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Now Registering: First Tee’s 2025 Fall Camp in Salinas

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Full-day golf instruction, STEAM learning, art, outdoor challenges, and team-building for ages 7–17

First Tee – Monterey County is now accepting registrations for its 2025 Fall Camp, a three-day program running November 24–26, 2025. Held at the organization’s Salinas campus at 1551 Beacon Hill Drive, this full-day camp offers a balanced mix of golf instruction, STEAM exploration, hands-on art projects, team-building exercises, and outdoor games. It’s designed for youth ages 7–17 and welcomes all skill levels, including beginners.

First Tee’s approach goes beyond sports. The nationally recognized youth development program uses the game of golf to build core life skills such as confidence, focus, resilience, decision-making, and goal-setting. The Fall Camp extends that mission by creating an environment where kids can stay active, connect with peers, and explore creative learning opportunities during the holiday break.

Who Can Attend

The camp is open to:

  • Children and teens ages 7–17
  • All experience levels, including newcomers to the game
  • Families across Monterey County and surrounding areas
  • Girls interested in attending through dedicated scholarship support

Camp Details

  • Dates: November 24–26, 2025
  • Location: 1551 Beacon Hill Dr., Salinas
  • Cost: $125; free for AUSD students
  • Extended care: Early drop-off and late pick-up available for $25
  • Hours: Full-day programming

What Campers Will Experience

Participants will spend each day rotating through a variety of engaging activities led by First Tee coaches and staff. The schedule includes daily golf instruction, STEAM-based challenges that encourage problem-solving and creativity, art and maker-style projects, outdoor games, and group activities that help kids strengthen teamwork and communication skills.

About First Tee – Monterey County

First Tee – Monterey County has long served families throughout the region with programs that combine athletics, mentorship, and character building. Through year-round classes, school partnerships, and seasonal camps, the organization works to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn, play, and grow in a supportive environment.

Register Today

Spots are limited and camps often fill quickly. Families are encouraged to sign up early to reserve a place.
Learn more or register at firstteemontereycounty.org.

Monterey & Santa Cruz Crafts Shows For Holiday Gifts

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If you’re looking for handmade gifts for those on your 2025 Christmas or Hanukkah gift list, here are crafts shows where you can shop locally.

MONTEREY COUNTY

Monterey Moose Lodge: November Craft & Vendor Fair
One-day community vendor fair (holiday gifts, crafts).
Location: Monterey Moose Lodge #876, 555 Canyon Del Rey, Del Rey Oaks
Date: Sun, Nov 16
FOR MORE INFO

Carmel’s 54th Homecrafters’ Marketplace
A beloved one-day showcase of local makers with multiple craft shows all within walking distance in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Location: North Lot of Sunset Center area, Carmel-by-the-Sea
Date: Sat, Nov 22
FOR MORE INFO

Makerspace Fair: Holiday Fair (Carmel Valley Library)
Hands-on holiday fair with make-and-take stations (candles, soaps, cards, and more) + craft marketplace vibe hosted by Friends of the Library.
Location: Carmel Valley Branch Library, 65 W Carmel Valley Rd
Date: Sat, Nov 22
FOR MORE INFO

Winter Wonderfest Holiday Market
Walk-through light show plus an ongoing Holiday Market at the fairgrounds throughout the season.
Location: Monterey County Fairgrounds
Dates: Nightly Nov 22–Dec 28
FOR MORE INFO

Big Sur Grange Craft Faire (Harvest & Craft Fair)
Multi-day Thanksgiving-weekend artisan fair featuring local Big Sur makers.
Location: Big Sur Grange, Big Sur
Dates: Fri–Sun, Nov 28–30
FOR MORE INFO

Monterey Bay Charter School Winter Craft Fair & Marketplace
Community craft fair & marketplace (Instagram announcement).
Location: Pacific Grove Campus, 1004 David Ave
Date: Sat, Dec 13 (10am–2pm)
FOR MORE INFO

Monterey Moose Lodge: ’Tis the Season Craft & Vendor Fair
Annual holiday vendor fair—free admission, ideal for early-season shopping.
Location: Monterey Moose Lodge #876, Del Rey Oaks
Date: Sun, Dec 14
FOR MORE INFO

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market
40+ makers on Pacific Ave; easy downtown holiday shopping.
Location: Pacific Ave @ Lincoln & Cathcart, Santa Cruz
Date: Sun, Nov 16 (10am–5pm)
FOR MORE INFO

SCM Holiday Makers Market (Felton Community Hall)
Over 35 artists and makers; free admission.
Location: 6191 Hwy 9, Felton
Date: Sat, Nov 29 (10am–5pm)
FOR MORE INFO

Heritage Holiday Craft & Gift Fair (Watsonville)
Major two-day indoor fair that kicks off the season in the Pajaro Valley; three buildings of crafts, gifts, antiques & more.
Location: Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 E Lake Ave, Watsonville
Dates: Fri–Sat, Dec 5–6 (Noon–9pm)
FOR MORE INFO

Tannery Arts Center: Winter Art Market
Annual market with open studios, guest makers, live music & food—great for one-of-a-kind handmade gifts.
Location: Tannery Arts Center, 1050–1070 River St, Santa Cruz
Date: Sat, Dec 13 (10am–5pm)
FOR MORE INFO

Felton Covered Bridge Holiday Market
Outdoor holiday market on the historic covered bridge with artisans, treats, and family activities.
Location: Covered Bridge Rd, Felton
Date: Sun, Dec 14 (11am–3pm)
FOR MORE INFO

Holiday Craft Fair at The Nook (Santa Cruz)
Evening craft fair with local artists (jewelry, boards, bags, etc.)—fun for an after-work browse.
Location: 920 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
Date: Sun, Dec 14 (6–8pm)
FOR MORE INFO

Santa Cruz Makers Market (Downtown)
Downtown makers market dates listed through winter; includes an additional Sun, Dec 21 market date in the giving-season window.
Location: Downtown Santa Cruz
Date: Sun, Dec 21 (10am–5pm)
FOR MORE INFO

Monterey Bay Parent Celebrates National Recognition at Parenting Media Association Awards

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Monterey Bay Parent and its affiliated publication earned multiple honors at the Parenting Media Association (PMA) 2025 annual conference in Chicago. The three-day conference was attended by Publisher Andrea Breznay and Sales Representative Jenna Keisling. The awards were presented on the final evening of the conference.

The annual competition, judged by faculty at the University of Missouri School of Journalism, recognizes excellence in editorial, design, and digital publishing among regional parenting media across the U.S. (parentmedia.org)

This year, Monterey Bay Parent and Monterey Bay Military Parent brought home six awards across multiple categories, including three Golds, two Silvers, and one Bronze.

In addition to the editorial and design awards, Monterey Bay Parent publisher, Andrea Breznay, received recognition as the outgoing Parenting Media Association president.

Award Winners & Judges’ Comments

  • Recurring Column — Bronze
    “Father’s Day: Reflections from a Monterey Day”
    Rob Weisskirch, columnist; Summer Romney, copy editor
    Judges commented: “Reflections from various stages of parenting help connect readers to their own journey. The writing is personable so that readers feel as though they’re having a conversation with another parent handling similar challenges.” TO READ THE WINNING COLUMNS
  • Family Fun Article — Silver
    “Who Is Haunting Monterey?”
    Dawn Alva, writer; Summer Romney, copy editor
    Judges commented: “This engaging and personal story draws the reader into an exploration of ghostly stories and history along the Central California coast. The author’s enthusiasm for fall and Halloween reverberates through this piece.” TO READ THE WINNING ARTICLE
  • Special Series — Gold
    “Getting Outdoors for Family Fun”
    Dawn Alva, writer; Summer Romney, copy editor
    Judges commented: “Writing is bright and crisp with lots of relatable experience. The series links outdoor fun—like pickleball, bocce ball, and disc golf—to STEAM education concepts, giving parents both inspiration and insight.” TO READ THE WINNING ARTICLES
  • Front Cover Original Photo — Silver
    “Back to School” Cover, Monterey Bay Parent
    Marlena Mareka, photographer; Andrea Breznay, creative direction
    Judges commented: “The blackboard and school desk immediately tell the story, which fits the tease perfectly. The child’s smile—complete with a missing front tooth—is a sweet touch that adds charm and authenticity.” TO SEE THE WINNING COVER
  • Ancillary Overall Writing — Gold
    Monterey Bay Military Parent
    Andrea Forester, editor; Summer Romney, copy editor; Andrea Breznay, Jessica Thibault, Dawn Alva, contributors
    Judges commented: “The stories are solidly grounded in the area with a special eye toward the needs of relocated parents and families. The breadth of topics reflects readers’ full lives, from book suggestions to bucket lists and local explorations.” TO READ MILITARY PARENT
  • Online Community — Gold
    “Information, Support, and Friendship for Monterey Bay Parents” (Facebook Group)
    Andrea Breznay, Jenna Keisling, Katherine Stephens, moderators
    Judges commented: “What’s immediately evident is the care and attention given to making this group an informative and welcoming resource. Members respond quickly, treat each other respectfully, and foster a genuine sense of community.” TO JOIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP
  • Ancillary General Excellence — Silver
    Monterey Bay Military Parent
    Andrea Forester, editor; Summer Romney, copy editor; Andrea Breznay, Dawn Alva, Jessica Thibault, contributors
    Judges commented: “A thoughtful blend of community-focused reporting and practical guidance tailored to military families. The content moves fluidly between helpful tools and engaging features, grounded in authentic local storytelling.” TO READ MILITARY PARENT

Celebrating Team Excellence

“These awards reflect the dedication, creativity, and heart of our entire team,” said Andrea Breznay, publisher of Monterey Bay Parent. “Our writers, designers, editor, and staff put tremendous care into connecting with local families, and we’re deeply honored that their work was recognized on a national level.”

About Monterey Bay Parent Magazine

Monterey Bay Parent is the region’s leading family publication, serving Monterey and Santa Cruz counties with resources, events, and stories that strengthen community connection and support parents at every stage.

The Parenting Media Association (PMA) is a national organization of regional parenting publishers that fosters excellence through professional development, networking, and the annual Design & Editorial Awards competition. Learn more at parentmedia.org.

https://parentmedia.org

Children’s Author Emberli Pridham Introduces Young Readers To The Inspiring Story Of Princess Kate With “A Real-Life Fairy Tale: Princess Kate”

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For admirers in her home country and around the world, Princess Kate is a woman who epitomizes grace, style, kindness, family values and generosity.  From her humble beginnings in Reading, England to becoming the much-beloved Princess of Wales, Princess Kate is truly an inspiring figure – and that’s precisely why noted children’s author Emberli Pridham selected Kate Middleton for the fourth installment in her popular book series , A Real-Life Fairy Tale (A Real Life Fairy Tale – Tales of Courage and Kindness).

The first three books profiled Princess Diana, Princess Grace and Jackie Kennedy, and how each of the women gained iconic status, and brought the world a legacy of hope and charity. For author Pridham, Princess Kate embodies each of their profound commitments towards bettering the world and shares her devotion to social responsibility and charity work.  

Together with magnificent illustrations by Danilo Cerovic, Ms. Pridham’s text narrative creates a book certain to inform, entertain and inspire children.

A Real-Life Fairy Tale: Princess Kate begins with Kate Middleton’s early years growing up alongside her sister Pippa in the town of Reading, England, her active involvement in sports and her education at the University of St. Andrews. From there, A Real-Life Fairy Tale: Princess Kate depicts Kate’s friendship and eventual romance with Prince William, culminating in her emergence as Princess Catherine of Great Britain. The book poignantly touches on Kate’s moments of hardship, such as the passing of Queen Elizabeth and her battle with cancer. The portrayal of Kate’s triumph over adversity not only uplifts young readers but also instills hope and courage.

Throughout A Real-Life Fairy Tale: Princess Kate author Pridham incorporates Kate’s charitable works such as childhood care, mental health awareness, and initiatives like “Heads Together,” which aims to normalize conversations around mental health, underscores the importance of compassion and empathy.

A Real-Life Fairy Tale: Princess Kate concludes by showcasing Kate as a nurturing mother, as she combines parenthood with her role as a princess.  As a result, children can recognize how public figures combine their professional obligations with cherishing their family. “Princess Kate often demonstrates the importance of family bonds, responsible parenting and the need for balance with public duties,” added Ms. Pridham.

Each book in the Real-Life Fairy Tale series is designed to engage children and help them embrace their own passions.  A Real-Life Fairy Tale: Princess Kate continues this mission, inviting children to aspire to their dreams and pursue their talents.  “Princess Kate’s life journey is one of resilience, compassion, and growth. Her vast charitable campaigns help children understand the importance of giving back to the community, providing valuable lessons of volunteering or fundraising that instill a sense of responsibility and community-mindedness in future generations, ultimately fostering a more caring and supportive society.,” says Ms. Pridham.

A Real-Life Fairy Tale: Princess Kate offers young readers a compelling introduction to Kate Middleton’s life and legacy while reinforcing the importance of community involvement to help shape a better world. For parents and educators, this book is an excellent resource for sparking meaningful conversations with children about their aspirations, challenges, and the impact of generosity. “Children often look up to public figures as role models, and Princess Kate serves as an exemplary one. Her journey from a common background to the royal family illustrates the idea that with determination and hard work, one can achieve their dreams,” says author Pridham. 

In addition to her Real-Life Fairy Tale series, Emberli Pridham is nationally recognized as the co-author – along with her husband David – of If Not You, Then Who? (www.ifnotyoubooks.com), the top-selling book series that introduces children to the magical world of inventors and innovations and encourages them to apply their own creativity.  The series has achieved #1 rankings in key Amazon Best Seller categories including How Things Workbooks, Children’s Inventors Books, Children’s Jobs & Careers Books, Children’s Technology Fiction Books, and Children’s Girls and Women’s Books. 

The Pridham’s live in New England with their four children Brooke, Noah, Graham and the newest member of the Pridham family, Byrdie Grace.

Book Information:

Content presented by SSA Communications.

A Remarkable Time to be at Stevenson School

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PARTNER CONTENT

There’s a moment every parent hopes to witness: when their child comes home excited to explain not what they learned but how they figured it out. When a challenging problem becomes a source of pride rather than frustration. When curiosity drives them to keep asking questions.

At Stevenson, these moments happen every day. Our Pre-K-12 curriculum features data-informed instruction and passionate, expert teachers. Small class sizes ensure every child is known and challenged at their own edge of ability. And as the Remarkable Stevenson campaign invests in the future of teaching and learning, this is an exciting time to join our community.

BUILDING CURIOUS, CONFIDENT LEARNERS FROM DAY ONE

At Stevenson, education flows as one continuous journey of growth across 14 grades on two beautiful campuses in Carmel and Pebble Beach.

PRE-K THROUGH GRADE 4 (CARMEL CAMPUS – LOWER DIVISION)

Stevenson’s inquiry-based approach for its youngest learners is shaped by thoughtful use of student data and research-based practices. In classrooms where teachers know each child’s learning style and strengths, curiosity becomes the spark for discovery. Students explore the world through research-based math and social studies programs, with comprehensive literacy instruction including phonics. In Pre-K, children learn that letters tell stories; by Grade 4, they’re reporting from KSBW News Station. Place-based education turns tide pools into biology labs and monarch migration into hands-on science. 

GRADES 5-8 (CARMEL CAMPUS – MIDDLE DIVISION)

Students deepen their independence as thinkers and problem-solvers, supported by advisors who see them daily. They learn to build and use models across all disciplines – from Earth’s layers in science to historical perspectives in humanities. Students move from guided experiments to independently designed investigations, applying engineering processes to create solutions. This spirit of inquiry extends beyond the classroom through outdoor education – from Big Sur to Pinnacles, Yosemite to Catalina Island – with increasing challenge each year. 

GRADES 9-12 (PEBBLE BEACH CAMPUS – UPPER DIVISION)

Guided by outstanding teachers, students explore complex questions that cross disciplines – from analyzing marine ecosystems to designing solutions to environmental challenges during X-Term, a two-week immersive learning experience. With nearly 150 course offerings, including dozens of AP and honors classes, from advanced STEM to studio art, literature, and world languages, students craft schedules that reflect their passions. Beyond the classroom, EXPO, a 10-day backpacking expedition, builds resilience and teamwork, while 91.9 KSPB Radio amplifies student voices globally. By graduation, students are confident, compassionate thinkers prepared to shape the world.

“From Pre-K through graduation, we’re not just moving students through grade levels. We’re nurturing the habits of mind that will serve them for life: curiosity about how the world works, resilience when things are hard, and joy in the process of discovery.”

 — Dr. Dan Griffiths, President

INVESTING IN EVERY STUDENT’S FUTURE

The Remarkable Stevenson campaign’s $60 million commitment to transformational education is embodied in MSEC, the new math, science, and engineering center. Rising where the 55-year-old Lindsley Science Center once stood, this $45 million, 38,000-square-foot facility embodies Stevenson’s vision for how students learn best: through hands-on discovery, collaborative inquiry, and breakthrough moments.

TWO TRANSFORMATIONAL GIFTS

Two $10 million gifts propelled the campaign forward, establishing MSEC’s two wings: The John Senuta Math Center, made possible by Calla and Will Griffith  89; and The Day Family Center for Science & Engineering, made possible by Willametta K. Day Foundation. These gifts together with the generosity of the Stevenson community, have brought the campaign to $42 million of the $45 million MSEC goal.

“These two extraordinary gifts – honoring John Senuta’s 43 years of dedicated teaching and continuing the Day family’s multigenerational commitment – exemplify what the Remarkable Stevenson campaign is truly about: investing in the educators and experiences that impact students’ lives.”

 — Cynthia Chapman  83, Board Chair

MSEC: WHERE LEARNING COMES TO LIFE

Inside MSEC, students will conduct college-level research, design engineering projects in a makerspace, collaborate on mathematical problems, and explore the universe from a rooftop astronomy platform—enabling fundamentally different learning where students design investigations and experience genuine discovery.

MSEC also represents Stevenson’s first integration of renewable energy – rooftop solar arrays, battery storage systems, and sustainability features that go beyond California’s Green Building Standards.

THE COMPLETE STEVENSON EXPERIENCE

MSEC is part of a comprehensive program developing well-rounded scholars in a close-knit community.

Niche recently named Stevenson Monterey County’s #1 Best Private High School for overall excellence, STEM, and college prep, with a 100% graduation rate. Graduates attend top institutions nationwide and internationally – Stanford, Northwestern, NYU, UC schools – or pursue public service and gap years, extending the values they learn at Stevenson.

Beyond academics, students excel across 20+ sports with teams recently winning 12 CCS championships, including the 2025 boys golf State champions, and embarking on international athletic tours to Canada, Croatia and Australia. Comprehensive, award-winning visual and performing arts range from film making and music theory, to photography and ceramics, to rock bands and musicals. X-Term, international trips, and the student-developed annual Symposium expand experiential learning. Student-run 91.9 KSPB radio has broadcast for 40+ years.

The Remarkable Stevenson Campaign

Campaign Goal: $60 million

MSEC at a Glance

  • Size: 38,000 square feet
  • Investment: $45 million
  • Raised to Date: $42 million
  • Remaining: $3 million to complete the vision
  • Timeline: Spring 2026 completion, open for the first day of Fall 2026 classes

Stevenson School

  • Founded: 1952
  • Campuses: Carmel (PK–8) and Pebble Beach (9–12)
  • Students: 730 total
  • 221 at the Carmel Campus (97 Lower / 124 Middle)
  • 510 at the Pebble Beach Campus (272 boarding / 238 day)

Discover Stevenson

Visit: Tour both campuses, meet faculty, and see MSEC construction.

Explore: www.stevensonschool.org for upcoming events and virtual sessions.

Connect: Complete an inquiry form or contact our admissions teams:

General Information

Phone: 831-625-8300

Inquiries for the 2026–27 academic year are now being accepted for all grade levels.

The Girl Scouts Trek Wild Program Empowers Girls Through Adventure

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Middle & high school girls discover independence, resilience, and leadership on the trail

There’s something truly magical about watching girls grow stronger with every step on a trail. Over the past year, I had the joy of leading 22 outstanding middle- and high-school girls—alongside my incredible co-lead, Emma Vetter—through our local Girl Scout council’s Trek Wild program. Together we laughed, learned, and embraced challenges that turned into unforgettable moments of pride.
From first-time hikers nervously strapping on their backpacks to seasoned scouts tackling advanced Sierra trails, the growth we witnessed was nothing short of inspiring. And the best part? These girls discovered that the outdoors isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to thrive.

My “Why”: Empowering Girls (Including My Own)

For me, this work is deeply personal. My daughter is now 13, and she’s been backpacking since she was 11. Watching her carry her own pack, set up camp, and lead her peers fills me with pride. I remember worrying about her self-esteem amid the social dynamics of the tween years. Fast forward, and she now shows independence, resilience, and confidence both on and off the trail—qualities I know will continue guiding her through her teen years and beyond.
And I want that for every girl. Too often, young women doubt themselves or shy away from challenge. But when they’re out in the wilderness, making decisions and solving problems, they can’t help but grow into their strength. That’s why, when Emma—an experienced Girl Scout leader—invited me to help, I poured my heart into the Trek Wild program: because every girl deserves the chance to discover how brave, capable, and powerful she truly is.

Stage 1: Baby Steps, Big Smiles

Don’t worry if your daughter is new to the outdoors—she just needs an interest in adventure. We ease in with the basics. Our Wilderness Hiking Course introduces girls to fundamentals: Leave No Trace principles, the 10 Essentials, safety, and teamwork.
It may sound serious, but we have fun too. We play trail games, sing silly songs, and learn that a carabiner can double as the funniest “clip game” ever. By the end of that first course, the girls walk taller with a new kind of confidence that comes from trying something new and succeeding.

Stage 2: Finding Courage Together

By spring, our adventures level up in the Basic Backpacking Course. We led multiple overnight backpacking trips in the local Santa Cruz mountains. Some of these girls were entirely new to camping (talk about courage!), and we even had a few moms who hadn’t hiked in years.
Watching women of all ages support each other and push beyond their comfort zones was incredible.

Stage 3: The Sierra Challenge

Once our young ladies have mastered the basics and completed a backpacking trip, they can progress to Advanced Backpacking in the Sierras! In July, Emma and I took a group of girls on their first four-night trip among Alpine lakes and starry skies. This was their moment to shine.
They carried their own packs, set up camp, and navigated tricky terrain. There were a few tears, plenty of giggles, and many “I can’t” moments that flipped into triumphant “I did it” shouts! By the end, they weren’t just backpackers—they were leaders: more confident, more capable than ever.

Why It Matters

For middle and high school girls, the trail is more than a path through the woods. It’s a classroom where real-life skills come alive. Away from the screen (which often doesn’t promote healthy mindsets), they’re immersed in an environment that builds grit, teamwork, problem-solving, and self-belief in ways you can’t teach from a book.
Every blister patched, every mountain climbed becomes proof: they are capable. They are resilient. They are ready for whatever life throws their way.
We believe these adventures create more than outdoor enthusiasts—they shape courageous young women who know their worth, trust their strength, and aren’t afraid to lead. And when my daughter and I step onto a trail together, I’m reminded: these aren’t just hikes. They are stepping stones toward independence, courage, and lifelong confidence.

What Is “Trailblazers”?

Emma and I have just incorporated the Trek Wild program into a new Trailblazer troop that serves the greater Monterey County area. And this isn’t your traditional Girl Scouts! While our Trailblazer troop focuses heavily on backpacking, it’s so much more than that.
Trailblazers means snowshoeing across sparkling winter trails, kayaking on peaceful lakes, scrambling up rocks, and exploring unique ways to connect with nature. The best part: the girls themselves shape the adventure. Whether it’s hiking, climbing, or paddling—they decide how they want to challenge themselves, making every experience uniquely theirs.
When girls blaze trails, they don’t just climb mountains—they rise to meet life with courage, confidence, and character—all while making lasting friendships rooted in adventure and laughter, a gift they’ll carry forever.

Ready to Join the Adventure?

If your daughter is in middle or high school and ready to develop strength, confidence, and leadership through outdoor adventure—then our Trailblazers troop may be the perfect fit. Learn more about membership, upcoming trips, and how you can get involved.

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