Free Skool 2011 Spring Calendar
The Free Skool 2011 Spring Calendar is available! 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 11MB).
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Abortion Stories and Support Contact Teacher for Location
with Angela abortionsupport@riseup.net
A time for women who have gone through the experience of an abortion to share our stories with each other and talk about healing. The idea is to create a supportive space for ourselves in the spirit of combating the silence and isolation that accompanies abortion in this society. This class will focus on personal story sharing but will have some discussion questions as well.
Tue Apr 26th – 6-8pm
Acupressure for Pain and Stress 354 Stanford Ave
with Nita Hertel nitahertel@gmail.com
Simple energy flows can ease pain and support a calm mind and body through hands on acupressure. Learn simple techniques to help your community feel better. Requirements: Bring notebook, comfortable clothes, your respect and compassion. Directions: Near Water and Branciforte streets.
Mon Mar 21st, Apr 4th – 7-8:30pm
Anarchy, Compassion & Spirituality San Lorenzo Park, SC
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 change activist, musician and journalist and host of a weekly radio show on Free Radio Santa Cruz. Directions: Let's meet on the grass area between the duck pond.and the kids play area, perhaps by some redwoods. In case of rain the class will be at CommuniTea Room, 7 Squid Row.
Sun Apr 3rd – 2:30-4:30pm
Beat Boxing/Mouth Percussion SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Kenny 443-927-6262
Very fun beat boxing classes with emphasis on world music influences. Very kid friendly. Requirements: Have fun and develop a portable entertainment system.
Wed Mar 2nd – 6pm
Beginning Bee Keeping Harbour High Baseball Field
with Thomas Goode thomas@sckb.com
Introduction to beekeeping,this class will give you the basics,what equipment to use,start up costs,how to get bees,where to place you hive,how to maintain a healthy hive thru out the seasons, benefits to the environment, gardens,pollination,and of course harvesting the golden sweet stuff. Requirements: Bee suits are limited.sharing and swapping of suits will be necessary for all to be up close to the action. wear light colored cloths.I have bee veils Directions: Meet at the bottom of Lafonda Drive and Soquel Ave
Sat May 7th – 11am
Between the Covers: Free Skool Book Club Contact teacher for location
with Stacey 831-421-9367 or staceyffalls@yahoo.com
Did you ever read a great book and wish you had someone to discuss it with? Let's get together over coffee or beer and discuss books. I'm drawn to books that feel intellectually or emotionally challenging, deal with complex themes, or have large implications for society, for example authors D. M. Thomas, Rushdie, Dostoevsky, or Coetzee. I mostly read fiction, but am open if others in the group want to read some non-fiction or essays. Requirements: For the first class, let's start by reading A Mercy by Toni Morrison. Come with at least some of it read.
Sun Mar 20th, Apr 10th, 24th, May 8th, 22nd – 6-7:30 pm
Boat Design SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Robert Blind Bear Shiner1964@aol.com
We will discuss the various design problems of boat building. Requirements: A desire to put out on the Sea
Fri Mar 11th, Apr 8th, May 13th – 3pm
Bookbinding from Scrap The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Ann and Josh thefabrica@riseup.net
Learn how to make your own beautiful book using traditional hand-sewing techniques and salvaged materials. While examples of several forms will be available for inspiration, this class will focus on step-by-step construction of a book with simple sewn signatures and a stiff cover. Materials will be provided, but also feel free to bring anything of your own you would like to use or share.
Requirements: Space is limited. Please come on time.
Thu Mar 17th – 6-9pm
Coop Topics: Building Alliances Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Jo joso@riseup.net
Let's talk about co-ops! I seek to bring together people from all kinds of backgrounds and co-ops (house, worker, food, social, whatever!) to discuss economic models, building unity and infrastructure, organization and institutional memory, maintenance, consensus, conflict resolution, gender & sexuality, facilitation, exclusivity, dealing with difficult people, living with animals, raising children, and any other topic that we as a group may choose to raise. I only ask that we keep the content pertinent to building sustainable alliances and networking in positive ways to facilitate growth in ourselves, others and our (sometimes overlapping) communities. Requirements: No co-op experience necessary! Current/former Bike Churchers, Chavezers, Zami!ites, Big Earth Housers and Kresge Food Co-opers, consider this a shoutout.
Thu Apr 7th, 14th, 21st, May 5th, 12th – 8-9pm
Comics Workgroup 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. Bring your own project and supplies. Others may have some to share, but don't rely on it. Requirements: Bring your own project and supplies. Others may have some to share, but don't rely on it.
Every Monday – 7-9pm
Community Building Exercises SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
This class or working group will focus on group exercises that build group solidarity and true, close community-- Trust exercises, group games, and sharing and visioning circles. It is my experience that these exercises can rapidly create and nurture community, as well as keeping communities going strong. Students will both experience these exercises first hand with each other, and hopefully leave feeling comfortable facilitating the exercises in the future. Heavily recommended for anyone living communally and/or doing community/political organizing.
Wed, Mar 2nd, 16th, 30th, Apr 13th, 27th, May 11th, 25th – 5-6:30pm
Community Safety Workgroup SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Wes thespoon@thespoon.com
"Without police, wouldn't there be chaos?" "What about the bad people?" As anarchists we get asked these legit questions all the time. Don't be fooled by the bland title, this is a project that has the potential to change the world. This is a structured workshop to plan ways to keep our communities safe at all levels. Here are the challenges we'll tackle: new accountability process, community crisis response, cops and alternatives, education, mutual support, solidarity, defense of communities,and making the police obsolete. With this class we jumpstart an ongoing Community Safety Workgroup that will grow beyond free skool. Requirements: Basic familiarity and comfort with the philosophy of anarchism will serve you well here. Be down with basic premises: We want to work collaboratively. We are committed. We are here to act. What we are wanting is possible and desirable.
Every other Thu: Mar 17th, 31st, Apr 14th, 28th, May 12th, 26th – 5-7pm
Conflict Improv- Bring your Fight Night! Capitola Book Cafe, 1475 41st Av
with Jean, Kristin, Rick 831-440-8979 or info@nvcsantacruz.org
Tired of having the same old aggravations go down argument alley? Conflict Improv is a light, fun and enjoyable way of looking at the thornier side of relationships. Nonviolent Communication (NVC) offers a model to transform conflict into opportunity. Join NVC trainers Jean Morrison, Kristin Masters and Rick Longinotti for an enjoyable evening of pure fun and entertainment. Bring your conflicts, your challenges, and your friends and watch NVC trainers transform your toughest interactions!
Tue Mar 29th – 7:30-8:30pm
Confronting Whiteness SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Bob and Ryan airbaron@gmail.com
In this reading group, we will be exploring the social construction of race through Robert Jensen's The Heart of Whiteness. The Heart of Whiteness offers an honest and rigorous exploration of what Jensen refers to as the depraved nature of whiteness in the United States. He argues that any system that denies non-whites their full humanity also keeps whites from fully accessing their own. Any one interested in confronting race, racism, and white privilege is welcome. The book is short, accessible, and a good primer to critical race and whiteness studies. Requirements: A copy of Robert Jensen's The Heart of Whiteness.
Sun Apr 10th, 17th, 24th – 5-6:15pm
Contact Improv Dance San Lorenzo Park, near playground
with Glenn Smith 831-454-6342
Contact improv is what happens when 2 bodies touch and start to move while remaining in contact. It can be fast or slow, high or low, gentle or acrobatic. We'll go over some basic tools you can use to safely explore with. We'll be on grass, preferably barefoot.
Tue Mar 22nd, Mar 29th – 4-5:30pm
Copyleft Santa Cruz Community TV, 816 Pacific Ave
with Marc marc@culturejams.com
What is intellectual property? How did concepts like copyright originate and how do they affect our creative process today? This will be an open-ended discussion that will also examine current alternatives that promote the sharing of ideas.
Mon Mar 7th – 8pm
Creative Action Group! San Lorenzo Park
with Flower and Fortuna Fox 707-477-7527
A discussion/ action group focused on Creative Activism such as guerilla theatre, clowning, culture jam, puppetry, and street art. We will discuss creative activism that has inspired us, the issues that concern us, and our own visions of creative protest. We will then take our thoughts to the streets and make them a beautiful reality. Requirements: An open mind and a sense of humor Directions: By the playground in San Lorenzo Park
Tue Mar 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, Apr 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th Sat May 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th – 3-4pm
Crocheted Rag Rugs The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Blaize thefabrica@riseup.net
Crocheted rag rugs are easier to make than the traditional braided rugs, but are still sturdy and good-looking. I will show you how to prepare rag balls from sheets or other salvage material, and how construct square, oval, and circular rugs. Bring material you would like to use or find it here. Requirements: Prerequisite: Know some basic crochet; or come to one of the knit/crochet
circles before this class.
Mon Apr 11th, 18th – 6:30-9pm
Cultural Anthropology Cafe Delmarette, 1126 Pacific Ave
with Nicole 760-343-6016
An overview of anthropological theory and ethnographic methodology followed by ethnographies on topics such as: sex and gender, capitalism, structural violence and race. Requires no prior experience with anthropology. Discussion will focus on how anthropological thought can broaden understandings of human interactions and radical politics. Requirements: Attendees must be willing to complete readings in order to be able to contribute to discussion
Sun Apr 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th – 1-3pm
Dance - Acro - Capoeira Blender Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Anjuli, Morgan, Jo mxharris1@gmail.com
Jo plays Acroyoga, Anjuli does various types of dance and Morgan does very basic Capoeira (but he's modest). One night we spent about an hour sharing our skills and now we wanna invite others to come play with us! Requirements: Positive attitude and clothing you can move in. Directions: Be punctual and we can walk to the park to play there.
Sat Apr 2nd – 2-3:30pm
Didjeri Do's and Dont's The Witchouse, 214 Plymouth St.
with Eric Bludaxe wallopthecat@hotmail.com
Learn to make and play the didjeridu using PVC pipe, paint, and beeswax. Instruction on instrument construction, basic tone, intermediate sounds and circular breathing. Requirements: BYO PVC pipe, 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches in diameter, 4 to 7 feet in length. Any extra paint or blow dryers would be appreciated. Directions: The Witchouse. Grant and Plymouth, across Ocean from the Denny's. Big green house on the hill.
Mon Mar 7th – 3-4:30pm
Disasters & Catastrophes Walking Tour Meet at the clock tower
with Sylvia & David sylvianotcynthia@hotmail.com
Floods! Earthquakes! Fires! Join us on a 2 hour walking tour that will explore the history of disasters and catastrophes in downtown Santa Cruz. Requirements: Walkin' shoes. Directions: Clock tower is at N. Pacific & Water St.
Sun Mar 27th – 2pm
Dungeons & Dragons Meetup SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
Dungeons & Dragons is a game in which people play within an imaginary world together, becoming heroes and going on mythic adventures. D&D doesn't have to be the classic Tolkien world-- it can be funny, desperate, sad, futuristic, deal with large adventures of any type. Moreover, D&D can build friendships, train your imagination, develop your creative problem solving, and build political and spiritual consciousness. D&D can be set in a world of rebellion, Empire, good versus evil - a world much like our own. If you are interested in being part of an ongoing D&D game come by the class, where we will talk about what we want. If you miss the "class," contact us to get involved in the game.
Fri Mar 4th, Mon Mar 7th – 5-7pm
English Country Dance First Congregational Church, 900 High Street
with Michael King 831-426-8621
English country dance is a lively form of folk dance that was popular in the Renaissance era. Couples dance in sets of various configurations and weave through elaborate patterns as they interact with other couples. Beginners are very welcome—this is an excellent place to learn. We have live music on the second Thu of the month. We're a casual, fun-loving group. Come dance with us! Requirements: Wear comfy shoes. (High heels not recommended.) Directions: Meet in the upper hall of First Congregational Church, next to the upper parking lot.
Thu Mar 10th, 24th, Apr 14th, 28th, May 12th, 26th – 7-9:30pm
Fairy Ring The Fire Station, UCSC campus
with Natalie natn@sbcglobal.net
UCSC has plans to destroy an undeveloped portion of campus in order to build two 7- to 8-story buildings. More than 200 redwood, mixed evergreen, oak, (and one magical elderberry) will be cut down to pave the way for this massive development. Come out to the patch of wildness among the concrete to help build a structure in one of the beautiful redwood ferry rings. We will collaborate to plan an open ears gathering to honor the place, share stories (songs, poems, performance) about this forest, deforestation, and development. Requirements: Brings snacks
Sun Apr 10 – 11am-2pm
Forest Walk in Upper Campus Kresge Co-op
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 Long Range Development Plan that threatens this special place.
Sat Mar 12th, 19th, 26th, Apr 23rd, 30th, May 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th – Noon
Free Skool Community Picnic Oceanview Park
with Everyone freeskoolsc@riseup.net
Our quarterly free skool celebration! 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 new and old friends. Have fun, meet people, eat, talk, play croquet. Requirements: Bring food, drink, and games to share. Directions: Oceanview park is off Broadway at the end of Oceanview.
Sat Jun 25th – Noon-4pm
Furniture Making SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Chris 831-295-3603
Creative use of found materials and design techniques will be discussed and demonstrated. Only material availability and motivation will limit us in this class.
Wed Mar 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th, Apr 6th – 10am
Gardening for Your Health: Medicinal/Culinary Herbs
Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Heidi heidixiste@gmail.com
We will discuss a variety of common medicinal/culinary herbs that can be grown in our backyards. We'll look at examples and talk about how to cultivate, harvest, and prepare them, and share knowledge of their medicinal and nourishing values.
Sun May 1st – 5:30- 6:30pm
Gardening for Your Health: Nutritious Foods
Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Heidi heidixiste@gmail.com
Somewhat of a continuation of the "Medicinal/Culinary Herbs" class, we will talk about how to propagate, grow, and consume a variety of nutritious, healing plant foods that can be simply cultivated in our yards. We will focus on fruit and vegetable plants from the soil to our bodies; what they require to thrive and how they nourish us.
Sun May 8th – 5:30-6:30pm
Get Your Message Heard
El Rio Mobile Home Park Club House 2120 N. Pacific Ave.
with Corby and Blaize stblaize@gmail.com
In this workshop, we will focus on constructing and delivering a persuasive presentation. Topics include: judging your audience, preparing your work, telling a story, managing nervousness, making emotional connections, and generally adding a human element to information. The workshop will be useful for people involved in fund-raising, coalition-building, and presenting activist work to the unconvinced. Between the two of them, Corby and Blaize have over 35 years of experience teaching, presenting, and helping the presentation skills of everyone from undergraduates to lawyers.
Sat Apr 16th – 1-4pm
Get Sexy with Energy Conservation Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Morgan, Jill mxharris1@gmail.com
Basic techniques in water and energy conservation in the common or not so common household. Requirements: A smile and a willingness to learn!
Tue Mar 29th – 5:30-6:30pm
Gettin it Done: From Visions to Reality Chavez Coop, 316 Main St
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
A working group designed to talk about peoples ideas and visions for both radical projects and personal dreams. Participants will share visions and plans, support each other in whatever ways they can, and share ideas about how to make the crucial step from having a powerful idea, to actually putting that idea into practice. Ideally, participants will follow through by supporting each others visions and events outside of the 'class room.'
Mon Mar 14th, 28th, Apr 11th, 25th, May 9th, 23rd – 7-8pm
Hacktivism 103 SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with UBEW ubew000@gmail.com
Though much of technology is well-deserving of critique and scrutiny, we work to shape the new world within the context of the old. Through this series of hacktivism workshops, we want to both encourage your interest in technology and provide a way for all of us to exercise our radical politics. If you’ve ever soldered something and enjoyed it, or if you’ve ever learned a programming language and felt brilliant, or if you’ve ever designed something that worked perfectly, we'd like to share more of that with you in an environment where men, women, and trans folks can connect. Requirements: An interest to learn. Some technical savviness and sneakiness.
Thu Mar 10th, 24th, Apr 7th, 21st, May 5th, 19th – 5-7pm
Heliostat Hackers: Solar Hacking SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Chris 831-295-3603
Using the sun to light and heat your indoor location. We will discuss the use of and making of a low cost heliostat to turn the ever moving rays of the sun into a stationary more usable beam.
Mon Mar 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, Apr 4th – 10am
Henry Coe Camping Trip Red Church, 532 Center St
with David & Sylvia sylvianotcynthia@hotmail.com
Henry Coe State Park is rugged, remote and beautiful. Join us for a weekend of somewhat challenging hikes where we'll learn about the fascinating natural and human history of this amazing area. We'll carpool there on Friday, set up camp, and explore the area on foot. Requirements: You will need to bring your own camping gear (sleeping bag, tent etc.), food for yourself for the full three days, and any cooking utensils/stoves/pots & pans you may need. There will be water available at base camp, but a water filter would be helpful too.
Fri May 13th, Sat May 14th, Sun May 15th – 9am (sharp)
Herbal Strategies for Diabetes Prevention SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Red Root Herbal Collective redrootherbal@gmail.com
We'll talk about herbal support for prediabetic conditions, otherwise known as Syndrome X or Metabolic Syndrome. About 1/3 of the US population is thought to be prediabetic. We'll cover herbal, dietary and lifestyle suggestions to prevent the development of Type II Diabetes, and discuss societal factors for the prevalence of this condition. Requirements: No requirements. Class will be taught at a beginning/intermediate level.
Wed Mar 9th – 1pm
Herbs Strategies for Acute and Chronic Sinusitis SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Red Root Herbal Collective 702-738-2826
We'll discuss herbal support for acute and chronic sinusitis. We'll address causes: viruses, allergies, working and living conditions, etc. Dietary, herbal, and lifestyle suggestions will be provided. Requirements: Bring pen and paper for notes.
Wed Mar 23rd – 11am
Hoop Dance! West Cliff Lighthouse Lawn, 701 West Cliff Drive,
with Elly eroemer@ucsc.edu
Come enjoy the spring afternoon hooping! Learn basic moves of this fun and sexy dance while getting a mild workout. We will be dancing in the sun as we learn to hoop on different parts of our bodies and try out some beginning and intermediate tricks! A variety of music will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. Have a few tricks up your sleeve? Share with the group! Requirements: Only a few hoops will be provided, so if you have your own, please bring it!! Rain cancels.
Wed Apr 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th, May 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th – 5-6:30pm
Hot Composting Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob and Heidi 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: Please be on time.
Tue Apr 19th – 5:30-6:30pm
Icarus Project: Radical Mental Health Zami! Co-op, 807 Laurel St.
with David and Members of ChaZam! catsturntosmoke@yahoo.com
A meetup and discussion group for building an Icarus Project in Santa Cruz. What's Icarus Project? As a collaborative, participatory adventure in mutual aid, The Icarus Project is a network of people living with and/or affected by experiences that are often diagnosed and labeled as psychiatric conditions. Examining the societal impact on our lives and states of well being, we can see these experiences as mad gifts needing cultivation and care, rather than diseases or disorders. By joining together as individuals and communities, and through creativity and collaboration, we hope to inspire new ways of thinking about madness, support for ourselves, for each other, and transformation in an oppressive and damaged world.
Fri Apr 1st, 15th, 29th, May 13th, 27th – 5:30-7pm
Introduction to the Art of Dreams and the Fantastic
El Rio Mobile Home Park, 2120 North Pacific Ave. #55 Santa Cruz
with Erich J Holden 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 rojects.
Every Saturday – 4pm
Intro to Bikes Bike Church, 703 Pacific Ave
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.
Sun Mar 13rd, Apr 10th, May 15th – 10am-12pm
Kids Forest Walk Base of UCSC Trailer Park
with Natalie natn@sbcglobal.net
Come explore the redwood forest! We will play games, sing songs, and go for a short walk around this magic place. Requirements: Email me if you plan to drop your kid(s) off.
Sun Mar 27th – Noon
Kid's Art! Laurel Park
with Mia 707-494-1068
Kid's Class on using recycled and natural materials to create fun art projects. We will be making costumes, mandalas, masks, puppets, and spaceships! Requirements: Must be 5 or over
Thu Mar 3rd, 17th, 31st, Apr 14th – 3:30- 4:30pm
Knitting & Crochet Circle The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Jenn thefabrica@riseup.net
A social gathering for stitchers and a great place to learn. Tools and materials available, too. Requirements: Open to all skill levels. Bring supplies if you can.
Wed Mar 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th, Apr 6th, 13rd, 20th, 27th – 6-8pm
Knots For Fun and Function 170 Hagemann Ave, Santa Cruz
with Jeffrey Smedberg unionize@calcentral.com, 831-469-9467
What to do when you're at the end of your rope. Everyday and exotic ways to make rope and cord do your bidding, whether pitching your tent, tying your shoes, rock climbing, wrapping a gift, tying down a load for the dump, sailing, earning your merit badge, or surviving in the woods. Share your favorite knot. Learn a new solution to a knotty problem. Requirements: Bring a piece of rope or cord. Directions: Hagemann is on the Santa Cruz eastside off Soquel Ave at Walgreens.
Sat Apr 2nd – 10am-1pm
Life Stories Potluck San Lorenzo Park
with Natalie natn@sbcglobal.net
We have so much to learn from stories! Our own and other's. Come to a Life Stories Potluck and connect with people in the community to deepen our capacity to listen and hold compassion. This is an intentional space where we will each will have 10 minutes to share our stories. Who are you? What do you love? What experiences have shaped you? This is a safe space for all people. Your age, race, gender, sexual preference and place of origin are all valuable and beautiful parts of your story. Requirements: Bring respect, an open mind and heart, and something delicious to share, if possible.
Sun Mar 20th – 11-1pm
Lord of the Rings Club Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Mathew crimsoncolumbine@gmail.com
We will act out passages as we read, share snacks, ales, lembas bread, and bring the story to life together. Let's talk about the legacy of the Ring and share our own stories and songs, knit elvish cloaks and re-enact the battles and feasts. We'll eat second breakfast until we just can't take it anymore! and then... elevensies! ~~This is a brave space to nerd out!~~ Requirements: A copy of The Fellowship of the Ring and a willingness to leave Planet Earth and enter Middle Earth completely.
Fri Mar 18th, Apr 22nd, May 20th – 5:30-8pm
Lyme Disease Awareness & Prevention Contact Teacher for Location
with Carol Fox, RN 831-234-7537
Lyme Disease is endemic in Santa Cruz County. It is acquired from deer ticks, and anyone who lives, works, or walks near deer habitat is particularly at risk. It is easy to prevent but can be very difficult or impossible to cure. Learn how to protect yourself and your family from this potentially devastating illness. Class focuses on prevention but will also address signs & symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and the politicks of Lyme. Requirements: Please call for location and pre-enrollment.
Sat Apr 16th – 1-2:30pm
Making Homemade Biochar Chavez Coop, 316 Main St
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
A hands-on, one time workshop. Biochar is essentially charcoal infused with microbial life; used as a soil ammendment, it can massively improve soil fertility, and heal the earth. Come learn about Biochar, how it can be made DIY style, and how to build a small, extremely cheap stove that will produce high quality charcoal for use in making Biochar.
Sun Mar 27th – 3-4:30pm
Mask Work San Lorenzo Park
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
Mask Work will explore role-playing with masks - when a mask is put on, it allows a person to take on a personality, physical mannerisms, and a full-body character that lives within that mask. This is fun, spontaneous "theater" or improvisational work, that frees people up and allows them to explore their bodies, movements and voices. Whether you are an actor or just a playful person, come by and play mask games with us. Children especially love playing with masks and watching adults play with masks. Papier mache mask making will be part ofof the class.
Sun May 1st, 15th, 29th – 1-2:30pm
Mount a Plant 811 Broadway
with kai apex@riseup.net
No room for a houseplant? We'll cover some basic ways to green up your walls with succulents, staghorns, and spider plants. Indoor plants improve air quality and add life to sometimes sterile living spaces. We'll also talk about choosing the right plants for light and humidity levels, and basic plant care if people are interested. Bring any of the following if you have them, although some materials will be provided: succulent cuttings or small plants, interesting small scrap wood, cabinet doors or wooden plaques, basket or sphagnum moss, florists' wire & cutters, gloves, bits and bobs. Kids welcome, bring an adult.
Sat Apr 23rd – 2-4pm
Native History-- on Bikes! Mission Santa Cruz
with Alex, Summer, and Badger chmod000@gmail.com
Meet at the Santa Cruz Mission and ride bicycles north to learn more about local indigenous history. We'll visit a few sites up Hwy 1 including Sand Hill Bluff, head to Davenport Landing and maybe ride as far as Costanoa (minimum of 25 miles roundtrip). Rain reschedules for Apr 2nd.
Sat Mar 26th – 10am
New Games San Lorenzo Park
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
New Games are games that have no winners and losers, and are non-competitive, and bring people together in a state of play. The New Games Movement earlier in the century developed many of these games, to bring communities together. They are beautiful fun for children, adults, and everything in between, and build strong and playful connections between people rapidly. Come by and play with us! Kids especially welcome.
Sun Apr 3rd, 17th, May 8th, 29th – 12:30-2:30pm
No-Till Gardening Chavez Coop, 316 Main St
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
A one time, hands on workshop. Come and learn about No-Till gardening, also called sheet mulching and lasagna gardening. The process is simple, cheap, and builds soil and soil fertility, as opposed to tillage systems that rapidly destroy soil and soil fertility. Learn about the theory behind No-Till and help prepare a bed in the garden. Hear from us our experiences gardening a medium scale, 1st year, no till garden.
Sun Apr 3rd – 3-4:30pm
Nose Training 101 East Field, USC
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
Bring your nose! Experiments done with normal people, blindfolded, following scent trails through a field have showed that within only a few weeks, most participants could follow subtle scent trails accurately through grass nearly as fast as a dog! If you too want to train your nose to dog like proficiency, stop by and practice with us; not necessary to stay for the whole class time. (unless you want to have an amazing nose)
Thu Mar 3rd, 10th, 17th – 12-3pm
Parents: Let's Talk About SEX Louden Nelson, 301 Center St
with Emily Buffi emilyb@scapsite.org
This course, brought to you by the Santa Cruz AIDS Project, is a workshop designed to teach parents strategies for communicating with their children about sex. Topics covered will include HIV and STI transmission and prevention. Parents will also learn about youth-oriented resources in the Santa Cruz community. The presentation is designed to be fun and interactive and will include role-playing as well as a question-and-answer forum. Requirements: Parents with children between the ages of 10 - 15
Fri Mar 18th, Mar 25th – 6-7:30pm
Parkour Santa Cruz High, 415 Walnut Ave
with Arden ragtail@riseup.net
Introduction and intermediate practice in moving about an urban landscape in creative ways. Turn the city into your playground! Conditioning and technique will both be addressed. No experience or superpowers required. Heavy rain cancels. Requirements: Shoes you can run around in. Bikes are a plus but not required.
Every Saturday – 13:30:00
Permaculture Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob and Heidi laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Come learn about why we are so excited about permaculture – its major tenets (earth care, people care, and fair share) and design principles (observation, function stacking, resources). Though we will only get to scratch the surface, we will set the table for deeper discussions in the future. Requirements: Please be on time.
Tue Apr 5th – 5:30-7pm
Pest Management Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Heidi and Jacob laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Join us as we talk about pest management techniques: the nitty gritty of dealing with gophers and slugs, and a discussion of companion planting and how to attract beneficial insects. Integrated pest management includes discussion of healthy soil, planting strategies, and proper plant placement. Rain does not cancel.
Tue Apr 26th – 5:30-6:30pm
Physical Comedy San Lorenzo Park
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
The purpose of this learning group is to get together and get silly; and hone our collective comedic skills. In a relaxed setting, we will experiment with improv exercises, miming exercises, silent skits, and eventually move into vocal work as well -- comedic sounds, voices, and characters. Anyone interested in street or stage comedy performance, or who just wants to get silly, is welcome. Requirements: Ideally, participants should commit to coming weekly so that we can build our skills over time. Directions: Rainy Day back up: Chavez Co-op, 216 Main St
Mon Mar 14th, 21st, 28th, Apr 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th, May 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th – 5-6:30pm
Plant Identification Blackburn entrance of Neary Lagoon
with alison arm288@microsabio.com
See those flowers blooming? Ever wonder how to figure out their names? We'll go on walks in different land communities, illustrate different plants to learn them better, and identify them using the dichotomous keys of the Jepson Manual. Bring a plant guide if ya have one, and snacks for wakefulness! Directions First class meet at Neary Lagoon; contact teacher for other locations.
Fri Apr 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th – 10am
Poetry-- Memorization and Recital San Lorenzo Park
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
Even 50 years ago, memorizing poetry was a part of everyone's education in the west, and in ancient times, educated people, Bards, Sages, Druids, would often memorize tens of thousands of lines of poetry. Lets bring it back! If you are interested in collecting and communicating knowledge and sacred teachings in this way, join us. Requirements: Participants should come with a poem or poems to recite from memory, and be willing to share.
Sun Mar 27th, Apr 24th, May 22nd – 12:30-2pm
Propagation Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Heidi and Jacob laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Propagation: Spring is just about here! We will be discussing basic propagation techniques such as starting from seed, starting mix recipes, and cold frame/mini-greenhouse construction. Rain does not cancel. Requirements: Paper and Pencil. Please be on time, lots to do!
Tue Mar 15th – 5:30-6:30
Radical Unicycling RSVP for location
with Andrew pappinandrew@gmail.com
This class is for people who say to themselves, "I like to bicycle, but two wheels seem a little excessive." I couldn't agree more. The idea that we need two wheels was thought up by a wheel manufacturer that had overproduced during WWII. Therefore in this class we will go back to cycling's roots and learn how to cycle on one wheel. I only have one unicycle so I will limit the class to three people. First three to RSVP will get in.
Thu Mar 17th, Mar 24th, Mar 31st – 2-3:30pm
Radical History SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with David and Stascha stormypetrel@gmx.com
This class will be a continuation of our Radical History series, but this time we will be looking into recent events and relating current situations with various radical struggles in the past. Discussion will follow our presentation. Come and learn inspiring stories of resistance and rebellion!
Tue Apr 19th – 7pm
Revenge of the Grandmas: Quilting as Communal and Personal Liberation
The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Wes quilt@thespoon.com
Imagine old women and men sitting around a porch 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. Requirements: Bring any of these materials you may have: durable thread, scrap fabric, sharp scissors, pins, and snacks/drinks to share.
Every other Fri: Mar 11th, 25th, Apr 8th, 22nd, May 6th, 20th – 5:30-8pm
Rocket Stoves Chavez Coop, 316 Main St
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
A rocket stove is a small, super efficient way to burn wood and cook a meal, that can be easily constructed for free within an hour or two. Come by and make a super simple, homemade rocket stove out of a few tin cans and bricks, and learn some basic ideas about efficient wood burning stoves-- thermal mass, air flow. Go home knowing how to make a small stove and what makes a small stove efficient.
Sun Mar 6th – 2:30-5pm
Scrap Challenge! The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Marie thefabrica@riseup.net
Come use the Fábrica's fabulous collection of repurposable materials! In this class we will be playing with colors and textures, designing projects around found materials, using what we have available. Possible projects include: pillows, curtains, bags, presents for people, and sundries for the home, wardrobe, and daily life. A great class for beginners or anyone else. Donations for materials are welcome. Requirements: Come to any one class session or as many as you want.
Sun Mar 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th – 12-3pm
Sergers The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Mariclare thefabrica@riseup.net
Become acquainted with the serger or overlock sewing machine. This is hands-on class where you will gain experiential knowledge of what a serger is capable of and some handy tricks for using them. If you have a working serger lug it along, or experiment with one of ours. Requirements: Space is limited. Please be on time.
Sun Mar 13th – 4-7pm
Sewing for Kids The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Elaina thefabrica@riseup.net
For kids with no experience or not much. We'll learn hand and machine sewing by making simple projects. Requirements: For kids 8-13 years old, more or less. This class will be limited to 6 students; send email to reserve a spot or arrive on time.
Sat Mar 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th – 12-3pm
Sewing Machines 101 The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Elaina and the Fábrica thefabrica@riseup.net
This class covers the basics of how to use a sewing machine: How it works, how to thread it, bobbins, tension, general use, basic stitches, and proper machine care. Requirements: One hour goes by quickly, so please be on time.
Sat Apr 9th – 3-4pm
Sew a Snappy Wallet The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Mariclare thefabrica@riseup.net
During this class we will construct one-of-a-kind wallets. Bring materials you are interested in using (~1 yrd of fabric, colors of thread you like, decorative notions) or find them here. I will provide snaps, for folks who wish to add a snap closure-- we will discuss alternative closures for future projects. Requirements: Space is limited. Please be on time.
Sun Mar 20th – 4-7pm
Sock Monkeys! The Witch House 214 Plymouth
with Emily 831-427-9730
Create your very own Sock Monkey buddy. You can make one for a sweetie, a friend or to have a special sock companion. They are great road-dogs for people who love to travel. We can supply thread, scissors, and needles for you. You should bring your own socks, buttons and stuffing, but we can supply you with some for a small donation or trade. Red Heel sock can be found at the Sock Shop and stuffing is available at Harts Fabric or out of old stuffed animals from the thrift store. Requirements: BYO socks, buttons, stuffing Directions: 214 Plymouth st is located at the on ramp for Hwy 1 south. Our closest cross street is Grant.
Fri Mar 18th – 5-8pm
Soil Health Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Jacob & Heidi laurelmanor1145@gmail.com
Soil biology supports life as we know it. We will cover the basics - composition, nutrient make-up, and intro to soil organisms. Then we'll get a bit more complex, discussing the soil food web and what makes healthy soil. Rain doesn't cancel. Requirements: Paper and Pencil. Please be on time, there is a lot to cover!
Tue Mar 8th – 5:30-6:30pm
Soup and Game Exchange Contact teacher for location
with Summer & Alex summerthyme@riseup.net
Tired of eating that same ol' soup and playing those same ol' games on a rainy day? Get rid of those rainy season doldrums-- come and swap your soup and rainy day games with us! Make a batch of soup, bring some to trade, and bring along your favorite game to share (ex.: board games, card games, word games, drawing games, all games, any games!). Requirements: 2, 24oz. containers of soup (marked with ingredients) to trade and a game to share! Directions: Contact for directions.
Sun Mar 6th – 6-8pm
Sourdough Bread Baking Chavez Coop, 316 Main St
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
Come, knead and bake sourdough bread, and take it home with you; more importantly, learn the process and take some sourdough starter home with you. Within a single class time, I promise you that you will leave with the skills to bake delicious, extremely nutritious sourdough bread, with no measuring cups or recipe. However, if people do want to come back multiple times, we will focus on expanding our expertise, and making lighter, tastier, and more beautiful loaves.
Tue Mar 8th, 22nd, Apr 5th, 19th, May 3rd, 17th, 31st – 7-9pm
Tao and Zen: Alan Watts Listening Group Overlook on Coolidge Dr, UCSC
with Wes thespoon@thespoon.com
As we did last spring, we will meet each week to watch the sunset over the bay, listen to an hour lecture, and enjoy a discussion and tea afterward. Alan Watts looks at the nature of reality and consciousness, relating his experience to scientific knowledge, theology, and philosophy with characteristic lucidity and humor. In this series we will focus on Tao and its Japanese cousin, Zen Buddhism. Requirements: Bring warm clothes, and if you can, a thermos of tea or biscuits to share. Please be on time. Directions: Look for my old white truck parked at the overlook.
Tue May 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st – 6:30-8:30pm
Therapy without Therapists Tables at Grant Park
with Andrew encountergroups@gmail.com
This group will discuss the idea of non-hierarchical therapy. Is it possible? Is it needed? What might this look like? How can healing and growth be facilitated in the absence of a therapist? Directions: Grant Park is a block east from where Ocean St becomes highway 17.
Sun Mar 13th – 2-3pm
Toffee for Fiends 811 Broadway
with kai apex@riseup.net
Rot your teeth with this easy candy recipe! We'll use butter and sugar to make this crunchy confection, so this class is not for the average vegan or person who cares about their health. In fact, you'll probably want to schedule a dentists' visit in advance. We'll also be heating hot sticky goo above 300F, so please come prepared to be safe. After this class you'll be able to make all kinds of hard candies at home. All of the following will be necessary; please bring some to share if you have any but some will be provided: white sugar, organic unsalted butter, nuts, heavy bottomed pots, candy thermometers, gloves/potholders, baking sheets.
Sat Apr 9th – 2-4pm
Traditional Nutrition Chavez Coop, 316 main st
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
A lecture and discussion of traditional and "primitive" nutrition from around the world, and what we can learn from them. Much of the discussion will be based in the work of the Weston Price Foundation, and research on traditional diets from around the world. The world's nutritional traditions have been "tested" by human populations for thousands of years, and our modern western experiments with "nutrition" are rapidly degrading our health. Ideally, participants will leave with an understanding of traditionally-known nutritional principles and a practical understanding of how they can eat healthier in their own lives.
Thu Mar 24th, Thu Apr 21st, Thu May 19th – 7-8:30pm
UBEW Meet & Geek The Poet & The Patriot 320 Cedar 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 community. We'll share ideas, talk about projects, geek out, and consume mugs of frothy fermented grain beverage in the process (optional). A background or an interest in making stuff, computer programming, building hardware or electronics, and general geek culture might be helpful in understanding what the hell we are talking and laughing about.
Thu Mar 31st, Apr 28th, May 26th – 7:30pm
Veggie Starts 811 Broadway
with kai apex@riseup.net
Get a head start on your garden! We'll make biodegradeable newspaper pots and plant a variety of vegetable seeds for our spring gardens. Indoor starts are safe from frost and slugs, and using paper pots means they're easy to transplant. Bring some seeds and scissors to share if you have them. Kids welcome, bring an adult.
Sat Mar 26th – 12-1:30 pm
Vermicomposting Laurel Manor, 1145 Laurel St
with Heidi and 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. Requirements: Please be on time.
Tue Apr 12th – 5:30-6:30
Watsonville Medicinal Plant Walk contact teacher for location
with Red Root Herbal Collective 702-738-2826
Come learn about native and naturalized plants of santa cruz county. we'll discuss plants as food and medicine. It will be a fun two hour class, bring water and walking shoes.
Wed May 11th – 11am
Wine Making Chavez Coop, 316 Main St
with Chrisso communitybuilding.s.c@gmail.com
A practical class on making simple homemade wines. Learn the basics of low low tech, traditional / "primitive" wine and mead making techniques: using wild yeast, cultured yeast, and store bought yeast, simple airlocks, and what to do when disaster strikes (bad wine becomes delicious homemade vinegar!) Please bring any fruits, sugars and honeys, or fruit juices that you want to experiment-- much will be provided, but bring your personal favorites and imagination. Also, bring containers, which will not be provided-- Mason Jars and other glass containers are ideal.
Tue Mar 15, Apr 12, May 10 – 7-8:30pm
Wireless Health Damage and Smart Meters SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Joshua Hart info@stopsmartmeters.org
If you don't trust wireless devices, are you a luddite tin foil hat weirdo or just someone with good instincts? New scientific findings of health damage from wireless microwave radiation emitted by cell phones, wifi, and cordless phones are piling up just as PG&E tries to force its powerful wireless equipped 'smart' meters on every home and business in California. But people are fighting back. Learn the facts about EMF and health, how we can resist fascist privacy invading greenwashed power plots, and construct a relocalized energy system that empowers, not oppresses people. Requirements: We ask that cell phones and wifi be turned off for the class, out of respect for those who are electro-sensitive (which is really all of us).
Mon Mar 21st – 5:30-7pm
Women/Trans/Fem Bike Workshop Bike Church, 703 Pacific Ave
with Bike Church mechanics 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.
Sun Mar 6th, 20th, Apr 3rd, 17th, May 1st, 15th – Drop-in 12-3 pm
WTF?! Reading Group SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave.
with Summer & Kai WTFreading@gmail.com
We will be reading a rad zine every week and coming together for discussion of the text every Sunday. Feel free to bring snacks, as well as a respectful and engaged attitude. E-mail for info on upcoming readings! Requirements: Group participation is respectfully limited to those who identify as women, trans, and/or femme.
Sun Mar 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th – 2-3:30pm
Youth Bike Church Hours the Bike Church, 703 Pacific Ave
with Bike Church Mechanics 831-425-BIKE
The Bike Church is a cooperative bike shop set up to teach people how to fix bikes for themselves. We also recycle old parts and bikes which are available for cheap to free. Youth are welcome any time, but outside of the crowded public hours the mechanic will have more time to work with them. Parents, guardians, and caretakers are welcomed during these hours as well.
Every Saturday – 10am-2pm
