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        <title>Santa Cruz Real Estate News &amp; Information</title>
        <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/2017-06/</link>
        <description>Lifestyle, community, day trips, restaurants, real estate, home improvements, and more. Discover what makes Santa Cruz County such a great place to live. Presented by My Santa Cruz Real Estate.</description>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/celebrate-the-4th-of-july-in-santa-cruz-county.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/celebrate-the-4th-of-july-in-santa-cruz-county.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Celebrate The 4th Of July In Santa Cruz County</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Located south of the bustling centers of San Francisco and San Jose, Santa Cruz County is a relaxed seaside community that offers its residents an exceptional quality of life. On any given day in the summer, residents and visitors have the option of swimming in saltwater waves, hiking through incredible redwood forests, or exploring the quaint communities that line the shores of the Pacific. On the 4th of July, each of these communities has their own unique unique traditions. This year, come celebrate the 4th of July in Santa Cruz County. Below, you'll find more information about festivities in a few key communities in the area.


Aptos


The picturesque community of Aptos is located at the junction of the redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean. Aptos is known for having the world's shortest 4th of July Parade. The parade route measures only two city blocks, a total distance of 0.6 miles. The parade winds its way down Soquel Drive past Aptos Village Park and the main retail corridor in town. Despite the shortness of the route, the parade boasts enough floats, music, balloons, entertainers, and pageantry to last two hours between 10:00 AM and noon. After the parade concludes, attendees can take a stroll across the street to Aptos Village Park where the Party in the Park will be full of food, vendors, live music, and activities for patrons young and old.


Santa Cruz


Santa Cruz is the home of students who attend the University of California Santa Cruz, local business owners who've invested in this small town's thriving community, and families and individuals who love the incredible natural beauty and recreation opportunities of living along the coast.


On Independence Day, residents of this community can take a step back in time at the Old-Fashioned Independence Day event located at Wilder Ranch. The state park encourages attendees to dress up like they're from the early 1900s. The celebration includes a parade at noon full of folks in historical garb tooting noisemakers and instruments from their seats in decorated wagons. Other activities include flag-raising ceremonies, historic speeches, and live demonstrations. So, if you'll be in Santa Cruz this July 4th, head down to Wilder Ranch, located off of Highway 1 and let the big-band music wash over you as you take in a uniquely historic experience. The event has plenty of activities to offer children as well.


Scotts Valley


For 4th of July fireworks in Santa Cruz County, you'll need to head five miles inland to the town of Scotts Valley. There, you'll find the only fireworks show in the county. Those hoping to see the show can gather at Skypark Park along Kings Village Road. Fireworks start after dusk and continue until approximately 9:45 PM. Throughout the day, activities include:




Parade


Flyover


Games


Two live bands


Petting zoo


BBQ




Watsonville


In the southern end of Santa Cruz County, you'll find the rapidly-expanding town of Watsonville where handsome Victorian houses and horse-friendly properties can be found. This community celebrates the 4th of July with a Hometown Parade. The event features every kind of automobile from cars new and old, to tractors, to fire engines, and more. Attendees will also find equestrian units, the Watsonville Band, and local non-profits will be in attendance. Each year the parade begins at St. Patrick's Catholic Church.


For more information about the vibrant communities of Santa Cruz County, connect with Lauren Spencer. As a long-time resident and experienced Santa Cruz real estate agent, she can answer any questions you may have about moving to the area.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 30 Jun 2017 09:54:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/looking-to-give-your-child-a-quality-education-heres-where-to-live-in-santa-cruz-county.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/looking-to-give-your-child-a-quality-education-heres-where-to-live-in-santa-cruz-county.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>Looking To Give Your Child a Quality Education? Here's Where to Live In Santa Cruz County</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Finding a top notch school is vital to the success of our children. When you are new to the area and unsure of where to purchase a home, the quality of your children’s education takes top priority. This is no different for those parents searching for the best schools in Santa Cruz County. Once you know your children will be taken care of, you can focus on other details such as: square footage, granite counter tops, and how big the swing set will be in the backyard


Regardless of your child’s age, the best schools in Santa Cruz County will make all the difference to their personal growth; and to your peace of mind as a parent. Listed below is a sampling of some of the top schools in Santa Cruz:


Mountain Elementary District


Mountain Elementary School Grade: K-12Number of Students: 120Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1


Mountain Elementary School takes a developmental approach to learning. Students are grouped by skill levels, rather than a specific grade level. Their philosophy is that children learn and progress at different rates using various learning methods. This school also boasts a challenging academic program that is enhanced by music, visual and performing arts, and programs involving the surrounding community.


Happy Valley Elementary District


Happy Valley Elementary School Grade: K-6Number of Students: 133Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1


Situated in the foothill of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Happy Valley Elementary School gets top marks for their students’ academic standards. They are also known for their Arts Alive program, which offers after school arts enrichment programs designed by parents in order to help enhance their children’s learning experiences.


Santa Cruz County Office of Education District


Pacific Collegiate Charter School Grade: 7-12Number of Students: Over 500Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1


Pacific Collegiate School focuses on international, cross-cultural, and technological education. Students will be introduced to world cultures and become fluent in at least one foreign language prior to convocation. This school is known for its exemplary standards and its dedication to prepping students for entrance into the finest colleges and universities.


Mission Hill Middle School Grade: 6-8Number of Students: 641Student/Teacher Ratio: 24:1


Mission Hill Middle School was the first public school in Santa Cruz. They provide the highest level of academic excellence, with a focus on ensuring all aspects of a child’s development is nurtured. In a partnership created through Amazon Smile, 0.5 of select purchases made using Mission Hill’s unique link, will be donated to support Mission Hill PTA.


Westlake Elementary School Grade: K-5Number of Students: Over 600Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1


Westlake Elementary school makes it its mission to provide their students with an ongoing commitment to excellence. They are known for high academic standards and a strong commitment to the Arts. Parents and students alike created and participate in the Westlake Arts Program enabling all students the opportunity to take part in art and dance classes.


Live Oak Elementary School District


Alternative Family Education Public School Grade: K-12Number of Students: 160Student/Teacher Ratio: 29:1


Alternative Family Education Public school provides a unique option for parents looking for independent home study with an individualized approach to education. The program is for homeschool families and provides teacher consultants to support this type of learning environment. All programs adhere to the Santa Cruz City School District guidelines, but offer students a different way of learning.


Who says you can’t have it all? Not only is Santa Cruz lined with beautiful coastlines and home to the redwood forest, it also provides families with many options when considering their children’s education. The above list of the best schools in Santa Cruz County includes just a handful of options available in the area. Whether you are relocating across the country, or simply moving within the area, knowing the best schools for your loved ones will make it easier for you to settle into your new community. Once you decide on a community that is right for your family, you can start thinking about the type of house that will fit your needs.


Looking to buy or sell a home in Santa Cruz? Find out more about the area from the local experts at My Santa Cruz Real Estate. Call 800-226-4717 today for more information.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2017 09:21:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/new-community-in-santa-cruz-harbor-walk-at-swan-lake.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mysantacruzrealestate.com/blog/new-community-in-santa-cruz-harbor-walk-at-swan-lake.html</link>
        <author>lauren@laurenspencer.com (Lauren Spencer)</author>
        <title>New Community In Santa Cruz: Harbor Walk At Swan Lake</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



One of the most exciting new condo communities in Santa Cruz is Harbor Walk At Swan Lake. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding area, Harbor Walk At Swan Lake is the perfect living space for active individuals and families looking for a low-maintenance home in the heart of beautiful Santa Cruz.


The Homes in Harbor Walk


Harbor Walk At Swan Lake has one and two-bedroom condos featuring amazing features and luxury accouterments. From the beautiful dark hardwood to the open-concept kitchen and eating spaces, these condos feel comfortable and modern at the same time. Deceptively spacious, they also include spa-inspired bathrooms and master bedrooms with large, walk-in closets.


Beautiful patios offer tranquil views of the lush surrounding greenery and beautiful azure sky. Other outdoor amenities include a private pool, perfect for spending the day catching the sun and relaxing.


With only two floors, these buildings do not feel like living in a traditional condo complex. You won’t be spending any time riding up and down in an elevator, which will give you more time to enjoy the splendor of living in a low-maintenance home in Santa Cruz.


Amenities Near Harbor Walk at Swan Lake


Typical Santa Cruz condo owners are active people. Throughout the year, you can enjoy kayaking, paddling, sailing, swimming, and other amazing watersports that are extremely popular in Santa Cruz.


Harbor Walk At Swan Lake is also conveniently located centrally to many of Santa Cruz’s most desirable amenities. For instance, in the immediate vicinity, we will find the East Cliff Village Shopping Center as well as the Santa Cruz Harbor and Harbor Restaurant. With its central location, Harbor Walk At Swan Lake is also easily accessible to many larger chain retail stores such as Macy’s, Target, and Capitola Mall to the North.


Nearby recreation includes the Twin Lake’s State Beach, Sunny Cove Beach, Capitola Wharf and Beach, and the Simpkins Swim Center. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy the Seascape Golf and Country Club as well as Fredericks Street Park.


Located within close proximity to many high-quality schools such as Del Mar Elementary and Shoreline Middle School, homeowners also have easy access to public libraries, which are convenient for book lovers and students.


With its low-maintenance and convenient location, Harbor Walk At Swan Lake is an ideal choice for many buyers in Santa Cruz. Let the experts at My Santa Cruz Real Estate show you the amazing options available with a Harbor Walk At Swan Lake condo. For more information, call 800-226-4717 today and speak with one of our real estate experts.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 09 Jun 2017 14:49:00 -0700</pubDate>
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