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Featured Events:Oliver the ParrotLearn about parrots with the coolest parrot around, Oliver! 06/25/2018 at 5:30pm Location: 2380 Portola Dr., Santa Cruz 
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Learn about parrots with the coolest parrot around, Oliver! All ages are invited to enjoy parrot stories, songs, facts about parrots, and make a parrot craft while meeting Oliver and his human.
Monday, June 25th 5:30pm Oliver will be back in July at Boulder Creek, Garfield Park and Live Oak again! Check back for dates and times.
This event is part of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries Summer Reading Program
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Join Santa Cruz Public Libraries as we host a bimonthly trivia night at Steel Bonnet Brewing Company in Scotts Valley. Bring your friends, form a team (or take it on solo), and compete against other groups to win the grand prize. Event occurs 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month.
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Tour the Pacific Migrations Visitor Center at New Brighton State Beach
Come explore the Pacific Migrations Visitor Center at New Brighton State Beach. This free mini-museum highlights the history of Pacific Rim migrations and how they have influenced the Monterey Bay area.
The exhibits explore the contributions of Chinese fishers, who established fishing camps on the Monterey Bay coastline beginning in the 1850s. Fishers dried and shipped most of their catch to markets up and down the coast, as well as across the Pacific. Chinese fish merchants also sold their fresh catch in local towns. China Beach, as New Brighton was known at the time, lasted until the mid-1880s.
The center, which is supported by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays to Sundays. It also includes a ParkStore, offering nature and history-themed merchandise for sale. All proceeds benefit local parks and beaches.
Self-guided tours of the Pacific Migrations Visitor Center are free. Docent-led tours are available for groups. Contact Jean Bernard at the Visitor Center, 831-464-5620, to schedule. Parking at New Brighton State Beach is $10 and supports the park. New Brighton State Beach is located at 1500 Park Ave. in Capitola
FREE First Friday 11am-4pm. Enjoy the Museum for FREE with your family on the first Friday of every month. Enjoy our intertidal touch pool, large-screen microscope, and geology exhibit and "dig pit". Santa Cruz Natural History Museum. 1305 East Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz. 420-6115
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Enjoy family time at home because all of your child's homework has been completed!
This special time is for doing homework under the supervision of our qualified staff that can offer assistance.
When all their homework is complete, they can participate in in quiet fun such as dot to dots, coloring sheets and mazes.
Sign up for Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays or 2 days all 3 days! Session 2 2/6/18-3/1/17
Session: Feb. 6 - Mar. 29
All Mondays in the session $60
All Mondays and Tuesdays $120
All Mondays Tuesdays and Wednesday $180
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Art Seen
Maryjo Koch and the Art of Scientific Illustration
Maryjo Koch doesn't overlook the little things. When it comes to painting birds nests and honeybees, every little twig and hair matters. With acute attention to detail and precision, Koch is one of the world's most accomplished naturalist painters around.
Her hyperrealistic specimens are often found in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where Koch works. She has illustrated 18 books, and her work has been featured across the globe.
Hours
Tuesday-Saturday 12 PM-5 PM
Holidays and campus breaks observed.
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Join us to celebrate the opening of our new exhibition, Harvesting Our Heritage.
This exhibition, based on the research project and book of the same name, takes some bite-sized looks at the history of agriculture and food ways here in Santa Cruz county.
Wednesday 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Thursday 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Friday 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Sunday 12:00pm - 4:00pm
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Citizen Science
We invite you to join us every first Thursday of the month for a presentation and Q&A with local experts and researchers in the field discussing life science, ecology, geology, genetics, climatology and more. Let's connect, inspire and inform each other!
For more information contact pro@santacruzpl.org • 831-427-7717
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Trivia on Tap
Join Santa Cruz Public Libraries as we host a bimonthly trivia night at Steel Bonnet Brewing Company in Scotts Valley. Bring your friends, form a team (or take it on solo), and compete against other groups to win the grand prize. Event occurs 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month.
Note: Special Theme: Film and Television
Additional Information
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Success in school is important for every child's future. The library offers free Homework Help to all students under 18 years of age through May 25, 2018. No appointment is needed and all subjects are covered.
Locations are:
Tuesdays 3-5p: La Selva Beach
Wednesdays 3-5p: Garfield Park
The program takes Spring break: March 30 to April 9, 2018 (resuming April 10, 2018)
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Explore Año Nuevo with a Docent Naturalist
Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Ticket sales open Friday, October 20
Cost: $7 per person + $3.99 reservation fee
Journey to view a large colony of Northern elephant seals, guided by your docent naturalist on this moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour adventure. In the month of December, male elephant seals, or bulls, arrive along the shore of Año Nuevo State Park to establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups.
These popular guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear is strongly advised. Umbrellas and strollers are not permitted. Pets are not allowed in the park. Parking is $10. For more information, please call (650) 879-2025 or for recorded information (650) 879-0227.
People with accessibility needs may reserve an equal access tour along the boardwalk.
These tours take place on Fridays, weekends, and select holidays. For reservations and info call ReserveCalifornia at 1-800-444-4445. Events made possible by Coastside State Parks Association and California State Parks.
Self-Guided Seal Walks
Daily, between 8:30am and 3:30pm (Natural Preserve closes at 5pm)
Stroll over sand dunes, enjoy beautiful ocean views, and gain a unique opportunity to view a large colony of Northern elephant seals on this 3-mile, 2.5-hour self-guided trail! Visit the female elephant seals as they return to shore to molt, or shed their fur, in this annual excursion. Additionally, young pups are still ashore from the winter breeding season. Layered clothing, closed-toes shoes, and rain/wind gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and strollers are not permitted inside the dune area. Pets are not allowed in the park. Walk is free; day-use vehicle fee is $10. Entrance to the reserve for your self-guided walk requires a free permit that can be obtained at the entrance station, or the Visitor Center. Please contact the park at 650-879-2025 for further information.
If you require mobility assistance, you may request a volunteer-led equal access tour. You will board our accessible van and get a ride to our wheelchair-accessible boardwalk. A volunteer(s) will accompany you to the two seal-viewing decks, explain the Northern elephant seal natural history, the history of the park, and answer questions. Reservations are required. Please, allow a 2-week advance notice. The volunteer led tour is free, day-use vehicle fee is $10. Contact the park at 650-879-2033 or email Ano.EqualAccess@parks.ca.gov. Events made possible by Coastside State Parks Association and California State Parks.
Canta y Baila Conmigo® with MusicalMe, Inc.
Locations in Los Gatos, Pleasure Point & Westside Santa Cruz
831.438.3514 or Text: 831.332.9002
Now offering the new and exciting Spanish language music & movement immersion program - Canta y Baila ConmigoTM. For beginners and native speakers alike, CyBC brings the highest quality music and movement experiences to young children and the adults who love them, with a playful, interactive atmosphere that integrates language learning naturally and organically in the musical experience.
Our curriculum fosters the integration of music into everyday life - regardless of adults' music ability. CyBC enhances children's learning in multiple domains, increases family engagement and adds richly to each family's "toolbox."
Siblings are welcome, especially infants who attend free if they are 8 months or under. Classes are now offered in Los Gatos, Pleasure Point & Westside Santa Cruz.
Contact us now to attend a class for free!
FREE Demo Classes
Join us for a FREE Demo Class of our newest offering: Canta y Baila Conmigo!
Friday, March 16th, 2018 @ 9:30am and 10:30am
Los Gatos Rec. Department, 123 E. Main Street, Los Gatos, CA - ROOM C
REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Click Here to Register
QUESTIONS: 831-438-3514 or sky@musicalme.com
SPACE IS LIMITED! REGISTER TODAY!
PREVIEW A CLASS - FOR FREE!
If you have never experienced a Music Together class and want to see first-hand why everyone raves about this incredible program, please join us for a FREE class. These are classes currently in progress. Schedule yours TODAY!
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The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is proud to present an inspiring week of nature exploration.
Campers draw inspiration from nature through exploration and hands-on investigation! They make new friends at this day camp featuring walking field trips, Museum exploration, science projects, and nature-inspired art.
We invite kindergartners and first graders to come observe, explore, and appreciate the wonders of the natural world here in our backyard as well as in the Museum's collection. With the inspiration of our spring "Art of Nature" exhibit, we will explore what nature reveals to us everyday through a variety of individual and collaborative art projects. Every camper will create artwork to take home, make scientific discoveries, and most importantly, create memories, friendships, and a personal connection to the unique nature of the Santa Cruz coast.
Each of the five days will focus on a different theme that will guide a variety of art projects, science investigations, supervised explorations, and games. "Leave no trace" ethics and safety in nature will be emphasized throughout the week so that campers will leave equipped with a better understanding of how to responsibly interact with the natural world.
Join us to build connections to nature and stewardship for our world. ENROLLMENT WILL OPEN FEB 2 at 9 am.
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Friday Night Girl's Night Out!
Bring friends, make friends! Join us on a Friday evenings to learn the art of needle felting, miniature fairy/succulent gardens, painting/collage or to create a vision board to launch you into the next phase of your life. These inspiring evenings will provide you with detailed instruction, delightful company and an art piece to take home with you!
If you would like to book a private GNO with your group of 5 or more, please call The Art Factory to make arrangements. We will cover any of the mediums listed above or will customize the project to your request.
Call Yvette at The Art Factory for more information and to reserve space! 831-688-8862
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The Theater Arts Department and the Cultural Arts and Diversity Resource Center present the groundbreaking play A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry, directed by UCSC lecturer Don Williams, featuring drama students from the UCSC African-American Theater Arts Troupe, and guest starring as Mama, award-winning actor and UCSC alumna Adilah Barnes* (Erin Brockovich, Roseanne, Cold Case, Prime Suspect...).
Considered a significant turning point in American theater because it addresses crucial racial and cultural concerns during the 1950s in the United States, A Raisin in the Sun takes a courageous look into how the "American Dream" excluded and marginalized African-Americans in our society.
Influenced by Hansberry's own experiences, it also tackles head-on, various hot-button issues that remain relevant today, including discrimination, cultural identity, feminism, and abortion - topics that were considered off-limits when the play originally debuted in 1959.
Presented by the UCSC Theater Arts Department in conjunction with the Cultural Arts and Diversity Resource Center, the African American Theater Arts Troupe, and the UCSC Arts Division.
* Ms. Barnes appears through the courtesy of Actors' Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
photo: Adilah Barnes as "Mama" (Steve DiBartolomeo)
Advance tickets available online only
Reserved seating.
Doors open 30 minutes before curtain.
Please be in your seat by the advertised start time.
"A Raisin in the Sun" is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.
March 2-3-4 and 8-9-10-11
Thu-Sat at 7:30PM, Sundays at 3:00PM
$18 adult
$10 senior (62+)
$10 student w/ ID
$8 youth/child/infant
$8 UCSC student (UCSC undergrads eligible for one $0 complimentary ticket per production)
$8 UCSC staff/faculty (2 tickets)
$8 UCSC alumni assoc. member (2 tickets)
This class is for students who love to sew and create mixed media art with textiles as the main component. As students progress, there will be occasional machine sewing. Projects include art pieces, wearable art, functional objects and more.
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This class is for students who want to deepen their ability to draw what they see. Learning to look is the foundation of this drawing class, set in a positive & relaxed environment. Confidence soars when visual connections are made and renderings improve. A "Drawing Sketch Book" is provided.
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Ranch Tours
Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm
Discover what life was like a century ago on this innovative dairy ranch. This hour-long tour includes the 1897 Victorian home, 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse, 1896 water-powered machine shop, barns and other historic buildings. Event is free; parking is $10. Please call the park to confirm at (831) 426-0505. Event made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
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Come join us at The Felton Library for Adult Afternoon Arts and Crafts. It's every Sunday from 2-4:30pm.
Bring something portable that you are working on or come prepared to have fun!
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Salamander Saturday
Saturday, March 3 from 12pm to 4pm
"Salamanders of the Santa Cruz Mountains" by Amy Patten at 1pm
Guided Hike at 3pm
Join us as the "Ranch of the Bear" becomes "Ranch of the Newt," celebrating our amphibian friends that make their way from beneath rocks and under logs to the creeks, wetlands, and puddles of the park. Live amphibians will be available for viewing. Ranger-led salamander hike will start at 3pm on the mile long Marsh Trail. Herpetologist Amy Patten is presenting
Salamanders of the Santa Cruz Mountains," an all ages presentation at 1pm. This free event is appropriate for all ages.
The Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center is located 17 miles north of Santa Cruz, at 3600 Highway 1 in Davenport. For more information, please call (831) 427-2288, or email parksRDOPIS@parks.ca.gov. Event made possible by Waddell Creek Association and California State Parks.
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Ranch Tours
Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm
History comes alive at Wilder Ranch State Park on the weekends with Machine Shop Pelton Water Wheel Demos, baking on the woodstove, and ranch tours.
Event is free; parking is $10. Please call the park to confirm at (831) 426-0505.
Event made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
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Redwood Tours
Saturdays 11am
How do redwoods grow to become the tallest organisms on earth? How important are banana slugs to the redwood ecosystems? Why are there so few old growth trees left? Answer these questions and more every Saturday on our Redwood Grove Walks. One of our knowledgeable docents will lead you through our magnificent old growth forest and answer any questions you may have. Meet at the Visitors Center in the day-use area of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park located off Highway 9 in Felton. Tour is free; vehicle day-use fee is $10. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation, California State Parks volunteers, and California State Parks.
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Get crafty! A Do-It-Yourself craft will be ready and waiting for families, independent-minded kids and teens! Children 8 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
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Our family of five farmers' markets showcases the best in regional organic produce, pasture-raised meats, eggs and dairy, sustainably-harvested seafoods and artisan-made goods.
Purchasing your food through the area's farmers' markets ensures that you are getting the freshest, healthiest and tastiest foods while supporting local jobs, increasing local spending and promoting the region's strong farming tradition.
We provide direct access to sustainable sources of fresh produce and other unique foods and education about food issues, both local and beyond.
| Santa Cruz/Downtown | Weds 2:30-6:00 | Lincoln & Cedar | Year-round |
| Santa Cruz/West Side |
Sat 9-1 | 2801 Mission | Year-round |
| Scotts Valley | Sat 9-1 | King's Village Dr | April - October |
| Live Oak/East Side |
Sun 9-1 | 15th & Eastcliff Dr | Year-round |
| Felton | Tues 2:30-6:30 | 120 Russell Ave | May - Oct |
With more than 300 plant species, ranging from Santa Cruz natives to rare and threatened plants of unusual scientific interest, the Arboretum is the place to see a variety of flora, fauna, birds and more. Meet at Norrie's Gift Shop.
Come and see native flora from around the globe, including California, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Chile. The Arboretum offers many rich opportunities for casual visitors, researchers, students, members, and friends. You can find more information by visiting our About page.
1st Tuesday of every month. Free admission to the Arboretum. The Arboretum is open each day from 9 am to 5 pm. (Closed only on Thanksgiving and Christmas days.) Directions and information about admission can be found here.
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Morning in the Kindergarten
Children 4 to 5 years old are warmly invited to experience a morning in the kindergarten while parents meet our teachers and learn about our approach to early childhood. Kindergarten visits are on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on the following dates:
February 10, 2018
March 3rd, 2018
RSVP by calling 831-824-2161 or emailing enrollment@santacruzwaldorf.org Space is limited.
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Docent Training Starts THIS MONTH!
There is still time to sign-up for docent training. While there are a variety of ways to volunteer with us here at the Wetlands Watch, becoming a docent is a great way to make a lasting and meaningful contribution to the wetlands, youth, and community! It is a fun and interesting way to learn about the natural and cultural history of the wetlands from experts. Docent trainees are treated to an inside look at the Pajaro Valley and its wide network of wetlands. Local experts share the ecology, history, and restoration of the wetlands during the 7-week program.
The interactive sessions include Wednesday evening presentations and Saturday morning field trips, visiting sites not normally seen by the public. Join our dedicated team of trained docent volunteers who help with field trips, lead wetland tours, participate in special events, work in the greenhouse and native plant demonstration garden and a whole host of other things. No previous teaching or wetland experience is necessary - beginners are welcome.
Come join us - the wetlands are calling! For more information, contact Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator Ria Mukerji at 909-680-9872 or email at ria@watsonvillewetlandswatch.org.
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A new public mural, "Unify, Decolonize, Thrive" has joined our vibrant community and we invite you all to celebrate with us for a ceremonious ribbon cutting and reception. This youth-inspired art, designed by local muralists Emmanuel Garcia
and Oliver Whitcroft, represents the past, present, and future of marginalized people - transitioning from a challenging history to a hopeful and thriving future where everyone is included and valued.
Choose Your Own Adventure Tour
Saturdays at 1 pm
Join us on a guided scavenger hunt along our trails. The group chooses from a selection of pre-planned walks, and then together seeks out the wonders of the woods! With our ample selection of trails, abundance of wildlife, and constantly changing seasons, no two adventures will ever be the same!
Meet at the Visitor Center, in the day-use area of the park located off Highway 9 in Felton. Tour is free; vehicle day-use fee is $10.
Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation, California State Parks volunteers, and California State Parks. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. 335-7077
We'll explore pastel, mixed media collage, colored pencil, watercolor, tempera and sculpture as a group with simple instruction. A great art foundation starts here!
A sketch book is provided and will be used in class each week.
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Redwood Grove Loop Walk
Saturdays and Sundays at 11am and 2pm
Friday, June 29 at 11am and 2pm
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Big Basin Redwoods State Park Headquarters. Event is free; day-use fee for vehicles is $10. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
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Pine Needle Basket Making Workshop
Saturday, March 3 from 10am to 12pm
Saturday, March 17 from 1pm to 3pm
Join Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Docent Cheryl VanDeVeer or a fun, free, family workshop learning how to make a basket from local pine needles. Children 10 and older may attend if accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Visitor Center in the day-use area, located off Highway 9 in Felton. No experience necessary. Event is free; parking is $10. Events made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
Spokesman Bicycles Free Flat Fixing Class
Spokesman offers this great (and FREE) flat-fixing class. Check it out to learn how you can most efficiently change your own flat whether you're in the middle of a ride or just wanting to bust out your bike from your garage but the tires are flat.
Spokesman Bicycles, Cathcart Street, Santa Cruz, CA
http://www.spokesmanbicycles.com/events
Concert Two: 500th Birthday Celebration - Medici Codex
Take a moment to consider the best wedding present you've ever given. Then consider coming to this performance of music from the Medici Codex, a choir-book gifted exactly 500 years ago to Pope Leo X's nephew. The book was collected from the best composers of the Renaissance, and stands the test of time due to the stunning nature of the vocal music.
These sacred compositions were written during a time of political strife and represent some of the challenges and beauty of the time.
You will hear voices leaping in and out of one another, a big, moving sound, per- formed by four separate ensembles who have come together to celebrate this unique collection of music.
Ariose, conducted by Camille Couture
UCSC Chamber Singers, conducted by Michael McGushin
San Francisco Renaissance Voices, conducted by Katherine McKee
Sunday Seaside Crafts -make it and take it! Come create and take home a fun souvenir, an activity for the whole family to share.
For example, find out what gray whales eat by creating a bright sun catcher for your window, or create a fancy fish with paper, paint, and color.
Build a seal or sea lion puppet decorated with your own special seal nose, complete with whiskers!
Join the fun in the crafts room every Sunday from 1-3 PM for hands-on fun.
Sponsored by: Sigma Alpha of Omega Nu
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Learn to knit or bring your knitting and enjoy a friendly visit with other knitters. If you are new to knitting, please bring: needles (size 8 10" straight needles or a 24" circular needle) and one skein of worsted weight yarn in your favorite color. Ages 8-108
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Art 3 Drawing for Teens
Mon 4-5:30pm or Weds 3:30-5pm
Created for returning students or students with 1 to 2 years prior art experience. We will focus on technique development and the creative process through a variety of studio art mediums, including science illustration, watercolors, acrylic painting, mixed media collage, printmaking and sculpture over the course of the school year. This class provides a wonderful opportunity for students to expand on school-related projects associated with reports and special presentations, as an alternative to the planned lessons. A sketch book is provided and will be used in class each week.
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How do students know if Kirby is a good fit? A shadow day is an ideal way to find out. We will pair your student with a student host with similar interests. Together they will experience a "day in the life" at Kirby. They will attend classes together, hang out with other Kirby students, and enjoy lunch with their host and some of their friends.
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Get together with other knitters to knit, chat, and make new friends. No registration required. The group meets every Monday from 11am- 1pm. Call 427-7711 for more information.
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This 8-week class will give you an opportunity to learn new tools and skills to communicate with your teenager or preteen that will be effective both in the short term and long term. Parents and caregivers have loved this class! Some come for several sessions because they feel it is so helpful and they enjoy learning from each other.
Tuesdays, February 6 – March 27, 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Jane Weed Pomerantz, PDCR President, Consultant to the Board of the Positive Discipline Association, and CPD Lead Trainer, with over 15 years of parent education teaching experience
$80/person. $120 couples special. $40 refresher special, Call for specials. Book sold separately for $20
To register call 831-476-7284×107
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This class is for students who love to sew and create mixed media art with textiles as the main component. As students progress, there will be occasional machine sewing. Projects include art pieces, wearable art, functional objects and more.
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Students enjoy this fun, positive & relaxed environment where they can explore materials, follow their creativity, naturally deepen their concentration and enhance their visual perception of the world around them. The subject matter in this class is Biology-based, with in-depth studies of plant life, animals, insects, fish & humans. Mediums include, drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture and mixed media collage.
A sketch book is provided and will be used in class each week.
Tues 1:30pm - 3:00pm
Weds 10:30am - 12:00pm
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This dynamic 8-week Positive Discipline parenting class series helps parents of preschoolers understand and effectively guide children's behaviors, set and uphold limits with a combination of kindness and firmness, and encourage children to cooperate feel more capable, and regulate their big emotions.
Limited scholarships and childcare available but only if requested in advance by calling 831-476-7284 x107
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The Felton Certified Farmers Market offers produce and fruit, fish, bread, wine, and an array of prepared foods, a community table and entertainment by local artists.
Felton Certified Farmers' Market provides a community marketplace offering fresh seasonal produce sold by those who grow it, a variety of nonagricultural products and creates a lively, educational and informative meeting place for the entire San Lorenzo Valley. The market offers fresher food at prices normally lower than retail. We carry a wonderful variety of produce, plants, flowers, bread, deserts, fish, prepared foods and there's always fun to be had.
Success in school is important for every child's future. The library offers free Homework Help to all students under 18 years of age through May 25, 2018. No appointment is needed and all subjects are covered.
Locations are:
Tuesdays 3-5p: La Selva Beach
Wednesdays 3-5p: Garfield Park.
The program takes aSpring break: March 30 to April 9, 2018 (resuming April 10, 2018)
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Try your hand at the not-so-ancient-art of building Sumo wrestling robots using LEGO MINDSTORMS.
NOT A DROP-IN PROGRAM: pre-registration is required for this twelve week series for youth ages 7 to 18.
Class size is limited to 16.
E-mail pro@santacruzpl.org or call 831.427.7717 to register.
NEW!TUESDAY TALKS:
Emergency Preparedness
Get together and stay prepared
• 7:00pm - 8:30pm • Boulder Creek
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Toddlers (18-30 months) & Parents Support Classes combine the elements of a playgroup, support group and a chance to learn more about your child's development. Come meet other parents and children, observe and discuss child development and build confidence in your parenting skills. Enjoy seeing your child interact with other children and explore an environment set-up with them in mind. Classes are facilitated by experienced and friendly teachers.
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One-on-One Tech Tutoring
Trying to play with technology and getting frustrated? A tech savvy librarian will provide instruction in the use of a wide range of technology services: How to use free downloadable content available from your library in a number of formats (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and streaming video) Introduction to SCPL databases (i.e. Consumer Reports, Community Information, etc...) Creating an email account Downloading and attaching files Word processing direction and support.
Drop-in weekly appointments, 20 minute slots available. To best support learning, please bring the following items: devices (i.e., laptops, tablets, and/or smartphones), necessary passwords (Google Play, App Store), and library card!
First-come, First-served. FREE
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2018-19 Open Application & Parent Academy. Applications will be accepted between 1/16/18-3/16/18.
Completed applications must include two forms of address verification. MANDATORY Parent Academy for ALL new applicants and ALL 2017-18 current wait list students.
Attend either 3/7/18 at 4:30pm or 3/14/18 at 6:30pm. Must sign in to meeting to verify attendance to be included in the 2018-19 lottery and also remain on the wait list from 2017-18. Please visit our Enrollment page on our website for further information.
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SCPL's CodeCombat Coding Club is a once weekly meetup where we use online, game-based coding to learn Python and JavaScript. CodeCombat is a real game that teaches learners of all ages to code by playing through levels and quickly mastering programming concepts. It's not just gamification with bells and whistles, it's democratizing learning to code by making the process more accessible and engaging than ever before! Learners write code, execute it and see their changes in real-time!
CodeCombat is a platform for students to learn computer science while playing through a real game. Our courses have been specifically playtested to excel in the classroom, even for teachers with little to no prior programming experience.
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Please come to our Open Campus day next Wednesday, March 7th. It's a great day for parents and kids to tour the campus, ask questions, hear about our vision, visit classrooms, etc. Spread the word!
Stepping Stones Triple P offers parenting support for families with children with special needs, such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome and other developmental delays. Stepping Stones Triple P Workshops are brief classes that provide quick tips for handling everyday parenting issues.
Attend this FREE parenting workshop at Babies "R" Us/Toys "R" Us to learn: 7 principles of positive parenting for families with children with special needs; Tips for promoting children's development and handling challenging behaviors; The importance of taking care of yourself and working as a team with your family.
This Triple P Workshop is free and open to the public. Please note: child care is not available at this location.
Presented in English by: Liliana Zamora, Community Bridges - La Manzana Community Resources
Location: Babies "R" Us/Toys "R" Us, 1660 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz (in furniture section)
To register: Contact Caitlin McElroy, Baby Registry Supervisor at Babies "R" Us/Toys "R" Us (831) 479-8208;4296 or 5843.Registry@toysrus.com
Learn about the applications, benefits and concerns related to Virtual Reality technology and explore the HTC Vive VR system to experience it for yourself. Participants must be 13 years or older.
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Club Kanopy is a movie club that screens quality films from SCPL's hottest movie platform, Kanopy. Join us monthly for fun, thoughtful, dramatic, or important movie screenings with some discussion afterward.
Starts January 11 • Every 2nd Thursday of the month, 5:30 - 7:30pm
January 11- Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016) Watch Trailer here: https://youtu.be/n8Xvsjy57X0
February 8- Mother of George (2013) (rated R)
March 8- Gold (2014)
April 12- East Side Sushi (2015)
May 10- The Beautiful Fantastic (2016)
June 14- Almost Adults (2017)
Can't make it to the club? Stream Kanopy movies anytime with your library card and PIN/Password from home!
Step Parents Support Group 6:30pm. Join us on the second Thursday of each month for a free, drop-in support group for anyone in the step-parenting role. We meet at Live Oak Family Resource Center. Contact mailto: 1notsoevilstepmom@gmail.com for more information
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Ten Reasons to Go English Country Dancing
1 It’s Really, Really Fun.
2 It’s Easy: If you can count and skip and tell your right hand from your left, you can begin doing the easy dances immediately. This form of dance does not require fancy footwork or a high level of coordination. This is an excellent place to learn, even if you’ve never done any folk dancing. Beginners are very welcome.
3 It’s Social: The level of interaction that occurs between all the dancers in the set make this a very social dance form. Singles or partners are welcome. This is a very friendly community, and a great way to meet new people.
4 It’s Good Exercise: How many calories did you burn the last time you watched a TV show? Yeah, that’s what we thought. Although English country dancing is not as strenuous as a workout at the gym, it does a whole lot more for your health than a sitcom and a bag of potato chips. It’s a good, light exercise.
5 It’s Casual: We are not a performance troupe, so our goal is not to make the dances look perfect. Our goal is to have fun, and we can do that without requiring technical perfection. Come as you are, wear casual clothes, relax and enjoy it.
6 It’s Low-Tech: Tired of staring at a computer screen all day? So are we. Come dance with us! We won’t require you to look at a computer screen all night. We promise!
7 Indulge Your Inner Anglophile: Come on, you know you want to.
8 It’s Good Clean Fun: Although English country dance has been known to lead to Renaissance Faire addiction, apart from that, it’s totally harmless. (Actually, we love our local Renaissance Faire, especially the Newcastle Country Dancers.)
9 It Brings Together People of All Ages: This form of entertainment appeals to a wide range of ages, which helps bridge the gap between generations. Whether you’re a teen, a septuagenarian, or someone in between, there’s a place here for you.
10 Did We Mention That It’s Really, Really Fun?
Come dance with us! We usually meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, from 7:00—9:30 p.m., at Peace United Church (upper hall), 900 High Street, Santa Cruz, California. (We meet on only the second Thursday in November and December.)
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Join us for a guided tour through the grades classrooms followed by time for questions. Adults only please.
Santa Cruz Waldorf School honors students' individual development and capacities, and nurtures a love of learning through our rich curriculum inspired by Rudolf Steiner. At our rural, forested campus, our community, led by creative Waldorf-trained teachers, encourages the protection of childhood and respect for all life.
Santa Cruz Waldorf School cultivates self-directed, empathetic and free-thinking individuals with the courage and capacities to serve an ever-evolving humanity.
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Avenue Q School Edition
3/8-3/10 & 3/15-3/17 @ 7:00 pm and 3/11 & 3/18 @ 2:00 pm
PVHS/WHS Drama present their performance of this Tony Award Winning puppet-filled comedy about a recent college grad who moves into an apartment in a neighborhood that's a bit out of the ordinary. This play has been adapted for high school performances and is rated PG13.
Everyone is welcome! Partners and dancing experience are not necessary. Each of the dozen or so dance forms during the evening are taught and prompted (except for the waltz and hambo).
Beginner's Workshop: dancers are encouraged to attend the beginner's lesson at 5:40. Regular dancing begins at 6:00 (dances can get more complex as the night goes on).
Admission: Suggested admission donation is $12 regular, $8 for full-time students w/student ID card. Discounts for volunteers.
Wear: Comfortable, non-marking shoes to protect your feet and our floors - a separate pair of dance shoes works best. You'll be more comfortable in loose-fitting light-weight clothing.
Please note that many dancers are very sensitive to fragrances and body odor and that our dances are fragrance-free events.
This is an all-ages event. Bring your joyful enthusiasm along with a sensibility toward care and consideration for your fellow dancers.
More information about upcoming dances in our area is online at the links below:
Contra dances in Santa Cruz County: http://santacruzdance.org/drupal/
English Country Dance in Santa Cruz County: http://www.englishcountrydancing.net/
Contra dances in Monterey: http://montereycdc.webs.com/
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Reach for the Stars (6:30 PM-8:30 PM)
Location: Boulder Creek Branch
Calling all stargazers! This program will explore the ins and outs of all facets of astronomy for adults and families. Whether you're an experienced astronomer or someone who doesn't know the difference between a comet and an asteroid, this program is for you! Topics will vary month-to-month.
Note: Boulder Creek Library: Star Types & Light Pollution
In conjunction with the Reach for the Stars program series, we're launching a new service so you can check out a telescope with your library card! The telescopes will be subject to the same rules as most library materials, except they will not be renewable. To make it even more interesting, we're inviting the community participate in a telescope naming contest between May 16th and May 31st. Anyone may enter the contest by submitting up to 3 name suggestions either in person at any branch library or via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter by tagging us @santacruzpl and using the hashtag #ReachfortheStars.
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This is a 2-DAY (3/9 and 3/10) Positive Discipline Training and Certification for School Teachers, Administrators, and other school staff members to bolster students' social-emotional learning, academic performance, and personal success!
Reduced price for employees of the Santa Cruz City Schools District and FREE for Service Providers working in Monterey County
Call 831-476-7284 x107 for scholarships and other information.
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Every month we produce a 2nd Saturday on the Farm, a family event that focuses on a particular area of agriculture each month. Visitors can participate in the regular activities of the Ag History Project plus others related to the day's special focus. We host over 2,500 visitors each year at 2nd Saturday on the Farm.
We have created some unique interactive educational activities to help you have fun learning about past agricultural practices. What we like to call our "usual" activities include:
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Santa Cruz Music Festival
Breakout your brightest attire and get the festival family together because the Santa Cruz Music Festival returns March 10th and 11th! For two days SCMF takes over Pacific Avenue and the Downtown Area for an experience fun for the whole family! Celebrating its fifth anniversary, SCMF is the premiere Bay Area music festival featuring musicians and artists-along with societal movers and shakers-from Santa Cruz and beyond!
Photo by Raymond Yu
FULL EXPERIENCE PASS - 18+
This pass will give the holder access to ALL PARTICIPATING VENUES including the Civic Auditorium (21+ age restrictions apply to the other venues). THE CIVIC AUDITORIUM WILL BE THE ONLY VENUE that any under 21-year-olds can go to after 10:00pm on Saturday (3/10/18) and Sunday (3/11/18).
LOCALS' PASS - 21+
This pass will give the holder access to these local venues (Motiv, The Blue Lagoon, Rosie McCann's, Museum of Art & History & Cafe Mare). THIS PASS WILL NOT GIVE THE HOLDER ACCESS TO THE CIVIC AUDITORIUM. All the above venues will be 21+ after 10:00pm on both Saturday (3/10/18) & Sunday (3/11/18). Due to this, the Locals' Pass will only be sold to those over 21.
Venues:
| Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History San Lorenzo Park MOTIV The Blue Lagoon |
Cafe Mare Tannery Arts Center Rosie McCann's Irish Pub & Restaurant - Santa Cruz 99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall Streetlight Records-Santa Cruz |
Woodstock's Pizza Santa Cruz Abbott Square Market Poet Patriot Felix Kulpa Gallery & Sculpture Garden Village Yoga Santa Cruz |
Tickets: http://ticketf.ly/2ktJ7OA
Open House, Castro Adobe State Historic Park
Join us for a unique opportunity to view our newest State Historic Park. This hidden jewel in the Pájaro Valley is currently an active construction site as the adobe building is being repaired and is open only during scheduled events. Event is free; limited parking (carpooling encouraged). Events made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
Built from 1848 to 1849, this is one of the finest examples of a rancho hacienda in the Monterey Bay area. The Castro Adobe State Historic Park is located at 184 Old Adobe Road, off of Larkin Valley Road, in northern Watsonville. The Castro Adobe is an active construction site and is accessible currently by appointment only except during the Open House Days. To follow progress on the restoration effort, visit www.ThatsMyPark.org/projects/castro-adobe.
2018 Open House events
The Castro Adobe is open on a limited basis. The park will be open to the public one weekend day each month in 2018.
The open houses will be 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the exception of the August event, which is 6-9 p.m. All events are free to attend; donations are gratefully accepted. Parking is limited; please carpool. Leashed dogs are allowed in the parking area only.
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2018 Santa Cruz Polar Plunge
10:00 am - Registration opens and pre-plunge games begin
11:30 am - Costume contest
12 noon - Plunge
12:30 - Lunch and awards
Well first of all, the Plunge is NOT a swim. The Plunge is a crazy fundraising event where people raise a minimum of $125 for the opportunity to run into and out of chilly waters of the Rio Del Mar Beach, along with other brave souls with warm hearts. In fact, if you don't want to Feel the Thrill of the Chill, just register as a chicken. You'll be excused from Plunging but still enjoy all the festivities and incentive rewards that our Plungers receive.
You heard right! For the first time you are invited to bring your furry four legged friend to plunge with you. For just a $15 registration fee, your pup can hit the water right along beside you. Not only that, but we are going to have a costume contest just for them. The winner of the best dog costume will receive their very own box of Milk Bones! It doesn't get any better than that - right? Only those dogs officially registered with a Plunger will be permitted in the Plunge area and allowed in the water. Plungers must raise a minimum of $125 (in addition to the $15 registration fee) in order to participate.
Hike to Ocean View Summit
Saturday, March 10 at 10am
Escape the crowds on this 6-mile loop through shaded forest to a hilltop view of the coast. Join Docent Steve Stolper as we climb the Meteor Trail through the trees, gaining 600 feet before emerging at Ocean View Summit. After a relaxed lunch we descend back into the forest and return to headquarters. Bring at least one liter of water, lunch, snacks, and appropriate clothing. Meet at Big Basin Redwoods State Park Headquarters. Event is free; vehicle day use fee is $10. Events made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
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Volunteer with the Trail Crew Saturdays
Since 1969 the Big Basin Volunteer Trail Crew has helped make it possible for others to safely enjoy the beauty of our park. The Trail Crew meets the second Saturday of each month, rain or shine. A typical workday lasts until mid-afternoon. Please bring your own work gloves, lunch and water. Join us for a unique perspective of Big Basin, a lively and productive experience with others who share a love of these redwood forests, and the satisfaction of participating in a vital part of the park's ability to educate and inspire the public! Meet at Park Headquarters.
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All are invited to this informative class about the magic of Honey Bees. Emily Bondor will share her knowledge and expertise in apiculture, share honey and other products of the hive and discuss how bees live and work together as a superorganism. Whether you are a seasoned beekeeper or have little to no knowledge of Honey Bees, you will leave this class with new perspectives and ideas. Come discover how to be a steward and an ally to these wonderful winged creatures!
In 2013, while on Maui while pursuing a permaculture design internship, Emily discovered her love for honey bees. Before long, she found herself rearing queen bees for the Maui Queen Bee Company. Emily began work as an Associate Apiculturalist for the Napa Valley Bee Company in 2014 and continues that work on a part-time basis. In 2015 she founded the Santa Cruz Bee Company. Through SCBC, Emily mentors beginning beekeepers on seasonal, treatment-free practices and provides consultation to apiaries throughout the SF and Monterey Bay areas. Additionally, Emily continues to raise queens in collaboration with local breeders, teaches beekeeping classes through the Cabrillo College Extension and other community outlets and is the president of the Santa Cruz Beekeepers Guild.
The Pickwick Book Club is a community of local bookworms, students, and teachers who meet monthly to discuss a nineteenth-century novel, beginning this January with Charles Dickens's "Little Dorrit".
Join us each month for conversations about the novel and guest speaker presentations to help us contextualize our readings.
SECOND SUNDAYS OF THE MONTH
JANUARY-MAY 2018 AT 2:00 PM
MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY
Questions? Visit dickens.ucsc.edu or call 831/459-2103
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Come visit our club meeting to learn more about the 4-H Youth Development Program.
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Meet and mingle with new mothers just like you, share parenting ideas and make Music Together® alongside your babies while learning lifelong parenting tips at the monthly New Mommy Musical MeetUp (Daddies and other loving adults are welcome too!).
Bring your baby (under a year old) and enjoy making friends and drawings for prizes while a certified Music Together teacher leads a short music making session geared specifically to babies.
Join us every 2nd Monday @ 239 High Street, Santa Cruz.
https://www.meetup.com/New-Mommy-Musical-Meetup/events/246692123/
Questions? 831-438-3514 or sky@musicalme.com
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A flexible club bringing together a community of young people with mentors and a space to make. Participants work together to design and create a youth-chosen project. The club is lead by Sasha, a young maker mentor, who has been on panels at Intel, Pearson Learning, Pixar and Bay Area Maker Faire, and Young Makers.
She has won awards at Synopsys Silicon Valley Science and Technology Championship and Santa Cruz County Science & Engineering Fair. She was recently published in National Geographic Magazine January 2017 issue. Club meets the second Tuesday of each month, February through May. Registration required. Call 831-427-7717 or email pro@santacruzpl.org.
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AUTISM SPECTRUM SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for parents to share space with each other, to support each other and to problem solve challenges together!
Meets the second Tuesday of each month at Hope Services- 220 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Email Heidi at hlister@spinsc.org for more information.
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Iris Farm Sale and Show
Bearded Irises smell and look amazing, and are drought tolerant, as well as deer- and gopher-resistant. What more could you ask for from a little plant? Brook Lomond Iris Gardens is opening their doors to the public for two weekends, and will be selling them along with other certified organic irises and holding demonstrations on plant care. This is prime blooming season for bearded irises, so if you don't have any Mother's Day plans (or forgot about it altogether) grab your mama and head on down.
INFO: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 5 and 12, Sunday May 6 and 13. Brook Lomond Iris Farm.
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Small classes and learning that goes beyond the classroom walls, Montessori-influenced Pre/K and college prep 1st-12th grades. Featuring hands-on science labs, outdoor adventure, travel, marine biology studies on Catalina Island, buddy program, visual and performing arts. Contact Benna Dimig at 408-846-4042 or admissions@mountmadonna.org
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Triple P Workshops are brief classes that provide quick tips for handling everyday parenting issues. Attend this FREE parenting workshop to learn: Common causes and signs of depression in teens; What to do if you think your teen is depressed; Tips for helping teens develop healthy coping skills.
This Triple P Workshop is FREE and open to the public. Free child care is available with advance registration. Light snacks will be provided for adults and children.
Presented in English by: Sandra Rodelo, Community Bridges - La Manzana Community Resources
Location: Community Bridges Community Room, 236 Santa Cruz Ave, Aptos
To register: Contact Sandra Rodelo at (831) 724-2997 x211 or sandrar@cbridges.org or register online at http://first5scc.org/calendar/parent-trainings
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Join us for a series of powerful films by and about women!
Each screening will feature community discussions with special guests. All films presented at Appleton Event Lounge, 410 Rodriguez St., Watsonville, at 7PM on the second Thursday of each month, March through June.
Tickets $8 at the door, unless otherwise noted. Youth under 18 free.
Thursday March 8, International Women's Day
SHE'S BEAUTIFUL WHEN SHE'S ANGRY
Community conversation on local women's history & current issues led by special guests. Free screening, donations accepted.
This must-see documentary film resurrects the buried history of the courageous & outrageous women who founded the modern Feminist Movement from 1966 to 1971. The documentary takes us from the founding of NOW, to the emergence of more radical factions of women's liberation. Artfully combining dramatizations, performance and archival imagery, the film recounts the stories of women who fought for their own equality, and in the process created a world-wide revolution.
Thursday, April 12
PINK SARIS & LAAL PARI
Special Guest: Director Sadia Halima
"A girl's life is cruel... A woman's life is very cruel," notes Sampat Pal, the protagonist of PINK SARIS. Sampat was married as a young girl into a family that made her work hard and beat her. But she fought back, leaving her in-laws and eventually becoming a champion for young women in Uttar Pradesh. These young women, frightened and desperate, reach out for their only hope: Sampat Pal and her Gulabi Gang, India's vigilantes in pink. A film by Sundance award-winning director Kim Longinotto.
Accompanying Short Film: LAAL PARI (The Red Fairy)
Laal Pari is a self-motivated, self-taught, elected village council leader in Bihar, India, who is fighting to change the playing field for women's participation in politics.
Thursday, May 10
NO MÁS BEBÉS (No More Babies)
Special guest: Director Renee Tajima-Peña
In NO MAS BEBES, Oscar® nominated Director Renee Tajima-Peña reveals the story of Mexican immigrant mothers who were pushed into sterilizations while giving birth at Los Angeles County Hospital during the 1960s and '70s. Alongside an intrepid, 26-year-old Chicana lawyer and a young, whistle-blowing doctor, the mothers mounted a landmark civil rights lawsuit that is seminal to the movement for reproductive justice.
Thursday, June 14, Monterey Bay Premiere:
ADIÓS AMOR
Special Guest: Director Laurie Coyle
The discovery of forgotten photographs prompts a search for an unsung heroine: Maria Moreno, a migrant mother with twelve children who led a movement for farmworker rights years before Cesar Chavez & Dolores Huerta launched the UFW. ADIOS AMOR tells a personal story with national resonance about the migrant workers who put food on our tables, and explores enduring questions about whose lives we remember, record and recognize.
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Easter is approaching! Our Easter barrels are out now and can be found at our Valley grocery stores! Please stop by and fill a grocery bag. Empty bags with a list of most needed items are with our barrels.
Also, donations of non perishable, canned food are gratefully accepted year round and can be dropped off at VCUM (Mon-Fri 10-4pm), SV Chamber 216 B Mt. Hermon (Mon-Fri 10-3pm) or the BL Gas Station (7am-7pm seven days a week).
You can also donate here on our FB page or website vcum.org
Thank you
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Trivia on Tap
Join Santa Cruz Public Libraries as we host a bimonthly trivia night at Steel Bonnet Brewing Company in Scotts Valley. Bring your friends, form a team (or take it on solo), and compete against other groups to win the grand prize. Event occurs 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month.
Note: Special Theme: Film and Television
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Mark your calendars! The opening reception for this year's exhibition will be Saturday, March 17, from noon to 2 p.m.
We'll have refreshments and lots of answers to those frequently asked questions about Capitola history.
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'All Disabilities' Parent Support Group for any parent of a child with any type of disability
Meets the 3rd Saturday of the month from 10am-12pm at 820 Bay Ave. Capitola
Like our Facebook page and receive info. on up coming meetings.
For more info or to RSVP, please call and leave a message at 423-7713 or email Heidi Lister at hlister@spinsc.org
NOTE: Child care is NOT provided at these meetings.
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Hidden Gems of Big Basin: Wildflowers and Other Beauties Hike
Saturday, March 17 at 10am
There are many less-famous yet still beautiful plants in the redwood forest. Join Docent Diane Shaw on this 4-mile, 3-4-hour hike and meet some hidden gems of Big Basin! Bring water and lunch. Meet at Big Basin Redwoods State Park Headquarters. Event is free; vehicle day use fee is $10. Events made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
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Visit our Cleanup & Events Calendar to find the next volunteer opportunity
Monthly beach cleanups are a fun, free, easy way to give back to your community by keeping pollution from entering the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It's easy to participate - just meet us at the check-in table where you'll sign a waiver form and receive your cleanup materials and data cards. Volunteers are encouraged to Bring Your Own buckets, gloves, and reusable bags to decrease trash. Beach cleanups demonstrate how individuals of all ages can protect the marine environment by keeping our coastlines free from harmful pollution and debris.
Locations rotate each month. Monthly beach cleanups occur every 2nd Saturday of the month in Monterey County every 3rd Saturday of the month in Santa Cruz County.
All monthly beach cleanups are held from 10am to Noon.
For more information, contact cleanup@saveourshores.org.
Spokesman Bicycles Free Maintenance Class
3rd Saturday of every month, 10AM
Spokesman Bicycles, Cathcart Street, Santa Cruz, CA
http://www.spokesmanbicycles.com/events
Money Matters Financial Literacy Series
Start to develop a better understanding of how to manage your personal finances. Learn about a different topic on the 3rd Saturday of each month with George Haas and Anthony Rovai, financial advisers at Money Concepts Capital Corporation. Start getting your personal finances in shape. The series starts on September 16th and runs through May.
Note: Sunnyside Up How to Crack Your Retirement Nest Egg
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Monthly Book Sale @ Aptos Branch: 3rd Saturday of every month, 11 AM - 3 PM
Come browse a wide ranging collection from fiction to children's books, audio books to CD's. Our non-fiction covers subjects from A-Z: cookbooks, gardening, health & well-being, poetry, and travel among a myriad of other subject areas. Join us on Saturdays in the Aptos Library meeting room as the Aptos Chapter of the Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries (Aptos FSCPL) hosts monthly book sales throughout the year (January-July and September-October). The books and media sold are selected from library donations.
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Bubbling away under stairways, in closets, or in forsaken corners of the garage, all across the County an ancient tradition lives on: that sacred collaboration between man and microbe that converts sugars into alcohol. On Saturday, March 17th, the Santa Cruz Fruit Tree Project is hosting an event celebrating this wondrous art.
We are pleased to announce our sixth annual DIYine event (pronounced "D I Wine"), a tasting event featuring samples of homemade fruit wines, beers, meads, and soft drinks. In addition to being a fun event, it's our biggest fund raiser of the year, with all proceeds going to support the Fruit Tree Project.
Get a chance to sample some more traditional beers and wines, as well as unique items like plum port, loquat amaretto, olallieberry wine, and rhubarb-raisin sherry. We'll also have a selection of soft drinks like kefir, kombucha, and our famous Breath of Fire ginger ale.
The event will also include hors d'oeuvres, live music, and a silent auction. Many of the items on the menu are made with fruit gleaned in our backyard harvest program.
To inquire about sharing your own beverages or donating to the silent auction, contact us at fruittreesc@gmail.com.
TICKETS are sliding scale: $20-50 in advance, minimum $25 at the door. All proceeds benefit the Santa Cruz Fruit Tree Project. Advance sales are through our website.
Thanks to our event co-sponsor Mountain Feed & Farm Supply, your local resource for food preservation and home brew supplies.
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Peer Led STEAM
Does your child enjoy art? Science?
Kids ages 6-10 are invited to craft with Anna and learn about the relationship between art and science. The goal is to involve kids in art using their own creativity. Parents are welcome to observe and learn but the art is for the kids.
Starts January 17
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Scotts Valley Library • 251 Kings Village Rd.
At the first class kids will experiment with Zentangle Snowflakes. Every class will involve art and the science behind the art.
Anna is a junior at Scotts Valley High School. She has fond memories of the art and craft classes at Scotts Valley Library when she was younger and wants to replicate those memories for other Scotts Valley kids.
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The Santa Cruz Public Library System (SCPL) has announced a new ongoing STEAM program for kids set to begin on January 17th, 2018 and continue every third Wednesday of the month from 2:00pm - 4:00pm through May at the Scotts Valley Library.
The program, called CASE Art, stands for Creative, Artistic, Scientific, Expressive. This new monthly class for ages 6-10 involves kids in art by using their own creativity while learning about the relationship between art and science. Parents are welcome to observe and learn, but the art is for the kids. At the first class kids will experiment with Zentangle Snowflakes. Every class will involve art and the science behind the art.
"Learning about the relationship between art and science at an early way is a great way to get young children on the path to academic success," says Library Director Susan Nemitz. "And we have noticed that kids really enjoy learning from other kids."
The class is led by Scotts Valley High School student Anna, who is in her junior year. She has fond memories of the art and craft classes at Scotts Valley Library when she was younger and wants to create similar memories for other Scotts Valley kids.
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Genealogy Research Group
This new group meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month to explore genealogy related research topics. Learn how to use the resources paid for by the library as well as other online sources to find all kinds of genealogical information. Laptops are provided, and you are welcome to bring your own as well.
Interested in genealogy? At a dead-end? Have a new source to share? Join us the 3rd Wednesday of the month for hands-on research using the library's databases and internet resources. We will have laptops available for your use.
Ten Reasons to Go English Country Dancing
1 It’s Really, Really Fun.
2 It’s Easy: If you can count and skip and tell your right hand from your left, you can begin doing the easy dances immediately. This form of dance does not require fancy footwork or a high level of coordination. This is an excellent place to learn, even if you’ve never done any folk dancing. Beginners are very welcome.
3 It’s Social: The level of interaction that occurs between all the dancers in the set make this a very social dance form. Singles or partners are welcome. This is a very friendly community, and a great way to meet new people.
4 It’s Good Exercise: How many calories did you burn the last time you watched a TV show? Yeah, that’s what we thought. Although English country dancing is not as strenuous as a workout at the gym, it does a whole lot more for your health than a sitcom and a bag of potato chips. It’s a good, light exercise.
5 It’s Casual: We are not a performance troupe, so our goal is not to make the dances look perfect. Our goal is to have fun, and we can do that without requiring technical perfection. Come as you are, wear casual clothes, relax and enjoy it.
6 It’s Low-Tech: Tired of staring at a computer screen all day? So are we. Come dance with us! We won’t require you to look at a computer screen all night. We promise!
7 Indulge Your Inner Anglophile: Come on, you know you want to.
8 It’s Good Clean Fun: Although English country dance has been known to lead to Renaissance Faire addiction, apart from that, it’s totally harmless. (Actually, we love our local Renaissance Faire, especially the Newcastle Country Dancers.)
9 It Brings Together People of All Ages: This form of entertainment appeals to a wide range of ages, which helps bridge the gap between generations. Whether you’re a teen, a septuagenarian, or someone in between, there’s a place here for you.
10 Did We Mention That It’s Really, Really Fun?
Come dance with us! We usually meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, from 7:00—9:30 p.m., at Peace United Church (upper hall), 900 High Street, Santa Cruz, California. (We meet on only the second Thursday in November and December.)
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Amazing Surf Adventures is excited to announce Operation Surf Santa Cruz, taking place March 22 - 27, 2018!
This event is held in support of the men and women whom have sacrificed so much to protect our freedom. Severely wounded active duty and veteran service members from various branches of the U.S. military who served in Afghanistan and Iraq will take part in an epic, life-changing experience at beaches across the Santa Cruz coast.
Through the healing power of the ocean and surfing, these wounded heroes, to whom we owe so much, will overcome challenges and build a new understanding of their personal potential.
Location:
March 22 - 25 Capitola Beach
March 26-27 Cowells Beach, Santa Cruz Date/Time Information: March 22 - 27
Better Choices, Better Health Workshop (10:00 AM-12:30 PM)
A free 6-week series of educational workshops in partnership with The Health Trust offers peer counseling and support for persons living with the challenges of ongoing health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and high cholesterol. Learn about stress management, dealing with pain and fatigue, weight management and decision-making.
Workshops are designed to be engaging and fun. For more information call 408-961-9877 or email bcbh@healthtrust.org Pre-registration required
We have everything you need from Maternity to teen at a fraction of retail prices. Thousands of items neatly organized - just like shopping at your favorite store. We have clothes, toys, shoes, baby gear, games, puzzles and so much more!!!
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Santa Cruz Learning Center presents our FIFTH ANNUAL Science Festival!
This is a free event!
There will be food, experiments, hand on activities, 3-D printing, a bounce house and raffle prizes!
Come check us out and please share this information with your friends and family and we will see you soon!
CELEBRATION!
MARCH 24, 7:30 PM at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium
MARCH 25, 2:00 PM at the Mello Center for the Performing Arts
Fourth Concert of the Santa Cruz Symphony's 2017-18 Classical Series
We begin with Mozart's joyful Overture to The Marriage of Figaro. The opera is based on a stage comedy by Pierre Beaumarchais, La folle journée, ou le Mariage de Figaro ("The Mad Day, or The Marriage of Figaro"), and was performed in 1784. It tells how the servants Figaro and Susanna succeed in getting married, foiling the efforts of their philandering employer Count Almaviva to seduce Susanna and teaching him a lesson in fidelity. Perhaps many of you will remember the prior exploits of Figaro as he helped Count Almaviva seduce Rosina in The Barber of Seville which we performed in 2016. The upbeat Overture is 4.5 minutes long.
We will then be treated to the World Premiere of Daniel Stewart's latest composition, Social Media, written in 2017 for the Santa Cruz Symphony in honor of its 60th Anniversary Season.
We conclude the first half with 2016 Klein International String Competition winner Will Langlie-Miletich performing Giovanni Bottisini's dramatic Bass Concerto No. 2. This piece lasts about 20 minutes.
We begin the second half celebrating the late great local legend Lou Harrison's 100th birthday with Suite from Wedding at the Eiffel Tower which he wrote for the Santa Cruz Symphony in 1961. The Suite lasts about an hour.
We conclude with Mozart's Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Viola K364, featuring San Francisco Symphony's violinist In Sun Jang and our own Daniel Stewart on viola. This piece is 30 minutes long.
PROGRAM
Mozart - Overture to The Marriage of Figaro (Listen)
Stewart - Social Media (World Premiere)
Bottesini - Bass Concerto No. 2 (Listen)
William Langlie-Miletich, bass
INTERMISSION
Harrison - Suite from Marriage at the Eiffel Tower (Listen)
Mozart - Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Viola K364 (Listen)
InSun Jang, violin
Daniel Stewart, viola
Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre In Concert
Our annual mixed-repertory concert features a wide range of dance idioms, from classical to contemporary styles. This season features the Tchaikovsky's beautiful "Swan Lake Act II," the romantic white act of the dramatic ballet. A world premiere by our own award-winning choreographer Robert Kelley will showcase our dancers' talents. The much-anticipated return of guest choreographer Debra Pearse Rogo's neoclassic "Gaelicia" to music by the Chieftains rounds out the program. Junior and Petite Companies also perform. Don't miss this exciting mix of dance!
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Sheep to Shawl Fair will feature hands-on stations demonstrating the progression of processing wool. Children and adults will be able to interact with the sheep and shearer, dye yarn, make drop spindles, try knitting and crocheting, and wash and comb yarn, all with expert help and child-friendly tools.
Also looking for skilled and unskilled volunteers.
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Join us to celebrate local urban farming! Play with baby goats, enjoy hyper-local food and drink, shop for plant starts for your garden and arts and crafts, enjoy workshops and live music, demos, and a tour of the Grange. There's something for the whole family!
You'll find the veggie and flower starts you need for your garden, both well-loved favorites and unique heirlooms, as well as local arts, crafts, gems and flea market items.
Enjoy organic nachos with farm fresh toppings raised and grown by Grange members, local drinks, coffee and deserts.
Play with baby goats! Goat milking demo!
Workshops:
Raising Backyard Chickens: 11:00am
Home Composting Workshop: 11:00am and 1:00pm
Pollinator/Butterfly Garden Workshop: tbd
Take a tour of the gardens, orchard and chicken coop at the historic Live Oak Grange
Gardeners will be on hand to answer your questions!
Funds raised will benefit the community gardens, which preserve local tradition and provide opportunities for urban farming, and our Hall Renovation Fund to preserve our 80+ year old Grange Hall!
Archeology Demonstration
Saturday, March 24 at 1pm
How do artifacts give us clues to the past? Follow the archeological process from the dig to the display, and participate in hands-on activities to discover the stories told by the artifacts. Presented in collaboration with the Santa Cruz Archeological Society.
Event is free; rain cancels. The Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park is located at 144 School Street in Santa Cruz. For more information, please call (831) 425-5849. Events made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks.
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Birding for Beginners
Saturday, March 24 at 8am
Meet at the Campground (entrance located off Graham Hill Road in Scotts Valley)
Join us for a 2-mile stroll to discover the wildlife of the Santa Cruz Sandhills. Please bring binoculars, water, snacks, layered clothes, and walking shoes. Please no pets. Heavy rain cancels.
Enjoy live jazz, gourmet food and local wines and beers while exploring the galleries and wonders of the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History-all included in the price of admission. Rare auction purchase opportunities will be featured thanks to many kind donations.
Prints on display during the event guests are invited to explore California's coastal edge through prints by woodcut artist Tom Killion alongside poems selected by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, Gary Snyder. A print donated by Killion will be auctioned at the event.
Silent and live auction opportunities include 40 yard-line tickets for the San Francisco 49ers, one week stay at a breathtaking beachside home in Maui, gift certificates from local restaurants and businesses and more!
A tax-deductible donation of $75 per person is requested. Tickets available at exploremcp.org. Proceeds benefit kids with special learning needs.
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Community Music School and the Museum of Art and History present the Santa Cruz Harp Festival in it's 13th concert event, exploring modern and historic music from all over the world on harps of all kinds.
Soloists include: Harp Festival director Jesse Autumn, returning from New Orleans to play double harp and vocals; Santa Cruz County's 2017 Artist of the Year Shelley Phillips, on Celtic harp and woodwinds; premier classical harpist of Santa Cruz and the Monterey Bay, Jennifer Cass; and Community Music School alumni harpist/singer-songwriter Heather Monahan, celebrating the release of her first EP of original songs, "The High School Demo Tape".
Also performing: the all-ages Community Music School Harp Orchestra, playing traditional and new music from England, Ireland, Zimbabwe and New Orleans.
A harp "petting zoo" will be available at intermission for curious concert-goers.
The MAH will offer a free interactive harp art project from 11am-1pm, with the concert beginning at 2pm.
Admission is free - donations are greatly appreciated and support Harp Festival artists and teachers. Community Music School is a 501(c)3 non-profit educational organization.
Guided Walk: Burleigh Murray Ranch State Park
Sunday, March 25 at 10am
Journey back in time to discover the lives of early pioneers on this two-mile stroll along Mills Creek at Burleigh Murray Ranch State Park. Meet at the Burleigh Murray parking lot located on Higgins-Purisima Road 1.5 miles east of Highway 1. Bring water and snacks; close toed shoes, layer clothing, and binoculars recommended. Appropriate for children age seven and older accompanied by parent. Rain cancels. For information call (650) 726-8819 or email HMBparksvolunteer@parks.ca.gov.
For more information, please call 1-650-726-8819 or email HMBParksVolunteer@parks.ca.gov. Events made possible by Coastside State Parks Association and California State Parks.
Ever feel like you're a parent on a hamster wheel? You get angry and stuck on the same issues with your children time and again? Learn how to avoid common parenting traps including putting into practice Triple P parenting strategies. This class will help you identify some of the thoughts and patterns that keep you stuck and move you towards parenting from a place of love and acceptance versus a place of perpetual anger.
This Triple P Workshop is offered through the Dominican Hospital Personal Enrichment Program (PEP) and is open to the public. Cost is $30/participant or $45/couple. Please note: child care is not available at this location.
Presented in English by: Natalie Hanneman, Triple P practitioner
Location: Dominican Rehab Lifestyle Education Room, 610 Frederick St, Santa Cruz
Register through Dominican Hospital Personal Enrichment Program (PEP) at least two days prior to the workshop by phone (831) 457-7099 or register online at www.dignityhealth.org/dominican/pep. Dominican PEP is unable to accommodate walk-ins.
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Inviting all Santa Cruz Parents! (Especially ones with challenging kids!) Starts this Wednesday 9:30am-11am 3/28 (skip 4/4) for 5 sessions. The benefit is to learn the Biology of Parenting so we don't direct our upset AT our kids when we get stressed, frustrated and overwhelmed. Instead learn the 5 Steps to Connect tools to become the CEO of our reactions so we can notice and work with them, THEN teach and connect. To Register: allison@5StepsToConnect.com
https://shoutout.wix.com/so/aM9HJO-h#/main
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Hosted by Community Bridges - Mountain Community Resources at the Felton Covered Bridge Park (corner of Graham Hill Road and Mount Hermon Road). Come join the fun! Get Triple P positive parenting tips, participate in a Spring Egg hunt, do face painting, and color eggs and pictures with your kids!
Chief Mills invites the community to SCPD Street Smarts Traffic Safety Presentation: Distracted Driving & Walking: Cause, Effect & Solutions on Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at Santa Cruz Police Community Room from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm.
The SCPD traffic presentation examines distracted driving and walking as well as solutions to address such behavior. Distracted driving and walking have become increasingly serious concerns with the popularity of cell phones and smartphones. Studies have shown that drivers require more reaction time and pedestrians become less attentive to their surroundings when distracted by cell phones.
Co-presenting with SCPD is AT&T. When it comes to texting and driving, it can wait. That is the simple, yet vital message AT&T is sending drivers, particularly teens. To drive home the message and to make roads and highways safer, AT&T is bringing a virtual reality simulator to the Santa Cruz Police Department's Traffic Safety Presentation.
Sergeant Scott Garner, a 20 veteran officer, and traffic expert will answer questions and clarify traffic safety issues in our neighborhoods. The presentation is an SCPD community-driven approach to traffic safety education and awareness for a safer commute by focusing on issues for a more reliable traffic environment for pedestrians, bicycles, and vehicles.
Please join us Wednesday, March 28th for the Traffic Safety Presentation with Q and A. The meeting location is the Santa Cruz Police Community Room, 155 Center Street. We hope to see you there!
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Hartnell College Planetarium's Children's Show is geared towards local families looking for an educational and fun evening out.
Fridays at 5:30 PM, doors open at 5:15 PM, runs 30-40 min
Buy Tickets Here $4 Person Tickets also available at the door Do not be late! You can also purchase tickets at the door. We accept cash, card, and NFC (android/applepay).
December - Stars 8
Stars - Every star has a story. Some are as old as time, faint and almost forgotten. Others burn bright and end their lives in powerful explosions. New stars are created every day, born of vast clouds of gas and dust. Through every phase of their existence, stars release the energy that powers the Universe. Journey to the farthest reaches of our galaxy and experience both the awesome beauty and destructive power of STARS.
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Easter Egg Hunt
Kennolyn Camps presents their 10th Annual Easter Egg Hunt FREE event for the entire family. Refreshments, Crafts Project, Family Photos with the Easter Bunny. Come any time during the open hours to find eggs. Bring an Easter Basket and join us for a wonderful family event at Kennolyn's Hilltop Hacienda, 8400 Glen Haven Rd., Soquel. www.kennolyncamps.com
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DEPARTS FROM ROARING CAMP IN FELTON
Hop on Board! The Easter Bunny makes a stop at Roaring Camp. After riding Roaring Camp's real 1880s Steam Train under the majestic Redwoods, over Indian Creek Trestle and through the Santa Cruz Mountains, your kids are going to have the time of their lives scavenging for chocolate eggs at the top of Bear Mountain.
The magic of trains, mixed with the magic of the Easter Bunny. It's... it's... EGGSTRAORDINARY!
Remember to bring a basket!
What's that Bird?
Sunday, May 13 at 9:30am
This easy, one-mile stroll with Docent Karen DeMello will introduce you to the birds of the redwood forest. Beginner birders are welcomed! Bring binoculars if you have them-but they're not required. Meet at Big Basin Redwoods State Park Headquarters. Event is free; day use fee for vehicles is $10. Event made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation and California State Parks.
Birds of Big Basin State Park
Check list and guide for discovering birds at Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Many of these birds can be found near the campgrounds and headquarters, but you'll need to search more than one of the park's major habitats to find them all.
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