2 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
Gifts... you want it, we’ve got it, come get it!
S mething f r Every ne (even the d g) The Central Coast’s premier source for culinary supplies & decorative accessories. 1527 Pacific Ave. Downtown Santa Cruz
426-1351 www.chefworks-santacruz.com Monday-Thursday 10-6, Friday & Saturday 10-9, Sunday 11-6
Extended Hours Starting December 6th gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 3
HOLIDAY
GIFT GUIDE Editor Greg Archer Contributors Jenna Brogan Josie Cowden Joel Hersch Elizabeth Limbach Charlie Price Jenny Simeone Proofreader Josie Cowden Art Director Joshua Becker Designers Jennifer Poli Ian Webb Carly Gunther Photographers Keana Parker Publisher Jeff Mitchell x205 Advertising Director Stephanie Lutz x204 Account Executives Kate Kaufman x208 Michelle Hayes x213 Suzanne Welles x219 Kelli Edwards x217 Accounts Receivable Alix Crimbchin x202 Circulation Manager Pamela Pollard x 203 Gift Guide is a publication of Good Times mail 1205 Pacific Ave., Suite 301 Santa Cruz, CA 95060 tel [831] 458-1100 fax [831] 458-1295 letters letters@gtweekly.com sales sales@gtweekly.com Copyright © 2012
4 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
The Art of Gifting
This year, maybe it’s best to pay somebody to untangle your old holiday lights. Three words: “Don’t freak out!” That said, welcome to the Holiday Season. In between attending a plethora of events and making plans to be with friends and family this time of year, we all seem destined to also carve out some time to purchase gifts. That’s where GT’s annual Holiday Gift Guide may prove to be helpful. This year, our guide boasts more gifts, and more places to purchase them, than ever before. And plenty of variety, too—from the unique and bountiful offerings found at the Homeless Garden Project’s Holiday Store in Downtown Santa Cruz (homelessgardenproject.org) to the fine items found in stores like The Warmth Company in Aptos (warmthcompany.com). Be sure to also take note of our special features this year: Second Harvest Food Bank, The Holiday Lights Train, and the area’s top seasonal productions. It’s all here for the taking. Peruse the following pages and use this guide for inspiration. Thanks for reading. Happy Holidays. | GREG ARCHER, EDITOR
talk
WHAT’S THE BEST LOCALLY OWNED STORE TO GRAB A GIFT CERTIFICATE FROM? Twist and Petroglyph. Because Twist has green gifts—you can up-cycle stuff that people bring and re-gift it, which is really good right now. And Petroglyph because you’re doing hands-on, instead of buying more stuff. NAOMI BENDINER WOLDEMAR Santa Cruz | Home
You should get a gift certificate at Hidden Peak Tea House because their teas will blow your gourd. LOGAN SMITH Santa Cruz | Student
Pacific Wave. It's a family store, a little bit for everybody. BARRY BROOKS Santa Cruz | Business Owner
Stripe and Stripe Men in Downtown Santa Cruz. The owner has an amazing eye for style and design, and they source many locally and ethically-made clothing products. SCHUYLAR GREENWALT Santa Cruz | Surface Modeling and 3D Laser Scanning
Bring this coupon in and receive
20% off your entire purchase valid only on regularly priced items in our Santa Cruz retail locations expires 12.24.12
“Real generosity toward the future lies in giving all to the present.”
ALBERT CAMUS
www.synergyclothing.com gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 5
PLAY/DATES NOV/DEC Dec. 1
Dec. 1
Downtown Holiday Parade
Stars at MAH
10am-Noon. Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz 831-429-8433 or downtownsantacruz.com.
Classy, fun and festive with plenty of food and entertainment. Auction MAH fundraiser. Can’tmiss event. 7:30pm, Museum of Art & History, Downtown Santa Cruz, santacruzmah.org.
Dec. 10 Caroling at the Wharf Get ready to sing—a lot. the good news? Hot cocoa will be on hand. 6-8pm. Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz.
DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY PARADE
Weekends— December
Dec. 1
Horse-drawn Carriage Rides
There are about 50 decorated boats in this popular parade on the water. 5:30pm. Santa Cruz Harbor, 475-6161 or scyc.org.
On the weekends, climb on board in Downtown Santa Cruz.
Lighted Boat Parade
Nov. 23-25, Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 21-23
Dec. 1
Holiday Lights Train
The fun begins at 5pm. Scotts Valley Community Center, 360 Kings Village Rd. Scotts Valley.
Listen to carolers as you glide through Victorian Santa Cruz. Reservations: 831-335-4484. roaringcamp.com.
Dec. 2 Jingle Shells Arts & Craft Festival Ocean-inspired gifts. Live music, children's activities and whale lighting ceremony at dusk. Seymour Marine Discovery Center End of Delaware Avenue, Santa Cruz.
14–30 Cabrillo Stage “A Night at the Nutcracker.” Crocker Theater, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-479-6154 or cabrillostage.com.
Scotts Valley Holiday Tree Lighting
SNOW NIGHT
Dec. 14,15,16 Nov. 23-25, Dec. 1-2,
Dec. 6 Snow Night
Holiday Tree Walk
Embrace the white. Snow Night returns to Downtown Santa Cruz, on Cooper Street, near Cinema 9. 5:30pm.
Hop on the steam train and head to Bear Mountain to look at the decorated trees. roaringcamp.com.
Thru Dec. 9
Dec. 8
‘Honk!’
Annual Holiday Gift and Craft Faire
The popular “Ugly Duckling” reboot heads to Shakespeare Santa Cruz and UCSC Theater Arts. A perfect outing for the entire family audiences. shakespearesantacruz.org.
20 craft vendors with naturethemed gifts, live music, children's activities and raffle prizes. Free. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Felton. ‘HONK!’
6 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
‘The Nutcracker’ Embrace Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre’s 10th anniversary production. Civic Auditorium, Downtown Santa Cruz, 420-5260, scbt.org.
Dec. 15 Ranch Holiday Festival Experience the winter holidays as folks did in Victorian and early 20th century times. Crafts, games, treats. Free. Wilder Ranch State Park, Santa Cruz.
HOLIDAY MOVIE AT THE DEL MAR
Dec. 15 Holiday Movie at the Del Mar Theatre Free admission with donation to Second Harvest Food Bank. 11am Downtown Santa Cruz. Contact 469-3220 or visit thenick.com for more details.
Dec. 21 Winter Solstice Original holiday music featuring three top Windham Hill artists. 7pm Kuumbwa Jazz, 320-2 Cedar St. Santa Cruz.
Ongoing Santa At Marini’s 2-6pm Saturdays and Sundays in December. Marini’s Downtown, Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz.
Downtown Trolley: Visit downtownsantacruz.com for more information.
Gift Ideas: Visit the kiosk in on Lincoln Street and Pacific Avenue in Downtown Santa Cruz. Visit downtownsantacruz.com for more information. For more events and information, check out gtweekly.com.
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 7
Embracing Second Harvest’s Bold New Outing
T
he next time you indulge on a $5 latte, think about Kate. She’s the iconic “poster girl” this year for Second Harvest Food Bank (SHFB). That $5, technically, translates into 20 meals for your neighbors in need if it’s donated to SHFB. And while we’re on the subject of spending … imagine what could happen if the money spent on just one meal dining out (let’s say $50) were offered to SHFB. That comes to 200 meals, meaning SHFB would be able to feed even more families battling hungry locally. As you can see, going without a luxury for just one day has its benefits.
8 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
The idea is gaining traction this year as SHFB ventures forth into the holiday season with its “Set A Plate For Kate” program. Beyond donating even just $1, food donated to Second Harvest is, in turn, distributed to community agencies that provide it those battling hunger. SHFB’s goal this year is offer 3.5 million meals. Launched in 1972, Second Harvest Food Bank became the very first food bank in California; the second in the nation. With its mission to eliminate hunger and malnutrition by getting the community involved, it has made immense strides. Its network of 200 local
agencies and programs feeds 55,000 people in Santa Cruz County every month—half of which are kids. These are noble efforts, but take note: the need for food aid is up 38 percent since 2008. In the words of SHFB: “Every action and every dollar makes a difference in the lives of our neighbors in need. Working together, we build stronger communities.” For more information, contact thefoodbank.org or call 722-7110. Visit SHFB at 800 Ohlone Parkway in Watsonville, and be on the lookout for food bins at local store throughout the holiday season.
>>> And take note of the adventurous efforts of Grind Out Hunger (grindouthunger.org). The enterprising new outing on 41st Avenue in Santa Cruz— formerly Santa Cruz Skate and Surf Shop—has been making valiant efforts to also thwart hunger. Added bonus: the merchandise you purchase helps the cause. | G reg Arc h e r
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 23
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2012
Gifts For
MOM
PHI HAND TOWELS Simple and sweet, these embroidered hand towels will not only put a smile on mom’s face, but also dry her hands. With messages stitched into their cotton surfaces like “Home is where your mom is,” or “Life is good, enjoy the little things,” these towels add a personal and thoughtful touch to any bathroom or kitchen. ($12.99) BUNNYS SHOES: 1349 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 426-2926.
DELICIOUS CUPCAKES A cute and delicious addition to any gift, the cupcakes that Buttercup Cakes conjures up daily are sure to delight any mom’s sweet tooth. The German Chocolate Cupcake specifically incorporates divine coconut, caramel and pecan flavors atop rich chocolate cake, but there are many other flavors to be had. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available daily. ($3.50) BUTTERCUP CAKES: 109 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 466-0373. | Jennifer Simeone
10 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
BELLA SOCKS Everyone knows that moms love comfortable things—and everyone can use a good pair of socks for the cold months ahead. B.Ella sock line offers 100 percent cashmere, cashmere blends, and wool socks that are sure to pamper your mom’s tired feet. Whether your mom likes fun patterns, or is a strictly business kind of lady, the B.Ella line will have something for her. (About $15.99) SANTA CRUZ SOCK SHOP & SHOE COMPANY: 1515 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 421-6101, sockshopandshoeco.com.
Give
the
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Karen Welsh RN | Wendy Mathias N.P. | James Kojian MD gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 11
Gifts For
DAD
WINE SHIPMENT Four bottles of the Santa Cruz Mountains finest red wines and a newsletter will make dad one happy oenophile come winter. Purchase a single shipment from the Wine Club of the Santa Cruz Mountains and they'll send over their top picks from local vineyards. Their next quarterly selection goes out Dec. 15 and includes a Cooper Garrod 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, Black Ridge Vineyards 2008 Bordeaux Blend, Clos LaChance 2007 Pinot Noir and a 2009 red from Beauregard Vineyards. ($110 plus tax and shipping) Contact: 477-0500, wineclubsantacruzmountains.com.
FISHING TRIP A winter fishing trip on the Monterey Bay, when snapper, rock fish and lingcod are biting, will give your dad the satisfaction of making some heroic catches for the family frying pan. The trip is likely to land a tasty meal, or several, for the whole family when he gets home. He'll venture out of the Santa Cruz Harbor on one of two Stagnaro vessels: either the “Velocity” or the “Princess.” A four-hour outing for one adult is $49.99. A fishing rod and day license package is $27 per fisherman, plus $5 for fish-cleaning services upon return. STAGNARO'S: 7th Ave and Eaton St., Santa Cruz, 427-2334, stagnaros.com.
SAUSAGE HOOK UP All of the gourmet sausages here are made from humanely raised animals and sustainably produced ingredients. Just drop by the Swift Street Courtyard shop, then go to the front counter, and browse the sausage selection that includes Sweet Italian, California Chorizo, Smoke House Cream Ale & Almond and Smoked Beer Sausage (Approx. $10.99 lb). You could also take dad's gift a step further by consulting El Salchichero's online recipe for Biscuits and Sausage Gravy with Maple Syrup and present him with a seriously delicious breakfast. EL SALCHICHERO BUTCHERSHOP: 402 Ingalls St, Ste 5, Santa Cruz, 423-6328, elsalchichero.com. | Joel Hersch
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Best Restaurant in Soquel Best California Cuisine
Best Restaurant of the Year
10% OFF with this ad! expires 12/25/12
1148 Soquel Avenue; Santa Cruz (Corner of Soquel & Seabright Avenues)
(831) 465-1400
Weekdays: 10am–7pm • Sat & Sun: 10am–6pm gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 13
Gifts For
SIS Cosmetic Surgery and Medical Clinic for Cosmetic Skin Care
Give the Gift of beauty this holiday season... November 15-December 31, 2012
Stocking Stuffers... Gift certificates for your loved ones wrapped in a beautiful gold envelope Available for any amount you choose
Something To Unwrap... Buy 2 Latisse 5mL Kits and recieve 1-3mL Kit FREE $25 instant rebate for Brilliant Distinctions members until 11/30/12 One rebate per person, two per household
MANICURE AND SALON SERVICES Collecting high honors in GT’s Readers’ Poll for Best New Business and Best Nail Salon, Vice (In Capitola) offers a number of treatments for hair, makeup and nail service. But best bets for your sis may be a stellar manicure or pedicure (from $25) VICE: 309 Capitola Avenue, Capitola, 464-1700.
Filler Specials $125 OFF Radiesse 1.5mL $75 OFF Restylane 1.0mL $50 OFF Juvederm 1mL $35 OFF Juvederm .8mL $25 OFF Juvederm .4mL
PLUM BLOSSOM EARRINGS They’re the perfect shape, the perfect color—a purplish gray— and they dangle. They’re also quite beautiful. ($76) ARTISANS: 1368 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 423-8183, artisanssantacruz.com.
Microderm Abrasion & 70% Off Glycolic Peel Packages 6 Treatment packages $430 (save $50) 3 Treatment packages $275 (save $25) NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS OFFERS VALID WHILES SUPPIES LAST VALID THROUGH 12/31/12
Let UltraDerm MedSpa be your Home for the Holidays! Steven L. Garner M.D., F.A.C.S. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Call now for a complimentary consult with Dr. Garner 3311 Mission Dr Santa Cruz, Ca 95065 831.475.4315 www.ultraderm.com www.slgarnermd.com 14 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
FRASIER FIR CANDLE Depending on how tight your bond is with your sis, a dip into Stripe in Downtown Santa Cruz should stir your creativity. We found this wonderful little gem quite appealing [from $14-$32). Consider buying two, toss in some Gal Lip Balm ($7) and Leila Lou Body Lotion ($28) and you’ll be giving sis a real gift bag to remember. STRIPE: 107 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz, 421-9252, stripedesigngroup.com. | Charlie Price
I I Sassy
napkins I I
I I
Papaya Calendars
I I
I I Fun
Laugh out loud books
I Voluspa I candles
Playful mugs
kitchen aprons I I
Tokyo Milk
I I
I I
Rosy Ring Candles
Christmas Ornaments
1349 Pacific Ave Downtown Santa Cruz 831.426.2926 gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 15
Gifts For
BRO
Get them what they really want! Give the gift of health with a quality vaporizer. Dazzle the Glasslover in your circle with a beautiful local piece of glass. We also have many other assorted gifts and stocking stuffers!
Help us help others by participating in our annual Second Harvest Food Drive. We will be taking food donations now through the holidays.
est. 1978 818 Pacific Ave | 831.425.PIPE www.pipesinthecity.com 16 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
DISC GOLF SET When your brother is honing his backhand, forehand and tomahawk discthrowing technique at the DeLaveaga Disc Golf course, he's going to lose a few to the trees and ravines. Put some pep in his step by replenishing his disc stock at DJ’s. They've got your “Valkyrie,” Destroyer” and “Aviar” discs, your “Spiders,” “Rhynos” and “Eagles”—the best selection in the county. ($15.99 to $17.99) DJ'S MINI MART: 833 Water St., Santa Cruz, 426-1722.
SANTA CRUZ WARRIORS GEAR With the first Santa Cruz Warriors game in Reno on Nov. 30—the first home game is Dec. 23—now is the time to buy some home team basketball gear. Give your bro an SC Warriors shirt ($32) in either blue, black or grey, or a cap ($22). You can get him an Opening Night Mini Plan that includes the first game and starts at just $60. Shirts range from $20-$32. Tickets are on sale online and at the SANTA CRUZ WARRIORS STORE: 903 Pacific Avenue, Ste. 101, Santa Cruz, 713-4400, santacruzbasketball.com.
SNAKEY BIKE LIGHT BikeGlow is a 10-foot strand of glowing wire that wraps around any part of a bicycle, giving it 360 degree nighttime visibility. Its two-ounce power supply takes AA batteries and provides 50 hours of continuous glow, or 120 hours of flash-time. ($24.95) ANOTHER BIKE SHOP: 2361 Mission Street, Santa Cruz, 427-2232. bikeglow.com. | JH
For every $50 gift certificate, receive a $10 certificate for yourself!
Best Happy Hour in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Pawn Santa Cruz Pawn Lic. #4402-0994 1101 Pacific Ave. Suite F At the corner of Cathcart • Downtown Santa Cruz 469-PAWN • www.santacruzpawn.com
$5 Pupus, Tiki Drinks & Wine by the Glass 4:30–6pm every night* (*11:30am–6pm Fri–Sun)
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 17
MUSHROOM GROWING KIT Sure, this might be better suited for the gardener in your home, but kids seem to enjoy getting involved and seeing the results of their efforts. There are a few kits to choose from at Ben Lomond’s Mountain Feed and Farm Supply, but we recommend the Portabella Crimini MushroomGrowing Kit. $39.99) MOUNTAIN FEED & FARM SUPPLY: 9550 Highway 9, Ben Lomond, 336-8876, mountainfeed.com.
Gifts For
KIDS LITTLE LAMB Haven’t you heard? It’s not just for Mary any more. This white and light brown stuffed animal is made by Jelly Kat and ideal for a toddler. Cuddle away ($64). But don’t stop there. Take note of the many unique and original childrens’ gifts available at Stripe in Downtown Santa Cruz. STRIPE: 107 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 421-9252, stripedesigngroup.com.
BOOK ON BUGS There’s a plethora of items to choose from at Norrie’s Gift Shop up at UCSC’s revered Arboretum, but a book on bugs captured our interest because it serves as a wonderful educational tool. (Prices vary) NORRIE’S GIFT SHOP: UCSC Arboretum, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, 459-0111, arboretum.ucsc.edu. | CP
TOUCH A SHARK and do some holiday shopping!
10% off one item of your choice Expires 12/20/12
WHERE ELSE CAN YOU‌? ‡ %X\ D EOXH ZKDOH SOXVK WR\ ‡ $GPLUH IDLU WUDGH VFDUYHV DQG jewelry ‡ *HW D JORZ LQ WKH GDUN JODVV MHOO\ ‡ +ROG D VHD VWDU WRXFK D VKDUN ‡ &KRRVH IURP D JUHDW VHOHFWLRQ RI ERRNV IRU NLGV DQG DGXOWV ‡ And NQRZ WKDW DOO \RXU purchases fund ocean education and conservation programs!
Ocean Discovery Shop
Seymour Marine Discovery Center Tuesday-Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12-5 End of Delaware Avenue past Natural Bridges
Special Holiday Shopping Hours Tuesday Evenings, December 11 & 18, 5-7 PM (Free admission from 5-7 PM!)
18 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
831 459-3800 http://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu
me explore yo Co u r o ce a n !
Gifts For
TWEENS ADORA OVERSIZED KNIT POM POM BEANIE Popular among tweens and teens, these oversized beanies will keep their little heads warm and prepare them to weather the unpredictable ‘popular’ trends of middle school. These hats, depending on which combination of bright colors and patterns they display, offer a nice bohemian edge to the everyday clothing monotony. ($14) THE HAT COMPANY: 1346 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 458-9585, hatcompanysantacruz.com.
UNBORED: THE ESSENTIAL FIELD GUIDE TO SERIOUS FUN Parents are always combating the relentless boredom of tweens. Joshua Glenn and Elizabeth Foy Larsen are practically doing all the work for you, with this easy-to-follow, and practically inexhaustible list of fun and safe things for tweens and teens to do. Sections like “How to build a cigar box guitar,” “Backyard Parkour,” and “How to criticize everything,” are sure to keep your tween occupied for at least an hour. ($25) BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ: 1520 Pacific Ave., 423-0900, bookshopsantacruz.com.
MAD MAGAZINES With spoofs, cartoons, and jokes about tween life, Mad is a great way to teach the virtue of being able to laugh at yourself. ($5.99) ATLANTIS FANTASYWORLD: 1020 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 426-0158, atlantisfantasyworld.com. | JS
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 19
Gifts For A Earrings by April Martin Designs starting at $20, hammered gold and silver
LOVER ‘I LOVE YOU’ VASE
HOBO
Downtown’s hip clothing and spiritual items portal, Om Rhythms, has a variety of gifts to choose from, but if you’re wanting to win over your sweetie, this stone vase says it all—literally. ($64) OM RHYTHMS: 1521 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 425-1998, omrhythms.com.
SPORTSHEETS SPORTS CUFFS
Introducing
apparel - fashion accessories - Hobo purses - jewelry Bath and body care - ColoreScience cosmetics
$75 Signature Facial
Simply Skin Esthetics
(reg. $95)
with Sue Bell or Jennifer Heath exp. 12/24/12
500 Soquel Ave. Suite B, Santa Cruz (831) 429.9400 I simplyskinesthetics.com
20 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
Depending on how uninhibited you and yours are, this item could provoke a fun, frothy romp. At $25 it’s a great buy and offers you an opportunity to role play and more. Runner-up: Spartacus Vibrating Nipple Clamp, which is sure to get somebody’s attention. CAMOUFLAGE: 1329 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 423-7613, shopcamouflage.com.
DINNER AT SHADOWBROOK The area’s premier dining haven, often voted best Romantic Restaurant in GT’s Readers’ Poll, has been thriving now for three decades. Perched wonderfully off the Soquel Creek in Capitola, its meals continue to impress. A great way to celebrate your bond. Gift certificates available. SHADOWBROOK: 750 Wharf Road, Capitola, 475-1511, shadowbrook-capitola.com. | Greg Archer
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 21
Gifts For Your
BFF ZIPLINE THROUGH THE REDWOODS Really, can you think of anything better to do with your best pal than something as exciting as this? (From $80) But hey—this may convince you: Use Code GT12 and save 20 percent through Dec. 31. REDWOOD CANOPY TOURS: 420-4357, mounthermanadventures.com.
NIGHT OUT The award-winning, local, certified organic brewery has turned heads locally for some time now. It boasts seven flagship ales brewed on the premises. Its seasonal beers, ciders, draught root beer and, yes, even Kombucha are on tap. We suggest either a night out at the popular haunt, or, a gift box featuring some of the portal’s products and merchandise. SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN BREWING: 402 Ingalls Street #27, Santa Cruz, 425-4900, scmbrew.com.
$10 OFF*
With minimum purchase of $50 • Expires December 24, 2012 *Does not apply to Sex-Ed or sale items. One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other promotion or discount. Applies to in-store purchases only, and subject to stock on hand. Must present coupon at time of purchase.
NUTS The gift list can be endless, and only you know your BFF better than anyone, but we suggest a nice gift bag of assorted treats from Nut Kreations. The Thai Kurry Cashews are a hit here but the Tequila Pistachios rock. (Prices vary) NUT KREATIONS:104 Lincoln Street, Santa Cruz, 431-6435, nutkreations.com. | CP
22 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
Give the Gift of
GLAMOUR! $75 Gift Card for only $50 Gift cards redeemable after 12/25/12
Extension Experts Keratin Treatments Manicure/Pedicure Rockstar Nails Make Up Waxing BEST NEW BUSINESS BEST NAIL SALON
25% OFF
Valid for one item only, limit one per person. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Not valid on sale items, or any other offers. Coupon expires 12-21-12. Good Times Gift Guide 2012
BEST HAIR SALON
HATS • SCARVES • GLOVES 831.464.1700 • Salonvice.com 309 Capitola Ave. • Capitola Village
MEN • WOMEN • CHILDREN
1346 PACIFIC AVENUE DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ 831.458.9585
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 9
Gifts For
FORMER BFFS*
*THAT YOU DUMPED AND THAT YOU NOW WANT BACK
CARVED SLATE FRIENDSHIP STONES There’s an art to winning somebody back, and the best way to do it is through, well, art. A wonderfully chiseled slate stone should do the trick. It’s decorative and will remind that person you so foolishly dumped that you are here to stay. ($12 and up). OM GALLERY: 1201 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 425-9107, omgallery.com.
APOLOGY CARD AND GIFT Cards always seem to do the trick when you want to lure somebody back into your life. Be sincere—apologize. Choose from any number of colorfully creative designer cards. Go the extra distance and toss in a small gift. ($2.50 and up). PAPER VISION: 1345 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 458-1345.
PEACE PIPE Well, technically, they aren’t dubbed “peace pipes,” but the kind of pipes you can find at Pipeline are unique, often ornate and pretty colorful. It couldn’t hurt. (Prices vary) PIPELINE: 818 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 425-7473, pipesinthecity.com. | GA
24 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
Gifts For A
GUY’S GUY STRAIGHT RAZOR SHAVE When your guy friend sits down at Johnny's Barbershop, he'll get the steamed towel, a rich, top-grade lather across the face, and one of the cleanest shaves a man can get. He'll also enjoy the distinct, 1940s-esque manliness of the establishment—the red, white and blue barber spiral pole outside, a rich mahogany interior, leather chairs and antlers mounted over the bathroom door, which is conveniently labeled “The John.” Consider a gift certificate. JOHNNY'S BARBERSHOP: 247 Trescony St., Santa Cruz, 426-8131.
HOME BREWING KIT A guy’s guy may know a few things about drinking beer. But can he craft his own brew? That's the question. You'll get the answer when you gift him his very own Mr. Beer Home Brewery Kit for beginners. ($129) The set-up comes with a glass fermenter, the appropriate tubing, “The Complete Joy of Home Brewing” book and everything else he'll needs to brew his very own brand of organic beer. SEVEN BRIDGES: 325 River St., Santa Cruz, 454-9665, breworganic.com.
BARBECUE TOOL SET Seemingly out of nowhere, your guy’s guy barbecues every day. He's buying lots of meat, stock piling reserve propane and spending an inordinate amount of time Googling marinade recipes. The family is worried. Just gift him such a fine set of grillmanagement tools—spatula ($9.25), tongs ($11.75), basting brush ($12.25), cast iron grill pan ($35 to $80)—that he just can't put any of them down. You've created barbecue monster, but at least everyone is eating well. CHEFWORKS: 1527 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 426-1351, chefworks-santacruz.com. | JH
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 25
Train Yourself The Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train is Right on Track
F
rom its vintage excursion cars, decorated with thousands of festive colorful lights to its cheery holiday carolers, it’s hard not to find this seasonal romp downright enjoyable. But for John Bush, manager of railroads at Roaring Camp, the ride has always been far from ordinary. “The Holiday Lights Train has become a tradition here,” Bush explains. “You have these brightly lit trains running through town and it gives the passengers a chance to see something historic and sing along with the carolers. On top of that, the kids get to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.” Well, that’s always interesting.
26 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
And so is Bush’s backstory. As a kid he says he never made a secret what he wanted for Christmas: A model train. It made sense, then, that fate would take this one-time anthropologist from Colorado, and place him into the railroading business. He says he’s been working on the tracks, as a conductor, or manager of railroads in some realm, since 1974. As for the local eight-car train, which is diesel electric operated—there is another steam-powered standard gage that operates out of Roaring Camp, too—it comes adorned with decorated lights inside and out. Passengers can hop on at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk during the holiday
season. The route winds through the outer edges of Downtown Santa Cruz, through a tunnel and into Pogonip, before making its way back to the beach. Hot cider and music come along with the ride. Bush rotates between conducting and managing, overall, but when asked what he loves most about this business, especially this time of year, he pauses to reflect before saying: “I like getting to show people what the path is like and haul them around through the beautiful country,” he says. “It's a way of really touching the past and that’s nice in a a lot of ways. It’s nice to educate another generation, telling them what the past was
and being able to show them nature that you just don't see from the highway. “Beyond that, I am interested in human evolution, and human relation.” A good gift to have indeed. | Greg Archer When to go: Nov. 24; Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 21-23. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Tickets: $26/adults; $20/children. Learn more at roaringcamp.com or call 335-4484.
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 27
SURFER'S CHRISTMAS STOCKING Gifts For A
SURF BUDDY
The Sex Wax Surf Stocking comes loaded with surf goodies. This year's holiday deal combines an assortment of surf stickers, Sex Wax chapstick and a mini-sunscreen, two bars of wax—something no surfer can have too much of—and a Pearson Arrow T-shirt. It's a great gift for either a seasoned long boarder or a budding grom. ($32) ARROW SURF SHOP: 2324 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 423-8286, arrowsurfshop.com.
INDO BOARD BALANCE TRAINER Training at home with an Indo Board can do wonders for a surfer's balance, but it might be smart to wear a helmet when just starting out. By planting your feet on either side of the Indo board and balancing over the free-rolling cylinder—think of free-wheeling teeter totter— you'll work your legs, develop a better equilibrium and improve your reaction time on a board, which will translate into improvement in your surf game in no time. ($150 to $279) ARROW SURF SHOP: 2324 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 423-8286, arrowsurfshop.com.
SURFING EAR PLUGS Designed by Doc's Proplugs, a doctor-surfer, to keep water out of your friend's ear canals, it's not just a comfort thing—allowing that cold winter swell to creep into the inner ear causes internal bone growth, aka surfer's ear. So Proplug them up and surf happy. ($9.95) PACIFIC WAVE SURF SHOP: 1502 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 458-9283, pacwave.com. | JH
CORE Program Design Group Fitness Classes Personal Training Chiropractic Acupuncture Yoga Massage Boot camps Physical Therapy PreNatal Services Nutritional Counseling
99
$
* one month
personal training *Personal training in small groups of 1-4
includes assessment & water bottle purchase by December 31st, use anytime
49
$
Swedish massage *for first time clients only purchase by December 31st, use anytime
317 Potrero St. Suite C 831-425-9500 www.santacruzcore.com 28 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
O’Neill Surf Shop circa 1962
O’Neill Surf Shop 1115 41st Avenue Capitola, CA 95010 831-475-4151
O’Neill Wetsuits Outlet 1149 41st Avenue Capitola, CA 95010 831-464-6713
O’Neill Surf Shop Downtown 110 Cooper Street Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831-469-4377
O’Neill Surf Shop Boardwalk 400 Beach Street Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831-459-9230
24 Hour Surf Line 831-475-2275(BARL) All store shots by: Marc Prefontaine
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 29
TOTALLY TUBULAR DESIGN BAG
Gifts For An
ECO
PATRIOT
Where the eco-mind meets slick, urban fashion, you get a “Totally Tubular Design”—innovative bags and other accessories made from recycled bicycle tubes. The founder and artist, Lauren Junker, stitches together some pretty sweet stuff: The Pacific Avenue ($110) is a large shoulder strap bag that comes in black with either an orange or blue stripe. The Wilder Ride ($12.50), one of her wallets, is great for storing bank and business cards. The Mellow Lane ($27.50) is a bit bigger and can fit some cash money inside, as well. ARTISAN’S GALLERY: 1368 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 423-8183.
COMPOST COLLECTION PAIL If your friend is a true eco-patriot, odds are they already compost, but do they compost with style? The Anchor Home Collection pail, a black ceramic receptacle for all their compostable meal scraps, holds a gallon of organic material and comes with two carbon filters for the lid, which prevents gnats and odors caused by decomposition from meeting your friend's nostrils. ($29.99) PROBUILD GARDEN STORE: 235 River Street, Santa Cruz, 423-0223, probuild.com.
MUSHROOM KIT The Back To The Roots mushroom kit comes in a milk carton-sized box and, with a couple sprays of mist every day, your friend will enjoy more than a pound of gourmet, pearl oyster mushrooms in just over a week. ($25) DIG GARDENS: 420 Water St., Santa Cruz, 466-3444, diggardensnursery.com. | JH
World Market Bazaar 1233 Pacific Avenue | Downtown Santa Cruz 831.469-3872
30 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
Gifts For An CHERRY BLOSSOM LONG COWL NECK TUNIC Your favorite eco diva will look fetching in this organic long-sleeved tunic from Santa Cruz’s own Synergy clothing line. The hearty colors (“wine” or “cocoa”), soft fabric and bunchy cowl neck are perfect for wintry weather, and the flower decals add a cheery touch. The Peacock and Solid Bamboo Jersey cowl neck tunics are also great picks, with cozy colors like charcoal and deep sea for the former and emerald, wine, charcoal and black for the latter. ($68) SYNERGY ORGANIC CLOTHING: 1229 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, (888) 466-0411 x 201; 1126 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, (888) 466-0411 x 121, synergyclothing.com.
ECO FASHION ISTA
VINTAGE THREADS
GREEN TREE JEWELRY
Win the heart of your environmentally minded friend or loved one by picking out a killer item of used clothing for them. (“Reuse” and “Recycle” are, after all, two-thirds of the environmentalist motto!) In addition to authentic vintage wares, Tomboy carries locally made clothes that your locavore friends will adore. TOMBOY: 1207 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 425-1405, tomboysc.com.
These intricate laser-cut wood earrings give new meaning to the term “statement jewelry.” They’re big, beautiful, and colorful, but, because they’re made from 100 percent recycled, renewable materials in the U.S., they also speak volumes about the wearer’s commitment to the environment. Pick from the geometric designs ($14.95) for a free-spirited friend, or the Kinetic Gear Earrings (complete with working gears; $19.95) for your steampunk sidekick. ECO GOODS: 1130 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 429-5758, ecogoods.com. | Elizabeth Limbach
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 31
Give the Gift of Art
Jewelry Boxes Starting at $120
Tiles Starting at $40
Gifts For A MELLOW AMBIANCE CANDLES Candles Starting at $20
Bath Products Starting at $6.50
STRESSED PERSON
Lighting sets a room's ambiance, and ambiance sets your mood. Consider Votive Candles (99 cents) and a set or two of Lotus Tea Light candle holders ($10, two for one). The Lotus candleholders are small flower-shaped cups imported from the Philippines that come in a variety of colors and infuse a room with a pleasant glow. OM GALLERY: 1201 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 425-9107, omgallery.com. Also available at Cost Plus World Market, 450 River St., Santa Cruz, 466-9188, worldmarket.com.
WORRY BEADS
Posters Starting at $20
When people stress out, meditative rituals can help to take the edge off. Your friend will clutch her string of worry beads in one hand and rhythmically pass each bead around its loop with her thumb, similar to rosary fingering beads. The tradition, which originated in Greek and Cypriot culture, is used to pass time, find inner peace and calm the nerves. (Prices vary) BEAD IT: 1325 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 426-0779, beaditinc.com.
MASSAGE GIFT CERTIFICATE Massages relieve tension. Plus: your friends will act friendlier when the weekend rolls around and you need a campadre, not a porcupine. (From $80) Consider adding on jacuzzi time. TEA HOUSE SPA: 112 Elm Street, Santa Cruz. 426 9700. | JH
Kids Clothing Starting at $36 Earrings Starting at $30
Jewelry • Woodworking • Ceramics • Artwork • Cards & More 1368 Pacific Avenue. Downtown Santa Cruz 831.423.8183 32 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
Holiday Specialities Include: Holiday Cookies Yule Logs Large Selection of Cakes & Pastries Dresdner Stollen
Gifts For A
SPIRITUAL FRIEND
(can be shipped anywhere in U.S.)
Fruitcake, Cookie Trays Order Early!
PSYCHIC Giving the gift of a visit to life-long psychic Barbara White might be exactly the right gift for a friend. White specializes in tarots, reading energy and auras, spiritual assessments on life direction, health, business and, of course, love. A palm reading ($40) will give her the ability to answer basic questions, or you could go for the whole megillah and request the full psychic facial ($120), at which point White will use her psychic abilities to extract the answers to your deepest questions by studying, probing and channeling your spiritual wave length. PSYCHIC VISIONS: 214 Riverside Ave., Santa Cruz, 227-7886.
SPIRITUAL READINGS You have a friend who is constantly striving to discover the essence of their being: their inner path, their deepest values, the meaning of their life, and you want to help them take those spiritual contemplations a step further. To accomplish said aim, you'll gift them “The Best Spiritual Writing 2013,” compiled by spiritual and religious author Philip Zaleski. This literary feast for the hungry soul is a collection of the most thought-provoking articles on spirituality from publications such as The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and Harper’s. Titles include “God's Engineer,” “The Teachable Moment” and “Deep Intellect.” BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ: 1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 423-0900. bookshopsantacruz.com.
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10
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TIBETAN MEDITATION CHIME For friends who practice meditation, the ring of a high-quality, ornate chime can really enhance their experience. The hand-cast, brass Fish Table Chime, made at a Tibetan Colony in India, produces a soothing ring designed for beginning and ending relaxation or meditation. The brass is shaped and carved into a curved fish with a bell hanging from its tail fin, all fitted on a wooden base. ($55) OM GALLERY: 1201 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 425-9107, omgallery.com. | JH
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | Everyday 8am-9pm 1102 Pacific Avenue | Downtown Santa Cruz 420-0135 | www.hoffmanssantacruz.com
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 33
At Play
Local holiday stage offerings shine bright The lowdown on three productions you don’t want to miss this year. ‘A NIGHT AT THE NUTCRACKER’
NIGHT MOVES: Catch these nutty characters in “A Night at the Nutcracker.” Photo: Jana Marcus
Take a holiday classic and mix in some humor a la The Marx Brothers, and you have something wonderfully wicked like “A Night at the Nutcracker.” Directed and choreographed by notable Cabrillo Stage vet Andrew Ceglio, and written by Billy Van Zandt and Jane Milmore, this holiday outing finds the famed Marx Bros. wreaking havoc a ballet company. The musical farce finds the world's greatest detective, Felix T. Filibuster joining forces with a silent butler and his Italian friend and coworker to Constance Stuffington, a patron of the arts and a woman whose fortune has been swiped. As a result, the fate of the big opening night of the city's Nutcracker Suite ballet dangles by a thread. Expect plenty of slapstick, clever one-liners, puns, chases and beautiful girls. Better still: musical numbers, and, what promises to be one of the most outlandish versions of “The Nutcracker” ever to hit the stage. Solid entertainment for the entire family. Musical direction by jon Nordgren.
Dec. 14-30 at Cabrillo Stage, 6500 Soquel Ave., Soquel Drive, Aptos, cabrillostage.com. Tickets: $20-$46. Take note: EVENING WITH THE AUTHORS - Dec. 15. This is a rare chance to meet and talk with the authors of “A Night At the Nutcracker”—Billy Van Zandt and Jane Milmore, along with composer Ed Alton. Free reception open to the public, from 5-7 p.m. at the Cabrillo Sesnon House. Reception is limited to first 160 guests. Please RSVP at cabrillostage.com.
‘HONK!’ Every story seems destined for some kind of modern-day reboot, so why not “The Ugly Ducking.” Based on the favorite children’s tale, here, we find a robust musical that chronicles the story of the feathered protagonist learning to cope with life, understand his own true beauty and, perhaps, grab some love and acceptance along the journey. Take note of the comedy in this tale, which returns to local stages. Kudos to UCSC Theater Arts Department and Shakespeare Santa Cruz for another stellar collaboration, with music by George Stiles, book and lyrics by Anthony Drewe, and directed by Nancy Carlin.
Through Dec.9 UCSC Mainstage Theater, UCSC. Visit shakespearesantacruz.org.
THE NUTCRACKER For years, Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre has impressed locals with its annual Nutcracker production, but this year, the show should be more memorable. For starters, it’s the 10th anniversary of SCBT’s beloved production. To that end, the show will include the Santa Cruz Symphony performing live at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. On another note: congratulations are in order for Artistic Directors Robert Kelley and Diane Cypher, whose long commitment to the ballet theater, have taken the nonprofit organization into its 30th decade this year.
Dec. 14, 15 and 16 at the Santa Cruz Civic, 307 Church Street, Santa Cruz. Visit scbt.org. CRYING FOWL: One character goes from doom to bloom in UCSC’s “Honk!”
34 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
Exp. 2/28/13
831.423.1213
www.chardonnay.com Handmade boxes by Larry Brindly starting at 60.00 Hanging planters by Susan Springfield starting at 22.95
Matchbook prayers by Joni Russell starting at 10.00
Wildlife/Whale Watching Tours Tues. & Thurs. Night Specials Wednesday Night Races Taste of Santa Cruz Sails Champagne Brunch Hawaiian Grill Sails Brewmaster Sails Winemaker Sails Sushi Sundays Sunset Sails Team Building Private Parties
49.50
$
per person plus tax
Public Sails include food and beverages
Sailing excursions year round
Hanging fish by Allison Lougnner starting at 24.95
Ferrari Florist & Gifts (831) 460-7000, (800) 700-3569 514 Front Street, Santa Cruz www.FerrariFlorist.com
70 feet of fun! Chardonnay II is licensed, insured and Coast Guard inspected gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 35
Gifts For A
A Musical Life Begins at Home. We Teach You Why & How!
SOCIAL BUTTER FLY
Our Music Together classes and materials provide children with all the ingredients for music learning - offering them a rich repertoire to actively play with and explore, along with the pleasure and support of being with loved ones in a music-making community.
NOW REGISTERING FOR OUR WINTER SESSION!
Gift Certificates available for classes and instruments Perfect for family members and friends
(831) 438-3514 • musicalme.com
Make a Statement this Christmas & All Year Round
COZY ROBE Visit The Warmth Company and you’ll realize that the store is chockfull of beautiful furniture and gifts with something for everybody. Their selection of robes, towels and cozy throws is wonderful, but their robes are the ultimate in luxury. Made by Pinecone Hill, they’re ultra soft and come in eight fun colors. ($85) THE WARMTH COMPANY: 140 Post Office Drive, Aptos Village, 688-3200, warmthcompany.com.
SPARKLING JEWELRY A necklace and earrings are just what you need for the holiday party, and you will catch everybody’s attention in wonderful well-made jewelry. Local Lisa Johnson makes necklaces and earrings from beautiful earth-tone stones, from $10 to $150. Andrea Menghetti from Pacific Grove designs and crafts jewelry made from imported Venetian glass beads. (From $30 to $130) APTOS SHOES & APPAREL: 20 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, 688-8007, aptosshoesandapparel.com.
FRENCH TICKING PILLOWS
Luxury Hand Painted 100% Silk Pillows Dazzling Colors or Cozy Art Pieces. Zipper bottoms. Washable & durable. Also inserts included are faux down hypo allergenic.
831-227-7631 SHOP ONLINE www.silkbuddha.com MADE IN USA
36 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
These luxury hand-made pillows are filled with soft feathers and covered in vintage and antique fabric. Each pillow is hand done–often from home-spun French linen–and totally unique. Prices start at $59. Patine also sells antique linen tea towels (from $15) furniture, antiques and beautiful hand lotion. PATINE: 304 Playa Blvd., La Selva Beach, 661-0950, patinedecor.com. | Josie Cowden
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 37
Vintage French Unique Jewelry Enchanting Gifts Furniture & Collectibles
Gifts For A
WINE ENTHU SIAST
Clothing
BOTTLE OF HUNTER HILL WINE Who doesn’t love a nice bottle of local wine? It always makes a good stocking stuffer. Try Hunter Hill 2007 “Proprietor’s Reserve” Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged for two years in French oak, this wine can be enjoyed now or savored for years to come. ($40) HUNTER HILL VINEYARD & WINERY: 7099 Glen Haven Road, Soquel, 465-9294, hunterhillwines.com.
lasirenaantiques.com
FLIGHT OF WINE Take your loved one wine tasting. A flight of three different wines at Cava starts at about $12. You can choose exactly what you want from several different flights offered—and then order up some tasty food when you get a bit hungry. CAVA WINE BAR: 115 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 476-2282, cavacapitola.com.
OSOCALIS DISTILLERY BRANDY
Family Owned & Operated Since 1924 Holiday Hours: Sun, Dec 9, 16 & 23 Noon-5pm • Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm 1111 Water Street, Santa Cruz • 426-3111 • www.smithschina.com Visa, Mastercard & American Express 38 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
If you’re looking for something more unusual, try a high-end apple brandy made in Soquel by Osocalis Distillery–$79.99 for 750 ml., or the regular brandy for $49.99. Osocalis specializes in producing fine brandy, using traditional methods. Osocalis also makes grappa, mistelle and pommeau–all available at the distillery if you visit them (by appointment only). DEER PARK WINE & SPIRITS: 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos, 688-1228, deerparkwines.com. | JC
Happy Holidays! Shop local for the women in your life! R E S TA U R A N T + B A R Located at Hotel Paradox 611 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz CA 95060 831.600.4545 I solairerestaurant.com
Clothing ‹ 7HQHTHZ ‹ 9VILZ ‹ 1L^LSY` :JHY]LZ ‹ .SV]LZ ‹ )HNZ ‹ 3PUNLYPL
3VJHSS` 6^ULK :PUJL :HU[H *Y\a ‹ ‹ 7HJPMPJ (]L H[ >HSU\[ (]L *HWP[VSH ‹ ‹ * )H` (]L UL_[ ;V .H`SL»Z )HRLY` =PZP[ \Z VU -HJLIVVR
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 39
Military Surplus
Over 50,000 Gifts! Bring this ad in for
10% OFF New Merchandise
Great Gifts for the Home and Garden! Discover Norrie’s Gift Shop and Nursery
at UC Santa Cruz
Arboretum
Featuring jewelry, plants, garden items, books & other unique holiday gifts.
Open 10-4 daily Located on High St. 1/2 mile up from the main UCSC entrance 831-427-2998 http://arboretum.ucsc.edu
20% OFF Military Surplus some restrictions apply Exp. 12/31/12 GT
Huge Selection of
Flags, Insignias, Signs, Knives, Night Vision, Binos, Camping, Hunting, Survival, MRE's, Camoflauge Clothing, Flight Jackets, Pea Coats, Military Cologne & MORE
J&S Surplus
& Outdoor Store
Highway 1 & N. Struve Rd Moss Landing (Only 15 min. from 41st Ave.) “Look for the Flags” Open 9am-6pm 7 days a week
Gifts For The
FOODIE
DELK BEES HONEY Locally owned Delk Bees Honey is turning out honey with incredible flavors, each one a burst of deliciousness in the mouth and packed with nutritional goodness. Everybody needs a jar of honey over the holidays. Try each different flavor of: black pepper, rosemary, coffee, ginger and others ($8.25 for an eight-ounce jar). APTOS NATURAL FOODS: 7506 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 685-3334. Aptosnaturalfoods.wix.com.
831-724-0588 www.surplusinc.com
ARTISAN CHOCOLATES Ashby Confections makes a range of delicious chocolates, but, for a special gift, the Monterey Bay Salt Caramels are outstanding. They’re little dark chocolate treats with a sprinkling of salt on top – harvested locally by the Monterey Bay Salt Company. ASHBY CONFECTIONS: 7486 Soquel Drive (in Heather’s Patisserie in the Aptos Center), 234-1171, ashbyconfections.com.
ASMUS FAMILY EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL Olives are harvested in Pleasant Valley in Aptos to make this organic olive oil ($24 for 375 ml.) and it would make a unique gift. It’s thick, rich and peppery and exploding with flavor. SEASCAPE FOODS: 16B Seascape Village, Aptos, 685-3134. Seascapefoods.com. | JC
40 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 41
Gifts For
FOOD
MOVEMENT ADVOCATES
TRIO OF PINOTS There’s nothing your food forward friends and family won’t love about these wines: they’re organic, from the Santa Cruz Mountains, and made in a totally sustainable operation. Plus, they’re delicious. ($79) SILVER MOUNTAIN VINEYARD: Visit the tasting room at 402 Ingalls St., Ste. 29, from noon to 5 p.m. Thursday-Sunday, silvermtn.com.
CULINARY WREATH Nothing screams holiday season like a wreath. But this isn’t your average red and green door-hanger. Made from all organic herbs and spices (think: sage, thyme, marjoram, lavender) on a rosemary backing, the Culinary Wreath doubles as decor and a cooking aid. Beyond being organic and local, the proceeds from the wreath go to a good cause. ($65) HOMELESS GARDEN PROJECT: 30 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 426-3609, homelessgardenproject.org.
CUPCAKES Even the hardiest of food movement advocates need to satisfy their sweet tooth. And with the mouthwatering cupcakes at Buttercup Cakes & Farm House Frosting—which feature seasonal, local and organic ingredients— they can feel good about doing so. Pick a variety of flavors in the mini size for a nice assorted gift. ($2 mini/$3.50 regular/$4 gluten free) BUTTERCUP CAKES & FARM HOUSE FROSTING: Buttercup Cakes and Farm House Frosting, 109 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 466-0373. | EL
42 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
1.CREATE YOUR OWN BASKET FOR THE PERFECT GIFT.
2.CHOOSE FROM MANY DELICIOUS & UNIQUE PRODUCTS 3.VISIT...
106 Lincoln Street | Downtown Santa Cruz trueoliveconnection.com 831-458-OILS (6457) gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 43
Gifts For
GARDENER In the Heart of Capitola Village
TRUNCHEON TDS/PPM METER
Holiday Dresses, Tops Cozy Sweaters, Loungewear, Jewelry Gifts & Baubles 120 San Jose Ave. 831.466.0361
Only the gardener you’re buying for would understand how this thing fully works, but this is one nutrient meter to have, especially for those folks out there growing with a hydroponic solution—the meter offers information on the strength of solutions so that one can gauge how many nutrients to offer it while it’s growing. (From $89.) SANTA CRUZ HYDROPONICS & ORGANICS: 5980 Highway 9, Felton 335-9990, schydroponics.com.
WORKSHOP It’s one of the area’s best portals to nab a variety of items for your home and garden, but Dig also wins points for the many workshops it hosts. Its recent Succulent Wreath Workshop proved to be both fun and educational. (FYI: There’s another wreath workshop in December.) But for those of you that have friends and family who are also gardeners, they might appreciate getting involved and meeting other like-minded folks in Dig’s creative workshop atmosphere. (Prices vary: $30 and up.) DIG GARDENS: 420 Water Street, Santa Cruz, diggardensnursery.com.
GARDEN TOOLS OR PLANTS Let’s face it: It’s challenging to get through this place without wanting something for yourself—whether it’s one of Garden Company’s unique fountains or garden sculptures or something from its vast array of home furnishings–candles and the like. Consider giving your gardener friend some tools or even a plant—or a gaggle of seeds. There’s plenty to choose from here. (Prices vary.) GARDEN COMPANY: 2218 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 429-8424, thegardenco.com. | GA
44 | GT Holiday Gift Guide
2012
Annual Inventory Sale Dec 1–Dec 31
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 45
PAPER VISION for THE HOLIDAYS... S
U
S
ST CH CHIL IL B
1345 Pacific Avenue
N’S
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
831.458.1345
“Give the Gift of Dance this Holiday Season”
Gifts For An
ARTIST DANCE LESSONS
Group Classes, Private Lessons and Monthly Passes Available. Purchase gift certificates at www.palomarballroom.com or call 831-426-1221 to customize your own!
Join us December 15th from 8-11pm for our Holiday Ball in Santa Cruz!
Palomar Ballroom 1344 Pacific Avenue • Santa Cruz 4652 Scotts Valley Dr. • Scotts Valley 831-426-1221 • www.palomarballroom.com
46 | GT Holiday Gift Guide 2012
Why not surprise your creative pal with something other than a sketchpad or easel (although you can find plenty at Palace Arts in both Santa Cruz and Capitola). Instead, the gift of dance suggests that they move their creative rhythm differently. ($14 dropin/$60 for new adult members.) MOTION PACIFIC: 131 Front Street, Santa Cruz, 457-1616, motionpacific.com.
OWL MUG Your artist pal will appreciate a mug. After all, its java, tea—or even something stronger—that may get them through their creative works. We found this unique mug at Bunnys in Downtown Santa Cruz. It’s playful and boasts just the right amount of artistic juju. ($15.99). BUNNYS: 1350 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 423-3824.
MAH MEMBERSHIP In case you’ve been nesting in your home far too long, relish the news: Santa Cruz’s Museum of Art & History is has transformed into a hip, events-driven portal with an ongoing variety of activities and art openings/exhibits. If you’re an artist, this is the ideal hotspot—to be surrounded by creativity and creative people. Memberships range from $20 (student/educator) and individual ($40) to the entire family ($60).MAH: 705 Front Street, Santa Cruz, 429-1964, santacruzmah.org. | GA
Gifts For A BALLROOM DANCE LESSONS
DANCER
Chances are your dancer pal already knows where to go to get their groove on—from The Tannery World Dance Center to any number of the local Zumba classes around here—and beyond. But since we are living in the Dancing With The Stars era, this local throwback could be a clever alternative to, say, the gift called leggings. Beginning/advanced drop-in salsa classes begin at $10. Some swing class specials begin at $14. Check the website for more information and note all of the kinetic energy taking place here. EL PALOMAR: 1344 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 426-1221, palomarballroom.com.
MASSAGE Dancers work their butts off. Is there any doubt this would alleviate some of the muscle tension? Our Top Seven Picks. 1. Nourish Santa Cruz, 130 Walnut Ave. Santa Cruz, 429-9355, nourishsantacruz.com. 2. Well Within, 417 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 458-9355, wellwithinspa.com. 3. Five Branches, 200 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 476-9424, fivebranches.edu. 4. Serene Skin & Body, 108 Magnolia St., Santa Cruz, 427-1912, sereneskincare.com. 5. Caress Day Spa, 911 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 462-4422, 6. Skin Essence Day Spa, 16 Victor Square, Scotts Valley, 438 830, skinessencespa.com. 7. Kiva Retreat, 702 Water St., Santa Cruz, 429-1142, kivaretreat.com.
DVDS OF DIRTY DANCING, FOOTLOOSE, FLASHDANCE, WEST SIDE STORY, HAIRSPRAY OR CHICAGO What? You think your dancer friend would scoff at this gift? Think again. Prices vary. Head to LOGOS: 1117 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 427-5100, logosbooksrecords.com; or STREETLIGHT RECORDS, 939 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 421-9200, streetlightrecords.com. | GA
gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 47
Gifts For A
YOGA ENTHUS IAST ROCK CLIMBING CLASSES Any yogi knows that it’s good to mix it up, so why not rock climb on this 14,000 square feet of state-of-the-art climbing terrain. If all else fails, a gift certificate here will still allow the yoga enthusiast to take some of the yoga classes this unique haven offers. (Monthly memberships begin at $49.) PACIFIC EDGE CLIMBING GYM: 104 Bronson St., Santa Cruz, 454-9254, pacificedgeclimbinggym.com.
YOGA CERTIFICATE Wonderfully serene and truly pristine, Pleasure Point’s newest yoga haven offers a variety of classes to choose from in a week’s time—from Yin classes to Sweaty Flow (in a heated room). But take note of the numerous workshops and trainings happening here. This is one of the brightest new spots on the East Side and a gift certificate should warm the heart of your yoga pal. (One-week intro $20; Drop-in $12; Monthly Unlimited $100.) PLEASURE POINT YOGA: 3707 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 479-9642, pleasurepointyoga.com.
YOGA MAT It’s been voted the Best Yoga spot in GT’s Best of Santa Cruz Readers’ Poll on numerous occasions, and its most popular instructor, Victor Dubin, continues to win raves. Nourish’s boutique is also impressive. (Prices vary.) NOURISH: 130 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz, 429-9355, nourishsantacruz.com. | CP
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LASTMINUTE GIFTS!
UKELELE & GUITARS And really … who doesn’t need one? Think about this option for your music-oriented friends, or even, kids and teenagers who are already aspiring to venture forth and hit some high notes. (Prices vary.) APTOS GUITAR: 50 Rancho Del Mar Center, Aptos, 688-1843.
ESQUIRE’S ‘EAT LIKE A MAN’ & A COCKTAIL SHAKER Let’s face it: Some men are hard to buy for. Option 1: Consider Esquire’s super cool “East Like A Man” cookbook ($30). It’s smartly written and full of not only stellar recipes but humorous anecdotes. Option 2: A cocktail shaker ($36). STRIPE MEN: 107 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 421-9252, stripedesigngroup.com.
Gifts for Everyone! 20% Off Any Purchase *Mention this ad. Exp. 12/31/12
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GARLAND, HOLIDAY GIFTS, FRESH FLOWERS When all else fails, this might just do the trick. But don’t stop at handmade (and fresh) garland here. This unique haven in Aptos purchases 98 percent of its flowers from local growers. This is a great option if you are on your way to a holiday party. (Prices vary.) ACE’S FLOWERS: 7520 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 688-2237, acesflowers.com. | CP
Located in the Capitola Village, Across from the Police Station 409-A Capitola Ave. • (925)395-3051 gtweekly.com • GT Holiday Gift Guide | 49
BOOK PICKS
Holiday Book Recommendations from Capitola Book Café 1475 41st Ave # G, Capitola, 462-4415, capitolabookcafe.com
“FLIGHT BEHAVIOR” by Barbara Kingsolver It’s Barbara Kingsolver’s new novel. Enough said— almost. A passionate novel in gorgeous prose about Dellarobia Turnbow, her small Appalachian town, the unearthly beauty of butterflies and the harrowing realworld challenge of climate change.
“SHORT NIGHTS OF THE SHADOW CATCHER: THE EPIC LIFE AND IMMORTAL PHOTOGRAPHS OF EDWARD CURTIS” by Timothy Egan Timothy Egan writes about the history of the American West like no other. His new book about the 19th century photographer Edward Curtis is fascinating, telling both large and small histories, of the artist himself and the vanishing Native American cultures he sought to capture.
“UNDERWATER DOGS” by Seth Casteel Dogs! Diving for balls! This book of striking photographs is perfect for animal enthusiasts. It’s like giving the gift of a big smile with every page turned.
“DREAMING IN COLOR: AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY” by Kaffe Fassett You may already know Kaffe Fassett for his artistry and his amazingly colorful designs, but did you know he grew up in Big Sur at his parents’ legendary restaurant, Nepenthe? In this gorgeous gift book, he uses his storytelling chops to bring you into his extraordinary life.
“WONDER” by RJ Palacio Born with extreme facial abnormalities, Auggie Pullman is a remarkable narrator in this middle-grade book. You will want to follow his journey back to school, regardless of your own age. A very special book.
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This is the year to DAZZLE her!
Sapphire Earrings from $149 • Diamond Earrings from $199 Diamond Necklace $299 • Specials on all Diamond & Sapphire Jewelry
458-9950
102 Walnut Avenue • Downtown Santa Cruz Tuesday–Saturday 10am–5:30pm, Sunday 11am-5pm www.stephansjewelry.com
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BOOK PICKS Holiday Book Recommendations from Bookshop Santa Cruz 1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 423-0900, bookshopsantacruz.com
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DAVENPORT GALLERY
3rd Anniversary Reception & Sale Dec 8th from 4–7pm
10% OFF Art purchase with this ad 450 Highway, Davenport 831-426-1199 Handmade Art, Jewelry, Pottery & Gifts Open Wed-Sunday 11-5pm
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THE SMITTEN KITCHEN COOKBOOK By Deb Perelman We are huge fans of Perelman’s food blog, Smitten Kitchen, and are delighted to say that her debut cookbook is as gorgeous and delicious as her online collection. Covering breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts, this is the cookbook of the season—a great gift for anyone who likes to cook. SWEET TOOTH By Ian McEwan We adore this new novel by the author of “Atonement.” Centered around a young secretary in 1970s-era London who loves fiction and works for the M15, Sweet Tooth is thoughtful, ambitious, and compulsively readable, with a bright witty edge. JOSEPH ANTON: A MEMOIR By Salman Rushdie It’s been two decades since a fatwah was issued against Salman Rushdie (“The Satanic Verses”), but writers, publishers, booksellers and readers still feel its effects today. Joseph Anton is Rushdie’s incredible memoir about his time underground, living with armed guards in a series of safe houses, fearing constantly for his life. SAFARI: A PHOTICULAR BOOK By Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann An incredible book for all ages, this field guide to animals you’d see on a safari includes lively, informative essays and at-a-glance lists of important facts, but the real thrill is the animation of each species; flipping through the book is like watching a 3D movie. IS EVERYONE HANGING OUT WITHOUT ME? AND OTHER CONCERNS By Mindy Kaling Kaling not only played one of the best characters on The Office, she also wrote more than 20 episodes. She is smart and hilarious, and her book, now in paperback, seriously rocks. BUILDING STORIES By Chris Ware This truly spectacular accomplishment redefines the term graphic novel. In more than 200 pages spread over 14 separate printed works—including broadsheets, booklets, and full-sized books— Ware tells the stories of tenants of an apartment building in Chicago. LIVING BEAUTIFULLY WITH UNCERTAINTY AND CHANGE By Pema Chödrön In her newest book, Buddhist nun Pema Chödrön presents teachings that provide a wealth of wisdom for learning to step into the unknown: to be completely, fearlessly present even in the hardest times and most difficult situations.
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2012 ushered in some memorable music. Take note of the local singers and bands that captured our attention—and whose CDs make for a great gift. by Jenna Brogan
WOOSTER//IF ALL THE DEW WERE DIAMONDS
CHRIS RENE//I’M RIGHT HERE>
Taking its name from John Steinbeck’s “Tortilla Flat,” Wooster’s sophomore album is an eclectic follow-up to The Heights of Things, which combines elements of rock, soul, reggae, and blues, and showcases the band’s polished, yet fresh sound. woosterband.com.
STELLAR CORPSES// DEAD STARS DRIVE IN The local horror punk rockers teamed up with Grammy Award-winning producer Joe McGrath to craft their debut album, a high-energy blend of punk, rockabilly, hard rock and melodic rock. Note: The first single “Vampire Kiss” is a nod to The Lost Boys. stellarcorpses.com.
AUDIAFAUNA// GROW DOWN Known for its pop/folk/electronica amalgam, this local outfit— formed by two UC Santa Cruz alums—released its 17-track debut LP in May. Contemplative, minimalist, and sometimes chilling, Audiafauna’s songs will carry you away. audiafauna.com.
Give the gift of inspiration in the form of X Factor alum Chris Rene’s debut R&B album, I’m Right Here. The culmination of the local’s hard work to overcome addiction and become a recording artist, the album is filled with empowering and dance-ready tracks that will have you proud to be a Santa Cruzan. chrisreneofficial.com.
NORA CRUZ SEXTET// SIX IS ENOUGH After 26 years of performing in Santa Cruz, Nora Cruz has unveiled her debut CD, a tribute to the R&B sound of a bygone era. After one listen, you’ll know why this big-voiced vixen has an evergrowing following. noracruz.com.
THE EXPENDABLES //GONE SOFT Everyone’s favorite local reggae/ska/punk outfit released an all-acoustic collection of their hits this year, including “Down Down Down,” “Bowl For Two,” and “24/7.” The perfect soundtrack to driving with the windows down. theexpendables.net.
NORTH PACIFIC STRING BAND//STEAK AND EGGS Five-piece bluegrass collective North Pacific String Band has crafted a rollicking debut album that’s brimming with high-energy banjo picking, a racing fiddle, and a whole lot of soul. northpacificcompany.org.
BASSNECTAR//VAVA VOOM The electronic powerhouse experiments with breakbeat, glitch, drum and bass on his latest pulsating effort, which features a slew of danceable collaborations with artists like Lupe Fiasco, Tina Malia, and Mimi Page. bassnectar.net.
THE MCCOY TYLER BAND// CABIN FEVER BLUES Despite having only played together for just over a year, The McCoy Tyler Band has a seasoned acoustic folk/altcountry/bluegrass sound that makes its debut full-length seem like anything but. mccoytylerband.bandcamp.com.
<TESS DUNN//HONESTY BOX Seventeen-year-old Tess Dunn is not only the frontwoman of a spunky pop/rock outfit—you can’t miss her candy-apple red hair and the giant keytar slung around her back—but she was also born with cystic fibrosis, epilepsy and diabetes. Her zest for life and wisdom beyond her years are present throughout her sophomore album. tessdunn.com.
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1934 main st. watsonville, ca 95076 831.761.2161 gtweekly.com â&#x20AC;˘ GT Holiday Gift Guide | 55