Santa Cruz Parent

K-12 Coastal Art & Poetry Contest
2025-01-26 | CA
K-12 Coastal Art & Poetry Contest
Enter by 5pm January 31
Ready to participate? Here’s what to do:

Read the Contest Guidelines
Create your art or poetry
Learn How to Enter the contest

Submit your work online by January 31, 2025 at 5:00pm, or submit by mail (see #6 in contest guidelines below)
Other things you can do:

Download contest flyer in ENGLISH or SPANISH
Check out some Teacher Resources, including brainstorming prompts and Common Core connections
Enjoy galleries of past winners and honorable mentions
Sign up for the contest mailing list.

Winners and honorable mentions will be contacted directly and announced to the public (on this website and via email) by early April.
Contest prizes provided in part by generous donations from Acorn Naturalists, Blick Art Materials, and Aquarium of the Pacific. Judging assistance provided by members of the Tabula Poetica Center for Poetry at Chapman University.
Poetry was featured in the May 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015 issues of TAB, The Journal of Poetry & Poetics.
Support this contest by purchasing prints and other items featuring the artwork.
View the 2024 Coastal Art & Poetry Contest online and on exhibit at the following locations:

Reptile & Amphibian Walk at Quail Hollow Ranch
2025-01-26 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-01-26 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Quail Hollow Ranch, 800 Quail Hollow Road, Felton, CA, 95018, United States
Reptile & Amphibian Walk at Quail Hollow Ranch

Sunday, January 26, 10am-12pm

Join Park Docent James Maughn for a saunter along park trails in search of herps: reptiles and amphibians.

Peruse the pond and muse over the meadow as we learn about the favorite hang-outs and resting places of these fascinating animals. This free event is open to ages 6 & up; an adult must accompany ages 12 and under. Space is limited for this free activity. Program number 27847.

Live Oak Farmers Market
2025-01-26 09:00 - 13:00 | Live Oak Farmers Market, 15th & Eastcliff Dr, Live Oak, CA, 95062, United States
Live Oak Farmers Market
Sundays 9am – 1pm year round
Started in 2000, Live Oak Farmers Market is a neighborhood market has grown to be a weekly event that is loved by the communities of Live Oak, Pleasure Point and Capitola. A decade has past since this market became year round and here you will find an excellent selection of organic produce from local farms, tree ripened fruits, dried fruit and nuts, fresh bread, pastries, seafood, pasture-raised organic meats and more. The market is also the epicenter of the clean food movement, showcasing amazing Sunday brunch offerings like traditional Michoacan Mexican dishes, dumplings, crepes and artisan hand pies. This is your Sunday destination.

Market Match
Market Match offers farmers’ market customers a dollar-for-dollar match up to $10 on their CalFresh (food stamp) cards at the Live Oak Market. If a customer swipes their CalFresh card for seven dollars, they get seven dollars in Market Match tokens for free. Swipe $10, you get $10. The goal of this project is to encourage CalFresh (EBT/SNAP) recipients to take advantage of fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables. By offering an incentive that lowers the price of fresh produce, we are helping shoppers stretch their food dollars while keeping their families healthy. SCCFM will be offering the Market Match program for the 2020 season. Locate the information booth and the market manager to redeem EBT coins and to participate in the Market Match Program.

Corralitos Farm & Garden Market
2025-01-26 11:00 - 15:00 | Corralitos Farm & Garden Market, 127 Hames Road, Corralitos, CA, 95076, United States
The Farm & Garden Market is a small, friendly, open air market made up of local farmers and gardeners who grow within about a five mile radius of Corralitos.
Seasonally we have the tastiest strawberries, blueberries, cherries, lemons, tomatoes, herbs, squash, potatoes, carrots, peas, beets, and avocados, as well as a variety of other fruits, vegetables, lettuces and salad greens.
We have bakers that offer wonderful treats, along with a table full of beautiful potted flowers.
You may find expertly handmade natural soaps, and homemade jams and preserves.
The market is open to all of our friends and neighbors who grow anything from a garden to a good back yard fruit tree.
Open every Sunday 11am to 3pm, rain or shine, at the Corralitos Cultural Center, 127 Hames Road
For a booth we request a $5 donation to the CVREA, the non-profit who maintains the Corralitos Cultural Center.
Farm & Garden Market (including vendor inquiries)
Contact Wayne Miller: wayne@catalyst2001.com / (831) 724-1332

READ program with Ziggy the mini
2025-01-26 13:00 - 15:00 | A ranch in Watsonville
READ program with Ziggy the mini
One hour Sessions, 1pm and 2pm, on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, beginning November 30 and December 1

READ program (Reading Equine Art Duo) with Ziggy the mini was designed to strengthen reading skills in a fun, creative way. Students experience nature, art, and animals in a relaxed, calming environment.
From this, Lisa (a Reading Specialist with 25+ years of experience) works with students to build and develop strong reading skills such as: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary development, and reading comprehension.
Since reading is a gateway to accessing information, students will likely improve in all subject areas.
In addition, their self esteem will begin to soar as they gain confidence with each reading session.
Lastly, Ziggy’s adorable, gentleness is just too cute for words. Students will fall in love with him at first sight. So, come join the fun and learn is a holistic way with Ziggy and Lisa 🙂

Where: READ program is currently hosted at a ranch in Watsonville. Also we will be visiting libraries, schools, hospitals, and nursing homes soon! Ziggy Stardust is our dwarf miniature horse and he loves reading with all age levels.
Lisa is also available to visit your horse(s) and READ with them! This social/mental stimulation provides an overall sense of well-being. They love it; see video How tab for evidence. 😉

When: For availability, more information and directions, text Lisa at (831) 227-9847

In Person Tech Help Aptos
2025-01-26 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-01-27 13:00 - 15:00 | Aptos Public Library, 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA, 95003, United States
In Person Tech Help Aptos
Mondays 1-3pm, January 13 – May 5

Get in-person technology help at the library.
One of our tech savvy staff members at the Aptos Library would like to help you troubleshoot your question with a 30 minute (or less) appointment. Possible topics may include: creating an email account, creating documents, attaching files, using premium subscription library resources, downloading and streaming content like movies, books, and audiobooks, and more. Please bring any devices you use, and have your necessary passwords and library card with you.
Please make an appointment in advance here: https://santacruzpl.libcal.com/appointments/aptos
Please call telephone information (831-427-7713) if you require assistance making an appointment.
We look forward to helping you!

In Person Art Time for People with Disabilities
2025-01-26 14:00 - 16:00 | Claraty Arts, 1725 Seabright Avenue, Suite C, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062, United States
In Person Art Time for People with Disabilities
Sundays 2 – 4pm
Join our in person art class for people with disabilities at Claraty Arts Center in Santa Cruz. Adaptive art projects and space to work outside or inside and to share time with your family and work on a creative art project. It’s for the whole family – all are welcomed! This will be a great relaxing creative time adaptive to all needs, come out and express yourself! Caregiver must stay and help the participant – this is not a drop off!
Drop ins Welcomed!
$10 cash donation appreciated for art supplies

1725 Seabright Avenue, Suite C., Santa Cruz, CA

Click here to reserve your seat at art class

A Variety of Art Classes at SCAL
2025-01-27 | Santa Cruz Art League, 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062
A Variety of Art Classes at SCAL
January through April
Take an art class at SCAL with a local artist.

Pastel Painting with Mary Dettle, Saturday, January 4, 1 – 3:30pm, $175
One-Day Workshop with Toaa Dallo: Painting Clouds, January 5, 2 – 6pm, $80
Watercolor with Linda Lord, Tuesdays, 1:00pm – 3:30pm, January 7- February 11, $200
Painting with Oils and Acrylics with Toaa Dallo, 16 – 18+ yrs, Wednesdays, 1- 4pm, January 8 – 29, $180
Drawing and Sketching with Toaa Dallo, 16 – 18+ yrs, Wednesdays, 6- 8:30pm, January 8 – 29, $180
Watercolor with Linda Lord, adult, Thursdays, 1- 3:30pm, January 9 – February 13, $200
Figure Drawing: Long Pose, 16 – 18+ yrs, Thursday, 7- 9:30pm, January 9, $20
Pastel Painting with Joan Hellenthal, adult, Fridays, 10:00am – 12:30pm, January 10 – 31, $175
Animal Art with Linda Cover, 6 – 13 yrs, Fridays, 3:30 – 5:00pm, January 10 – February 14, $150
Color Mixing and Sketching with Susan Brown, 16 – 18+ yrs, Sunday, 1- 4:00pm, January 12, $75
Figure Drawing with Intent with Landon Markasky, adult, Sunday, 9am – 4pm, Jan 19, $150
Intro to Botanical Gelli-Print with Seana Mallen, adult, Saturday, 10am – 12:30pm, January25, $75
Landscapes Workshop with Calvin Liang, adult, Friday, Saturday, Sunday; 9am – 4pm, April 4 – 6, $560

Second Annual Toy Swop
2025-01-27, 2025-01-28 | Watsonville Public Library, 275 Main St Suite 100, Watsonville, CA, 95076, United States
Second Annual Toy Swop
January 6th – January 29, Donate gently used toys at the Main Library.
Thursday, 5:30 – 7:30pm, January 30, Shop at the Main Library for a new toy with a voucher.
Do you have any gently used toys that you would like to giveaway? Do you know a child that would be interested in getting a toy for free? Watsonville Public Library will be hosting its second annual Toy Swap at the Main Library.
How can you participate? Beginning on Monday, January 6 through Wednesday, January 29, 2025 Vouchers can be given away to others. We will not accept the following: broken items, clothing, books, or pet supplies.
Families can bring in gently USED items to the Main Library in exchange for one voucher per item.
Any items that remain after the Toy Swap will be donated to local non-profit organizations.

Sutter Maternity Postpartum Wellness Group
2025-01-27 10:00 - 11:30 | Virtual, CA, United States
Sutter Maternity Postpartum Wellness Group
Sutter Maternity Postpartum Wellness Group Mondays 10:00-11:30am
Call 831-477-2229 for log-in
Santa Cruz County Moms only
Pregnancy and childbirth usher in new responsibilities and profound emotions that can be both exciting and challenging. Sutter care centers have local support groups to help you and other soon-to-be or new parents reduce stress and adjust to life with baby.

Pregnancy and Parenting Support Groups
Our support groups help parents navigate newborn care, post-partum wellness, sibling issues and partner relationship changes that can occur after baby arrives.
We also offer support groups for parents with babies in palliative care as well as those who have experienced miscarriage. These groups offer a compassionate environment for parents to receive and provide emotional support.
Our new parent groups are often tailored to parents of newborns ages three weeks to four months and four months and older. Check out our complete offering of support groups to find one near you.

Monthly Baby Stuff Swap hosted by FIT4MOM Santa Cruz
2025-01-27 10:30 - 11:30 | Jade Street Park, 4400 Jade St, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
Monthly Baby Stuff Swap
Last Monday of the month
Join us on the last Monday of each month to swap baby stuff with other mamas in our community! Bring what you would like to offer and take what you need.
This swap takes place right after Strides 360 in the park!
New to FIT4MOM?? Join us for a free class by registering at santacruz.fit4mom.com!

Mystery Box Monday at MOD
2025-01-27 15:00 - 16:00 | Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery MOD, 1855 41st Ave #10, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
Mystery Box Monday at MOD

Mondays, 3pm

Calling all curious minds! Get ready for Mystery Box Monday, the fun-filled, brain-bending program that unleashes your child’s inner inventor, artist, and problem-solver!

Reserve your spot at sccmod.org/fun

Calling all curious minds! Get ready for Mystery Box Monday, the fun-filled, brain-bending program that unleashes your child’s inner inventor, artist, and problem-solver!
Every Monday is a surprise adventure! Your child will receive a mysterious box packed with intriguing materials, a low-temperature glue gun for safe crafting, and a challenge card.
Here’s what makes Mystery Box Monday so awesome:

Endless Possibilities: Each box is a portal to a world of unimaginable creations. With every new challenge, your child’s mind will stretch and twist, blossoming with fresh ideas.
Boosts Confidence: As kids conquer challenges and bring their creations to life, their confidence and self-esteem soar. They’ll discover that they can achieve anything they set their minds to!
Sparks Curiosity: Mystery Box Monday ignites a love for learning and exploration. Kids will delve into different themes, from outer space to the animal kingdom, all while having a blast.
Strengthens Bonds: This is an activity the whole family can enjoy! Work together, brainstorm ideas, and share in the laughter as you bring your mystery box masterpieces to life.

What kind of mystery materials, you ask? That’s the beauty of it – it’s a surprise! But you can expect to find a vibrant mix of things like:

Colorful craft paper and cardboard
Pipe cleaners, googly eyes, and pom-poms
Buttons, beads, and sequins
Recycled treasures like bottle caps and egg cartons
Nature’s bounty – leaves, twigs, and pinecones

Ages 3-100 ~ Open: Monday, Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm

Grupo Triple P: Para familias con niños 2-12 años
2025-01-27 16:00 - 18:00 | Live Oak Community Resources, 1740 17th Ave, Santa Cruz (Live Oak), CA, 95062, United States
Grupo Triple P: Para familias con niños 2-12 años
Cada lunes, del 22 de enero al 18 de marzo, 2024 • 4 – 6 pm
(Excepto el 19 de febrero)
Inscríbase para reservar su lugar y obtener el cuidado de sus niños GRATIS: https://bit.ly/Grupo-Ene2024
Asista por 8 semanas a este grupo GRATIS de Triple P para conocer a otras familias y aprender estrategias sencillas que le ayudarán a:
• Fortalecer las relaciones en su familia
• Fomentar comportamientos positivos
• Enseñarle a su niño habilidades y comportamientos nuevos
• Manejar las conductas disruptivas o problemáticas con mayor confianza
• Cuidar de sí mismo como padre
Lugar: Live Oak Recursos Comunitarios, Sala de Reunión, 1740 17th Ave, Santa Cruz
Las inscripciones son limitadas y se cerrarán después de la segunda clase.
Los participantes que asistan a todas las clases recibirán un Certificado de Finalización.
Este grupo Triple P es gratis y está abierto a todas las familias con niños de 2 – 12 años del condado de Santa Cruz.
¿Tiene preguntas? Comuníquese con Juanita Rodriguez al (831) 476-7284 Ext. 102 o juanitar@cbridges.org

Postpartum Support Group
2025-01-27 16:30 - 19:30 | Virtual, CA, United States
Postpartum Support International

NEW SUPPORT GROUP!

Postpartum Psychosis (PPP) is rare. It occurs in approximately 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 deliveries. After a PPP survivor’s symptoms have been stabilized, peer support can be an important tool for recovery. Because PPP occurs less often than other perinatal mood disorders, survivors can go their whole lives without meeting another PPP survivor. In response, PSI has created an online peer-to-peer support group for PPP survivors. This group is intended for those who are in recovery (no longer experiencing psychosis). Whether your PPP experience was relatively recent or years ago, you are welcome to attend our free, online peer-to-peer support group.

Register here: https://www.postpartum.net/…/psi-online-support-meetings/
Full Meeting Schedule

Introduction to Wood Shop
2025-01-27 17:00 - 19:00 | Idea Fab Labs, 2801 Mission St #204, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, United States
Introduction to Wood Shop
February 22nd & 23rd, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Introduction to Wood Shop is a two-part course on the essentials of a functional woodshop and general woodworking.
This course includes an overview of woodworking techniques, safe tool operation, and maintenance and will culminate in hands-on experience with shop tools while participants work through select projects.
No experience is necessary. Learn more on our website.
Two Sessions: $160
Please purchase a ticket on Eventbrite to secure your spot in this class. Click here for class ticket: Eventbrite

Curious about what we offer?
Come down for an Open House this coming Monday from 5pm to 7pm and we will show you around!
Get directions to us

Support for Parents of High Needs Babies
2025-01-28 09:30 - 10:30 | Zoom, CA, United States
Support for Parents of High Needs Babies
4th Tuesdays of the month, 9:30am pst

Thank you, Postpartum Support International

NEW SUPPORT GROUP: Support for Parents of High Needs Babies will take place on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 9:30 am PST!

Led by trained peer facilitators, this group is for parents of “high need” newborns to 12-month-old babies. All babies have needs and depend on their caregivers, yet some babies have more needs than others. “High needs baby” is not a medical term or diagnosis, but it is a term used to describe babies with some of these characteristics: constant crying (for several hours in a row), difficult to soothe, and easily overstimulated. A highly sensitive or high needs baby might not sleep without being held, might cry for three hours every evening, or might get restless and frustrated when transitioning from one environment to another. We know that parents of “colicky” or high-needs babies can feel isolated, exhausted, and overwhelmed. You are not alone, and we are here to help. Crying babies are welcome too!

If you are looking for a group for parenting a medically fragile baby or child, please check out our group specifically for those parents.

To view all our online support groups, visit http://bit.ly/FindSupportGroup

Dancing Tales for Ages 2-5
2025-01-28 10:15 - 11:00 | Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf Road, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
Dancing Tales
Fourth Tuesdays 10 – 11am through May 27
Join us for a fun and interactive dance tales program for children ages 2-5!
The library has partnered with local dance studio International Academy of Dance (IAD) to explore movement, rhythm, and creativity through stories and music. Each session blends storytelling with dance, helping children develop coordination, self-expression, and a love for books and movement. No dance experience is needed—just bring your imagination and energy!
Participants will need their parent or guardian to read and sign a Waiver of Liability, Release, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement in order to participate.

Afternoon STEAM: Minecraft
2025-01-28 16:00 - 17:30 | Downtown Branch Santa Cruz Public Library, 224 Church St, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, United States
Afternoon STEAM: Minecraft
4th Tuesdays, October 22 – April 22

Also 2nd Tuesdays, October 8 – May 13
Learn how to craft, build, and survive with afternoon steam Minecraft. Ages 8-18.
Space is limited, participation is on a first-come basis.

The Art of Listening Seminar
2025-01-28 16:30 - 17:30 | Felton Library, 6121 Gushee Street, Felton, CA, 95018, United States
The Art of Listening Seminar
Tuesday, January 28, 4:30pm

“We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.”The Art of Listening is an interactive two-part seminar providing practical advice on creating and sustaining harmony in daily life through effective communication. Good communication is achieved not through speaking but by listening. We each see the world based on lived experience, and no individual perspective is less real than another.The key to good listening is curiosity. When we listen with genuine interest we demonstrate respect and build trust. Attentive listening allows us to better understand how and why someone draws the conclusions they do.
Presenter Bio:
Timothy Lydgate joined Seattle’s restorative justice program in the 1980s and has been a student of human affairs ever since. He helped establish the divorce mediation program at the Conflict Resolution Center of Santa Cruz, served on the board of the National Association for Community Mediation and has trained mediators across the country. As the Mountain Mediator he provides services for anyone facing discord in family, business or faith settings.

Storytime with Ivy
2025-01-29 11:00 - 11:15 | Bookshop Santa Cruz, 1520 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, United States
Storytime with Ivy

Last Wednesday of the Month 11-11:15am

Join Ivy, our children’s book buyer, at 11:00 am on the last Wednesday of the month for a storytime presentation of some of her favorite picture books! Meet in the kids’ section.

Kids Event

New SCPL Puzzle Exchange Program
2025-01-29 11:00 - 13:00 | Scotts Valley Library, 251 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley, CA, 95066, United States
New SCPL Puzzle Exchange Program
Wednesday, January 29, 11am-1pm
Join us on National Puzzle Day to celebrate the new SCPL Puzzle Exchange Program at the Scotts Valley Branch Library!
Come enjoy jigsaw puzzle-shaped snacks and activities for the whole family.
Learn about the program and grab a puzzle to enjoy at home. Return it at your convenience and grab a new one.<
Donations of your gently used puzzles gladly accepted for the program.
Puzzle Exchange Participating Branches
Boulder Creek, Branciforte, Capitola, La Selva Beach, and Scotts Valley
P.S. It helps to separate all pieces and place them in a plastic zip bag in the box. This, and BIG FAT ELASTICS prevent accidental spills.

Downtown Farmers Market 2022
2025-01-29 13:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Farmers Market, Cedar St & Lincoln St, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062, United States
Downtown Farmers Market
Wednesdays, May – Oct 1 – 6pm; Nov – April 1 – 5pm
The Downtown Santa Cruz Market runs year-round on Wednesdays, 1-6pm May through October and 1-5pm November through April. Our largest and oldest market, it is situated in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz, one block off of Pacific Avenue. Established in 1990, many of the farms that sell here were and remain pillars of the organic and ecological farming movement. This is the place to eat with the seasons! The variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, pastured meats and other products is swoon worthy.
The Downtown Market also spotlights a large variety of up-and-coming, unique cultural food businesses. This weekly spot may serve up the most diverse selection of ethnic foods in the county including momo, naan and curry, Japanese fermented misos, Eritrean dishes, crepes, El Salvadorean pupusas, traditional Italian cookies, fish and chips and long-ferment fresh breads. Shopping at the Wednesday market is a wonderful way to support regional responsible farms and small local businesses. Fill your grocery bags! Then sit down for a delightful meal and rest your weary arms.

Super Tots Winter Sports Ages 3 to 5 Simpkins
2025-01-29 16:00 - 16:45 | Simpkins Family Swim Center, 979 17th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062, United States
Super Tots Winter Sports Ages 3 to 5
Simpkins, Wednesdays 4-4:45pm, Session Start Days: Dec 4, Jan 8, Feb 5, Mar 5, April 2
Ben Lomond, Thursdays 3-3:45pm, Session Start Days:Dec 5, Jan 9, Feb 6, Mar 6, April 3
Join us for fun and active Super Winter Tots sports!

The Santa Cruz County Parks Department is excited to offer our indoor Super Tots winter sports programs for children ages 3-5! Each month, we focus on a different sport, helping your little ones develop skills, stay active and have fun. Please see program details by location below.
Winter Sports Schedule: Simpkins Family Swim Center, A and B Community Salon, 979 17th Ave., Santa Cruz
Wednesdays, 4 – 4:45pm
• Dodgeball: December 4 – December 18
• Yoga: January 8 – January 29
• Basketball: February 5 – February 26
• Flip Class: March 5 – March 26
• Skills and drills: April 2 – April 30

Winter Sports Schedule: Highlands County Park, Highlands House, 8500 CA-9, Ben Lomond
Thursdays, 3 – 3:45pm

• Dance: December 5 – December 19
• Flip Class: January 9 – January 30
• Yoga: February 6 – February 27
• Skills & Exercise: March 6 – March 27

• Basketball: April 3 – May 1
Registration information: Spaces are limited so be sure to sign up early! For more details or to register, please visit our website at SCPARKS.COM or call us at (831) 454-7901

Phone: (831) 454-7901 (General); (831) 454-7941 (Registrations), Monday – Friday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, except holidays

Email: parksinfo@parks.santacruzcountyca.gov (General); rec@parks.santacruzcountyca.gov (Registrations)

Nature Journaling: Stick Season
2025-01-29 18:00 - 19:30 | Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, 1305 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062, United States
Nature Journaling: Stick Season
Wednesday, January 29, 6 – 7:30pm

Explore the hidden beauty of winter and uncover the secrets of seemingly bare forestscapes. The leaves may have fallen, but the beauty of the trees remains to be captured on canvas.
Using watercolors, colored pencils, and other mixed media, participants will make artistic observations of dormant plants’ aesthetics in winter. Develop observation skills and an awareness of nature, improve sketching and painting skills, and practice strategies to bring the 3-dimensional world onto the page. More than just an art class, nature journaling is about observation, curiosity, wonder, and honing these abilities.

Register

Class Size: 30 Students
Class Fee: $38 – Museum Members receive a special discounted price applied at checkout.
Materials: All art supplies are included in the class fee. Participants are welcome to bring their own sticks, branches, and botanical materials for reference.
Instructor: Melinda Nakagawa
This class takes place indoors. Supplies may get messy, so casual attire is recommended.

About the Instructor, Melinda Nakagawa
Melinda Nakagawa is a biologist, naturalist, and educator with a passion and skill for connecting people to nature. She founded “Spark in Nature” to guide participants to cultivate a deeper relationship with the natural world, slowing down to nature’s pace and seeing rather than just looking at the world. With an approach that bridges nature, art, and heart, she welcomes all people regardless of their skill level or background.
Website: https://www.sparkinnature.com/

Mountain Community Theater 2025 Programs
2025-01-30 | Park Hall, 9400 Mill St, Ben Lomond, CA, 95005, United States
Mountain Community Theater 2025 Programs
Season Pass March 21 – December 14

Season tickets are available for Mountain Community Theater’s 2025 season, marking 43 years of bringing quality productions to Santa Cruz and the San Lorenzo Valley. It’s a season that reminds us how fate, intrigue, friendship, secrets and change can lead to the precious gifts we all treasure.

Season Pass; Seniors $95; General $115

Our 2025 season includes:

“Steel Magnolias”, March 21-April 13
“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nigh-time“, May 16-June 8
New Works Weekend, August 15-17
“The Adams Family”, September 19-October 19
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, November 21-December 14

Purchase your tickets by visiting https://mctshows.org/

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE CRAFTS
2025-01-30 08:00 - 17:00 | Abbott SquareMarket, 725 Front St, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE CRAFTS | FEB 14
Friday, February 14, 5:30 – 8pm
Tired of the same old Valentine’s Day routine?
Get tickets for an evening of distraction and creativity at Abbott Square Market’s “All You Need is Crafts” event, on Friday, February 14, from 6-8PM.
Get crafty and unleash your inner artist with simple embroidery, decoupage, bonus retro mall photos and more. Tickets are VERY limited! No love or romance required.
TICKETS: CRAFT NIGHT TICKETS
All You Need is Love Crafts!
Tired of the same old Valentine’s Day routine?
Join us for an evening of fun and creativity at our “All You Need is Crafts” event!
Check-in between 5:30-6PM
Craft and photos stations run from 6-8PM.
Get crafty and unleash your inner artist with:

Simple Embroidery: Bring a piece of clothing from home and learn a basic design.
Decoupage Magic: Transform ordinary mason jars into enchanting mini lanterns.
Magnetic Mayhem: Create adorable or sassy magnets to share with your peeps.
Mall Photos: Pose with friends with our retro mall inspired backdrop and photographer.
Love interest not required.

Tickets are VERY limited!

Tai Chi in the Library
2025-01-30 10:00 - 11:00 | Aptos Public Library, 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA, 95003, United States
Tai Chi in the Library

Thursdays, 10-11am, January 2 – April 17
Are you ready to experience the ancient art of Tai Chi amidst the serene ambiance of your local library?
What is Tai Chi? Tai Chi is a gentle, flowing martial art that originated in ancient China. It’s known for its graceful movements, deep breathing techniques, and meditative benefits. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, this class is perfect for everyone!
The Class Experience: Expect a warm and welcoming environment filled with laughter and camaraderie. Routines suitable for all fitness levels. Don’t worry; no prior experience is required – just bring an open mind and a smile!
Benefits of Tai Chi:
– Enhance your balance and flexibility.
– Reduce stress and increase relaxation.
– Improve focus and mental clarity.
– Promote a sense of overall well-being.
– Foster a connection with fellow library-goers and the community.
Who Can Join: Absolutely everyone! Whether you’re a regular library visitor or someone who’s never stepped inside, all are welcome. No age restrictions or physical limitations – Tai Chi is adaptable for all.
Class Schedule: Join us every Thursday morning from 10:00 AM to 11 AM at the Aptos library’s spacious community room. Remember, the class is free, so mark your calendars and invite your friends along!
What to Bring: Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement is recommended.
So, come on down to the library, leave your worries at the door.. Let’s find our inner calm amidst the stacks of books and unlock the power of Tai Chi together!
Namaste!
