OUR OCEAN

My journey into marine biology began when I was a docent at Long Marine Lab. I was fascinated by the sea cucumber who changed itself from stiff to goopy in an instant. The sea urchin stole my heart when it clung to my hand hoping it was a rock. Lectures from marine biologists inspired me to want to learn more.

Exciting things are happening beneath the salty waves. The ocean is beckoning to be our next big frontier. Around the globe scientists are asking, “How do sea animals protect themselves?” and, “Can we borrow their secrets for success?” They believe that a whole medicine cabinet full of remedies are waiting to be discovered within our oceans.

Scientists, like detectives, search for clues. One noted marine scientist studying ocean mud has declared it contains cancer fighting microbes. Four homely toadfish blasted off into space with astronauts in a scientific study relating to dizziness and balance in humans. Sea slug slime has been found to contain benefits that may help human lung disease. And the search goes on! You too can learn how marine life is making a big splash into your future.

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Did you know? Fun facts for kids.

Hans Christian Anderson Fairy Tale & Fable Writing Contest Each year the city of Santa Cruz has a writing contest with their sister city in Italy, Sestri Levante. The contest is open to children, teens, and adults. Prizes are awarded to top winners in each category. In addition, the manuscripts are sent to Sestri Lavante, where they compete for the foreign prize. Joan Reed Newman among the winners
2nd place 2011 winner for "The Honey Bee Bank." 2nd place 2009 winner for "The Rock & the Pebble" 3rd place 2010 winner for "The Artful Spider"
Honorable Mention in the 79th Annual Writer's Digest Writing Competition Children's category for "Wonk," "Umbi Finds His Voice," and "Greta Goose."