create timeless pieces to elevate the everyday!

10932 Clam Way, Moss Landing, CA 95039 (831) 200-3454 (MontereyBayEcoTours.com Treat your mom to a fantastic cruise up the Elkhorn Slough exploring the wildlife aboard the fully electric catamaran. Book at montereybayecotours.com or call us at 831-200-3454

EthelandSabel.com | Instagram @EthelandSabel 6215 Hwy 9, Felton For all of the junk hunters out there obsessed with rusty treasures, farmhouse fabulous, and upcycled industrial gifts. Bring Mom with you to beautiful Downtown Felton and check out the newest shop on the strip! Enjoy complimentary beverages on Mothers Day!

6235 Hwy 9 | mountainsidemade@gmail.com Featuring a collection of handmade jewelry and various other goods made by independent designers, fair trade sources, and the local artisan community.

379 Felton Empire Rd | (831) 335-4441 hallcrestvineyards.com Family run and dog friendly boutique winery established in 1941. Specializing in Pinot Noir, Organic Wines, and Hard Ciders. Open on Thursday-Monday.

El Pueblo Rd, Scotts Valley 831.438.4106 Scarborough Gardens has wonderful gifts for your mom or anyone you celebrate this Mother's Day. Open 7 days a week!

1100 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-469-4400 kiantis.com Treat mom to one of our many Mother’s Day Specials. We are open for dine in, curbside or delivery. Visit kiantis.com/curbsidetogo for specials.

6223 Hwy 9 | (831) 704-7420 simpatico-ca.com Gifts, artisan goods and treasures for a life well lived. A locally-owned shop nestled in the Santa Cruz mountains supplying style with substance.

20 MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

EDUCATION College Rejections Up This Year: Here’s Why BY SUSAN TATSUI-D’ARCY

“

So, chin up! Those colleges will miss out on what you could have brought to their campuses this fall. Watch out world – here you come!

This year, the most competitive colleges rejected record numbers of applicants than in recorded history. That means that colleges like Harvard that had admit rates of around 5% last year have dropped to 3.19%. We’ll get more data when other selective colleges release their admissions statistics for this year.

So, what caused this uptick in applications this year?

Over 1,300 colleges offered testoptional admissions due to COVID and difficulty finding testing sites during the pandemic. That means that students who usually score poorly on standardized tests, like the SAT and ACT, didn’t have to submit their scores and relied on their GPAs and extracurricular activities. This opened the doors to many high school seniors who thought they would have a shot at one of the Ivy League Colleges.

After Harvard won the battle over using affirmative action in the complicated rubric for accepting students, elite colleges admitted record numbers of underrepresented racial and ethnic groups (increase of 5% for Black and Latinx applicants). Nearly 25% of Harvard’s incoming class comes from families with incomes under $75,000. I’m curious to see how many legacy students were admitted this year. Those are students whose parents attended and donated money to their alma maters. That’s a statistic that wasn’t published in the first wave of data for 2022. Remember, these stats are just for the super elite colleges. Of the other 4000 colleges and universities in the United States, most are actually clamoring to get students to enroll for classes this fall. Some smaller colleges and community

colleges have actually closed due to lack of enrollment during the pandemic. For those students sitting with a handful of rejection letters (or emails), hope you take comfort in knowing that this year’s rejections are the highest ever and that colleges did not reject you because you weren’t qualified – they just received thousands of applications from qualified students who filled some aspect of their rubric for filling their next incoming classes. So if you’re not Black or Latinx, your parents went to college, you play 3rd base instead of catcher, or your parents aren’t alumni who have donated buildings, your application has to be that much stronger to compete with the students that selective colleges are seeking this year. White and Asian students may be facing a different kind of discrimination – especially if their families are wealthy. Take a breather from all the stress and anxiety you’ve faced over the past couple of months, and then create 4-year plans for each of the colleges that you received admission to. Then, compare programs, majors, research opportunities, location, and costs.

By taking advantage of unique classes, top professors, internships, research programs, and clubs, you can create an excellent undergraduate education that prepares you for grad school or the start of your career. Lay out your entire 4-year plan before you head to college this fall. That way, you’ll pave a path that will create the network of colleagues – and letters of recommendation -- for your future plans. So, chin up! Those colleges will miss out on what you could have brought to their campuses this fall. Watch out world – here you come!  Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy is the founder of Merit Academy (one-on-one classes) and Merit Educational Consultants (college and educational advisory). She can help you build your 4-year plan so you can make the most out of your undergraduate education. She has written books on projects, free child care, education, and parenting. Susan hosts TEDxMeritAcademy for students to present their innovative projects and solutions. In 2019, she was California Mother of the Year. meritworld.com

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

GetCalFresh.org

Need help buying groceries? APPLY for CalFresh. Find out what CalFresh can do for you! CalFresh MONTHLY BENEFITS Calfresh can help you buy food at any store that accepts EBT including most grocers and farmers markets.

You can use your EBT card to purchase food online at amazon.com, walmart.com, and safeway.com DOUBLE YOUR DOLLARS with Market Match! Spend $10 on produce with your CalFresh benefits at local Farmer’s Markets, receive an additional $10 to spend.

APPLY FOR CASH AID, MEDICAL SERVICES, AND CALFRESH FIND OUT IF YOU QUALIFY

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Even the minimum of $20 per month can help you stretch your food budget by $60 every

three months, or $240 per year. Local Offices: 1020 Emeline Avenue, Santa Cruz | 18 West Beach Street Watsonville

Camp GatewaY Gateway

Celebrate Summer! Mini-maker Stations, Field Games, Gym Play, Crafting Corner, Science Sleuths,and much more! Register now at gatewaysc.org/campgateway 1 week sessions starting June 20 through July 29 from 9:00am-3:00pm

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22 MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

LOCAL NEWS Capitola Mall is Flying High with Cirque.Tumble.Cheer BY JEANETTE PRATHER

Once upon a time in the former Wrigley bubble gum factory on the Westside, four women came together over their love of aerial and movement arts. They assembled a collective of aerialists and dancers who would each contribute to a stipend that they would pay their landlord as he developed what is now the University Business Park. This collective offered classes and training time, then came to be known as the Santa Cruz Aerial Playground. “They scrimped, scavenged and labored almost endlessly to install rigging points, padded floor coverings, a wooden sprung dance floor, lighting, seating, crash mats,” said former studio founder, Lisa Christensen, who worked with Paige Wyatt, Kara Snider and Sydney Lovell. The studio morphed into a small business with a mission to offer a safe, fun place to explore movement of all kinds. There was space and time for aerial and land classes, rehearsals and parties. They drew aerialists from all over the world, including Spain, Italy, Israel and Russia. To make their rent, when the building started to fill, they turned it into a professional studio. “Our story is one of the typical over-

involved parents,” said Angie Lackey, current owner of the studio, now known as Cirque.Tumble.Cheer. in the Capitola Mall. “We found Aerial Arts Santa Cruz by chance; my youngest daughter’s friend suggested that we go check out a space that has ribbons hanging from the ceiling. When my daughter took a class with Jeanette, the studio owner at the time, she fell in love and decided to be an aerialist.” Aerial Arts Santa Cruz reigned from early 2013 through the end of 2016, and during this time the studio held dozens of weekly classes, a handful of professional theatrical productions, one pole competition, one national aerial competition wrap party, and hosted dozens of “famous” aerial and pole instructors from around the world. It was a thriving community with dedicated artists developing and fostering lifelong friendships. Then suddenly, one warm day near the end of October, an unexpected conversation changed everything. “When Jeanette was pregnant with her second son, we went out to lunch at Erik’s Deli in Capitola. She was asking me to join the newly assembled board of directors at the studio, but I said that

I would love to consider purchasing the studio instead,” said Lackey. “After several Starbucks meetings at the Portola Starbucks, where we knew we wouldn’t be discovered, we worked out a contract and finally made the decision to do the studio transaction on Dec. 17, which also happened to be the day that her son was born. The final checks were signed in a Dominican hospital room, actually. “My husband and I looked at each other and went, ‘uh-oh’ after the contract and checks were signed,” laughed Lackey. “This was supposed to be a hobby business in the beginning. We were both planning on keeping our careers; Nate as a firefighter and me as a bookkeeper for the insurance company I worked for at the time. We were planning on running it in our off-hours when our instructors were teaching. When that didn’t really work well, our oldest daughter stepped in and really helped.” The studio underwent new branding and moved to Scotts Valley, then being called Santa Cruz Circus Arts. “I quit my full-time job and went part-time,” said Lackey. “The move to Scotts Valley came about early 2018 because we wanted higher ceilings. “Our Scotts Valley location was a

short-term lease and they had someone who wanted to lease long-term. Shortly after that we moved to Post Street, which we thought would be our forever home, Covid hit. We put everything into two containers in our backyard, cried a lot, and took a hiatus, not knowing if we’d be able to re-open or not.” But, post Covid, the staff got back together and found a space in the Capitola Mall, with plenty of high ceilings, in the space that used to house Outdoor World. “Cirque.Tumble.Cheer is a place to explore your potential,” said instructor Ruby Straehley. “While there are many opportunities for kids, at 56, I know how inclusive this studio is.” They moved from just aerial work to tumble and cheer to widen their classes. Cirque.Tumble.Cheer expanded this month and moved two doors down on May 1, adding acrobatic pole, sports massage, dance, and pop-up events. “Our tagline initially was ‘circus is family,’ which is still true,” said Lackey. “No matter your athletic ability, size, gender, age, race, sexual orientation, identity or whatever, you’ll have a home here with us.”

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

YOUR HOME Do REALTORS Even Matter? BY SEB FREY

In a real estate market as hot as this, where homes appear to “sell themselves,” it’s a fair question: do REALTORS even matter? I’m going to give you an answer that may surprise you…considering that I myself am a REALTOR, and have been

for 19 years. In fact, I was even President of the Santa Cruz County Association of REALTORS in 2019 so I consider myself something of an authority on the subject. I won’t bury the lede here. I’m going to come right out and say it: no,

Valerie Mishkin Realtor® 831.238.0504 | 831.426.4100 Cal Dre# 02092111 VMishkin@BaileyProperties.com ValerieMishkin.MyHomeHQ.biz

24 MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

REALTORS do not matter…if you don’t believe they matter. When it comes to answering this question, what you believe matters, because a lot of people believe that when it comes to selling a home, it’s the real estate market that determines how much you’ll be able to sell it for. This is a very commonly held belief. There’s a real estate market, and so there’s a market price for your home. The market is going to pay what the market is going to pay, in which case, why would a hiring a REALTOR even matter? Yet something like 91% of homes in California are sold with the assistance of a REALTOR. The other 9%? This is mostly eaten up by new construction sold directly by home builders, and family members selling their property to other family, friends, or neighbors. Locally, very few homes are sold without a REALTOR to a buyer who had no preexisting connection to a seller. So why do so may choose to hire a REALTOR? I’m going to posit that the reason for the dominant use of REALTORS is because owners see some value in using one. But given the high dollar cost of the average commission, people have to ask: are REALTORS really worth that much? Another good question! I’d guess it wouldn’t surprise you to read that some house painters are better than other house painters. Or that some doctors or lawyers are better than others in their respective fields. It’s not too much of a stretch then to suppose that in fact, some REALTORS provide better service, or provide better value, than other REALTORS. So it’s interesting that most REALTORS charge almost exactly the same fee. And it’s important to note that there is no standard commission, and that commissions are always negotiable.

But I’ve researched MLS data, and I’ve verified that there appears to be one particular commission rate that the overwhelming majority of Santa Cruz REALTORS charge. Now why, if there’s surely a wide difference in REALTORS in their level of skill and service, are the fees so similar? I believe the answer to this is that few people actually try to negotiate the commission. They just accept it as a the “standard” and pay it, because most everyone else pays it too. So why not talk to a REALTOR about lowering the fee? I’m suggesting here that it’s a good idea you do so. Try to see if your REALTOR will accept a lower fee than whatever you think most REALTORS charge, or what they tell you their fee is. And then, if the REALTOR does in fact accept a lower fee … you probably shouldn’t use that agent. Say WHAT? That’s right. Here’s the thing: if a REALTOR can’t successfully negotiate their own commission, if they do not believe in the value they bring to the transaction, why would you want that person to represent you in the largest financial transaction of your life? How could you trust that person to negotiate for your money, when they can’t do a good job negotiating their own? It could be you think that isn’t important, because after all, the market pretty much sets the price. What’s missing here is the understanding is that the market price is really a negotiated market price. And your REALTOR’s ability to negotiate the price (and terms) of the sale of your property to net you the most money possible is one way (of many!) where REALTORS can really prove their worth - or demonstrate their lack thereof. Even in a super-hot market like this one - where houses “sell themselves” and home owners often receive several offers in a short time, a REALTOR’s ability to negotiate the best price for you can literally mean tens of thousands of dollars - or more! - extra on the sale of your home. If a REALTOR has a demonstrated inability to be a strong negotiator, as evidenced by their weakness in standing firmly on their commission and exhibiting confidence in the value of the service they provide, it’s a good bet that they will be be unable to extract the very highest price possible from the plethora of buyers you will no doubt find for your home. Turns out, REALTORS do matter, if you understand how and why.  Seb Frey was the 2019 President of the Santa Cruz County Association of REALTORS. He’s been selling homes locally since 2003 and is the author of Get It Sold! (available at TheSoldBook. com) and stars on his own YouTube channel at YouTube.com/SebFreyTV

LOCAL ARTIST Encaustic Paintings BY TERRY DOWELL I have been swept away by the challenges and immense rewards of educating and inspiring people that somehow find their way to me. The thrill of offering an opportunity to enliven the creative spirit in the lives of my students is a lifetime dream. My intent is simple… paint for myself, teach workshops and, of course, show my art to the public and allow my art to flow out into the world. I have been painting and creating all my life…over 50 years now. I invented myself as an artist by way of workshops and courses throughout the United States. Largely self-taught in a variety of mixed media techniques I’ve tried every medium that was in reach… pottery, enameling, painting, pleinaire painting, drawing, watercolor, photography, assemblage, encaustic etc. I feel fortunate in having come to art by following this path… I’ve never had anyone discourage me. Encaustic came my way over 8 years ago when I attended a free demonstration with hot wax. I knew it was right for me when I had an immediate sense of “I can do that” resounding from my soul. Diving into this exciting process… I became hooked after my first piece and

have been diligently painting ever since. I work largely from my surroundings which includes my conceptual imagination! Being fortunate enough to live in the immensely beautiful coastline of Northern California that provides me with spectacular views in all directions. This feeds my soul and artful spirit. Pushing the limits of beeswax has been quite amazing and finding how far the medium will go has been an inspiration. Now sharing my well-earned knowledge of encaustic painting through teaching, I love to see the light in someone’s eyes when they first see the never ending possibilities of experimentation and discovery. My challenge is to guide my students to find their unique and satisfying style in the positive and safe environment of my studio in Aptos. Uniquely, I define myself as a mixed media artist specializing in encaustic painting. I am excited that my work can be seen in private collections and juried art exhibitions throughout the United States. Thank you for this opportunity to be seen; if only by one!

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

SantaCruzParksandRec.com

SUMMER

REGISTRATION OPEN NOW!

Summer Camps • Junior Guards • Classes • And Much More!

26 MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE DAY CAMPS All About Theatre

325 Washington St, Santa Cruz 831.345.6340 lindsey@allabouttheatre.org AllAboutTheatre.org Celebrating over 19 years and over 145 musicals in Santa Cruz County. We offer training in the performing arts for 3-6, 6-10, 10-13 & 13-16 We are elated to be back with an amazing summer season: James & the Giant Peach, Newsies & Shrek the Musical. We are offering week long and two-week long camps in performing arts along with our "Theater in the Park" program - at the London Nelson Center. There's an opportunity for everyone to come and be part of the magic... We are located in downtown Santa Cruz. Check out our website for additional information on our summer camps and productions. California Ocean Alliance’s Marine Mammal Scientist-In-Training Course 9099 Soquel Drive, Suite 8, Aptos, CA 95003 ccasey@caoceanalliance.org CAoceanalliance.org Are you interested in becoming a marine biologist? Then join us for the Marine Mammal Scientist in Training Program - a one week summer educational opportunity offered to high school students. Students are paired directly with professors at local institutions around the Monterey Bay Area (including Stanford, UC Santa Cruz, and Monterey Bay Research Institute) to learn what it takes to conduct science that leads to the conservation of marine mammals. Space is limited – learn more at caoceanalliance. org/education/mmstp/ Camp Gateway 255 Swift Street Santa Cruz (831) 423-0341 gatewaysc.org/campgateway Celebrate Summer with us at Camp Gateway! Gateway School is offering a playfully interactive summer camp experience for rising 1st-5th graders. Campers will engage in our instructor-led activities as they rotate through set stations each day including but not limited to: makers stations, field games, gym play, crafting corner, science sleuths, and more! During the 2021-2022 school year Gateway School provided students with a safe On-Campus experience and we are excited to carry this into Camp Gateway. Visit gatewaysc.org/campgateway for more information and to register. Camps will run for 6 one week sessions starting June 20 through July 29 from 9:00am-3:00pm. CYT Santa Cruz 216 Mt. Hermon Rd suite E P. O. Box 231 Scotts Valley CA 95066 (831)239-3821 cytsantacruz.org We create a hands-on theater experience, and are focused on building performance

skills, self-confidence, and teamwork. Our camps include rotations through drama, dance, and music. CYT Summer 2022 presents two different camps. Musical Theater Camp June 27 - July 1, for kids age 4 - 18, will take place in Aptos. Intensive Theater Camp is a three week camp for kids age 8 - 18, with a weekend of Broadway style performances of Bye Bye Birdie. This camp will rehearse in Scotts Valley and Watsonville from July 5 - 22, and performances are July 22 - 24. Four Points Youth Camp Located at Orchard School 2288 Trout Gulch Rd, Aptos kaseylindemann@FourPointsYouthCamp.com FourPointsYouthCamp.com Four Points Youth Camp is a new summer day camp with activities designed to broaden every camper’s horizon. Serving campers in grades K-8, our activities include sports, arts and crafts, technology, and traditional camp games. These activities are designed to cater to each age group. With new unique themes each week, every camp session is a fresh experience. Little Garden Patch Farm 4635 Fairway Drive Soquel CA 95073 (831) 476-0964 littlegardenpatchfarm.com Our play based, emergent program offers arts & crafts, outdoor play and imagination, stories & games, hands on science and nature with gardens, farm animals, and social learning in a beautiful outdoor setting. A cozy home environment and nurturing staff completes a magical childhood wonderland that children and parents love. Monte Vista Christian School Summer Camps 2 School Way, Watsonville 95076 831-722-8178 mvcs.org/camps Slide into summer with a variety of day camps! From athletics to the arts, MVC summer camps include action-packed activities for a wide range of ages and skills, and is open to all who are looking for a fun and memorable experience in a safe and positive environment. Limited spaces are available. Learn more about the full slate of options at mvcs.org/camps. Mountain of Fun Mount Madonna School 491 Summit Road, Watsonville 408-847-2717 mountmadonnaschool.org/summer This summer get your kids out in nature, unplugged, outdoors, and active! Utilizing its 375-acre redwood forested campus, Mount Madonna School’s camps return the weeks of July 11 and July 18 for children ages 5 to 13* including arts, forest play, nature crafts, cooking and baking, handson science experiments, hiking and a half-day horse camp option. Includes Redwood Explorers camp for ages 10-13. An all-day horse camp is offered the week of August 1. Camps are Monday through Friday, 9:00am-3:30pm. Transportation is

available from Gilroy, Morgan Hill, Aptos and Corralitos. Details and registration online at mountmadonnaschool.org/summer. Santa Cruz Soccer Inc 831.246.1517 santacruzsoccercamp.com 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 10week-long summer camps, the coaches and directors are in service to the new paradigm celebrating the Evolution of competition. SC SPCA Kids Summer Camp (831)566-3753 2601 Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz spcasc.org/humane-education/ Our 2022 summer camp is happening in our brand-new shelter! There are three weeks each for students going into 1st through 3rd grade and those going into 4th through 6th grade. We offer one full week to teens age 13 and up that will focus on aspects of shelter careers. Tara Redwood School 5810 Prescott Road, Soquel 831.462.9632 tararedwoodschool.org Into the Heart of Nature Summer Camp is located in an extraordinary setting nestled in the Nisene Marks Forest. Summer at Tara is not only fun but healthy, peaceful and inspiring. We offer a values-based program for ages 4 - 8 with low camper group ratios. At summer camp your child will make new friends, learn a new skill, develop mindfulness, help others and absorb some of our core tenets for happiness. Living on this planet and in this unique place, we learn how each of us can / do have an impact and influence on our world and how we can make a positive difference. Thomas Farm Films Aptos (831) 612-6312 thomasfarmfilms@gmail.com Located on an organic farm in Aptos, CA— Thomas Farm Films educates children how to make movies. Our hands-on curriculum promotes CREATIVITY, SELF-CONFIDENCE, & CRITICAL THINKING…resulting in real, professionally edited and scored short films that will be screened together at local theaters in Thomas Farm Film Festivals and beyond. All children ages 5 to 18 can learn the craft, as we offer partial & full scholarships for those in need. We offer a payment plan as well as multi-week and sibling discounts. Web of Life Field (WOLF) School 220 Cloister Ln Aptos CA 95003 (831) 684-0148 WOLF School’s Summer Nature Day Camp offers a science and nature theme all week and an outdoor adventure every day! Kids will experience redwood trail walks, music, camp arts & crafts, cooperative games, science activities, and more, plus field trips to Nisene Marks and Rio Del Mar Beach. Sample themes are: Solar, Survival, Creek, Animals, Plants, and Natural History. WOLF School’s educational nature camps inspire kids to experience the outdoors, connect to nature, build healthy relationships, and gain awareness of their impact on environment and community—all in a fun camp setting led by our knowledgeable, friendly, and energetic naturalists.

CLASSES Cabrillo Youth Chorus Summer Voice Camp

CabrilloYouthChorus.org A week-long camp aimed to give your child

an unforgettable experience as they put together a musical performance in one week! Children ages 8 to 18 learn music theory and musicianship; participate in dance, improvisation, and rhythm games; play recorders, Orff, and other instruments; and perform in musical theater. No experience is needed – just a love of singing! For more information, check out our website, or contact us at youthchorusinfo@gmail.com or call 831/479-6155. Community Boating Center, UCSC 790 Mariner Park Way Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831-425-1164 Recreation.ucsc.edu/youth/juniorsailing/index. html The UCSC Community Boating Center has been teaching local juniors how to sail for over 30 years. All classes are hands-on, co-ed classes, ages 8-16 and are taught in RS Quests, RS Visions, and Lasers. Students learn the basics in the protected Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor and progress to the beautiful Monterey Bay. Enjoy sailing in a safe, fun, and supportive environment with knowledgeable, experienced staff. Sign up today! (Adult classes are also available!) Dancenter 810 Bay Ave., Capitola (831) 475-5032 Kids Summer Dance Camps dancenterinfo.com June 20-24 “Under the Sea” ages 4-6, Dancing Around the World ages 7-11, June 27 -July 1 “In the Jungle ages 4-6, Dancing Through Time ages 7-11, 5-Week Summer Session for all ages and levels starting July 5th International Academy of Dance (IAD) 320 Encinal Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Phone: 831.466.0458 info@iadance.comInternational Academy of Dance and Ready. Set. Glow! are teaming up this summer to bring you the best summer camps ever! Join us either in our Ballet Storybook Camps (Ages 4-8), or our Ninja Hip-Hop Camps (Ages 5-10). We're offering 8 different weeks of magic and fun, so choose your theme and come join us for movement games, art, and dancing! We even have Early Drop-Off/Late Pick-Up Options, with a GLOW After Party happening until 2pm for maximum fun (and ease for parents). Sign up for any 4 weeks before April 15th, and save $100. Reserve your spot today! The Epicenter 831.291.3787 be-the-epicenter.org/classes Offering year-round immersive sessions that empower children 7-11 through guided exploration in nature. We focus on awareness of self, others, and the natural environment as we explore and create through drawing, writing, painting, dancing, singing, and play. Our sessions cultivate mindfulness and a sense of joy, wonder, and awe. Junebug’s Gym 3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz 831.464.BUGS (2847) JuneBugsGym.com/ June Bug’s Gym is a place where your child can experience a fun-filled adventure in movement. We have a caring, respectful, and supportive staff that encourages every child in their growth of large motor skills and gymnastics along with social, emotional, and cognitive development. Our goals for our students are to help them feel control and empowerment in their bodies, to build self-esteem through success, to open up imaginations, and to feel confidence and joy in their exploration of movement. (Cont'd on Page 28)

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE

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Be Natural Music

We are so lucky to have an amazing program like Be Natural Music in our area. It’s been amazing. It’s given our daughter the confidence to perform in front of a large crowd and truly be a rock star. Kevin P., parent

Kirby School

425 Encinal Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (831) 423-0658 x111 kirby.org Kirby School empowers students to shape their futures with confidence. Our independent middle and high school offers a world-class college prep curriculum, small class sizes, individualized attention, Tuition Assistance, and our commitment to student social and emotional well-being. Join our community where teachers are attuned to each learner’s strengths and interests, and students are challenged based on their readiness, not their grade level. Ranked one of the top STEM schools in the nation by Newsweek, Kirby graduates attend excellent four-year colleges and universities. MusicalMe, Inc. offering Music Together™

All over Santa Clara & Santa Cruz Counties 831-332-9002 musicalme.com Our Music Together classes are playful, rich, and engaging. They help young children — babies, toddlers, and preschoolers—discover their inner music-maker by playing with the grownups they love. Our music and movement classes also offer other important benefits: music for children supports overall early childhood development. Join us! Santa Cruz Gymnastics (831) 462-0655 info@scgym.com Beginning in June, we will be offering Gymnastics Camps for ages 5–12! Come FLIP WITH US at our weekly themed camps. Camps include gymnastics lessons on all Olympic events, supervised open gym time, group games, crafts and time in our foam pit! Full and half day options are available for each weekly camp. Check scgym.com for more information and to register. Watershed Art Studios 1050 River St #116, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-234-3430 camptanneryarts.com // lindacover.org Camp Tannery Arts is an art intensive summer program introducing children to the world of art with professional artists at the Tannery Arts Center. Workshops: drumming, printmaking, dance, mural arts, music, poetry and more. Artists: Ibou Ngom, Abi Moustapha, Sarah Bianco, Oumou Faye, Moha Aoualou, Asha Tobling, Heejin Lee.

ENRICHMENT Adventures with Art

hello@adventureswithart.com adventureswithart.com/ Let your child's creativity run wild this summer! Adventures with Art is a website that offers tips and tutorials for a number of different art forms, including drawing, painting, digital art with Procreate, crochet, embroidery, and more. Run by an artist who was born and raised in Aptos, Diana loves to share her art knowledge with other artists of all skill levels at adventureswithart.com Be Natural Music

740 Water St, Santa Cruz, CA (831) 515-8369 BeNaturalMusic.Live Learn and perform Jazz, Rock, Reggae, Motown, Pop & more at our two locations: Santa Cruz and Cupertino. We offer ongoing private Music Lessons, Real Rock Band classes for teens, & young adults, Workshops, and Summer Music Camps. We offer lessons on voice, piano/keyboard, guitar, bass, drums & percussion, saxophone, clarinet, ukulele, harp, theory and composition. Summer camps, kid & teen musicians showcase their talent & creativity as they compose original music, script music videos, and record their song on stage! The final high-quality music video is posted on our YouTube Channel to jump-start your kid’s career. Encompass Community Services – Youth & Family Counseling 831-429-8350 encompasscs.org/youth_services_counseling A lot has happened this year, and summer is a great time to reconnect with your kids and support their mental well-being. Encompass Community Services offers comprehensive mental health and substance use counseling services to youth ages 3 to 20 and their families across Santa Cruz County. Our counseling services are personalized to meet the individual needs of youth and to enhance the strengths and assets of each family. Bilingual Medi-Cal, low-cost, and FREE group, individual, family and telehealth services are available. Call today to schedule your free screening! Growing Social Growing Social Growingsocial.org | info@growingsocial.org 408-914-0552. Growing Social is a highly therapeutic, educational outdoor program offering Summer Camps and school year services to those with social learning differences (including Social Communication Disorder, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, ADD, social anxiety, those without a formal diagnosis). Farm animals, gardening, cooking, and other creative group activities are utilized to teach and practice social learning concepts. In small groups, students are carefully matched by age (K-young adult) and skill level. Social vocational and camp counselor opportunities for teens and young adults. Sessions are taught by Stephanie Madrigal and Amy Miller, Speech and Language Pathologists Mathnasium of Santa Cruz 1642 Mission Street Santa Cruz, CA. 95060 (831) 440-7574 mathnasium.com/SantaCruz Make it a Mathnasium summer! While most students experience math learning loss over summer, the pandemic has caused many kids to fall behind. Mathnasium’s personalized learning plans are proven to improve grades and give them a head start going into the new school year. Our summer programs are designed to work in tandem with the other summer camps and activities. Just 2 or 3 one-hour sessions per week are all kids need to help keep their math skills on track for the upcoming school year. And your child will continue to enjoy summer, because we make learning math fun. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

28 MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

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All About Theatre

AAT has been our family's community for the past five years. My daughter has blossomed in front of my eyes. We both have thrived and succeeded in the theatre and have found lifelong friends and connections. - Joanna Eskilson, parent

1305 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz 95062 831.420.6115 santacruzmuseum.org This summer, connect with nature as a family with the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. Start the season with nature crafts, live animals, and music at the Summer Kickoff Festival, June 25. Explore nature through a different lens during extended hours (with free admission for all) every First Friday. Get your hands dirty while learning about native plants every 3rd Saturday through Saturdays in the Soil. The Museum’s interactive exhibits engage visitors of all ages in learning about Santa Cruz, from shore to mountain summit. Admission for kids is always FREE! Visit santacruzmuseum.org to learn more. Santa Cruz Public Libraries 224 Church St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-427-7713 santacruzpl.org The SCPL Summer Reading Program is back in-person! Earn books, attend events, and win prizes. Reading just 5 books over the summer helps prevent learning loss in students. Kids can continue learning while having fun at programs such as storytimes, craft and STEAM activities. Amazing performers will present shows all summer long. Sign up at any branch or online at santacruzpl.org\ srp starting June 1st. The Bookakery BookakeryBoxes.com Looking for activities to do with your kids at home? Have a kid that always wants to help in the kitchen or curl up on your lap to hear a good book? Love getting packages? The Bookakery has just the thing: Bookakery Boxes, a monthly subscription box for kids aimed towards fostering a love of reading and baking. Each Bookakery Box comes with a hardback picture book, kid-friendly recipe card, baking item and activity, all based around a theme of the month. Order yours today! Use code GUISC10 for 10% off any subscription length (renews at standard rate). Expires 12/31/2022

PRESCHOOLS Child Development Resource Center

Santa Cruz County Office of Education, 400 Encinal Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-466-5820 cdrc4info.org At the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, the Child Development Resource Center is dedicated to helping families find a suitable child care match or preschool program. Our bilingual services supply a variety of resources for families. We also offer many supports for preschool teachers and child care providers. Utilizing our referral database which contains

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all licensed preschools and child care programs in Santa Cruz County, we can work up a free listing based on your family’s needs. Contact us today and get the support you need as you choose a preschool or child care program. Coast Redwoods Montessori 831.461.9330 CoastRedwoodsMontessori.com Coast Redwoods Montessori provides infant, toddler and preschool learning environments utilizing Montessori principles of education. Our curriculum includes language, math, science, culture, geography, courtesy, practical life, art and music. Our convenient location includes a 7000 square foot yard with a park quality climbing structure and garden. We offer programs for children 6 months through 6 years old. Little Acorns Montessori 831.464.1400 LittleAcornsMontessori.com Little Acorns Montessori provides a warm and caring environment, encouraging children to develop self-confidence and social and academic skills. We have a beautiful corner lot in Live Oak. Our Montessori trained teachers provide a unique, individualized learning program for children 6 months through 6 years old. Quail Hollow Montessori 831.335.4710 QuailHollowMontessori.com Voted “Best preschool in San Lorenzo Valley”, Quail Hollow Montessori offers an excellent, individualized learning experience for your child with a solid foundation in both academic and social skills in a beautiful, neighborhood setting. Our goal is to help children blossom into self-confident, compassionate, inquisitive, and respectful individuals with a life-long love of learning. Rocking Horse Ranch Preschool Lic #444400117 4134 Fairway Dr, Soquel 831.462.2702 Rocking Horse Ranch is a play-based preschool located on 3 beautiful acres in sunny Soquel. We offer morning, afternoon, and full day sessions. Our outdoor space offers lots of room to explore, including our gardens and many different kinds of animals. Come visit us!

RECREATION Adventure Sports Unlimited

303 Potrero Street, #15, Santa Cruz 831.458.3648 asudoit.com Adventure Sports Unlimited (ASU) is Santa Cruz’s premier swim school. We teach infants through adults the joys of water and adventure.

Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

"[My child] had a wonderful time at camp last week. He said it was his best school ever." Nature Explorers Spring Camp, parent

SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE

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California Ocean Alliance

I really don’t think I can pick a favorite part. The conversations I had with all of the professors, watching seal training, going out on boats and tagging whales, and meeting dolphins all are some of my favorite moments. Lindsey Templeton, Student

Our Ocean programs introduce families to our magnificent marine environments through the Santa Cruz Island Camping Trip. We explore the world-renowned underwater landscape of Monterey Bay through our Open Water Scuba courses. It all starts in our custom-built aquatics facility with our tropically heated pool. We want to make your entry into the water world truly enjoyable. ASU - Come Play With Us! Cougar Swim School 7105 Hwy 9, Felton Ca. (location of pool) 208 Prospect Hts. Santa Cruz 95065 831-239-4228 cougarswimschool.com Kurt Edwards and Cougar Swim School represents swimming excellence with over 25 years of teaching and management experience, Kurt Edwards, and the staff of Cougar Swim School offer quality swim lesson for all ages and abilities, Water Polo, Junior Lifeguarding, and Aqua Day Camp. Our summer program is made up of 4 to 5 sessions that are 2 weeks in length with eight, twenty-five-minute classes. Classes are held

on Monday thru Thursday for both weeks. Cougar Swim School also offers Lifeguard training classes for anyone 15 year and up, who want to work as a lifeguard. Jim Booth Swim School Santa Cruz at Harvey West Pool and Watsonville at Duncan Holbert Pool 831.722.3500 jimboothswimschool.com Be a water wonder! From our Little Otters swim class for parents and their babies to Aquaphobics, our adult beginner class, the whole family splashes together at Jim Booth Swim School. Little Otters beginning at age 4 months is a gentle introduction to our 94-degree pools that will make you confident that you are guiding your infant to a happy water experience. Our lessons emphasize quality swimming in an exciting class taught by our caring, well-qualified teachers. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School. Parker Hammond Golf 401 Upper Park Road Santa Cruz CA 95065

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Four Points Youth Camp

We had a great time! It was the perfect combination of friendship, games, new arts and crafts, and a low key, beautiful setting. Thank you for this new camp! Jennifer Greenburg

831-423-7214 Parkerhammondgolf.com PHGolf summer camps are for juniors who want to start learning the game of golf in a fun, active environment with kids their age and ability. Players will learn all aspects of the game including short-game, full-swing, and on-course coaching. City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department 831.420.5270 Register for our popular summer camps?and?junior guards for a fun-filled summer. Get moving with Skatedogs Skateboarding Camp, World Cup Soccer Camp,?and?SUP Camp. Create with virtual art camps or expand your knowledge with?science?and?STEAM camps. Visit?santacruzparksandrec. com?to view the Summer Activity Guide in Spanish?and?English. Online registration opens Saturday, April 9,?and?Monday, April 11 for phone registration for the City of Santa Cruz?Parks?&?Recreation summer programs.

UC Santa Cruz Summer Sports Camp

UCSC Summer Sports Camps UC Santa Cruz is excited to announce summer sports camps! June 13-17, 2022 UCSC offers girls basketball and volleyball camps. Both camps focus on all skills development and are for 5th - 8th grade girls and all skills levels. Volleyball contact Gabrielle Houston gthousto@ucsc.edu Basketball contact Todd Kent tlkent@ucsc. edu. $200 9 AM - 4 PM.

SUMMER EATS Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar

1100 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-469-4400 Order at kiantis.com. Patio, curbside and delivery for our entire menu and drinks including Kianti’s Kids Pizza Kits, $45 Family Dinner Special, Happy Hour, Kianti’s Signature Cocktails, Bottles of Kianti’s Wine and Kianti’s Vodka, Gin, Rum, Whiskey or Tequila.

JUNE DADS & GRADS

Gift Guide

EMAIL US TO ADVERTISE! Advertising@GrowingUpSC.com 25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

ALL MONTH National Pet Month ALS Awareness Month National Inventors Month National Teen Self-Esteem Month National Foster Care Month Healthy Vision Month Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Brain Cancer Awareness Month Haitian Heritage Month Hepatitis Awareness Month Homeschool Awareness Month Jewish American Heritage Month Latino Books Month Lupus Awareness Month Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month Mental Health Awareness Month Military Appreciation Month

SEKON Aptos Sound Project World Premiere | BRUCH Kol Nidre | SAINTSAENS Introduction & Rondo Capriccioso | MUSSORGSKY/RAVEL Pictures at an Exhibition santacruzsymphony.org

MONDAY 2 International Harry Potter Day Grab your wand and let’s revel in the magical history of Harry Potter.

TUESDAY 3

nonconforming individuals, highlighting their aspirations, accomplishments, resilience, strength, and connection. This showing will benefit WomenCARE Santa Cruz, and proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships go directly to them. WomenCARE provides a safe haven where women with any type of cancer find mutual support, shared experiences, and open hearts. Visit https://www.lunafest.org/ screenings/hybrid-friends-womancaresanta-cruz-ca-050422

THURSDAY 5 National Day of Prayer National Cartoonists Day International Midwives Day Join the global community to appreciate the amazing work of midwives. Cinco de Mayo Pro-Union Mexican citizens in the state of California heavily celebrated the victory at the Battle of Puebla viewing it as a victory for the Union’s cause, later formalizing and spreading the annual celebrations across all of California, and Mexican-Americans all around. LUNAFEST: Films by and about Women 7:00 PM-9:00 PM See May 04.

Free Comic Book Day National Babysitter’s Day Celebrate the ones who look after those dearest to you — your children. LUNAFEST: Films by and about Women 7:00 PM-9:00 PM See May 04.

SUNDAY 8 Victory in Europe Day

National Space Day There’s so much going on in the universe, it deserves a day to reflect on everything! School Lunch Hero Day

National Mother Goose Day Today, we are swept back to memories of our childhood fairy tales.

Mother’s Day Give Mom an extra hug and appreciate her for doing the toughest job on Earth.

National Teacher Day Everyone has had that favorite teacher that has helped inspire them.

School Principals’ Day Make your principal feel special on School Principals’ Day. Westside Marketplace 11:00 AM-4:00 PM Every First Sunday at The Wrigley! Featuring LOCAL art, handmade & vintage shopping + Food Trucks & pop-ups, and LIVE MUSIC…all outdoors at the Old Wrigley Parking Lot, 2801 Mission Street, Santa Cruz. FREE admission! FREE & easy parking! Friendly leashed pups are welcome! scmmakersmarket.com Santa Cruz Symphony: Kaleidoscopes 2:00 PM-3:30 PM

SATURDAY 7

FRIDAY 6

SUNDAY 1

May Day A day for everyone to come together and celebrate life as we know it!

6101. The fee is $175 due before the first day of class. Students must wear masks. A recital will be given on June , 7:00 pm. LUNAFEST: Films by and about Women 7:00 PM-9:00 PM See May 04.

National Foster Care Day Let’s celebrate the people who make the foster care system work for children in need. Eid al-Fitr Based on the lunar calendar, Eid al-Fitr is commemorated after the end of the Holy month of Ramadan when Muslims fast from sunrise till sunset, thus, Eid al-Fitr is also known as the ‘Festival of Breaking Fast.’ Many people observe the festival by visiting friends and family, exchanging gifts, and making special food and sweets that are synonymous with the festival itself. Free Tuesday at UCSC Arboretum 9:00 AM-12:00 AM Come explore the biodiversity of our gardens, great bird watching or simply come relax on a bench in the shade. Arboretum@ucsc.edu/

WEDNESDAY 4 National Skilled Trades Day Star Wars Day It's party time on Tatooine. May the Forth be with you! LUNAFEST: Films by and about Women 7:00 PM-9:00 PM This year’s stories screened at LUNAFEST, are told from a variety of perspectives that champion women and gender

30 MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

Roaring Camp Railroads: Mother’s Day Brunch 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Treat Mom to something memorable on her special day with a delectable Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet accompanied with live music by Pat Hull. After a lovely brunch, relax with a train ride through the towering redwoods. roaringcamp.com

MONDAY 9 National Nurses Day We celebrate Florence Nightingale and recognize the important role nurses play in our lives. National Military Spouse Appreciation Day Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program 4:15 PM-5:30 AM The Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program will begin a 5-Week Session for String Students Ages 8-18, for those with note-reading experience.The classes will be held on consecutive Friday afternoons, May 6-June 3 in the VAPA5000 Music Building. You may register through our website, https://cabrillo.edu/cabrillo-youth-strings or through Extension, 479-6331, extension. cabrillo.edu. You may also call us at 479-

National Lost Sock Memorial Day We honor all the socks that are no longer with us. Where did they go?

TUESDAY 10 National Clean Your Room Day We can all admit our rooms can get chaotic from time to time.

WEDNESDAY 11 National Receptionists Day National School Nurse Day It’s time to shower school nurses with their deserved attention as we mark this important holiday.

MAY CALENDAR THURSDAY 12

WEDNESDAY 18

National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day People suffering from fibromyalgia either go undiagnosed for years or are misdiagnosed.

National Visit Your Relatives Day A day dedicated to spending time with your loved ones and cherishing family time. Meet the Doulas (Virtual) 7:00 PM8:30 PM Meet and talk with birth and postpartum doulas as you learn how they work with families. Sponsored by Birth Network of Santa Cruz County, this free event is open to those planning to birth in Santa Cruz, and surrounding counties. Studies show doula care: results in a shorter, smoother labor, creates a more positive birth experience, reduces need for medical interventions such as pain medications and epidurals, reduces postpartum depression, results in greater success in breastfeeding. www.mtd2022.eventbrite.com Registration required for login information. birthnet.org

FRIDAY 13

chairs & blankets! Location: Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley foodtrucksagogo.com/

FRIDAY 27

SATURDAY 21

National Road Trip Day There’s a reason why ‘The Great American Road Trip’ is now a catchphrase — because the U.S. is the one country where road trips count as a holiday in themselves.

SATURDAY 28

THURSDAY 19

National Frog Jumping Day We bring awareness to different kinds of frogs and their impact within our ecosystem. Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program 4:15 PM-5:30 AM See May 06.

SATURDAY 14

TOP DOG Film Festival 7:00 PM-9:30 PM This carefully curated program of short canine-themed films is comprised of the most inspirational, heart-warming and entertaining stories about dogs and their human companions, from independent filmmakers around the globe. Get your tickets before they all sell out – you’d be barking mad to miss it. For information and tickets visit https://www.riotheatre. com/events-2/2021/12/5/topdogfilm A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. riotheatre. com/events-2/2021/12/5/topdogfilm

FRIDAY 20

Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day Learn about poverty and how you can get involved in feeding the hungry.

SUNDAY 15

National Cherry Cobbler Day Cherry cobbler is a baked dessert with a rich cherry filling and a biscuit dough crust.

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SUNDAY 22 Buy A Musical Instrument Day This day is here to motivate you to create beautiful melodies with a brand new instrument. International Day for Biological Diversity Dedicated to making Earth a place where all creatures can not only survive, but also thrive.

National Lucky Penny Day See a penny, pick it up, all day long you’ll have good luck! World Turtle Day National Safe Sun Week

MONDAY 16

TUESDAY 17

Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program 4:15 PM-5:30 AM See May 06.

MONDAY 23

International Family Day Families— both traditional and non-traditional—are the foundation of society.

National Honor Our LGBT Elders Day a time to pay tribute to those who have paved the way for the LGBT (Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender) community to obtain and continue to seek important legislation and rights. We have numerous elders to thank for the strides made over the last several decades towards equality. Vesak Vesak celebrates Buddha’s birth, along with his enlightenment and death in some traditions.

National Learn to Swim Day When in the water, safety first! Discover the importance of learning how to swim.

Felton Remembers Parade and Covered Bridge Festival 10:00 AM4:00 AM The Parade route starts at the entrance to Henry Cowell Redwoods on Highway 9, and continues into downtown Felton along Highway 9. Expect to see Fire Engines, Marching Bands, Horses, Military Veterans, Antique Autos, Military Vehicles, maybe a Tank, (A Tank??). The Covered Bridge Festival is held at the Felton Covered Bridge Park every year right after the parade. The Festival has grown during the past several years into an event which features live music, great food and a beautiful beer garden serving beer and local wine, soft drinks and specialty items. Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program 4:15 PM-5:30 AM See May 06.

Learn About Composting Day Composting is not only an environmentally safe fertilizer but also helps save water, energy, and money!

TUESDAY 24 National Endangered Species Day A day to consider the dwindling populations of certain animals and work together to help. National Bike to Work Day National Bike To School Day Food Truck Friday 5:00 PM-8:00 PM Food Truck Friday features your favorite food trucks at these monthly events at Skypark! In addition to dinner, we have a very popular Beer & Wine Garden + Live Music! Join us at this wonderful Community event -- now in its 7th year! There's plenty of space to spread out & enjoy the evening! Eat at a picnic table or bring lawn

National Scavenger Hunt Day Hunting for a list of items, or solving a series of clues to “win” the game.

WEDNESDAY 25 National Sing Out Day Channel your inner melodious voice and get ready to sing your blues away.

THURSDAY 26 National Paper Airplane Day Paper airplanes have fascinated children and adults alike around the globe for generations.

MONDAY 30 Memorial Day the last Monday in May serves, most importantly, as a time to honor those who died while fighting in the U.S. Armed Forces. It’s a holiday steeped in somber American history and tradition.

TUESDAY 31 National Smile Day Flash your pearly whites with a smile bigger than the Grand Canyon. (Cont'd on Page 32)

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

CALENDAR Do you have an event you want placed in our calendar? Visit our website to submit the details! Photos for the calendar may be submitted by email. Digital images must be high resolution, 200-300dpi. Christy@GrowingUpSc.com

Mothers Day Sip & Shop

DEADLINE The 15th of the month Prior to publication month.

Emilia | Age 6

SUN | MAY 8 | 12PM - 4PM Downtown Felton | Particpating Shops DowntownFelton.com/Events Enjoy complimentary beverages at participating shops in Downtown Felton while shopping and strolling along the downtown strip in beautiful Felton.

Hayden | Age 8

GREASE is the word!

MAY 6 THROUGH MAY 14 London Nelson Community Theater allabouttheatre.org/buy-tickets All About Theatre Proudly Presents GREASE. Grease is among the world’s most popular musicals and has a cult-like following, especially among youth & teens! Buy Your Tickets Now at allabouttheatre. org/buy-tickets/

Leo Age | 4.5

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. Please visit our website to fill out the calendar form: growingupsc.com/submissions

Additional Sources: NationalToday.com

Luna Age | 10

Submit your coloring entry to editor@growingupsc.com for a chance to be in our next issue!

You can also mail them to Box 3505, Santa Cruz, 95063 Submissions due by May 15. Olive Age | 6

Vivek | 3.5

32 MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

COLORING PAGE

Submit your coloring entry to editor@growingupsc.com for a chance to be in our next issue! You can also mail them to Box 3505, Santa Cruz, 95063 Submissions due by May 15.

34 MAY 2022 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz | 25th ANNIVERSARY

25th ANNIVERSARY | GrowingUpSC.com | MAY 2022

Friday May 6th at 7:00pm Saturday May 7th at 2:00pm Saturday May 7th at 7:00pm

Tickets: $13-$20

Children under 6 free

Over 150 Musicals

Live on Stage At the London Nelson Theater

Thursday May 12th at 7:00pm Friday May 13th at 7:00pm Saturday May 14th at 2:00pm Saturday May 14th at 7:00pm

www.ALLABOUTTHEATRE.ORg

831.345.6340

Growing Up in Santa Cruz May

Articles inside

Coloring Contest Winners

Local Artist

Local News: Cirque.Tumble.Cheer

Moms Who Make a Difference

Mother's Day Gift Guide

Education

Always Amused

Editor's Note

Local News: Epicenter

Santa Cruz Staycation

Ask Nicole