Several years ago, Temple Beth El reconfigured its financial portfolio to better align with Jewish values and the Temple’s social justice priorities. We, as individuals, can also adjust our investments to better line up with our values, especially around climate change, but the task may seem daunting. To help you understand the many options available, this hour-long class will cover the nuts and bolts of various types of green investing, including credit cards, banks, investments and retirement funds. With Randa Solick and Gloria Wells. Info and signup HERE.

The Sanctuary Exploration Center is excited to announce a presentation and book signing of the "The Radiant Sea", featuring Dr. Steve Haddock, Senior Scientist/Marine Biologist at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute. The book tells stories of amazing underwater life in a way that has rarely, if ever, been seen before. With 200 photographs in five sections, it reveals the ways that animals exhibit transparency, pigmentation, iridescence, bioluminescence, and fluorescence. Many of the animals shown in the book can be found right here in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. In his presentation, Dr. Haddock will take you behind the scenes, sharing videos, animations, and hands-on demonstrations that will bring the book's pages to life. 35 Pacific Ave.

The free public lectures will occur in room 5005 for 30 minutes, followed by hands-on gardening skills taught in the Horticulture Department gardens. Tools and necessary gardening materials will be provided by Cabrillo College. Our goal is to provide the public a chance to experience the beauty of our campus and learn from our fabulous instructors. We provide free, research-based gardening education and the opportunity to practice new horticulture skills. Topic emphasis will be on responsible, water-wise, sustainable, and pollinator-friendly gardening. LINK.

The proposed oil drilling along the California coast - our marine sanctuary - cannot be allowed to proceed. Brief presentations on both Make Polluters Pay legislation (state and national) and the new ocean threats of oil drilling and possible deep sea mining. Featured speakers include Dan Haifley and Gary Patton. Plenty of time for community input and suggestions for action. Event is FREE - Donations appreciated! London Nelson Community Center. Please RSVP HERE.

Continuing a tradition that began in 2016, the Museum will celebrate the birthday of its founder, Santa Cruz naturalist and lightkeeper, Laura Hecox, at this special open house. The outdoor event will include Victorian-era activities, community partners, historians, and the 2026 Laura Hecox Naturalist award presentation. Free admission 10 am - 5 pm. 1305 E Cliff Dr. More INFO.

From the mystical Tree of Life to climate change awareness and action, Tu Bishvat, the "New Year of the Trees," is a time to bridge our reverence for nature and spirituality through our relationship with trees. This year, we share this sacred time with friends of many traditions. 4 pm - “Seder” ~ Interfaith Teachings & Songs. 5:30 pm - Vegetarian Potluck. At Chadeish Yameinu Jewish Renewal, 239 High Street, Santa Cruz. Please RSVP to rsvp@CYSantaCruz.com

90 minute behind-the-scenes hiking tour of the Younger Lagoon Reserve led by experienced docents.

Younger Lagoon Reserve tours are offered on selected Thursdays and Saturdays of each month beginning at 10:30 AM. Younger Lagoon Reserve tours are free and open to the public. Advance reservations are highly recommended, but not required. Tours are best suited for children 10 years of age and older. Participants must be physically able to walk up and down steep inclines. Water and weather protection is strongly suggested. Seymour Marine Discovery Center, Info and RSVP HERE.

Join us for an exhibition inspiring love and kinship between plants and people. The opening reception will feature illustrations of culturally important plants by Amah Mutsun tribal members and UC Santa Cruz student artists. Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History. More info HERE.

Our annual symposium will include a keynote presentation from renowned herbalist, healer, and teacher Sage LaPena. Her goal is restoring plant knowledge and medicine to the community and securing a place for Traditional medicine to native clinics throughout California and across the country. There will also be an all indigenous panel discussion with local Amah Mutsun tribal stewards, herbal tea-making, and an opportunity to create your own plant artwork. Free. At the UC Santa Cruz Hay Barn. More info HERE.