Free Skool 2012 Summer Calendar
The Free Skool 2012 Summer 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 large at 5MB). Sincere apologies for the external, commercial link to mediafire. We will get this fixed soon.
Class Catalog
Artistic Reflections Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor
with David Goodson david_goodson@ymail.com
Meet at the yacht harbor to draw or paint whatever you want, such as the sail boats in moorage. At the end of the class, we will meet on Pacific Avenue to give up our creations for a donation and see if anyone can make a buck. Requirements: Any kind of art medium that isn't too smelly (I don't suggest oil paints): pastel, pencil, charcoal, water color. Bring some paper and have a few picture frames for "selling" your work. Directions: By info board outside the WC at the north end of the harbor
Sun July 8th, Wed 11th, Sun 15th, Wed 18th, Sun 22nd – 6-8pm
Basic Massage Contact teacher for location
with Cat vmchealpro@yahoo.com, 424-241-8065
The course emphasizes introduction to touch, energy exchange and the importance of body mechanics for longevity. You will cover basic Swedish massage strokes over the clothing then with the use of oil. A brief lecture on anatomy, followed by a demonstration. You will give and receive massage in each class.
Thu Jul 5th, 19th – Noon-2pm
Beach Yin Yoga Seabright Beach, Guardhouse #1
with Davey Bar davey.bar@gmail.com
Yin Yoga is an outdoor yoga class that tranquilizes both body and mind by avoiding excessive muscle stimulation or exercising. In Yin Yoga the practitioner will focus on rejuvenating the joints, ligaments, and tendons of the body that are often times ignored in more vigorous yoga classes. This will be accomplished through doing very simple poses and holding them for extended periods of time, usually 3 minutes or more. The class is suitable for first time yoga experimenters all the way up to very advanced students. Rain cancels. Requirements: A yoga mat is handy, but anyone is welcome to practice in the sand, or in a wetsuit.
Tue Jul 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st, Aug 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, Sep 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th – 3-4:30pm
bell hooks Reading Group 696 Pacific Avenue #3
with Nina Eliza Stratton houseofnina@gmail.com
We’ll pick a bell hooks book the first group, and then we’ll read it and maybe make copies for one another who can’t get the book. Next group we’ll discuss the book, or if not very many of us read it, the topic can be about bell hooks in general. I want to stress that this is meant to be light, fun, and for EVERYBODY. You know who you are. This class will be ongoing, contact teaher if you want to attend in the months of August and Sept. Requirements: Please be adultish and not too terribly thin-skinned. I don't like censorship. Snacks and beverages are very welcome. Respect everyone. Directions: Across the street from Sub Rosa.
Every Wed Jul 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th – 5-7pm
Book Binding from Scrap The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Josh and Ann 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. Directions: Enter on Spruce
Tue Aug 7th – 6-9pm
Calling Contra Dances Contact teacher for location
with Davey Bar davey.bar@gmail.com
Have you ever wanted to have the chance to lead and organize a contra dance? Then here it is: This class will go over the fundamental basics of what a contra caller needs to know about music & rhythm, dance styles, and materials to be successful in front of the crowd, be them beginners or advanced. Once acquainted with these skills, we will practice the dances with everyone getting a chance to call. A hoe-down one could say. If interest is shown, Appalachian Squares can also be discussed and taught one evening. Requirements: At least one year's prior dancing experience in contra or squares.
Sun Jul 8th, Aug 5th, Sep 9th – Evening
Community Media with Indybay Contact teacher for location
with Bradley and Alex of Indybay bradley@riseup.net
Community Media with Indybay will be an introduction to contributing to the all volunteer website, Santa Cruz Indymedia (aka Indybay), which is part of the global Independent Media Center network. We will discuss the philosophy of Indymedia, and demonstrate how anyone can publish text, photos, audio and video directly to the website. You will sharpen the skills you are already have, and be ready to cover the action in the streets.
Wed Jul 11th, 25th, Aug 8th, 22nd, Sep 5th, 19th – 7-8:30pm
Dressmaking Intro The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Elaina thefabrica@riseup.net
Make a garment from scratch that's fitted just for you. This class will introduce the basic skills of making dresses and skirts with or without a pattern. Learn about hems, seams, darts, taking measurements, ease and seam allowance. This is the foundation for adjusting a pre-existing pattern or learning to draft your own. If time allows, we'll cover techniques for alterations. Bring a few yards of (not stretchy) fabric if you have some laying around, or find some here. Requirements: Participants should know how to operate a sewing machine. Directions: Enter on Spruce
Wed Aug 22nd – 6-9pm
Emergency Care Contact teacher for location
with Lindsay GnaphaliumCudweed@yahoo.com
We will be talking about signs and symptoms of some basic medical emergencies and traumatic injuries. We will go over an initial assessment and basic care. You do not have to have prior experience, just a willingness to learn and be patient. I will not be covering CPR, so I suggest seeking that out prior, or post class. I am looking forward to sharing these skills in our community, and helping to provide more people with this knowledge! Requirements: Space is limited! Please email me to confirm your spot. This is a two-day long class.
Sat Aug 4th, Sun 5th – Noon-4:30pm
English Country Dance First Congregational Church, 900 High St.
with Michael mking@cruzio.com
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 Thursday of the month. We're a casual, fun-loving group. Come dance with us! Directions: We meet in the UPPER hall, next to the UPPER parking lot.
Thu Jul 12th, 26th, Aug 9th, 23rd – 7-9:30pm
Essential Oil Plant Medicine San Lorenzo Park
with Lee entirelee@gmail.com
Essential oils are powerful botanical allies that improve health and enhance quality of life. In this study group we will explore and experiment with certified pure therapeutic grade essential oils. Each class will have a theme, such as respiratory system, endocrine system, DIY natural household cleaning products, etc. (will be posted on freeskool FB page) Requirements: RSVP appreciated for supplies. If you have oils or resources on EO medicine please bring to share. Directions: San Lorenzo Park on the grass by the duck pond.
Every Thu Jul 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th, Aug 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th – 5-7pm
Flash Mob Bubble Attack! Corner of Cedar/Lincoln St
with Flash Mob
Celebrate the Fall equinox (a.k.a. Mabon)! BYOB (Bring your own bubbles) and listen for the gong.
Wed Sep 19th – 5pm
Food Safety Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center St.
with Baerie baerie@riseup.net
Why should foods be acidic while canning them? Why is there so much sugar in jam? Will this old meat make me sick? What if any is the difference between spoiled food and dangerous food? We will talk about what makes food dangerous and how to prevent food poisoning situations. This will not be a completely definitive course. This is not a proper food safety training and is not intended to supplement proper food safety training. Directions: Meet on the grass behind the Louden Nelson Center.
Sat Aug 11th – 1-4pm
Food Terroir-ism: Loyal to the Soil Twin Gates, Empire Grade
with Baerie Baerie@riseup.net
Terroir. Originally designed to refer to unique flavors imparted to ingredients from the ecology they are grown in. We will take this concept a little further and get to know the flavors of the ecology surrounding us. A step further from just foraging wild foodstuffs, we will be looking into foraging wild flavors and trying to use local sources to explore new possible flavor combinations. Requirements: Come open to new flavor combinations. If you have any wild foraged goods that you would be excited to explore new possibilities Directions: Up Empire grade. Past Waldorf. If you reach Smith Grade you have gone too far. There will be two gates on either side of the road.
Sat Jul 21st – 2-8pm
Forest Walks Kresge Food Co-op, 1156 High St
with Forestwalkers Forestwalkers@riseup.net
Join us for an adventure through the forest and chaparral of UCSC upper campus. We will share stories, explore secret spots, identify native plants, and talk about the long range development plan which threatens this special place. Requirements: Bring food and water
Sat Jul 21st, Aug 11th – Noon
Girls and Women Surfing 41st St. Parking lot
with Roni Misloski 714 349 7933
Surfing has always been a male dominated sport, so we need to create a space for women to surf with each other, and girls to learn to get comfortable in the water. A community of women and girl surfers looking to begin, improve their skills, or reach out into the women's water community. We will cover ocean safety and currents, tides, surfing etiquette, wave selection, and techniques to paddling out and standing up on boards Requirements: Must bring own surfboard and wetsuit Directions: The parking lot at the end of 41st Street in Capitola, we will be paddling out and learning safety in the waters and on the beachs of 38th.
Sun Jul 8th, 22nd, Aug 5th, 19th – 9am
Hacktivism 105 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.
Fri Jul 13th, 27th, Aug 10th, 24th, Sept 14th, 28th – 5:30-7pm
Herbal Remedies for Common Ailments Contact teacher for location
with Lindsay GnaphaliumCudweed@yahoo.com
Plants as Medicine. We will be talking about common ailments and herbal medicine. Some basic ailments that we will cover: Upper and Lower Respiratory Infections, Digestive complaints, Urinary Tract Infections, Cold/flu, Arthritis, Minor Abrasions, and Contusions (bruises). This class is intended to give you information on ways you can help yourself and your community with Herbal Medicine and lessen the use of prescription antibiotics. Open to all levels! Requirements: Bring a willingness to learn, notebook, pen, water and snacks to share! Contact teacher by email at least 24 hours prior to class for location.
Sat Jul 21st – 3-6pm
Hoop Dance Lessons Contact teacher for location
with Heidi heidi@lodihoopdance.com
Hoop dance is an exciting new way to get fit, and have a ton of fun. Even if you’ve never been able to keep a hula hoop up before, you’ll love hoop dance lessons. Pure fun, combined with energetic self expression, make for an incredible body shaping fitness program that produces results like nothing else. Contact Heidi to reserve your time. These are semi-private lessons (2-3 people) so space is limited. Semi-private sessions are a great way to get all the personal attention that you need to make fast progress toward your goals while training with your friends.
Tue Jul 3rd, 17th, Aug 7th, 21st, Sep 4th, 18th – 5:30-6:30pm
I Ching Trescony Park, 400 Trescony Street
with rabbit killer 408-221-4688
The I Ching is the oldest system of divination still in existence. This class will examine the history and prehistory of the oracle, methods of divination, hexagrams, building the hexagrams from trigrams, and ideograms.
Mon Jul 9th, 23rd, Aug 6th, 20th, Sep 3rd, 17th – 4-5pm
Intro to Tailoring The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Elaina thefabrica@riseup.net
So, you want to look dapper in a thrift store suit? This is a crash-course in tailoring suits, pants, coats, and shirts. Learn the basic techniques for altering "menswear" for any silhouette. This class will introduce the concept of cuffs, hems, and darts, as well as options for "taking in" and "letting out" pants and jackets. Bring your own too-big or ill-fitting suit, if you like (no skirts or dresses). Requirements: Participants should know how to operate a sewing machine. Directions: Enter on Spruce
Wed Jul 25th – 6-9pm
Introduction to Balinese Gamelan Gamelan Room, UCSC
with Gamelan Anak Swarasanti info@anakswarasanti.com
A gamelan is a traditional Indonesian ensemble comprised of mainly percussion, including gongs, metallophones, and drums. In Bali gamelan is used to accompany ceremonies, rituals, celebrations, and shadow puppet plays. Join us for this introduction to the instruments and music of Balinese gamelan, and play with the award-winning Gamelan Anak Swarasanti. In this ongoing workshop we will learn sitting angklung and marching beleganjur pieces. Requirements: No musical expertise necessary. Directions: The Gamelan Room is in the music center at UCSC.
Wed Jul 11th, Aug 8th, Sep 12th – 6:30-8:30pm
Kids Red Barn Dojo Class Red Barn Dojo
with danielsan danielsan@riseup.net
Kids classes at the Red Barn Dojo focus on rolling and falling, making noise and having fun. Some practical self-defense, but more play and exercise. Requirements: Kids 4 and up are welcome. Class leader has experience with kids martial arts classes. Parents/Friends are welcome to stay and watch or wander off but cell phones don't work here. Directions: Contact for directions
Sun Jul 8th, 15th, 29th, Aug 5th – 10-10:45am
Kite Making ABC's San Lorenzo Park
with Bicicleta Bandito bicicletabandito@gmail.com
Always wanted to make your own kite but lacked the advanced technical skills? Come learn how to construct your basic 2-dowel kite with a little bit of string and recycled materials. Two-thirds of class will focus on construction and decorating, the last section we'll attempt flight. Requirements: Basic materials will be provided; feel free to bring extra string, paper, scissors, and paint if you like. A bicycle for a test flight ride out to Lighthouse Field is recommended. This is a kid-friendly event. Rain cancels. Directions: Next to playground.
Sun Sep 23 – 3-5pm
Make Your Own Dress Workshop The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Sonya thefabrica@riseup.net
Learn to sew your own clothes, starting with this simple sleeveless A-line shift - it's just four seams and a hem! The neck and armholes are finished with bias tape facing and pockets add extra flair and utility. In this 3.5 hour workshop you will learn how to cut pattern pieces, finish seams, make bias tape and use it to finish edges, top stitch patch pockets, and a few different hemming techniques. The pattern (in five sizes) will be provided for you to trace and take home. Bring your own materials (2 yards of cotton or cotton blend fabric, a fat quarter of contrasting fabric for bias tape, matching thread) or use what we have at the Fábrica. Requirements: Participants should know how to operate a sewing machine. Directions: Enter on Spruce
Sat Jul 7th – 11am-3pm
Mending Intensive The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Ann thefabrica@riseup.net
Missing buttons? Wearing thin at the elbows? Blown out at the seams? In this class we will cover patching, darning and all manner of garment repairs, from the simple and functional, to the artful and complex. Bring you favorite ripped and worn articles and we'll breathe new life into them. Requirements: Basic hand or machine sewing skills recommended, but not required. Directions: Enter on Spruce
Sun Jul 8th, Sep 23rd – 2-5pm
Motorcycle DIY: Basic Repair 811 Broadway
with Slam slamorte@gmail.com
Does your motorcycle run rough at idle or stumble when you gas it? Battery going dead? Or maybe you push the button and nothing happens? I can help teach you the basics of troubleshooting and repairing your motorcycle, and maybe we'll cover some routine maintenance as well. A little DIY can save a ton of cash. Requirements:No requirements. Some mechanical experience and tools (sockets, wrenches, basic multimeter) are a bonus. Extra credit if you bring in a bike that runs but has issues.
Sat Jul 15th – 1-5pm
MYSTERY BAND! Your band decides
with Erin Rose mysterybandSC@gmail.com
Call for participation! People with basically no musical talent, some musical talent, or a lot of musical talent, throw your name into a hat to get placed in a band with 5-6 other people. You'll have 6 weeks to come up with 20-30 minutes of original music. After 6 weeks, watch as your comrades brazenly play their incredible music! Anyone can do mystery band! E-mail with your name, contact info, instruments you play and/or are willing to lend to band-mates, level of musical (in)experience, if you have a practice space available, if you can be the contact for your band, and if you want help coordinate. Come to the coordination meeting or email for full details. Coordinator meeting: July 1, 6pm, email for directions (only if you would like to help with logistics). Sign-up deadline July 13, you’ll receive your band assignments by July 20. Showcase: (proposed) Saturday, September 8th. Requirements: Willingness to try and to have fun; patience, kindness and supportiveness.
Sun Jul 1st, Fri Jul 13th, Jul 20th, whenever your band decides to meet, Sat Sep 8th – 5pm
Photography Walk Contact teacher for location
with Ken Alley info@alleyphoto.com
Second Saturdays photography walks around Santa Cruz County.
July 14th we're meeting in front of the visitor's center at 10am at Natural Bridges State Park. Come join us for a casual walk and informative discussion on photo technique and creativity. Hope to see you there! Requirements: Love for photography, hiking shoes, well fed body.
Sat Jul 14th, Aug 11th, Sep 8th – 10-11am
Programming (for non-programmers) Contact teacher for location
with UBEW chmod000@gmail.com
If you've always wondered what computer programming is like and why other problem-solvey, puzzle-people like yourself are into it, this is the class for you. We'll start from the very basics and talk about programming from an abstract perspective. You'll leave with a better understanding of what it's like along with a list of ways you can go about learning more and teaching yourself. Requirements: You have never written a computer program.
Wed Jul 25th – 4-6pm
Sewing Machines 101 The Fábrica, 703 Pacific Ave
with Ann and Elaina 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, proper machine care and a little troubleshooting. This is a one-time class; you only need to attend one of the dates listed. Requirements: Please be on time. Directions: Enter on Spruce
Thu Jul 26th, Sep 20th, Noon; Sun Aug 19th 4:30
Slinging 101 50 Natural Bridges Dr.
with Coyote slingingcoyote@gmail.com
A true tool of antiquity, the slingshot has been present in almost every ancient culture from California's Native Indian nations to the Greeks. It is light, relatively easy to use, and simple to construct. Let's get together and attempt to make our own homemade hand slings. We'll focus on its history, various types of slingshots, and practice. Heavy rain cancels. Requirements: Be prepared to do a little walking. Directions: Meet at the Natural Bridges entrance on Delaware.
Sun Jul 29th – 10am
Stargazing 101 Twin Gates on Empire Grade
with Bicicleta Bandito bicicletabandito@gmail.com
Dabble in Astronomy but don't care for the math? Enjoy Astrology but want to be taken seriously? Come learn the basics of both! This class will focus primarily on identifying the constellations and stars of distinction, but also touch upon the Big Bang Theory, ancient mysticism, and our own relationship to it all on Earth.Requirements: Bring a blanket, folding chair and/or warm clothing, binoculars, food to share. Red-lense flashlights are recommended. Rain/coastal fog cancels. Please be prompt. Smartphones will be destroyed. Directions: From the last stop-lighted intersection at UCSC's Heller Dr, go 2.3 miles up Empire Grade, look for trail crossing signs. Parking is sparse, please try to carpool.
Fri Aug 17th, Sep 14th – 9-11pm
Teaching Abroad Santa Cruz Library, 224 Church St
with Julie jasla7719@yahoo.com
Teaching English abroad can be an amazing cultural adventure, a great way to travel, and good work experience. It can also be a source of income and a way to find a job in these challenging times. We’ll discuss how to find these jobs, different types of positions, the benefits and challenges of this work, and what to expect when teaching abroad. The instructor will share from her own experiences teaching in China and South Korea for two and half years. *Note: NO teaching experience or foreign language proficiency required to teach abroad. Requirements: Class is open to all, but most teaching visas require a bachelor's degree; however, this can be in ANY discipline. Directions: Meet in the Genealogy Room.
Sat Jul 28th – 10-11am
Tenant Legal Information SubRosa, 703 Pacific Ave
with Mendivil 831-475-7515
Local Attorney will discuss Tenant issues including security deposits, repairs, habitability issues, discrimination, leases, notices, evictions and answers questions.
Thurs Jul 5th, Aug 2nd, Sep 6th – 5-6:30pm
Urban Ag/Applied Permaculture TerraGnoma
Community Demonstration Garden, 1147B East Cliff Drive
with L. Roxanne Evans 831-421-2843
TerraGnoma is a hands-on, community classroom where each week we learn and practice permaculture principles together in our outdoor laboratory! Want to learn about food forests, how to keep bees and chickens, what "stacking" and "multiple elements, single function" mean, all while you get your hands dirty, learn new skills and build community? Join us every Friday, rain or shine, year-round! 12-1pm: Vegan Potluck & Community-Building 1-5pm: Urban Ag/Applied Permaculture Requirements: Closed-toed shoes needed to work with tools.
Every Fri Jul 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th, Aug 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st, Sep 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th – Noon-5pm
Urban Fruit Harvests TBA
with Santa Cruz Fruit Tree Project 831-421-9367
The SC Fruit Tree Project seeks to make use of unused fruit falling in our backyards and orchards. In July we'll harvest plums and learn how to make basic country wines; in August we'll pick pears and model solar dehydration; September will mark our first apple harvest and cider pressing of the season. All dates are tentative, and likely more events will be added. See www.fruitcruz.org for details.
Sun Jul 15th, Aug 26th, Sep 30th – TBA
What the fuck am I doing? The Abbey, 350 Mission St
with Rico rico@thespoon.com
Let's get together and figure out what the fuck I'm doing with my life. I'm working this job that takes all of my time (and energy) but not really doing what I most enjoy. I'm excited about so many things and have mad skills, but can I do these things and support myself? I'm holding out hope that it is never too late to re-examine everything. Let's brainstorm and make lists and figure out how to figure out what the fuck I'm doing with my life.
Tue Jul 10th – 9-10:30am
Wirework and Gemstones Contact teacher for location
with Nina Eliza Stratton houseofnina@gmail.com
This Free Skool will teach the basics of making beaded jewelry using wire. I will explain how the various types and sizes of wire are used in jewelry making, as well as the different sorts of beads that can be used. In particular I will be helping you to identify, buy and understand gemstones. In the second half of the class I will show you how I make headpins, clasps, eyepins, earwires, earrings, bracelets and necklaces, etc. This class will NOT cover wrapping stones with wire. Tools, wires, and beads will be lent.
Fri Jul 13th – 4-6pm
Women/Trans Bike Workshop The Bike Church, 703 Pacific Ave
with Bike Church WTFers thebikechurch@gmail.com
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 and trans identified folks to work on their bikes and learn new skills. Taught by women/queer mechanics. Directions: Enter on Spruce
Sun Jul 1st, 15th, Aug 5th, 19th, Sep 16th – 12-3pm
Women/Trans Red Barn Dojo Red Barn Dojo
with Ariel and Daniel danielsan@riseup.net
This quarter Red Barn Dojo will offer classes for women and trans focusing on practical self-defense and community building around safety for people who identify as female. Fitness, ass-kicking skills, and having each others backs are a few of our goals. Childcare will be provided, mothers encouraged to attend. Note: Male-bodied teacher will participate only as needed/requested. Directions: Contact for Directions
Sun Jul 8th, 15th, 29th, Aug 5th – 11am-Noon
DIY Guide
