Free Skool 2010 Winter Calendar
The Free Skool 2010 Winter Calendar is available! After October 30th, look for paper calendars at cafes and community centers, particularly SubRosa at 703 Pacific Ave.
Download this as a convenient, printable PDF (albeit very very large at 66MB).
Acrobalance Frederick St Park
with Patty loneboat@riseup.net
Acrobalance is a partner or group activity that involves lifting, holding, flipping, and balancing one another in different acrobatic-type poses. Share and practice tricks you know or work together to learn new ones. No partner needed, come and play in the sun! Requirements: Respect and care for self and others' wellbeing and safety. Awareness of what your body can do. Please let me know of your previous injuries. Contact me if you want more details, to meet at a different time, or reschedule a rained-out class. Directions: The Park is at the end of Frederick by the harbor. Look for me on the grass, I'll have an Acrobalance sign.
Sun Nov 7th, 21st, Dec 5th, 19th, Jan 2nd, 16th, 30th – 10am
Aerated Compost Tea Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Join us as we dispel myths about compost tea, and discuss what the rage is all about. We will be quickly reviewing basic soil biology (offered in November), discussing what it is we’re trying to achieve with the tea, and going straight into a how to brew what’s known as “aerated” compost tea. Rain does NOT cancel, dress appropriately. Requirements: Notebook.
Wed Dec 8th – 5-6pm
Ambitious Plans/Radical Strategy SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Wes thespoon@thespoon.com
Sometimes we manage to agree what we are fighting against, but what are we fighting FOR? How often do we talk long-term strategy? What are our most ambitious plans? What is standing in our way? A brainstorm on the process of creation and a map toward getting there. We'll look at the concepts of prefiguerative politics and dual power strategies, and the experiences of groups who've used these strategies to meet the needs of their people, including the Black Panthers, Zapatistas, and local examples. Requirements: By radical, we mean this is a workshop for people who want to change the world, not reform the current rotten system. Bring snacks to share.
Fri Nov 12th, 19th, 26th – 6-8pm
Anarchy, Compassion & Spirituality SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with John Malkin jsmalkin@hotmail.com
A discussion of how the anarchist qualities of freedom, cooperation and self-reliance can be supported through practices like nonviolence, compassion and meditation. John is a local social justice activist, musician and journalist and host of a weekly radio show on Free Radio Santa Cruz.
Sun Dec 5th – 3:30-6pm
Backyard Livestock Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob and Heidi Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Join us as we discuss the care and needs of three common backyard livestock: chickens, ducks, and rabbits. We will discuss their shelter needs, dietary requirements, and general health, as well as their role in a larger system of bio-intensive gardening and nutrient cycling. Requirements: Notebook.
Mon Jan 24th – 4:30-5:30pm
Basic Herbal Mediciine Chavez Co-op, 316 Main St
with Alana alanamaria_@hotmail.com
Learn to make tinctures, decoctions, salves and infused oils. Some basic plant knowledge as well! Requirements: Bring 3-5 mason jars or other glass containers with tight-fitting lids and any herbs you want, some will be provided.
Sat Nov 6th, 13th – 10-11:30am
Bio-Intensive Gardening Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St.
with Jacob Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
We will be discussing an overview of bio-intensive gardening techniques and why we practice them, touching on soil health, crop rotation, integrated pest management, and why composting is so important. Will be held indoors in unpleasant weather. Requirements: Bring a notebook if you wish to remember.
Mon Nov 8th – 4:30-5:30pm
Boat Design SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Robert Blind Bear Shiner1964@aol.com
One hour of discussion on boat design. Requirements: Pen and pad, imagination.
Tue Nov 9th, Dec 7th, Jan 11th – 3pm
Booty Dance Etc 811 Broadway St
with s and a youheardofit@gmail.com
We're going to dance. We'll share moves and hopefully you'll share some too. There will be an emphasis on booty dancing, but not limited to that style.
Thu Dec 16th – 6pm
Comics Santa Cruz Diner
with Doodle baerie@riseup.net
Like to draw? Like to write stories? Like to do both at the same time? This is not an intentional skill-share, this is where we can come together, hang-out and work near each other. Over the meetings we will explore different public places in Santa Cruz conducive to gathering and creating, starting with the Santa Cruz Diner. Requirements: Bring your own project and supplies. Others may have some to share, but don't rely on it.
Every Monday – 7pm
Dark Night: Rag dolls and Monsters 811 Broadway St
with Baerie baerie@riseup.net
Little beings are waiting in each scrap of waste waiting to be discovered and brought to life. Fashioned after ye old Free Skool rag dolls and monsters, we will gather and sew (read create) little beings. Make the teddy bear of your dreams, combine a dolphin and a unicorn. Requirements: Bring your imagination, sewing supplies if you have them, scraps or old stuffed animals.
Fri Nov 19th, Sat Dec 11th – 7pm
Death and Crossing Over Contact teacher for location
with Krista Williams motherparama@gmail.com
A course on how to help spirits cross over into their highest potential after death. Learn how to ease the journey of friends and loved ones who are currently in the dying process or have died. Based on the Tibetan Book of the Dead and other classic Buddhist texts, the stages of death will be described along with important concepts that deepen understanding of the death process from a unique perspective. Participants will be gently guided through visualizations of the spirit world, the realms of existence, and how to help spirits cross over with the least suffering and greatest success.
Mon Nov 1st, 8th, 15th, 29th, Dec 6th, 13th, 20th, Jan 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st – 6-7:30pm
Elkhorn Slough Day Hike Red Church, 532 Center St
with David & Sylvia sylvianotcynthia@hotmail.com
Join us on an easy day hike through Elkhorn Slough where we'll explore one of California's largest tracts of tidal salt marsh and learn about the long and complex history of this wonderfully diverse area. Requirements: Bring binoculars, food and water, money for gas if you're carpooling, and $2.50 for the entrance fee.The slough is a sensitive habitat and animal companions are not permitted. Directions: We'll meet infront of the Red Church to coordinate carpools to the Slough. Please email us in advance if you have a car or will be needing a ride.
Sat Jan 15th – 9am SHARP
Emergency Medicine Basics San Lorenzo Park lower field
with Clarice 831-428-1176
We will cover basic emergency response to illness and/or injury, including CPR and the standard patient assessment system used by paramedics and EMTs. This class will not provide any medical certification and is not a substitute for a certified Emergency Medicine course. However, it will be empowering, useful and hopefully increase your confidence to act in emergencies! Requirements: Be prepared to take notes and participate in mock scenarios. Directions: In case of rain, contact teacher for alternate location.
Fri Dec 3rd, Sat Dec 4th, Fri Dec 10th, Sat Dec 11th – 11:30am-4pm
English Country Dance First Congregational Church, 900 High Street
with Michael King mking@cruzio.com
English country dance is a lively form of folk dance that was popular in the Renaissance era. Couples dance in sets and weave through elaborate patterns as they interact with other couples. Beginners are welcome—this is an excellent place to learn. We have live music on the second Thursday of the month. We're a casual, fun-loving group. Come dance with us!
Thu Nov 11th, 25th, Dec 9th, 30th, Jan 13th, 27th – 7-9:30 pm
Envision the Next 5 years SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Coral, Mitchell coralbrune@hotmail.com
A discussion structuring science with artistic envisioning of local and planetary sustainability for the year 2015. Discuss and learn about the scope of technology, art and science and their limits and integration into society. Topics discussed will range from, self image, body image and online persona, privacy threats & false web advertising to discussions of home economics, sustainability & angry Gaia scenarios; such as the future of hot desert or Ice Age, local & global Quantum Computing In 2015 as well as sustainable post-petroleum 2040. Each class discussion will be backed up with online resources, free downloads, and tuned with survey results from the online world.
Mon Nov 1st, 15th, Dec 6th, Jan 10th – 3:30-5pm
Fallen Fruit Bike Around Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Laurel Manor Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Join us as we bicycle around town mapping fruit trees and edibles on public land in Santa Cruz. January is a great time to map citrus and persimmons. Rain cancels. Requirements: Your bicycle!
Wed Jan 26th – 4:30-5:30pm
Female Health & Physiology for Everyone! Email teacher for location
with Emerald emerald_g2006@yahoo.com
Question-led overview of topics such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, fertility, fertilization, lactation & anything else. Requirements: Open to all sexes and genders! Come with curiosity and respect!
Sat Nov 20th – Noon
Fermentation Adventures Contact teacher for location
with amy amyconcilio@gmail.com
We’ll experiment with vegetable and fruit ferments, yogurt, cheeses, miso, sourdough and ginger beer starters, and whatever else we have the time/interest in. Email for more details on the schedule and location. And please come with the idea of sharing your own knowledge and experience and interests!
Tue Nov 9th, 30th, Thu Jan 13th, 27th – 7:30-9:30pm
Food Not Lawns Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob and Heidi Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Join us in a discussion about lawns: their history, indented uses, and evolution. We will present why we believe lawns are an outmoded practice, including a discussion of why they are problematic to the environment, and alternatives: from food producing gardens to native landscaping.
Wed Jan 12th – 4:30-5:30pm
Forest Walk in Upper Campus Kresge Coop
with forest walkers forestwalkers@riseup.net
Join us for an adventure through the forest and chaparral of UCSC Upper Campus. We will share stories, visit secret spots, identify plants, learn about natural history and discuss the proposed Long Range Development Plan that threatens this special place.
Every Saturday – Noon
Free Skool Community Picnic Oceanview Park
with Everyone freeskoolsc@riseup.net
Come play with us in the park at our quarterly potluck where students, teachers, organizers and community members get together to enjoy food, music and companionship with new and old friends. Meet people, play croquet, bring the kids along. Requirements: Bring food, drink, and games to share. Directions: Oceanview park is off Broadway at the end of Oceanview.
Sat Jan 22nd – Noon-4pm
Freedom Drumming Pacific Ave & Cooper St
with Steve LoBue fablepro@juno.com
Gather together,connect with community, street musicianship, bang on things, create atmospheres, soundscapes, meditations. Wiggle your arms and feet. Sing if you want to. Annoy some people. Delight some. Enjoy ourselves. Bring a drum or play what's here or there. Some meetings will be indoors for an Electronic Sonic Vibration Creation. Directions: Around Pacific Ave./ Cooper St.
Every Tuesday – 7pm
Fruit Tree Project Planning Meetings Contact teacher for location
with Steve and others 831-421-9367
The Santa Cruz Fruit Tree Project is a network of volunteers set up to make use of surplus tree fruit, and to support tree planting and maintenance. Have you ever noticed how much perfectly good fruit falls to the ground and rots? Help us develop this new organization to put that fruit to use, as well as sharing skills and knowledge around preservation methods, fermentations, and fruit tree maintenance and propagation.
Sun Nov 28th, Jan 30th – 5pm
Games as a Strategy for Living (and Liberation) Stevenson Cafe, UCSC
with Wes thespoon@thespoon.com
This is your antidote to the winter blahs. A class for people who take serious matters lightly and for people who take their play seriously. We create games to help us play the bigger game of life which is itself a playful dance. This is an intellectual & philosophical exploration of games. We'll talk about games and play, learn game theory, share DIY games, and design our own. Requirements: Bring your playful spirit and intellectual curiosity. This class will build on each session, so try to commit to all of them.
Wed Jan 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th – 4:45-6pm
Garden Design Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
It’s not too late to start a garden! Join us as we talk about garden planning, including site assessment, crop layout, and breaking ground. Will be held indoors in unpleasant weather. Requirements: Bring a notebook if you wish to remember.
Wed Nov 10th – 4:30-5:30pm
Goldenrod Reading Group Contact teacher for location
with Andy Appleseed sunchild@riseup.net
"Cuz green ain't done shit." We humans are on course to render our home planet inhospitable to life. Indeed, for countless oppressed people and dwindling species, it already is quite so. Culture change is possible. Let's devise a worthwhile future-one in which all lifeforms can thrive-through the critique (and creation) of vital cultural works. Topics of discussion will include deep ecology, permaculture & ecological design, bioethics, traditional ways & pantheism, nature awareness, alternative social structures, human ecology, etc. Short weekly readings will provoke lively conversation in a convivial and inspiring atmosphere. Requirements: Email for reading and location. Bring food or drink to share, if possible.
Tue Nov 2nd, 16th, 30th, Dec 14th, 28th, Jan 11th, 25th – 6-8pm
Hacktivism 102 Contact teacher for location
with UBEW ubew000@gmail.com
Wikipedia says that "Hacktivism...is the nonviolent use of illegal or legally ambiguous digital tools in pursuit of political ends." The goal of this class is to learn and use these tools in order to create the technical infrastructures needed for radical endeavors. If you have ideas for projects, skills to share, or simply an interest, join us! From programming to electronics to social/network engineering. Let's create opensource projects and knowledge bases that our widespread communities can use. Requirements: An interest to learn. Some technical savviness and sneakiness.
Thu Nov 4th, 18th, Dec 2nd, 16th, 30th, Jan 13th, 27th – 5-7:30pm
Herbal Approach to Diabetes SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Red root Herbal Collective redrootherbal@gmail.com
Diabetes affects a whole bunch of people. Come learn about what it means to have diabetes, how it effects our bodies and how we can treat it with herbs. We will also discuss nutrition. Requirements: pen and paper
Mon Dec 13th – 3pm
Hot Composting Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
We will be discussing the basics of one of the most satisfying tasks in the world: turning smelly waste into nutrient rich, soil building goodness. We will begin by discussing the vital role compost plays in sustainable agriculture, then move on to the how to–including building a hot pile, batch composting, and a brief overview of vermicomposting. Rain does NOT cancel, dress appropriately. Requirements: Bring a notebook if you wish to remember.
Wed Nov 17th – 4:30-6pm
Intro to the Art of Dreams & the Fantastic El Rio, 2120 N. Pacific Ave #55
with Erich 831-466-0248
This course explores artistic movements such as surrealism, magic realism, science fiction and how they connect with dreams, the unconscious and subterranean currents in philosophy, spirituality such as Voudoun, politics, romanticism, rock culture etc. lecture, discussion and possible art and writing projects.
Every Sunday – 4pm
Intro to Bike Maintenance and the Bike Church Bike Church
with Bike Church mechanics 831-425-BIKE
A practical overview of the bicycle, from brakes to shifting to proper tool usage. This class will cover basic anatomy and function of the bike with an emphasis on safety, and include hands-on fix-it time for attendees. Also a useful introduction to our shop for newcomers. Requirements: Please be on time
Sun Nov 14, Dec 12th, Jan 9th – 10am-12pm
JuJitsu Massage at the Red Barn Dojo Red Barn Dojo
with danielsan danielsan@riseup.net
Heal what you hurt! The body is an amazing thing, and your knowledge of how it works can help support injured friends or help you defend yourself. We'll cover basic Seifuku-jitsu massage, an integral part of traditional Ju Jitsu. Requirements: Bring a towel and water, perhaps a notebook (and a massage table if you have access to one). Directions: Contact instructor for location
Thu Dec 2nd – 5-6:30pm
Lyme Disease Awareness Class Private Home, email for location
with Carol Fox, RN drword@cruzio.com
Lyme Disease is a tick-borne illness that can change your life forever. This class is especially important for parents, dog-owners, and anyone who lives, works, or walks in the woods. Emphasis on awareness and prevention, dispelling myths, also discussion of signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. The Lyme documentary film "Under Our Skin" will be shown afterwards for those interested. Requirements: Age 10 or over.
Sat Jan 29th – 1-2:30pm
Mandala Magic Divinitree Yoga & Art Studio, 1043B Water St
with Iriesky iriesky@wildmail.com
The mandala is one of humankind's most ancient art forms. The word mandala is Sanskrit for circle. We will experiment with circles and other sacred forms to create a unique individual mandala with a focus on an intention of your choice. Take a moment to meditate on your inner state and bring balance to your life through art! Basic supplies will be provided, please feel free to bring any additional materials you would like to use. Requirements: No previous experience with art needed!
Tue Dec 14th, Jan 11th – 2-3pm
Mandala Yoga Divintree Yoga & Art Studio 1043B Water St
with Ana mayanconnection@gmail.com
We will be continuing with the intention and meditation created during the Mandala Magic Workshop with a moving mandala yoga flow! This will be a challenging, creative class in a heated space. Please feel free to attend one or both parts of this yoga and art mandala magic! Please bring a yoga mat if you have one. Contact the teacher if this is a problem. Requirements: This will be a level 2-3 yoga class.
Tue Dec 14th, Jan 11th – 3-4pm
Maori Resistance in New Zealand SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Jack and Stascha youheardofit@gmail.com
A look at the history of indigenous resistance in New Zealand, with an emphasis on the ways the Maori people and anarchists have worked together.
Tue Jan 12th – 6:30pm
Mapuche Resistance in Patagonia SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with David and Stascha fetidadders@canoemail.com
The Mapuche people are an indigenous population of southern South America who have long been resisting the governments of Argentina and Chile, and are continuing to make connections with other indigenous and radical groups around the world. We will discuss the history and current state of the Mapuche, and the ways in which radical communities can be connected to their struggles.
Tue Dec 7th – 6pm
Medicinal Plant Walk Bottom of the Trailer Park on UCSC Campus
with Red root Herbal collective redrootherbal@gmail.com
Take a walk and see some of the beautiful plants that can help us heal. We will be focusing on the chaparral bioregion, though we will look at the redwoods a bit as well. Bring pen and paper if you can, and raincoats in case it rains.
Sun Jan 16th – 11am
Mushroom Foraging, Intro to Twin Gates, Empire Grade, UCSC
with Mikey mikeycohen@gmail.com
Learn about wild mushrooms that grow in our area, what mushrooms are, why they are so cool and important to our environment. Learn to identify the edible, poisonous, and beautiful mushrooms that grow in our area. We will forage, identify and eat mushrooms. I have been identifying and picking wild mushrooms locally and up and down the West coast for over 15 years. Requirements: What to Bring: Bring a basket, or a bag, a knife, and enthusiasm. Also a camera if you wish. Recommended books are “All that the Rain Promises and more” or “Mushrooms Demystified” both by David Arora. Directions: Take Empire Grade about 1 mile past UCSC's West entrance.
Sun Dec 12th – 10am-2pm
Mushrooms of Santa Cruz Natural History Museum, Rm 273 NatSci 2, UCSC
with Christian cfs.myko@gmail.com
We'll cook with/ dye wool with/ identify/ investigate/ illustrate/ photograph and generally enjoy the diverse and delightful mushrooms and other fungi of Santa Cruz. Requirements: Mushroom ID books are helpful, curiosity a must, waterproof/warm clothes, tolerance for dry spells. Directions: Across the brick courtyard from the Science Library at UCSC - long hallway with glass windows.
Fri Nov 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th, Dec 3rd, 10th – 1-3pm
Musicians? Jamboree! 526 Barson St
with Allie and Gabriella alligator_3@hotmail.com
Come join Allie and Gabriella on their quest to become musicians! Whether you be novice or expert, we invite people interested in music to share their skills in this open and safe space. If you know how to sing/play an instrument, write songs/lyrics, or rock a stage, come teach us! If no one shows up who feels capable to teach, we will just make jam! Requirements: Know something about music! Want to learn something about music! Bring yer own instrument! Directions: On the edge of the marsh!
Mon Nov 8th,15th, Dec 6th, 20th – 5-7pm
Nice Shirt Basics The Fabrica, 703 Pacific Ave (Enter on Spruce)
with Stef steflwolf@gmail.com
We'll learn to make a nice shirt that fits just you...and all those smaller or similarly shaped. We'll take a few measurements and then we'll do some basic math and use our findings to create a pattern. From the pattern we'll learn how to make a garment and alter the pattern for a variety of styles.
Wed Nov 10th – 5-7pm
Pallet Building Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
A symbol of industrial waste, and the perfect building material. Join us as we discuss simple and easy to build pallet designs: such as tool sheds, compost systems, and benches. We will also touch on sources for used materials. Weather permitting we will build a bench, otherwise class will be held indoors.
Mon Jan 10th – 4:30-5:30pm
Parkour for Beginners Downtown Santa Cruz Library, 224 Church St.
with Arden ragtail@riseup.net
Introduction to techniques and philosophy behind exploring an urban environment in creative ways. Functional evasion! Nonconformist exploration! Dionysian superhero worship! Gravity has been one of the most consistent tyrants in universal history-lets see what we can do about that. Requirements: Good paira shoes and clothes you can move in.
Every Saturday – 1:30pm
Persimmon harvest and preservation San Lorenzo Park bike bridge
with Steve/fruit tree project 831-421-9367
Take a bike ride with members of the SC Fruit Tree Project, harvesting persimmons from around town. Then go to 120 Walk Circle on the west side to learn how to air-dry persimmons by hanging them in your house like Christmas decorations. If there's heavy rain, skip the harvest and meet straight away 120 Walk Circle. Requirements: Bring a bicycle and a fruit picker (if possible) and a way to carry fruit. Directions: 120 Walk Circle is close to Delaware and Woodrow.
Sun Dec 12th – 1-5 PM
Pest Management Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob and Heidi Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Join us as we talk about pest management techniques: the nitty gritty such as how to deal with gophers and slugs, and a discussion of companion planting and how to attract beneficial insects. Rain does NOT cancel, dress appropriately. If unpleasant, will hold class indoors, but will see techniques and principles in action outside. Requirements: Notebook.
Thu Dec 9th – 4:30-5:30pm
Poetry & Revolution: Rexroth, Levertov, & Snyder Abbey, 350 Mission St
with Bey nobbylives@gmail.com
The poet and the revolutionary are struggling for the same thing: liberation of the human imagination. Imagination awakens us to the sense of wonder, power, and possibility. It is this visionary capacity that allows us to struggle for a better, more beautiful world. That's why imagination is everywhere suppressed. In this class we'll explore the relationship between poetry and revolution. What is poetic about revolutionary struggle? How do we liberate and defend imaginative terrain? Is there something inherently radical about the art of poetry?
Sun Nov 7th, 14th, 21st – 2-5pm
Plant Propagation Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob and Heidi Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Yes, its December. No, it’s not too early or too late to plan and/or start propagating. In fact, some plants can only be propagated in the winter/fall. We will be discussing basic propagation techniques such as starting from seed, cuttings, start mix recipes, and cold frame/mini-greenhouse construction. Will be held indoors in unpleasant weather. Requirements: Bring a notebook if you wish to remember.
Mon Dec 6th – 5-6pm
Quilting and Sewing Circle: Return of the Grammas 811 Broadway St
with Wes & kai quilt@thespoon.com
Imagine old women and men sitting around a porch drinking beer, sewing together, and talking about their lives. Not a class focused on traditional quilting and sewing styles, but an excuse to come together, exercise our artistic creativity and radicalism, make something useful and beautiful, and build friendship. Though we will be working on individual projects, we will help and influence each other as a community. Requirements: Bring any of these materials you may have: sewing machine, durable thread, scrap fabric, sharp scissors, pins, and snacks/beer to share.
Tue Nov 9th, 23rd, Dec 7th, 21st, Jan 4th, 18th – 6:30-9pm
Reiki Circle 715 3rd St, Apt E
with Nikira Text 831-419-9361
Bring your healing hands for a Reiki share! The idea is to share our healing with each other so that everyone leaves more whole than she came. Requirements: Teacher is really allergic to all types of smoke - please don't smoke before or at this class. Directions: The driveway to the left of the house goes to Unit E in the back.
Tue Nov 9th – 6-8pm
Reiki Class I, II, and III 715 3rd St, Apt E
with Nikira Text 831-419-9361
Reiki is an energetic healing system. Based on the level of participants, we'll talk about the history of Reiki, what it means to be a healer, and when to use Reiki on whom. For those who are ready, we'll perform an attunement, the energetic opening that creates a Reiki Healer. Requirements: All levels of experience welcome (including none). Please be prompt. Teacher is allergic to smoke of all kinds - please don't smoke right before class. Directions: Follow the driveway to the left of the house to find unit E.
Sat Nov 6th – 2-5pm
Rooting Out Capitalism SEIU Union Hall, 517 Mission St
with Jeffrey Smedberg unionize@calcentral.com, 831-469-9467
An intellectual rejection of capitalism is not sufficient to root out the deep influence the dominant political economic order has had on our collective psyche. In this class we will learn and use tools to free our thinking from emotional baggage imprinted by social conditioning that constrains our humanity. Active listening is a key feature of this self-help peer counseling process which effectively counters institutionalized oppression. The first class is an open introduction, after which students may commit to complete the series.
Directions: Corner of Mission and Locust St.
Tue Jan 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th. – 7-8:30pm
Saddle Bags for your Bicycle The Fabrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with B. thefabrica@riseup.net
Learn how to make saddle bags for your bicycle with salvaged textiles and other materials. The 1st class will cover planning your ideal saddle bags; drafting a pattern, identifying materials needed, and ideas for construction. You may also bring desired materials to receive feedback. The 2nd class will be dedicated to constructing your bags. Requirements: Some experience using a sewing machine prior to this class. Go to ‘Sewing Machines 101’ or visit The Fabrica. You are responsible for providing your own materials. Directions: Enter on Spruce St.
Sun Nov 7th, Sun Nov 14th – 10-2pm
Seed Culture! Duck Pond, San Lorenzo Park
with Andy Appleseed sunchild@riseup.net
Reclaim the genetic commons! An introduction to the whys and hows of seed saving and plant breeding. And a broader discussion of how to empower and liberate our communities by taking back control of our foodways. Let's develop a locally-adapted urban agri-culture. Requirements: People of all backgrounds welcome. Bring some good seed to share, if you've got any.
Sun Nov 14th – 2-4pm
Sewing Machines 101 The Fabrica, 703 Pacific Ave (Enter on Spruce)
with Elaina thefabrica@riseup.net
This is an introductory class that covers sewing machine use and trouble-shooting. Topics include: threading the machine, winding the bobbin, proper use, stitches, tension adjustments, and an overview of the basic mechanics of a sewing machine. Once you learn to use the sewing machines, you may use them when they're available during general open hours at The Fabrica. This class is hosted by The Fabrica: community textile arts and salvage workshop.
Sat Nov 6th, 13th, Dec 4th, 11th, Jan 8th, 15th – 3pm
Shitty Screenprinting Chavez Co-op, 316 Main St
with Bryan anavacado@gmail.com
Making quality t-shirts and patches using light sensitive photo emulsion, your own weird image or symbol and easy to acquire household objects. Requirements: Bring yourself, but contact me if you have a silkscreen lying around!
Sat Nov 13th, 20th – 6-9pm
Slinging 101 Natural Bridges (Delaware Entrance)
with Coyote slingingcoyote@gmail.com
A true tool of antiquity, the slingshot has been present in almost every ancient culture from California's Indian nations to the Greeks. It is light, relatively easy to use, and simple to construct. Let's get together and craft our own homemade hand slings. We'll focus on its history, the various types of slingshots, and practice. Requirements: Bring food to share and be prepared to do a little walking. Heavy rain cancels. Directions: Delaware Ave entrance to Natural Bridges.
Sat Jan 22nd – 11am-2pm
Soapbox 202: Anarchist Public Speaking Contact teacher for location
with Wes thespoon@thespoon.com
You have your speech topic, you've practiced some, now we hone your lecture skills to a razor's edge. We will work together to create a public speaking event targeted to an audience unfamiliar with the subject of anarchism. Directly inspired by Emma Goldman, an attempt to bring back the public lecture as a method of communicating important ideas, and specifically, anarchism. Requirements: If you want to see or participate in creating a series of anarchist public speaking events, join us. Come prepared with a lecture you've outlined on a topic relevant to anarchism that you are passionate about.
Fri Jan 14th, 21st, 28th – 6-8pm
Soil Health #1 Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob and Heidi Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Quite simply, soil biology supports life as we know it. We will start with the basics in this two part class on soil health. In the first we will be discussing the basics of soil–its composition, its basic nutrient make-up, and intro to soil organisms. Will be held indoors in unpleasant weather. Requirements: Bring a notebook if you wish to remember.
Mon Nov 15th – 5-6pm
Soil Health #2 Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob and Heidi Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
In the second part of this two part series we will discuss methods for restoring soil health, beginning with soil testing for in depth information, building soil structure, cover cropping, and crop rotation. We will discuss why soil health is essential to successful gardening. Will be held indoors in unpleasant weather. Requirements: Bring a notebook if you wish to remember.
Mon Nov 29th – 5-6pm
The Survival Gourmet Private Home, email for location
with Carol Fox drword@cruzio.com
Reviving the Survival Gourmet Cooking Series with focus on healthy, hearty seasonal soups, holiday favorites, and gluten-free baking. If you want to save money, eat better, and impress your sweetie, learn how to do all three for free. Then we'll eat what we cook! (Donations requested to cover cost of food.) Requirements: Pre-cooks and experienced cooks welcome. Please e-mail to pre-register.
Sat Nov 6th, Dec 4th, Jan 8th – 10am-12:30pm
Systema Study Group Garfield Park
with Tod todhaddow@yahoo.com
This is a study group for the Russian martial art Systema. Systema is based on four principals: posture, breathing, relaxation, and constant movement. We will work on ground work, strikes, taking strikes, working against weapons, releasing built up tension and more. Requirements: Please wear clothing you are not afraid to get dirty. Anyone under 18 must get permission from the instructor at class.
Every Wednesday starting Nov 17th – 5-7pm
UBEW Meet & Geek Bocci's Cellar, 140 Encinal St
with UBEW ubew000@gmail.com
This is our monthly open meeting for tech-minded people who have an interest in software and hardware projects that benefit the radical community. We'll share ideas, help each other with projects, geek out in an egalitarian format, and consume mugs of frothy fermented grain beverage in the process (optional). Requirements: Bring your background or an interest in computer programming or building computing hardware or electronics.
Thu Nov 18th, Dec 30th, Jan 27th – 7:30-9:30pm
Vermiculture Food Not Lawns, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob Laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
We will be going over the basics of vermicomposting–including how to build a proper pile, where to get your supplies, how to care for your worms, and harvesting and application methods. Rain does NOT cancel, but will be held indoors in unpleasant weather. Requirements: Bring a notebook if you wish to remember.
Wed Dec 1st – 5-6pm
Women/Trans/Fem Bike Workshop The Bike Church, 703 Pacific Ave
with Ann, B, Emilyn, Sophia, Stef 831-425-BIKE
Bicycle maintenance has traditionally been an overwhelmingly male-dominated area. It is our goal to provide time for individuals who may have been marginalized or intimidated in this setting to be supported in being knowledgeable and confident in cycling, mechanics and tool use. This workshop provides a safer space for women, trans and fem folks to work on their bikes and learn new skills. Taught by women/queer mechanics.
Nov 7th, 21st, Dec 5th, 19th, Jan 2nd,16th – Noon-3pm
Youth Hours at the Bike Church The Bike Church, 703 Pacific Ave
with Bike Church mechanics 831-425-BIKE
This is a time for youth to learn how to maintain their own bikes, and potentially fix or build one up. Although kids are welcome any day, the Bike Church is often quite crowded, and mechanics' attention spread thin. This special early Saturday shift is open only to youth and members. Parents, guardians, and caretakers are welcomed during these hours as well. Requirements: Youth can use the shop for free, and if they need a bike can get all the used parts they need for free as well. However, they may want to bring a few dollars in case they need any new items.
Every Saturday except xmas and new years – 10am-2pm
