#StirCuriosity

Inspired by the legacy of John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts, we lead research and education programs aboard the historic Western Flyer, connecting science, story, and community.

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The Time X Academy Students Got to Go on the Western Flyer!

November 05, 2025

The vans rolled out of the X Academy Maker Space just as the sky began to lighten, a soft blue glow stretching over Watsonville. It was early—6:45 a.m.—but the energy was unmistakable.

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Recreation trail gets new mural

By Chris Counts, The Carmel PIne Cone, October 31, 2025

PAYING TRIBUTE to three of CanQHU\ 5RZ¶V PRVW PHPRUDEOH ¿JXUHV D mural that depicts John Steinbeck, Doc Ricketts and Kalisa Moore now adorns the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail behind Austino's Patisserie.

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New mural honors iconic Cannery Row figures

By Kyarra Harris, Monterey Herald, October 31, 2025

The 28-foot mural was commissioned by local businessman Chris Shake and painted by San Jose artist Renae McCollum of the back on Shake’s Austino’s Restaurant, 851 Cannery Row. It was completed this week, and faces the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail.

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Robotics Club Takes to the Sea Aboard the Western Flyer

Santa Cruz County Office of Education, October 30, 2025

Students from the countywide Robotics Club recently set sail aboard the legendary Western Flyer, once used by John Steinbeck and Doc Ricketts on their 1940 expedition to the Sea of Cortez.

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New Mural Celebrates Cannery Row History in Monterey

By Ricardo Tovar, KSBW, October 29, 2025

MONTEREY, Calif. — A new mural is being installed at Cannery Row in Monterey, located on the rec trail behind Austino's restaurant, featuring figures significant to Cannery Row's history, including John Steinbeck, Doc Ricketts, and Kalisa Moore.

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Monterey celebrates 180 years of Old Fisherman’s Wharf

By Joyce Kim, KSBW, October 13, 2025

Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf celebrated its 180th anniversary with a community gathering that featured historic boats, live music, and a sea-life themed birthday cake.

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