Gift Of Music To Leo’s Haven

Funds for Swirl Chimes Donated by Seahorse Swim School’s Tiffany Harmon

A recent significant donation toward LEO’s Haven at Chanticleer Park is music to the ears of the Santa Cruz Playground Project, County of Santa Cruz and the children who will rock and roll on the future playground. In a gift honoring her mother, Tiffany Harmon, owner of Seahorse Swim School, has donated $6,650 to finance the swirl chimes, one of the musical elements in the playground’s Sensory Discovery Garden.

“My mom was dedicated to classical music and opera. The swirl chimes remind me of those times with her,” said Tiffany, who also hosts KZSC radio’s Joy in the Morning reggae music program. “I am thankful for music being an integral part of my life. Let’s all share in the sound of music,” she said.

The donation is another big step toward LEO’s Haven’s nearly $2 million fundraising goal for the design and construction of the first playground in Santa Cruz County committed to encouraging children of all abilities to play together. With the support of partners Shane’s Inspiration, the Chanticleer Park Neighbors Association and County of Santa Cruz, LEO’s Haven will provide interactive and sensory-rich experiences for children ages 0-5 and 6-12.

Playground designs include a sensory touch wall, replica farmer’s market and accessible and traditional swings and slides from which to descend from the playground’s multi-level barn structure.

The Sensory Discovery Garden will welcome children as they enter the main entrance from the parking lot. Harmon said the swirl chimes were her favorite instrument because of their design, which allows children of all abilities to make music. The owner of Seahorse Swim School, Tiffany said it was also the instrument that most reminded her of water.

“I’m so glad Tiffany generously decided to sponsor these chimes,” said Tricia Potts, founder of the Santa Cruz Playground Project, an all-volunteer group dedicated to raising the funds for LEO’s Haven. “Musical instruments are some of my children’s favorite pieces of play equipment, and I know generations of children will enjoy making music at LEO’s Haven.”

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To date, numerous individuals, business and community groups have committed to helping fund LEO’s Haven including the Santa Cruz Warriors, Monterey Peninsula Foundation, and local Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis clubs. For a complete list, or to add your name to the list of donors, visit www.santacruzplaygroundproject.org.