Modelo
When I was teaching in enclosed lots in the East Bay, I used to see lots of condoms in the gutters, and sometimes needles. At the preschool, I always had to warn the kids not to touch anything on our way to the garden site, a practice which changed as the neighborhood actually improved by our presence outside the school’s gates and in the garden itself. I once was bemoaning the abundance of condoms to a friend, who replied, “At least they’re using condoms!” Great point!
A couple weeks ago I was doing litter pickup in Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, where I hold Outside School. I saw this Modelo can on the other side of a barbed wire fence, and it was too far to reach. So, the following week I crossed through to go fetch it. I found some scrap metal and other stuff to pick up, too, and had a pretty good time “off-roading” for a bit. But, I was feeling kind of snarky about how many Modelo cans and bottles I find- way more frequent for my litter pickin’ outings than other beverage containers. Then, I remembered about how groups like Outdoor Afro and Latino Outdoors are working to change the image of the (usually white) “outdoorsy park user type”- those who don’t wear expensive hiking boots and backpacks, or use hiking poles. So, I decided to frame this Modelo can find another way, “At least the people who are drinking Modelo out in the park are enjoying the outdoors!”
Just because I don’t drink Modelo and litter when I’m out on the trails doesn’t mean I have to think any less of the people who do. I do quite enjoy my litter pickin’, after all, and this gives something to do!
For kids ages 5 - 18 in beautiful Wildcat Canyon Regional Park- easy to reach off I-80, The Arlington, and San Pablo Dam Road. Homeschoolers and independent studiers welcome!
Bandana Bear: Made by Outside School!
These projects were years in the making, and I’m so excited to have them available now! Click on the images or button below to learn more.
Inspiration, Resources, and Nature News
From wherever…
This picture makes its rounds every now and again. Did you know that Alvarado Park was once a venue for concerts? Long ago there was a dance pavilion over the grassy area above the restrooms, and the rangers know the site as Pavilion Meadow. Later, that became a roller rink that eventually burned down. More recently, although decades ago, the park was famous for thrash bands playing there. Here’s an old picture of Exodus playing in the park, with Tom Hunting on drums, as he is to this day, and a young Kirk Hammett on guitar. You might know him from Metallica! 🤘 One of my older drag racing friends said he grew up on the same block as him in El Sobrante. I want to see if my students can find this exact location. I 🖤 the East Bay!
Wild Grief
There’s an amazing group up in the Pacific Northwest called Wild Grief. They’re currently accepting applications for their 2025 overnight teen, young adult, and family programs, which are free. If this strikes a chord with you, please check them out:
Columbia Employee Store Access
I’ve written about this in the blog before, that I’m a big fan in winter of Columbia’s omni-heat products, and in summer, of their PFG and omni-shield sun savvy lines. Their prices are fair, sizes spot-on, and everything’s wash- and dry-able and long lasting to boot. So, I promote their Employee Store access when they send it to me. I don’t get anything else out of these promotions and just want you to be able to get the same clothes I like, too. Here’s the scoop: Winter Savings Pass is valid until March 2nd. The Employee store is stocked with current season products from Columbia, Mountain Hardwear, SOREL and prAna – all marked at 40% off. For store access, please provide your attached digital invite. Invitees can bring up to four additional guests with each visit. This offer is for store access (not valid online). Valid at their Union City and Richmond Employee Stores. Use this image for access:
Teach Outside
Resources for those interested in outdoor education.
Outside School Nature Helpers
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Set and Event Medic Services
Keep you sunny side up!
Heather
Heather Taylor, California Master Teacher, NREMT
Founder/Director/Teacher, Outside School (www.outside.school)
Founder, Teach Outside (www.teachoutside.org)
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