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Stay sharp this summer The first day of summer is the one date every student knows by heart. It’s the day when kids can put away schoolbooks, homework and pencils for nearly three months of freedom. But parents know that freedom can quickly turn to boredom. This year’s Press-Banner Kids of Summer activity guide is chock-full of camps, activities, swimming pools, amusement parks, volunteer opportunities and even a fishing spot. We’ve also included a calendar that includes local events for kids and adults throughout the warm months in our valleys. Hang onto this guide for a few weeks as you plan summer activities in your own backyard. Thanks for reading! — Peter Burke, editor
2012 Press-Banner
activity guide
sleep follow excitement
swim race knowledge believe dream
FRIDAY, APRIL 20, 2012
2 | KIDS OF SUMMER.
2012 Press-Banner
activity guide Summer is a time for a break from school, and it’s also a time for learning, exploring, exercise and enjoyment for growing youngsters. The Press-Banner’s annual Kids of Summer Activity Guide provides many options for fun activities in and around our two valleys, well in advance so you can map out your summer plans. Happy trails!
SPORTS CAMPS Whether preparing for high school sports or just looking to get in shape while learning new skills, there’s a sports camp for kids who want to be active this summer.
Lightspeed Martial Arts Academy, Scotts Valley, 5004 Scotts Valley Drive Starting June 11, Lightspeed will offer weeklong summer camps from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. that include martial arts, trips to the beach, swimming, bowling, archery and other attractions. For information: 438-6068 or www.lightspeedmartialarts.com
Elite Martial Arts, Scotts Valley, 266 Mount Hermon Road Five summer camps — Judo and Jiu Jitsu Camp, Olympic Games Camp, All-Star Tournament Camp, Ninja Warriors Camp and X-Treme Board Breaking Camp — will each feature
a different aspect of martial arts. Camps begin June 18, July 9, July 23, Aug. 6 and Aug. 20, respectively. Sign up for a full or half day for each camp. For information: 438-5425 or www.438kick.com
Valley Tae Kwon Do, Ben Lomond, 9520 Mill St. This all-day summer camp includes tae kwon do, field trips to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and local swimming pools, and more. The weekly camp runs in three sessions — June 18 to 22, July 16 to 20 and Aug. 6 to 10 — for girls and boys age 6 and older. For information: 336-2043 or www.valleytaekwondo.com
Juventus Soccer Club Camps Nationally licensed head coach Victor Martinez will host eight-week soccer camps for youngsters ages 4 through 17 starting in May at Garrahan Park in Boulder Creek.
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LEARNING THE ROPES: Soccer camps, along with day sessions that teach kids the finer points of sports from beginner to high school level, are one great way for local kids to pass the summer. Press-Banner file photo
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kids of summer calendar SATURDAY THROUGH MONDAY, MAY 26 TO 28
SATURDAY, APRIL 21 Fantastic Fibers When: 10 a.m. to noon; continues Saturdays, April 28, May 5 and 19 Where: Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center, 9341 Mill St., in Ben Lomond Details: Learn how to tie-dye, batik and print colors on fabric. For ages 6 to 12. Info: 336-3513, www.mountainart center.org
Civil War re-enactment When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, in Scotts Valley Info: www.roaringcamp.com
When: 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.; continues Saturdays, April 28, May 5 and 19 Where: Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center, 9341 Mill St., in Ben Lomond Details: Make four paper creations (one each week). For ages 6 to 12. Info: 336-3513, www.mountainart center.org
BATTLES OF YESTERYEAR TODAY: The Civil War re-enactment is one of the area’s biggest draws during the Memorial Day weekend, May 26 through 28.
Robotics I & II
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Paper Creations
When: 3 to 5 p.m., continues Saturdays, April 28, May 5, 19 Where: Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center, 9341 Mill St., in Ben Lomond Details: Introduction to building and programming robots and continued exploration for returning students. For third-graders through high schoolers. Info: 336-3513, www.mountainart center.org
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, in Scotts Valley Details: Dog-friendly parades, contests, raffle and silent auctions, food, vendors Info: www.wooftowoof.com
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, JUNE 2 AND 3 Redwood Mountain Faire
Where: Friendship Gardens, Harvey West Park, 326 Evergreen St., in Santa Cruz Details: Food, music, entertainment, activities for adults and children. Rubber duck races throughout the day. Free admission. Info: 479-4070, www.duckyderby santacruz.com
Where: Boulder Creek Recreation, 13333 Middleton Ave., in Boulder Creek
Details: Tasting kits, $5 each. All proceeds go to Glen Arbor Preschool.
Details: Artists, food, games, face-painting, musicians, dancers. Free admission.
Info: 588-1387, slvcookoff@yahoo.com
Info: 338-4144, www.wix.com/rec hallevents/musicandartfestival
Children’s Carnival
SUNDAY, MAY 20
Where: Highlands Park, 8500 Highway 9, in Ben Lomond
Ducky Derby & Carnival
Music & Art Showcase
When: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
When: 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Felton Covered Bridge Park
Info: Danielle O’Brien, 428-2196
SATURDAY, MAY 12
SLV Chili Cook-Off
When: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Where: Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, in Felton Details: Music and fun to support nonprofits in the area. Info: www.redwoodmountainfaire.com
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Details: Pony rides, petting zoo, balloon twister, inflatable slides, face painting, games, barbecue
SATURDAY, APRIL 28
SATURDAY, JUNE 2 Woof to Woof Dog Expo
SUNDAY, JUNE 3 Beginning Birding When: 8 to 10 a.m.
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in search of hidden treasure Press-Banner
Have you heard of geocaching? If you haven’t, it’s time to check it out. Geocaching is an interactive treasure hunt played by about 5 million people around the world, according to the official website of the pursuit, geocaching.com
What is geocaching? Participants in this outdoor treasure hunt use Global Positioning System coordinates to find hidden treasures. The caches are usually in containers in public places and could hide any items that other geocachers stash there.
What do you need? A handheld GPS device or a mobile phone with the GPS function enabled is necessary.
How does it work? Members of the website www.geocaching.com can log in and pick up GPS coordinates of a geocache in the local area. Plug the coordinates into your GPS device and search for the treasure!
What are the rules? If you take something from the cache, make sure to leave something of equal or greater value as a replacement. Then, write about what you found and your search in the logbook that’s concealed with the cache before replacing the cache.
What should I look for first? Geocaching.com ranks the difficulty of each cache from 1 to 5. Starting with a 1 is probably the best idea.
Are there caches locally? The short answer: Yes! Simply register online at www.geocaching.com and type in your zip code to find information about caches from Be3an Creek to the trails around Roaring Camp — there are hundreds in the area. If you go on vacation this summer, take your GPS with you and seek caches all around the world. Lucjan Szewczyk/Press-Banner
HOT ON THE TRAIL: Dell Wallwork (left) and his brother Ladreal, participants in a homeschooling class field trip to Lighthouse park in Santa Cruz last year, use a handheld GPS device for geocache treasure hunting.
Write about your experiences Go to geocaching.com and log your experiences searching for the many hidden treasures in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
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KIDS OF SUMMER. | 5
ACTIVITIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 For information: 246-3072 or www.juventussc.com
Choi’s Tae Kwon Do, Scotts Valley, 230-C Mount Hermon Road Choi’s offers martial arts classes daily for kids on summer break. For information: 438-1765 or www.choistkdscottsvalley.com
Scotts Valley recreation classes The Scotts Valley Recreation Department has a wide variety of camps and classes for kids of all ages. The active offerings include tennis, yoga, Zumba, tai chi, golf, volleyball and more. For information: 438-3251 or www.scottsvalley.org
Valley Sports Camp, Felton Run by Mark and Jeff Mercer, the day camp will offer sports from basketball to ultimate Frisbee, flag football, soccer and more in three one-week sessions beginning in June for kindergartners through ninthgraders at San Lorenzo Valley High School, 7105 Highway 9. For information: www.valleysportscamp.com
Basketball Jones Hoops Camps Basketball camps for kids ages 7 through 15 will run from June 25 to 29 in Aptos and from July 30 to Aug. 3 in Santa Cruz. Young play-
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GEM OF THE MOUNTAINS: Loch Lomond Reservoir is open for fishing, though no swimming in the pristine waters is allowed. ers will learn basketball skills and compete in shooting contests and five-on-five games. For information: 800-348-3803 or www.basketballjonescamps.com
Catalyst Soccer Camps Catalyst Soccer Camps will host a series of weeklong camps in the county, including in Scotts Valley and the San Lorenzo Valley. Boys and girls ages 4 through 6 will learn the basics of soccer, and campers ages 6 through 14 will focus on passing, shooting, drib-
bling and defense. Catalyst camps will be at Skypark from June 18 to 22 and July 23 to 27, and at Highlands Park in Ben Lomond from July 2 to 6. For information: 423-3556 or www.catalystsoccer.com
La Madrona Swim and Racquet Club The tennis club will host a 10week summer session beginning June 11 for junior players to learn everything from the basics to more intricate skills, as well as compet-
ing against players of their own skill levels. For information: 438-1072
City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Junior guards, soccer camps, dance camps and many other activities are offered in Santa Cruz. Fees are lower for folks who live within Santa Cruz city limits than for those who live in other areas of the county. For information: 420-5270 or www.santacruzparksandrec.com
FISHING Along with the nearby ocean and San Lorenzo Valley River, Felton has one of the best local spots to fish.
Loch Lomond Reservoir, 100 Loch Lomond Way, in Felton The 200-acre lake has naturally occurring bluegill and black bass and many places to fish along 2 miles of shore. Licenses are $14.50 for day use and $44.85 for the season. Children
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CALENDAR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 Where: Quail Hollow County Park, 800 Quail Hollow Road, in Felton Details: Hike through the park with a guide while searching for birds. No experience needed. Info: 335-9348
Introduction to fly-fishing
PROUD TO BE AMERICANS: The red, white and blue can be seen all over the Santa Cruz Mountains on July Fourth, as Ben Lomond, Scotts Valley, Felton and Boulder Creek all feature their own Independence Day celebrations.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where: Quail Hollow County Park, 800 Quail Hollow Road, in Felton Details: Members of the Santa Cruz Fly Fishing Club will teach about fly-fishing. Take any gear you have. Info: 335-9348
In search of herps When: 1 to 3 p.m. Where: Quail Hollow County Park, 800 Quail Hollow Road in Felton Details: Herpetologist Paul Haskins will lead a hike to search for reptiles and amphibians. Sign-ups are required. Info: 335-9348
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SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, JUNE 9 AND 10 ProAm beach soccer tournament When: All day Where: Santa Cruz main beach Details: More than 150 youth and adult teams compete in the sand. Info: www.proambeachsoccer.net
SUNDAY, JUNE 17 Hats Off to Dad When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, in Felton
Details: Chuck wagon barbecue, country music, train rides. Info: www.roaringcamp.com
SUNDAY, JUNE 24 Music at Skypark When: 3:30 p.m. Where: Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, in Scotts Valley Details: First of four family concerts, featuring Ancestree and Joint Chiefs. Info: www.svkiwanis.org
SUNDAY, JULY 1 Bats! When: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Quail Hollow County Park, 800 Quail Hollow Road in Felton Details: Learn about and see bats. Cost: $5 Info: 335-9348.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 4 Independence Day celebrations In Boulder Creek: A large parade through downtown and the annual lumberjack days competition
In Ben Lomond: An old-fashioned
celebration with games at Alba Schoolhouse on Alba Road In Scotts Valley: A parade along Scotts Valley Drive, followed by fireworks at Skypark in the evening In Felton: At Roaring Camp Railroads on Graham Hill Road, a barbecue, along with free games, including sack races, hula hoop contests and more
SUNDAY, JULY 22
Where: Beach Street in Santa Cruz Details: The 40th year of the 6-mile race in Santa Cruz, with spectators and bands along the route. Info: www.wharftowharf.com
FRIDAY THROUGH SUNDAY, JULY 27 THROUGH 29 A Day Out with Thomas When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, in Felton
Wharf to Wharf When: 8:30 a.m.
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ACTIVITIES II CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 younger than 16 may fish for free. The lake is expecting a long-awaited stock of trout at the end of spring and should be ripe for the fishing come June. There’s no swimming in the lake, and the only boats permitted are rentals available at the park store, where you can also pick up bait, tackle and fishing licenses. The lake is open every day of the week until Labor Day, and weekends through mid-October. For information: 335-7424 or www.cityofsantacruz.com
DAY CAMPS Kids need something fun and educational to do during the day. The county offers many summer camps that would certainly satisfy this requirement.
Quail Hollow Ranch County Park camps, 800 Quail Hollow Road, in Felton County parks will have a pair of two-week-long day camps for kids this summer. First is the historically-themed Time Travelers Summer Day Camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from July 9 to 20, where campers will experience the past through activities, games and food. The park will also host the Science Sleuth’s Summer Day Camp from July 30 to Aug. 10, where students have a chance to discover the natural world through many scientific disciplines. For information: 454-7941 or www.scparks.com
Rec Stop Summer Camp, Scotts Valley Recreation, 361 Kings Village Road
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FUN: Face-painting is a favorite activity during the Boulder Creek Independence Day festivities, which features the lumberjack days competition. Ben Lomond, Felton and Scotts Valley also host their own July Fourth celebrations. (Details on Page 6.)
Sports, arts, crafts, special events and field trips are on the schedule for kids entering kindergarten through 14-year-olds at Scotts Valley Recreation summer camp at Vine Hill School. This year’s theme of “Rec Around the World” will explore a new continent each week by way of history, music and food. Swim trips, long-distance field trips
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OVERNIGHT OPPORTUNITIES: Conference and camp centers like Mount Cross and Mission Springs offer a variety of opportunities for summer enrichment and activities. Courtesy photos
ACTIVITIES III CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 and special events are planned throughout the summer. Enrollment is now open, and parents must register online or in person at Scotts Valley Recreation. Camps run June 11 through Aug. 23. For information: 438-3251, www.scotts valley.org
San Lorenzo Valley Summer Quest Program, Ben Lomond, 325 Marion Ave. The flexible Quest program offers field trips and sport activities so kids don’t suffer summer boredom. Quest also features classes in science, drama and arts. Weekly day camps are June 11 through Aug. 29. For information: 336-8220, slvquest@ comcast.net
skills. Online registration is open. For information: 423-0341, ext. 334; www.gatewaysc.org
Beautiful weather, rivers, beaches, climbing walls and more await campers eager to get away for a week.
She’s All That Girls Summer Camp, Boulder Creek Recreation, 13333 Middleton Ave.
YMCA Camp Campbell, Boulder Creek, 16275 Highway 9
This weeklong camp is for girls ages 8 through 14. Participants will practice writing, dancing, arts and crafts, cooking, hiking and more. The session runs July 16 through 20. For information: 338-4144, www.bcrpd.org
Rec Rocks Kid Camps, Boulder Creek Recreation, 13333 Middleton Ave. This day camp, which runs from 11 to 2 p.m., provides fun, games and activities for kids ages 5 through 10. One-week sessions run June 11 through Aug. 12. For information: 338-4144, www.bcrpd.org
Gateway to Summer Fun, Santa Cruz, Gateway School, 126 Eucalyptus Ave. A day camp running June 18 through Aug. 10 specializes in activities, including Lego architecture, farms, cartooning, guitar and culinary
OVERNIGHT CAMPS The redwoods are home to a host of weeklong camp opportunities during the summer.
In the heart of the redwoods, YMCA’s Camp Campbell has lush hiking trails, a swimming pool, archery ranges, sports courts, nature and crafts centers, ropes challenge courses and cozy cabins along the San Lorenzo Valley River. Programs — including beach, hiking and music camps — are designed for boys and girls entering second through 12th grades. Both overnight and day camps are offered. For information: 338-2128, www.ymca campcampbell.org
Celtic music camps, Boulder Creek, 20161 Big Basin Way Campers will perform in an orchestra and small bands as well as sing, dance, swim, make flutes and more as part of the Teen Celtic overnight camp for ages 13 to 18. There is also a day camp for ages 12 to 17. A single session will be available from June 18 through June 23. A kid’s Celtic camp for ages 7 to 12 will take place Aug. 6 through 18, and conclude with a concert at the famed Boomeria in Bonny Doon. For information: 426-9155, www.community musicschool.org
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GUIDE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 Camp Hammer, Boulder Creek, 21401 Big Basin Way Camp Hammer promotes learning about God through recreation, offering weeklong camps for kids in fourth through 12th grades. Programs encourage relationshipbuilding in the outdoors with activities that include rope courses, swimming and hiking. Camp Hammer also has a two-week apostle camp for high school campers interested in counseling. For information: 338-3200, www.camphammer.com
Mount Hermon Conference Center, Mount Hermon, 37 Conference Drive This Christian and conference camp offers outdoor camps at Kidder Creek near the Oregon border and the Redwood Camp and Ponderosa Lodge in Felton. Activities include hiking, swimming, boating, kayaking, power scooters, disc golf, surfing, mountain biking, sports, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, cliff jumping and more. Mount Hermon also boasts the Redwood Canopy Tour, which employs a network of zip cables and sky bridges for a unique learning experience high above the forest floor. For information: 335-4466, www.mounthermon.org
Mount Cross Lutheran Camp, Ben Lomond, 7795 Highway 9 This Christian camp includes activities like creek walks, campouts and rope courses designed for children ages 4 (with a guardian) through 17. The camp has threeweek counselor-in-training experiences and a “young explorers� weekend camp designed to ease younger kids into the overnight experience. For information: 336-5179, www.mtcross.org
LISTEN UP: Reading is a traditional summer pastime, and local libraries offer a host of events for kids and for kids at heart. Press-Banner file photos
Frontier Ranch at Mission Springs, Scotts Valley, 1050 Lockhart Gulch Road Frontier Ranch offers weeklong overnight camps on 300 acres of Scotts Valley terrain for participants to mountain bike, mini bike, ride the giant swing, learn
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GUIDE II CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 to use a rifle, try zip lines and rope courses, feed animals, climb, hike, swim and learn about God. Camps are available for elementary and middle school kids starting June 19. There will be an open house from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 29. For information: 800-683-9133 or www.frontier-ranch.com
Daybreak Camp, Felton, 6676 Rose Acres Lane This Christian camp provides an outlet for young campers to discover and bask in nature while learning about God. Daybreak offers trails for hiking, a rope course, crafts, projects and sprawling fields for sports and recreation. The camp has 190 acres for exploration and retreats. For information: 335-2756 or www.daybreakcamp.org
BUDDING THESPIANS: There’s no shortage of chances for young actors and actresses to stretch their creative wings this summer in Scotts Valley and the San Lorenzo Valley.
ART CAMPS Children can be part of a production this summer or learn new skills at one of the many art camps offered in the area.
Hooked on Theater, Aptos Monterey Bay Repertory Theater offers a five-week program with founder Dustin Leonard, artistic director Will Guilford and choreographer Curtis Caudill. Kids between the ages of 7 and 17 will learn acting and choreography that will culminate with a summer production of “Peter Pan” at the San Lorenzo Valley High School Performing Arts Center in Felton. The program starts June 11 and ends July 15. Online
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registration is open. For information: 706-4249 or www.hookedontheater.com
Little People’s Repertory Theater, Ben Lomond, 9370 Mill St. Little People’s Repertory Theater offers children between the ages of 8 and 14 opportunities to boost
confidence, sharpen performing skills and work with talented mentors. This summer’s production is “Cinderacula: The Curse of the Brothers Grimm,” an original rock musical by Janinne Chadwick. Morning and afternoon sessions are available. For information: www.lprt.org
West Performing Arts Academy The academy helps kids and teens hone their skills in acting, movement, circus and technical theater. Summer workshops, which start in June and run until August, include productions of “Beyond Xanadu,” “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” and “How to
Train Your Dragon.” For information: www.west performingarts.com
Kids on Broadway Summer Academy This summer’s academy is “Camp Comedy” and runs from 9 a.m. to 3
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GUIDE III CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 p.m. Monday through Friday from June 18 until July 13, culminating in a comedy-themed performance. For information: 425-3455 or www.kidsonbroadway.org
Musical Me classes Family-based music classes for youngsters and their parents will help develop musical talent and a love for music at an early age. Seven-week sessions are planned in the San Lorenzo Valley and Scotts Valley. Registration begins May 1, and the program itself begins July 9. For information: 438-3514 or www.musicalme.com
GET YOUR STUDY ON: With summer school restricted or cut altogether because of state budget woes, some are turning to tutoring programs to get an educational edge over the summer months.
Summer Art Camps, Ben Lomond, 9341 Mill St. Kids from 6 through 17 can dive into weeklong camps in 2-D and 3-D art. Morning classes will be available for kids ages 6 through 12 and include themes such as “Art Adventure,” “Underwater Wilderness,” “Jumpin’ Jungle” and “Pet Power.” Afternoon classes will be geared more for older kids — ages 9 through 17 — and will include robotics and claymation movie making. For information: 336-3513 or www.mountainartcenter.org
Cabrillo Youth Summer Institute Kids entering seventh or eighth grades in the fall are eligible to participate in a series of weeklong
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summer camps designed to give junior high students the opportunity to begin their journeys toward college and careers. The camps will be during the weeks of July 9, July 16 and July 23 and include such topics as health, culinary arts, digital media, engineering design and build, engineering technology, entrepreneurship and horticulture.
The camps will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Cabrillo College campus. For information: 477-5605 or www.santacruzcte.org/camp
in need of some extra help can look toward local businesses for extended summer learning.
SUMMER EDUCATION
Summer school will only be available to students in the district’s special education classes. The classes will meet at Brook Knoll Elementary School.
Traditional summer school is now largely a thing of the past, thanks to budget concerns foisted upon local schools by the state. Students
Scotts Valley Unified School District, 4444 Scotts Valley Drive
For information: 438-1820 or www.svusd.santacruz.k12.ca.us
San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District, Ben Lomond, 325 Marion Ave. There will be no summer school courses offered because of budget cuts. For information: 336-8852 or www.slv.k12.ca.us
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chance to operate a fire hose. To schedule a tour: 335-4422
EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 Read America Clinic, Scotts Valley, 5900 Butler Lane, Ste. 130
Scotts Valley Fire Protection District
This clinic offers weekly sessions, as well as one- and two-week reading-intensive courses geared to students who want to improve their reading, writing, test-taking or handwriting skills. For information: 440-0807 or www.readamericaclinic.com
The district conducts tours of its stations, located at 7 Erba Lane and 251 Glenwood Drive. Impromptu drop-in tours are possible at either station, provided firefighters aren’t on a call or training. Ride-alongs for teens age 15 and older can be arranged with a parent-signed permission slip and liability waiver. To schedule a tour or ride-along: 438-0211
Tutoring Club, Scotts Valley, 221 Mount Hermon Road The Tutoring Club offers tutoring programs in reading, writing, math and developing study skills for students of all ages. Introduction to physics and chemistry, as well as SAT and ACT prep classes, will be offered to high school students. For information: 439-8886 or www.tutoringclub.com/scottsvalleyca
Zayante Fire Protection District Zayante Fire offers tours of its station at 7700 E. Zayante Road for groups of children. To schedule a tour: 335-5100
Scotts Valley Police Department
The Smart Cookies, Scotts Valley, 230 Mount Hermon Road, Ste. 203 Smart Cookies offers students from kindergarten through high school individualized and group tutoring in such subjects as math, reading, writing, and SAT and ACT preparation. Summer writing classes are available for elementary, middle and high school students. Space is limited. For information: 288-5698 or www.thesmartcookies.com
FIRE, POLICE TOURS AND RIDE-ALONGS Most local municipalities are happy to host a tour for groups of kids, showing them the facilities and daily
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THE THIN BLUE LINE: Young folks can get a first-hand look at how local law enforcement and fire protection crews handle their duties this summer by calling and scheduling a ride-along or tour. The Scotts Valley Police Department, shown here, leads tours for kids and ride-alongs for teens. routines of local fire and police agencies. For older kids, some agencies offer ride-alongs for a more in-depth look. Just remember to call ahead.
Ben Lomond Fire Protection District By appointment, the district offers tours of its station, located at 9430
Highway 9. Guides discuss fire-prevention information, the importance of smoke detectors, home exit drills, maintaining defensible space and other fire-preparedness tips. To schedule a tour: 336-5495
Boulder Creek Fire Protection District
The district offers tours of its station, located at 13230 Highway 9, for groups of children. To schedule a tour: 338-7222
Felton Fire Protection District The district provides tours of its station, located at 131 Kirby St., including equipment demonstrations and a
Police lead tours of their headquarters at 1 Civic Center Drive. They also offer ride-alongs for teens 14 and older with a parent-signed waiver. The popular kids’ police academy will take place June 18 through 22, July 9 through 13 and Aug. 6 through 10. Applications will be available soon. For information: 440-5670
Santa Cruz Regional 911 Center The center, which dispatches nearly all the county’s fire and law-enforcement agencies, stages tours of its extensive headquarters, located at 495 Upper Park Road, in Santa Cruz. To schedule a tour: 471-1006
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EVENTS II CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 SWIMMING POOLS For leisurely relaxation, water aerobics, swimming lessons or pool parties, there are pools aplenty in the valley, with many classes and programs.
SLV Community Pool at SLV High School, Felton, 7105 Highway 9 Open to the public: swimming lessons through Cougars Swim School — 239-4228 — for all ages, levels and abilities For schedule and prices: 335-9877, www.cougarswimschool.com
SLV Swim Center, Ben Lomond, 9050 Highway 9 Open to the public: swimming lessons, aerobics, open swim For schedule and prices: 336-3455, www.slvswimcenter.com
Trout Farm Inn, Zayante, 7701 E. Zayante Road. Open to the public: outdoor pool For schedule and prices: 335-4317
Siltanen Family Swim Center, Scotts Valley, 127 Vine Hill School Road Open to the public: swimming lessons, parent-baby lessons, pool rentals, open swim For information: 438-3251 Press-Banner file photo
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TAKE A DIP: Swimming lessons and public swim time are available at several local pools.
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14 | KIDS OF SUMMER.
A CLASSIC CONTINUES: The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is still the local gold standard when it comes to midway thrills. Lucjan Szewczyk/ Press-Banner
EVENTS III CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 La Madrona Swim and Racquet Club, Scotts Valley, 1897 La Madrona Drive Members only: swimming lessons, pool rentals, open swim For information: 438-1072
Club One, Scotts Valley, 100 Enterprise Way Members only: Open swim, swimming lessons, water aerobics For information: 431-2202, www.clubone.com
AMUSEMENT PARKS Whether to entertain an outof-town guest, for a birthday party or simply for a day of fun, local amusement parks are sure to be kid-pleasers all summer long.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach St. Rides are open every afternoon and evening beginning March 31 at the 105-year-old amusement park on the beach. Beginning June 15, free Friday night concerts by rock bands from the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s start up and run through Aug. 31. A free movie will be shown every Wednesday night from July 11 to Aug. 15. Thrilling rides for all ages, including the sea swings, pirate ship and Giant Dipper roller coaster, complement the 1911 Loof carou-
sel, Double Shot, Loggers Revenge and kiddie rides, not to mention the Neptune’s Kingdom mini golf and arcade. Park nearby or take the leisurely Santa Cruz, Big Trees and Pacific diesel-powered train from Felton. For information: 423-5590, www.beachboardwalk.com
Roaring Camp Railroads, Felton, 5355 Graham Hill Road A model train exhibit April 28 and 29 kicks off a summer of fun activities including the annual Civil War reenactments, a Fourth of July celebration, the Great Train Robberies and Thomas the Tank Engine’s annual visit. There’s plenty to experience besides the steam train ride, which of course is a noisy and fun way to visit the redwood forest. For information: 335-4484, www.roaringcamp.com
VOLUNTEERING Instead of spending the summer in front a screen, kids can step out of the house and earn some valuable experience while helping a local organization.
Children’s Center of San Lorenzo Valley, Ben Lomond, 8500 Highway 9 Older kids can get hands-on experience as teacher’s assistants with small children ages 3 months to 5 years. For information: 336-2857
Boulder Creek Rec Junior Volunteer Program, 13333 Middleton Ave. Young people ages 12 through 16 will be interviewed and trained to help with summer camps and summer projects throughout Boulder Creek. For information: 338-4144
VOLUNTEER, CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
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KIDS OF SUMMER. | 15
CALENDAR II CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 Details: Train rides with kid-famous Thomas the Tank Engine throughout the day; repeats Aug. 3 through 5 Info: www.roaringcamp.com
SUNDAY, JULY 29 Music at Skypark When: 3:30 p.m. Where: Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, in Scotts Valley Details: The second of four family concerts, featuring West Grand Boulevard and The Houserockers Info: www.svkiwanis.org
SUNDAY, AUG. 5 Macramé hangers When: 1 to 3 p.m. Where: Quail Hollow County Park, 800 Quail Hollow Road, in Felton Details: Learn to make macramé hangers for potted plants. Materials provided. Cost: $15 Info: 335-9348
FRIDAY, AUG. 10 Star gazing When: 8 p.m. to midnight Where: Quail Hollow County Park, 800 Quail Hollow Road, in Felton Details: Use local astronomy club equipment to view plants and stars. Rain or clouds cancels the program. Info: 335-9348
SUNDAY, AUG. 19 Race Thru the Redwoods When: 8:10 a.m.
Where: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 101 N. Big Trees Park Road, in Felton Info: www.racethrutheredwoods.com
SUNDAY, AUG. 26 Music at Skypark
When: 3:30 p.m. Where: Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, in Scotts Valley Details: The third of four family concerts, featuring Skandalism and the Coffis Brothers. Info: www.svkiwanis.com
SUNDAY, SEPT. 30 Music at Skypark When: 3:30 p.m. Where: Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, in Scotts Valley Details: The final of family concert.
Courtesy photo
AND THEY’RE OFF! Kids and adults alike get plenty of kicks out of the annual Race Thru the Redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a race that will be Aug. 13 this year.
16 | KIDS OF SUMMER.
VOLUNTEER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
SLV Senior Center, Ben Lomond, 8500 Highway 9 Teens can gain experience and understanding by helping adults and seniors in a social working environment. Volunteers will help with various tasks around the center. For information: 336-8900
Valley Churches United Missions, Ben Lomond, 9400 Highway 9 Valley Churches serves low-income people in the San Lorenzo Valley and Scotts Valley. Volunteer duties include bagging food, stuffing envelopes and wrapping packages, and helping out with the annual holiday projects. The food pantry is always looking for friendly volunteers. For information: 336-8258
Mountain Parks Foundation, Felton, 525 N. Big Trees Park Road The Mountain Parks Foundation needs volunteers to help in the retail store and with special events. Volunteers are also needed to clean, take stock, put together mailings and perform other office and store work. For
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teenagers 15 and older. For information: 335-3174
Mountain Community Theater, Ben Lomond, 9370 Mill St. Depending on the time of year, the theater has opportunities for young people to usher, help with concessions, paint and build sets or be part of the crew. For information: 336-4777
Santa Cruz County Animal Services Animal lovers can volunteer to help care for animals or help out with office projects. This is a great way to get experience in the field of animal care. For information: 454-7202, www.scanimalshelter.org
Volunteer in Scotts Valley and San Lorenzo Valley YouthServe, run by the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County, presents opportunities for youngsters to get out and improve the community where they live. The center can set kids up with almost any kind of volunteer opportunity. For information: 336-9387, www.scvolunteercenter. com/programs/youth/
Lucjan Szewczyk/Press-Banner
RESTFUL RIDE: Relax above the surf, sand and tourists at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. (Details on Page 14.)