Erik Chalhoub here, greeting the beginning of the summer season…oh wait, it’s only April. Technically, the first day of summer isn’t until June 21, but here in Monterey County, traditional summer weather feels like it happens most of the year.
The weather this weekend—where it hit 80 or more degrees in the inland areas—must have confused me over which season it is. But there’s another reason why I thought it was summer: The Best of Monterey Bay Family guide is out.
Our annual magazine, which was released in the most recent edition of the Weekly, is geared toward families who are looking for something to do this summer. You’ll find dozens of summer camps and activities, including arts and sports, as well as those that stimulate the mind, such as chess and underwater robotics. There’s also camps on LEGO engineering—where were these when I was a kid?
Writer Johanna Miller dives into natural history camps, focusing on what’s on offer at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. Living in an area with such rich natural environments, it’s important for the younger generations to get outside and appreciate the world that surrounds them.
And speaking of getting outside, there are countless ways to do so. For me, I prefer to do it on two wheels, so in my contribution to the guide, I examined the growing youth mountain biking scene in Monterey County. Organizations such as Monterey Off-Road Cycling Association and schools such as Salinas High School are ensuring young people have the chance to get on bikes and reap their benefits.
The magazine also highlights programs that share practical life skills. In her article featuring ARIEL Theatrical, Staff Writer Agata Popęda shows how young actors learn valuable skills on and off the stage, including self-confidence and public speaking.
Writer Caitlin Fillmore focuses on college scholarships and smart money management—another critical life skill—while Staff Writer Celia Jiménez spotlights the programs that ensure every child can succeed, regardless of disability.
Tying all of this together are the colorful and creative critters created by Weekly Graphic Designer Annie Cobb and on display throughout the guide, including the cover. Think surfing squirrels and athletic raccoons.
Flip through the publication to plan out your summer—and maybe your child will find a passion that will carry with them throughout their life.