FamilyFREE 2025-2026 BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® SUMMER CAMP LISTINGS 2025 FORGING LIFE SKILLS CAMP FROM A COUNSELOR’S PERSPECTIVE TEAM BONDING PUBLISHED BY
Every morning on Cannery Row is another opportunity to wake up in a world of wonder. Each afternoon, another chance to wander through history, into new shops, along the coast. And every evening holds the potential to become a night that will stay with you forever. The question at the end of each day is, of course: what will tomorrow bring? forever moments. found daily.
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MAY 30 SUMMER EVENTS JUNE 2 JULY 12 AUG 2 Asian American and Pacific Islander Celebration Court near Starbucks| 5:00 PM - 8:00PM FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Summer Carnival June 2 - 11 | Hours of operation TBD Parking Lot near Planet Fitness Back to School Fair 1:00 PM - 4:00PM | Court near Starbucks Rodeo Roundup and Petting Zoo 1:00 PM - 3:00PM | Court near JCPenney 796 Northridge Shopping Center | Salinas, California 93906 MALL HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 11:00am-8:00pm Friday-Saturday 10:00am-9:00pm
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XX THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 Contents Summer. The word evokes images of 8pm sunsets, live music with friends, ice cream cones and foggy mornings (at least on the coast). For many parents, the season is met with a mixture of relief and worry. Relief that, at least for a couple of months, they don’t have to worry about taking their kids to school on time every morning. Though, there’s a worry that they have to fill their kids’ schedule with activities to keep their mind and body active. Fret no more. The summer activities in Monterey County are seemingly endless—there’s something to do for every child of any age, from the athletes to the bookworms, future leaders and everyone in between and beyond. This guide provides a snippet of those activities. New moms looking for something enriching for their child can find plenty of support locally, as groups work to welcome them into motherhood. Maybe your child just wants to get up and dance. How about making some sweet music? You’ll find it here. Just because school is out doesn’t mean that structure goes out the window during summer—mentors are available to boost a child’s self-esteem and help them navigate life in a positive way. Organized sports and recreational camps are other ways for kids to join the team of humanity. Here’s something else that summer is known for: learning. It’s just disguised as fun. -Erik Chalhoub LEILA HERWITZ Founder & CEO Bradley Zeve Publisher Erik Cushman Project Editor Erik Chalhoub Editor Sara Rubin Features Editor Dave Faries Art Director/Production Manager Karen Loutzenheiser Contributing Writers and Copy Editors Jesse Herwitz, Celia Jiménez, Pam Marino, Agata Pope˛da, Katie Rodriguez, David Schmalz Graphic Designers Alexis Estrada, Lani Headley, Kevin Jewell Advertising Keith Bruecker, Diane Glim, George Kassal Business Development Director Keely Richter Cover Photo Courtesy of Community Partnership for Youth The Best of Monterey Bay® is published by Milestone Communications, Inc., a California corporation. The entire contents are copyright 2025. No portion may be reproduced. 831394-5656. www.montereycountynow.com. 10 Moms Stick Together 16 Mentors for Life 20 Moving and Grooving 24 Camp Leaders 30 Team Spirit 34 Summer Camp Listings INTRO 8 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 SIGN UP TODAY: montereycountynow.com/signup DAILY NEWS FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS Arts Culture Food News and More DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX DAILY MCNOW_1-3v_FG25_kpr.indd 1 3/19/25 4:24 PM
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10 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 Being a mom and having a social life for herself and her kids can be challenging, especially if she is a new mom or recently moved to a new community. There are various schedules to follow that can create a sense of isolation. Some friendships may grow apart resulting in a decline of their social life. Parents have less flexibility—especially moms if they are still nursing or have young children. Being surrounded by people who are in the same stage of life is important; they are people you can relate to and feel supported by. Some of this COURTESY OF ASHLEY SARGENT FIND A VILLAGE For busy parents, making the time to socialize with others can be tricky. Groups help fill the gap. By Celia Jiménez happens virtually, in various groups on social media such as Monterey Area Mommies and Monterey Bay Moms where moms support each other, ask for advice or plan play dates. On apps like Hello Mamas or Peanut, they can follow, meet and interact with nearby moms. Digital tools are also a platform to coordinate in-person gatherings. Maria Depaz, a mother of two, Kleo, 5, and Jimmy, 2, says there is a lot of truth in the phrase, “It takes a village to raise a child.” “The mother needs a village to feel supported, to be able to function well for her child,” Depaz says, noting she Left: Ashley Sargent, with her two boys Sam and Dean, is part of a group of mothers and their children who gather frequently in the outdoors. Top: MY Museum is a popular spot for families with young children. Above: National Charity League volunteer Crystal Gaudette paints a child’s face at a MY Museum event. DANIEL DREIFUSS DANIEL DREIFUSS
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 11 County of Monterey’s Family and Children’s Services is here to protect foster children by recruiting Resource Parents who can partner with families and supportour mission of reunification. Learn how you can help keep families together. Foster Youth in Monterey County Partner. Protect. Support. fcsmc.org 2500 Garden Road, Monterey | www.shoreline.church $50 through April 30. All kids Must be potty-trained. 3 Years Old Through 5th Grade | $75 Scan to Register Or Visit www.shoreline.church/sdc 9:00-11:30 AM July 14 - 18 AT SHORELINE CHURCH Summer Day CAmp
needs her own village to pass down her culture and language to her kids. Depaz’s kids are bilingual English and Spanish speakers. “I was doing bilingual play dates in my community, and we were able to meet a lot of different families that spoke different languages,” Depaz says. Public libraries offer an array of programs where kids can make crafts, listen to stories or learn how to play chess. Meanwhile, parents can spend quality time with their kids—and also socialize with other parents. Some of it is for friendship and fun, and also about creating a support system. Experts say that feeling connected can help counteract isolation common in early parenthood. Ashley Sargent, 37, mother of two boys, Sam, 8, and Dean, 3, says she pushed herself out of her comfort zone to find friends in the area after moving to the Peninsula in August. Little by little it worked, and she started joining various groups for home-schooling, play dates and moms. “Just being open to meeting people and being bold about it was a big difference,” Sargent says. Jocelyn Perez is a mother of 18-month-old Camila and 6-monthold Mateo. The family moved to Seaside last year while her husband was attending the Defense Language Institute. Perez says it was difficult for her to socialize when she was living in Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The lack of social interaction affected her emotionally, and she wanted something different this time around. Perez joined a Facebook group and downloaded the Peanut app in hopes of expanding her social circle—and it has worked to coordinate real-life connections. “It’s nice to just be able to sit down, have some coffee, or socialize with each other and just give each other advice with the stuff that we’re going through, that we can relate to,” Perez says. National Charity League volunteer Molly McAfee high-fives a child after they made a bracelet at MY Museum. The National Charity League is a mother/daughter organization that gets involved in different events. DANIEL DREIFUSS 12 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 A CANNERY ROW TRADITION PIZZA SEAFOOD PASTA 660 Cannery Row 2nd Level of Steinbeck Plaza on Cannery Row louielinguinis.com 831-648-8500 FREE Clam Chowder Present this COUPON and receive ONE CUP of our Award-Winning Clam Chowder with the purchase of an entree. Limit two per table. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Code: CRVG Trip Advisor Lunch & Dinner Daily Expires 6/30/25
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 13 SUMMER READING CLUB FUN for the whole family! FREE live performances Sign up at your local county library or online at eMCFL.org Support for Summer Reading Club provided through grants and donations to the Foundation for Monterey County Free Libraries FREE books and prizes MONTEREY COUNTY FREE LIBRARIES JUNE 11 - JULY 23 With your gift, we can reach families across all branches of our Monterey County Free Libraries. Help us fund literacy, access, and continued growth of all our unique communities. LIBRARIES Three Bookmobiles 17 ONE MISSION Con su donación, podemos llegar a familias en todas las sucrusales de nuestras Bibliotecas Gratis del Condado de Monterey. Ayúdenos a financiar la alfabetización, el acceso y el crecimiento continuo de todas nuestras comunidades únicas. Low Cost Day Camps and Overnight Camps. Scholarships available for those in need. Overnight Camps Day Camps at Camp Redwood Glen in Scotts Valley Three Sessions: June 30 - July 19 Ages: 8-12 at Monterey Peninsula Corps in Seaside Four Sessions: June 2-27 Ages: 7-13 www.montereypeninsula.salvationamy.org or call (831)8994911
She notes the Peanut app is very specialized, and moms can join specific groups with targeted questions and advice, such as two-under-2, stayat-home moms, etc. “It’s not just to meet up. You can also socialize with anyone, ask for advice or rant about anything,” Perez adds. She also takes her children to WIC Seaside events and twice a week she joins Stroller Warriors, a free running club for military families. “We go on a run or a walk, and then the kids play with each other afterwards,” Perez says. The wide variety of local mom groups includes the Mom Walk Collective, a community for active moms, and Maternal Well-Being Play Groups, bilingual meetups for moms and kids ages 0-5 in Salinas. Sargent is part of Wild + Free Monterey, a home-school group that also organizes meetups, where about 15 to 20 moms and more than 30 kids gather regularly. “We’re somewhere out in nature, just letting the kids just be kids. And I’ve loved that,” she says. Going to the beach, taking a hike or going to the nearest playground are some activities they like to do with their kids. “There’s so many possibilities here,” Sargent says. “We love Carmel River State Beach. It’s an easy place for kids to go to. It’s pretty safe on that side for kids.” Depaz says she follows different organizations on social media that offer events regularly such as the Monterey Fire Department—“They have a really great obstacle course for the kids,” she says—or the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, which offers bilingual activities. “It is nice for any family that is bilingual,” she adds. THE MONTEREY PENINSULA’S MOST RECOMMENDED PIZZERIA ’98-’24 BEST PIZZA 3 BLOCKSUPFROMCANNERYROW/AQUARIUM AFFORDABLE FAMILY DINING Pizza • Pasta • Ravioli • Calzones • Salads Great Italian Sandwiches Gelato • Delicious Desserts BANQUET ROOM • FULL COCKTAIL BAR OPEN MON-THUR 4PM • FRI 3PM • SAT & SUN 12PM Call ahead for take-out service 649-1500 725 Lighthouse Avenue Monterey Gianni’s Pizza Family Owned & Operated Since 1974 ’15 BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT ’17 BEST PLACE FOR A BIRTHDAY PARTY 14 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 425 Washington Street Located in Downtown Monterey, CA the Best Children’s Museum on the Central Coast Come and enjoy the fun! DISCOVER... EXPLORE... PLAY... 831.649.6444 www.mymuseum.org MyMuseum_1-3s_FG23_EC.indd 1 4/13/23 9:48 AM
16 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 Staff and students at Community Partnership for Youth are held to a set of six standards, all of which are critical life skills: showing respect for others, valuing people’s space and striving to be honest, among others. But perhaps the most simple, yet impactful, standard is the first one CPY lists: “We greet each other every day with a smile and a handshake to strengthen the relationship between us.” The standards are meant to extend beyond the walls of school and CPY’s Seaside headquarters. Case in point: Derrick Tyler, who serves as CPY’s site coordinator at Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula, recalls a recent visit to McDonald’s. While waiting in the drive-thru, he hears his name being called, and quickly realizes it’s one of the students who has taken part in CPY’s activities. Excitedly, the girl invites him to her birthday party that weekend, and Tyler obliges, where he is welcomed with open arms by her family and friends. Anthony Carter, CPY’s site coordinator at Ord Terrace Elementary School, meanwhile, attends one of his mentee’s basketball games—“It’s a COURTESY OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP FOR YOUTH FORMING BONDS At Community Partnership for Youth, mentors help young people navigate the trials and tribulations of life—with plenty of fun times in the mix. By Erik Chalhoub COURTESY OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP FOR YOUTH CPY students learn how to surf with The Wahine Project. Top left: Mentors with Community Partnership for Youth provide afterschool activities for students in Seaside schools. Top right: CPY takes students on field trips to local parks and other attractions.
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 17 For more inFormation visit us at HopeHorseskids.org discover tHe Joy oF Learning at tHe Hope, Horses & kids Barnyard! Join us for hands-on lessons in a fun and welcoming environment where animals and nature come to life. At our barn, we believe learning should be accessible to everyone, which is why we offer affordable lessons for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re interested in learning all aspects of horsemanship, are interested in our Horse Powered Reading program, or simply caring for and being around animals, our experienced instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact Lori at 831-596-6693 or lori@hopehorseskids.org for more information LEARN YOUR WAY Because not all great minds think alike. Providing strengths-based, targeted, direct instruction to empower complex learners with the skills, tools, strategies, and social-emotional mindset they need to thrive in college and beyond College Preparatory Project Based Learning Call 831.394.3468 chartwell.org 2511 Numa Watson Road Seaside, CA Athletics LEARN WAY
chance to see him develop,” he says. It’s the standards at work—a simple hello, and just being there for others, builds trust and respect that forms the backbone of lifetime friendships. CPY is a nonprofit organization that serves young people and their families in Seaside’s schools. It provides an after-school mentorship program, along with various leadership programs for middle and high schoolers. CPY staff are immediately recognizable at their various schools thanks to their bright green T-shirts. Mentors help students with their homework, while giving them the opportunity to share whatever is going on in their lives, whether it’s their struggles or successes. Art and playtime are also important components of the program. Lead Mentor Ray Adams Jr. says the mentors work with the students to focus on their strengths as a way to build a trusting relationship. Too often, young people are told what they are doing wrong, rather than highlighting what they are doing right. Still, youth need to be told in a constructive way the difference between right and wrong, so they can discern the two. “As mentors, it’s our job to give a hand up, to hold kids accountable for their behavior, but also to build on their strengths,” Executive Director Shari Hastey says. “We really get to know our kids and see them grow and develop into amazing leaders and amazing people in our community,” Program Director Ben Bruce adds. Hastey says countless young people have moved up within the program, and many have taken on paid positions within the organization. Early on, CPY, which is marking its 34th year, was originally intended for students through fifth grade. But the organization’s leaders found that many of the students enjoyed the program so much that they didn’t want to leave, leading to the formation of the middle 18 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 NATURAL Science DISCOVERY CAMP AGES 8-12 June 16-20 and July 14-18 Teen leaders accepted. WEE ONES IN THE WOODS AGES 4-7 June 16-20 June 30-July 3 July 14-18 (831)215-6010 marilym@ventanaws.org SINGLE DAY ADVENTURES AGES 8-12 June 30, July 1, 2, 3 HOMESCHOOL CLASSES AGES 6-12 Fall & Spring Wed. Visit ventanaws.org for more info OUR FAMILY EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (831) 754-3888 | WWW.PARTNERS4PEACE.ORG Building Strong Families Strengthening Families®Program The Parent Project® Loving Solutions® Step Up Mentoring Scan me! Rainbow Connections Family Support Program Familia Adelante® Partners4Peace_1-3s_FG25_kb.indd 1 3/21/25 9:49 AM
school leadership program. These students are given the responsibility of helping staff and working with the younger children in the nonprofit’s various activities. After that, high schoolers who have volunteered at CPY are eligible to take part in a paid leadership program—the last fiscal year, 19 high school mentors worked 4,584 hours and earned $72,131, according to CPY. These young leaders still find themselves wanting to be a part of the organization even after they age out. The examples within the organization’s team of mentors are abundant: Bruce has been with CPY for 25 years, Art Director Jorge Torres for 15, and Adams for 15, just to name a few. “It’s a real family,” Hastey says. “With family, one of our sayings is, ‘Iron strikes iron and makes us stronger.’” Enrollment for CPY’s six-week summer program opens in May, but if history is any indication, it’ll fill up fast. Each morning begins with group and individual reading sessions— Ender’s Game and Harry Potter are popular choices, Bruce notes—while writing thank-you letters to supporters of CPY before they can play freely. Later in the day, the students are taken on field trips to places such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium (which many had never been to before, notes Rosalinda Macias, CPY’s site coordinator at Martin Luther King Jr. School of the Arts), in addition to a number of activities involving art, science and more. Through it all, CPY’s goal is to provide a safe and structured environment, helping students build their self-esteem while encouraging them to pursue their passions. “We dream big,” Torres says. “We tell our students to keep dreaming, and keep dreaming big. A dream is just a dream, but if you put it into action, you can make that dream a reality.” For information, visit cpy.org. WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 19 Book now at EscapeRoom831.com Lighthouse 599 Lighthouse Avenue, Monterey Cannery Row 700 Cannery Row, Ste DD Wave Street 765 Wave Street, Suite A2, Monterey ARCADE FAMILY LOUNGE ESCAPE ROOMS PINBALL SKEE BALL HOOPS 685 Cannery Row, 3rd Floor, Monterey 831.241.6616 ■ OSCARSPLAYGROUND.COM Looking for Fun for the Whole Family? Cannery Row 685 Cannery Row, 3rd Floor EscapeRoom_2-3v_fam24_gk.indd 1 3/20/24 2:27 PM
20 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 For many young people, their schedules during the pleasant summer months are wide open—which makes them an ideal time to learn new skills that aren’t necessarily part of their regular school curriculum. Maybe they dream of artistic pursuits, taking their creativity to new heights. This summer, aspiring performers have plenty of options. Forge a new rhythm Monterey Jazz’s Summer Jazz Camp 2025 is open to students from middle to high school and takes place at Stevenson School in Pebble Beach, inviting beginners and advanced students interested in any jazz instrument (including vocals) and jazz theory. There’s space for 75 students, including Monterey Jazz’s All-Star Band students. The hope is that some of the beginners will become part of this group in the future. Less experienced musicians will get to work not only with their more advanced colleagues, but also with music instructors that have been helping for years. “It’s really fun to watch the young ones,” says Lauren Tobin of Monterey Jazz. “They are wowed by music.” All instructors are performing artists, including pianist and composer Above: Marcie Chapa helps a student learn the fundamentals of drumming during a previous summer program hosted by Monterey Jazz. Chapa, an accomplished drummer, is one of the instructors of the annual Summer Jazz Camp. Below: Professional dancers work with teens 16 and older for Carmel Dance Festival’s summer programming. SING, DANCE, PLAY Jazz and dance camps provide an opportunity for children to embrace their artistic passions. By Agata Popęda RANDY TUNNELL SKYE SCHMIDT VARGA
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 21 Archer Community Park Building | 542 Archer Street | Monterey Email: info@firstnightmonterey.org Phone: (831) 373–4778 Register online at www.firstnightmonterey.org Early Bird Special until April 30th Discounts available for enrolling two or more family members Project may include: Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Self Portrait & Mutli Media Maker’s may include: Screen Printing, Sewing, Cooking & Gardening Art show the last day of the week! AGES 7 - 12 AGES 10 - 16 (Maker ’s) AGES 7 - 12 AGES 9 - 14 (Maker ’s) AGES 7 - 12 AGES 9 - 14 (Maker ’s) Early Supervision: 8:30 - 9:30 am Late Supervision: 3:00 - 4:00 pm JUNE 12 - 16 JUNE 19 - 23 JUNE 26 - 30 JULY 10 - 14 JULY 17 - 21 JULY 24 - 28 SESSION 1 SESSION 2 SESSION 3 SESSION 4 SESSION 5 SESSION 6 2023 SUMMER SESSIONS 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM FIRST NIGHT MONTEREY For more information go to www.firstnightmonterey.org and to sign up your child! A Creative Adventure Awaits! SESSION 1 JUNE 9–13 AGES 7–12 SESSION 2 JUNE 16–20 AGES 6–10 (Makers) SESSION 3 JUNE 23–27 AGES 7–12 SESSION 4 JULY 7–11 AGES 10–16 (Makers) SESSION 5 JULY 14–18 AGES 7–12 SESSION 6 JULY 21–25 AGES 9+ (Makers) Our Art Camp offers hands-on activities, including: Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Self Portrait & Multi-Media, Watercolor Makers may include: Screen Printing, Sewing, Cooking, and Yarn Craft Let’s make this summer a masterpiece! Register online at www. firstnightmonterey.org Email: info@firstnightmonterey.org Archer Community Park Building | 542 Archer Street |Monterey 2025 SUMMER SESSIONS 9:30AM–3PM Early Supervision: 8:30–9:30am Late Supervision: 3–4pm Discounts available for enrolling two or more family members Early Bird Special until April 30th Limited spots available! Sign up now to secure your place WHERE students receive an outstanding education: not just learning facts or how to perform well on a test, but rather how to use their minds to explore truth and to unlock the mysteries of God’s creation... TRINITY CHRISTIAN Grades 5–12 | Enrolling now | 680 Belden St., Monterey Visit TrinityChristianSchool.info or call 831-656-9434 and Transform your Child’s Life Now serving 5th grade! Imagine a school... WHERE the defining characteristic is love for Christ and serving others... WHERE the whole student is developed according to his or her gifts, talents, and passions... TrinityChristian_1-3s_FG25_gk.indd 1 3/19/25 6:16 PM
22 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 Christian Sands, who commissioned his own piece, Tammy Hall (piano, keyboards), Valerie Troutt (vocals), Marcie Chapa (drums), Kirsten Edkins (saxophone), Pat Kelley (guitar), Corbin Jones (bass), Mike Galisatus (trumpet) and Felix Diaz Contreras (trombone). The camp takes place June 24-27, 8am-4pm, with a break for lunch. A typical day in summer camp starts with a morning concert, then the students split to go to various classes. Eventually, jazz campers land in combos and start to rehearse to perform at the end of the camp. There is an All-Star Band performance planned, as well as a concert in Estéban Restaurant in Casa Munras in Monterey. Graduates of the summer programs include Seaside trumpeter Akili Bradley who now plays in New York clubs, and Tania Darb, also from Seaside, now teaching at Berklee College of Music. Tuition is $365, with a small discount for All-Star members. Some financial assistance is available but not guaranteed. For information, visit montereyjazz.org. A time to dance For the third year, Carmel Dance Festival is bringing a festival-style summer camp for dancers 16 and over. This year’s title is 2025 Summer Program Social & Environmental Justice Through Dance and will take place June 15-25. “Our first year we brought several dance companies to mentor our dancers,” says Lillian Barbeito of Carmel Dance Festival and Ballare Carmel. “Last year our theme was sustainable farming. This year, we will combine the two ideas.” In addition to work with professional dancers, there will be a performance on regenerative farming. Another aspect relates to botanical medicine and land stewardship, preceded by field research in Big Sur. To hold the summer program, Ballare Carmel partnered with Alex Ketley from dance company The Foundry based in San Francisco, as well as New York City dancer and performer Javon Ja’Moon Jones, currently Ballare Carmel’s resident choreographer. Only 20 students will be accepted and there is an application process. Each dancer will submit photos, videos and a statement of interest. “We keep it small because the program is mentorship-focused and intimate,” Barbeito says, adding that in 2024 they received as many as 100 applications. “We are looking for great talent.” The participants will get to see a professional dance company in action and practice themselves. In addition to the summer program, Ballare Carmel offers scholarships, internships and apprenticeships, and not only for dancers, but also filmmakers and costume designers. The event is also a great opportunity for networking and eventually finding one’s place in the competitive dance industry. Any talented participant can become a fellow in a dance company that later leads to work opportunities. “It’s a unique experience,” Barbeito says. Accepted applicants will pay $1,000 for the program. For information, visit carmeldancefestival.org. RANDY TUNNELL Summer Jazz Camp is open to students from middle to high school. Many have gone on to perform at the Monterey Jazz Festival. SKYE SCHMIDT VARGA Carmel Dance Festival summer campers have the opportunity to practice with professional dance companies.
24 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 There is more than one requirement for a camp counselor, and all the skills demanded by the job matter. But one stands out. “We’re doing it for the kids,” says Matthew Alvarez, program coordinator for the Central Coast YMCA. “That’s the attitude.” Summer camps may mean activities for children and teens. They may give parents a respite. Without counselors, however, the programs would be lacking. Central Coast YMCA operates youth camps in four communities, including Salinas and Monterey, as well as two sports leagues. The activities depend on almost 30 counselors. The Monterey Parks & Recreation department runs dozens of programs, from arts and crafts to LEGO creations to camping skills. For this to happen they need the assistance of 60 people for daytime events, 25 for overnight camps. “It’s a recruiting process every year,” says Shannon Leon, Monterey’s recreation manager. Because counselors tend to be high school or college students on summer break, Leon promotes opportunities on campuses starting as early as January. While the work can be demanding, she explains, it also offers long-term rewards. Through training and experience, counselors develop skills valuable for careers in childhood education, recreation, healthcare, even law enforcement. Two former counselors with the city’s recreation program became police officers in Monterey. “It’s definitely something that will apply—a good learning experience,” she says. Even in a camp focused on dance or playground activities, the day is varied. Before breaking into classes, for example, YMCA campers gather for a group activity, intended to generate enthusiasm. Because there are children with different needs, counselors receive a broad range of training. While the goal is to keep young people engaged, and while many of the activities are designed to be fun, there Counselors help make sure summer camps run smoothly and safely, but they’re also there to ensure campers have fun. COURTESY MONTEREY PARKS & RECREATION KEEPING COUNSEL Summer camps provide activities for youths, but much more for camp counselors. By Dave Faries
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 25 Together we learn. Together we grow. Register today! I hartnell.edu Salinas � Castroville � Soledad � King City Hartnell_1-2h_FG24_KB.indd 1 3/1/24 11:42 AM
is often an educational component to each class. But there is another purpose that is both part of training and the day-to-day involvement of counselors. “The most important thing is making sure the kids are safe—safety and fun,” Leon says. In this case, the word “safety” is applied in several ways. Camps ensure that the youth taking part in the programs are physically safe, emotionally safe and mentally safe. “We have such a good reputation,” she adds. “One thing could flip that.” Central Coast YMCA has a core of camp leaders from their after-school programs that run fall through spring. These tend to be instructors with previous training. Counselors recruited for the summer will go through an extensive screening process, with background and reference checks and more. The Monterey Recreation Department puts incoming counselors through training that includes how to perform CPR and other first-aid treatments, conflict resolution and essential counselor-parent communication skills. In addition, they apply all the training required of city employees, such as identifying harassment or what to do in active shooter situations. “It’s different than Target or Starbucks,” Leon observes. “We look for people who are interested in the outdoors, interested in working with kids, who are reliable and are good COURTESY MONTEREY PARKS & RECREATION Counselors need to have an interest in the outdoors and the ability to work with kids, as they are looked to as role models. The activities counselors can take part in are as varied as the number of camps themselves. COURTESY MONTEREY PARKS & RECREATION 26 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 Elkhorn_1-3h_FG23_KB.indd 1 3/20/24 12:03 PM
THEATRE CAMP MUSICAL CAMPS REGISTER NOW. LIMITED SPACES! WWW.MPC.EDU/SUMMERCAMPS 2025 KIDS SPORTS CAMP JUNE 23-27 Ages6-12 LEGO STEM CAMP JUNE9-13 JULY14-18 JULY21-25 Ages5-12 JULY 07-11 Ages12-16 Full day $195 Full day: $390 • Half day: $186 Full day: $250 S 8 5 Half da $186 THE M S P O P L
role models. They have to have an interest in being around kids and working as a team.” Summer camps date back to the beginning of the Civil War. The first, launched in 1861 in Washington, Connecticut, was given the name Gunnery—although not related to the conflict rending the nation; the operator was a man with the last name of Gunn. From the start, camps focused on outdoor activities. However, the Girl Scouts once held a camp on the rooftop of a building in New York City, according to the American Camp Association. That was in the early 1920s. By then, both day camps and overnight camps for boys and girls were opening around the country. There is a purpose that camps achieve that was not necessary in decades past. There is survey data, but even anecdotal and observational evidence shows that teens and young adults tend to interact with friends more readily by social media or text. Summer camps offer a break from this habit, even for counselors. The earliest camps may have been overseen by a husband and wife. Nowadays they are organized, with regulations, training and pay—often starting at minimum wage, although Monterey Parks & Recreation begins at $18.50 an hour. An advantage to the schedule is that counselors work regular hours. The organizations do, however, look for a commitment for the summer. It provides consistency for the children. The pay scale is not the real attraction. There is the experience gained, for example, as well as the development of useful skills. In an essay on Campminder titled “Why Did I Keep Returning to Camp: One Counselor’s Story,” Lauren Baney explains that “What I’ve learned and done at camp has impacted my life. It has pushed me more, taught me more, and changed me more than anything I have previously been a part of. It taught me that my strengths are part of a bigger plan and gave me practice using them.” And for many college students, Alvarez points out, there is an additional benefit. “Some want to knock out their service learning,” he says. “So it’s a win-win.” Many counselors have said the experience has had a positive impact on their lives. COURTESY MONTEREY PARKS & RECREATION 28 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 43 Fisherman’s Wharf Monterey 831-288-6218 montereybaycreamery.com Homemade Ice cream, SHakeS & SundaeS
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 29 Earn an education with a lifetime of value and find your people at Cal State Monterey Bay! csumb.edu/explore CSUMB_1-2h_FG25_kb.indd 1 3/19/25 3:12 PM
30 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 Throughout Monterey County, one of the most divided activities for kids is also one of the most unifying for families. Yes, we’re referring to youth baseball. PONY Leagues begin in late winter and typically group participants by where they live and how old they are. Within those divisions, there are other divisions. Kids from the same city play on different teams. Each team has its own color and its own team name. Sharks, T-Rex’s, Bears. These divisions are the essence of competitive sports. Or at least, they are most of the time. “There is great camaraderie,” says Tommy Bommarito, current president and CEO of—as well as coach in— Monterey PONY League. “We have a strong, strong sense of community. We try to get the whole family involved.” PONY League (PONY being an acronym initially for “Protect Our Neighborhood Youth” and currently for “Protect Our Nation’s Youth”) began in Pennsylvania in 1951 and quickly spread throughout the nation and world. Monterey’s youth baseball league—pre-PONY—began roughly around the same time and later joined PONY in 1992. Official PONY rules are interpreted by a regional board—Monterey, Seaside, Pacific Grove, etc.—while practices are led by volunteer coaches. Above: The Shetland Sharks are the youngest players in the PONY League, consisting of children ages 6 and under. Below: Shaun Jones is the coach of the Shetland Sharks, and his wife Sarah is the Team Mom. JOCELYN SMITH A WINNING LEAGUE For PONY baseball, it’s the familial connections that count more than the scoreboard. By Jesse Herwitz LEILA HERWITZ But the most noticeable—and perhaps beloved—aspect of the league is that playing levels are named after horses: Pony for 14-year-olds and under, Bronco for 12 and under, Mustang for 10 and under, Pinto for 8 and under, and for 6 and under, Shetland. Bommarito got his start as a coach the way most people do; as a parent
Marina Youth Center 211 Hillcrest Avenue Marina, CA 93933 (831) 384-6009 www.cityofmarina.org /MarinaRecreationCenters @marinarecreation SUMMER YOUTH CAMP2025 JUNE 9TH - AUG 1ST City of Marina Recreation & Cultural Services Department Marina Youth Camp 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Early Bird Drop-Off from 7:00 am to 8:00 am Marina Teen Center & Rocky Han Community Center Registration opens up April 7th, 2025 Early Bird Drop Off* *Marina Youth Summer Camp registration is a pre-requisite for Early Bird Option. 211 Hillcrest Avenue Marina, CA 93933
32 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 who enrolled his child to play baseball. “I joined the Monterey league in 2021,” Bommarito says. “There was me and one other coach. There were 26 kids in the [Mustang and Pinto programs] and they gave us all 26. No uniforms, no umpires, nothing. It was just, here’s these kids, and we did it like a Sandlot style.” That year, the league had 90 total participants. Three years, one pandemic, and one resigned Monterey PONY president later, Bommarito found himself coaching in two leagues—Seaside and Monterey—as well as running the Monterey league. He quickly arranged a new board (which includes his wife Brandi) and adopted something of a radical philosophy. “We’ve de-emphasized winning,” he says. “I had seen other coaches in other leagues that were just hard on kids. They put this huge emphasis on winning and it wasn’t fun. Then [the kids] wanted to quit and didn’t want to do it anymore. I thought that was terrible.” Ironically, “de-emphasizing winning” led the Monterey teams to win more games, including multiple tournament wins. Participation rates also rose, from 90 kids in 2022 to 150 (2023) to 250 (2024), which also included a revival of the softball league that had been dormant for nearly six years. This year the total number of participants is approaching 300. Of the 24 teams participating in Monterey PONY, the Shetland level is the most popular with eight teams and more than 80 participants. For many in Shetland, this is the first time playing a team sport. Coaches and parents often stand beside the kids in the field urging them to “Go!” when a ball is hit off the tee. It is not uncommon to see the entire team chase the ball down, wrestle the ball out of the hands of a teammate and hold it, giggling, until one or all of the coaches holler at them to “throw to first!” Shaun Jones, coach for the Shetland Sharks, and his wife (and Team Mom) Sarah have made time to volunteer for very straightforward reasons. “My kids were getting into baseball and I wanted to be around them,” Jones says. “I wanted to help.” All four of their children participate in the league despite Jones working a 70-plus hour week. For the Jones family, being a part of PONY is less about playing a game than it is celebrating one. For some, playing might be the prelude to a love for athletics, while for others, it might just be memories of springtime. Whatever the kids remember, however, one thing seems consistent. PONY league is a family affair where everyone hits and everyone scores. “I always tell the kids to give their best effort and to pull in the same direction, regardless of what it says on the scoreboard,” Bommarito says. “I tell them that if we’re doing those things we just cannot lose.” Far left: A Shetland Sharks player is next up at bat. Left: Coach Tommy Bommarito (right) addresses the Mustang All Star team during a huddle. Below: A Shetland player runs home after a hit. BRANDI BOMMARITO DAZE EVANS LEILA HERWITZ
Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our summer Underwater Explorers program. No diving experience or equipment is needed — just a sense of wonder! To learn more, scan the QR code or visit: MontereyBayAquarium.org/ UnderwaterExplorers Make a splash at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our UnderwaterExplorers Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our summer Underwater Explorers program. No diving experience or equipment is needed — just a sense of wonder! To learn more, scan the QR code or visit: MontereyBayAquarium.org/ UnderwaterExplorers splash at the Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our summer Underwater Explorers program. No diving experience or equipment is needed — just a sense of wonder! the QR code or visit: MontereyBayAquarium.org/ UnderwaterExplorers Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our UnderwaterExplorers Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our summer Underwater Explorers program. No diving experience or equipment is needed — just a sense of wonder! To learn more, scan the QR code or visit: MontereyBayAquarium.org/ UnderwaterExplorers Make a splash at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our summer Underwater Explorers program. No diving experience or equipment is needed — just a sense of wonder! the QR code or visit: MontereyBayAquarium.org/ UnderwaterExplorers
34 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 Big Sur Fiddle Camp Music education is the cornerstone of this program, but the setting is one of the things that sets it apart. Over a week of camping atop a ridge on the Big Sur coast, a series of music classes, farm chores on a working ranch, yoga, hiking and jam sessions culminate in a community concert. June 22-June 29 Big Sur, lygia@bigsurfiddlecamp.org, bigsurfiddlecamp.org Cal State Monterey Bay Otter Sports youth summer camps offer a chance for young players to learn from and connect with current coaches and athletes from CSUMB sports teams, helping each individual take their game to the next level and create lasting friendships while having a good time. At the middle school and early high school level, camps have an increased focus on fundamentals and skill development, whereas exposure-style College ID Camps help older attendees sharpen their skills and gain exposure to college-level coaches and styles of play. Camps run June-August CSUMB Campus (various locations), www. ottersportscamps.com Carmel Youth Center Join Carmel Youth Center this summer for the ultimate summer day camp and enjoy fun under the sun. Activities include crafts, recreational games and enriching fun. Drop ins or registration available. Week-long sessions run June 9-13, June 16-20, June 23-27, June 30-July 4, July 7-11, July 14-18, July 21-25, July 28-Aug.1 Ages 5-14. $290/session. 4th Avenue & Torres, Carmel, 624-3285, carmelyouth.org Chartwell School At Chartwell School, students in grades one through eight can participate in the fourweek CORE program that rotates between literacy skills, math and a STEAM / Makers program. CORE students can also opt into an individualized afternoon reading program, or enrichment programs such as theater, studio art, fitness, digital music and robotics. June 11-July 2 from 8:30am-12:30pm; $1,800; afternoon reading and programming available at additional cost 2511 Numa Watson Road, Seaside; 3943468, chartwell.org/summer Dolphins Swim At the Dolphin Swim School students are taught by qualified, certified, experienced trainers. Students develop freestyle, butterfly, breast and back strokes, flip turns, competitive starts, and the ability to follow a pace clock. Experienced swimmers can increase their commitment and train for swimming in college and beyond. 394-0533, facebook.com/ DolphinsSwimSchoolSEA Elkhorn Slough Safari Explore Elkhorn Slough, one of California’s largest wetlands and part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve system. View harbor seals, sea lions, sea otters and hundreds of bird species from the comfort of a 27-foot pontoon boat. Tours daily. $46/adult; $36/children 3-12; $40/seniors 7881 Sandholdt Road, Moss Landing. 633-5555, elkhornslough.com Escape Room 831 & Oscar’s Playground Get out of a locked room by working with the whole family to solve a series of puzzles--before time’s up! With two Monterey locations, it’s easy and fun to get creative at Escape Room 831. That must be why it’s regularly voted by Weekly readers as the Best Place to Have A Birthday Party. If it’s an arcade your family is craving, head to Oscar’s Playground for classic arcade games, skee ball, hoops, more escape rooms and more opportunites for birthday parties. Escape Room 831, 765 Wave St, Suite A2, 324-0513 and 599 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey, 241-6616; escaperoom831.com Oscar’s Playground, 685 Cannery Row, 3rd Floor, Monterey, 241-6616, oscarsplayground.com SUMMER CAMPS 2025
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 35 montereybaykayaks.com 831.373.5357 MtyBayKayaks_1-2h_FG24_gk.indd 1 3/15/24 12:35 PM
First Night Monterey Summer Art Day Camps First Night Monterey’s Summer Art Day Camps are designed to develop positive and creative thinking skills for children, using the arts to nurture creativity. Think basket weaving, print-making and now cooking and gardening. It all happens in a noncompetitive, safe, fun environment. No prior experience or talent is needed. Each Friday features a performance or gallery exhibit of the work completed during the camp week. Six sessions, all one-week long, 9:30am-3pm: June 9-13, ages 7-12; June 16-20, ages 10-16; June 23-27, ages 7-12; July 7-11, ages 10-16; July 14-18, ages 7-12; July 22-26, ages 9+ $400/one-week session, $750/two sessions; materials included; discounts for enrolling two or more family members. Extended day supervision available 8:30am-9:30am, additional fee Archer Park Community Building, 542 Archer St., Monterey. 373-4778, firstnightmonterey.org Hope, Horses & Kids Programming at Hope, Horses & Kids is geared toward development of not just horsemanship, but of the hearts, minds and spirits of the students involved. Programs include Equine Assisted Learning, Horse Powered Reading, Teen Leadership and private / semi-private horsemanship lessons. 1218 Padre Drive, Salinas, 596-6693, hopehorseskids.org Lyceum The Lyceum offers learning adventures dedicated to art and science, with various sessions for younger and older participants. Activities will include: art, sculpture, design, sketching, watercolor painting, digital photography, cyber adventures, collage art, papercraft and space adventures. Camps run June 9-Aug 1. 1073 Sixth St., Monterey. 372-6098, lyceum.org City of Marina Recreation Department Summer Camps The kids are going to have a great time this summer in Marina. Between the Marina Teen Center and the Marina Youth Center, camps are available throughout June and July. Kids will take part in fun 36 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 www.Lyceum.org or 831-372-6098 Lyceum Summer Camps June 10 - July 26, 2019 June 9 – August 1, 2025 Scientific Illustration Camp Collage Art Camp Robotics Camp Science & Engineering Camp Mixed Media Art Camp Digital Photography Camp March 10th - 13th March 17th - 20th March 24th - 27th March 31st - April 3rd April 7th - 10th April 14th - 17th April 21st - 24th April 28th - May 1st May 5th - May 8th June 2nd-5th June 9th-12th June 16th-19th June 23rd-26th June 30th-July 3rd July 7th-10th July 14th-17th July 21st-24th July 28th-31st Summer Lessons Spring Lessons Dolphins Swim School
activities through skateboarding, sports, science, slime, LEGOs, art and much more. Schedule, more information, and registration available online. Marina Recreation Office 211 Hillcrest Ave., Marina, 884-1253, cityofmarina.org Mathnasium Don’t let your student lose their math skills over the summer. Keep up and get ahead with help from skilled tutors. Short term packages of 10 & 12 weeks available starting May 1-Aug 31. Mathnasium of Monterey, 680 Del Monte Center, Monterey, 324-4785, mathnasium. com MEarth Campers ages 6-13 get hands-on experience in MEarth’s organic garden, native plant nursery and outdoor kitchen. This beautiful property is part garden, part outdoor classroom and part kitchen. Activities include making healthy snacks, participating in art and culinary sessions and learning about critters. Special guests like wildlife biologists, artists and farmers drop by. Cooking Camp: Ages 6-8, June 16-20, July 28-August 1; Ages 9-11, July 7-11; EcoExplorer Camp: Ages 6-8 June 23-27; Ages 9-11 July 14-18; Sessions: $425 Early Bird registration, $475 regular registration MEarth Hilton Bialek Habitat, 2480 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel, 624-1032, mearthcarmel.org WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 37 30 SURF RENTALS PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1986 Alexa Sorensen - Age 7 Kelly Sorensen Owner/ Founder with Bill Murray When Bill is in town he knows where to shop for all the killer stuff! OTB_2-3v_VG24_gk.indd 1 6/20/24 3:31 PM
City of Monterey Recreation Youth Sports Camps Monterey offers a fun and diverse series of sports camps for kids ages 3-16. Locations vary by camp. Check the website for more details and registration. Beach Volleyball Camp (ages 9-13 years): Mon-Fri 9am-noon OR 1-4pm, June 9-13, June 16-20, June 23-27, July 7-11. Intermediate and Advanced sessions available for students ages 14-18 Challenger International Core Soccer (ages 7-14): Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, June 9-13, July 7-11, July 21-25; Challenger International Core Soccer Creative Skills Soccer (ages 7-14) Mon-Fri 9am-12pm or 1-4pm, June 23-17; Youth Track and Field Camp (ages 7-13): Mon-Fri 9am-2pm, July 14-18; Basketball Camp (ages 7-13): Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, July 21-25; Flag Football Camp (ages 7-14): Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, June 16-20 646-3866, monterey.org/rec Monterey Bay Aquarium Underwater Explorers Do your kids want to get into the water at the Aquarium? Through this summer program, they can. No experience is necessary, and kids ages 8-13 are guided by dive staff in the Great Tide Pool to get a closer look at the animals. 90-minute sessions available to book daily June 14 through Sept 1. $120/ members, $150 + admission/ nonmembers 886 Cannery Row, Monterey; 648-4800, montereybayaquarium.org Monterey County Free Libraries The theme song for the classic PBS television show Reading Rainbow said it all: “I can be anything/ Take a look, it’s in a book/ A reading rainbow.” From musicians and magicians to cowgirls and jugglers, anything can happen during Monterey County Free Libraries’ summer reading gatherings. Contact one of 17 local branches for details. 883-7573 (administrative line); montereycountyfreelibraries.org 38 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 Oceans & Robotics Science and Technology Summer Day-Camps Seafloor Science & Remotely Operated Vehicle Camps are hands-on, STEM oriented day camps that center on underwater robotics, seafloor habitats, sensors, and more! Camps for students entering grades 3 - 5 (Level I): June 27 - July 1 July 11 - 15 Camp for students entering grades 6 - 9 (Level II): June 20 - 24 www.ssrovcamp.org For more information or to register, visit our website: Find Creative Solutions. Apply the Scientific Method. Develop Leadership Skills. Engage in Hands-On Activities. Discover Technologies for Deep-Sea Exploration. Level I camps meet from 9 AM - 3 PM. Extended hours are available. Level II camp meetS from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM. Hosted by MAOS at Monterey High School. Low Student:Instructor Ratio June 23-27 July 14-18 June 16-20 SSROV_1-3s_FG25_GK.indd 1 3/10/25 10:47 AM E N R OL NOW
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