Aptos Life

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6 Year Old Ross Domburg of Holland Catches her first Wave, Page 7

PG 4

Pg 5 Aptos Farmers’ Markets

Pg 15 Equine Rescue Center

Inside

Farmers’ Markets Community Calendar Theatre Reviews Café Sparrow Let’s Talk Strength Ladies Baby Boot Camp

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Seascape Sports Club See page 6 Inside

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Anything Goes Review See page 12 Inside

Monthly publication dedicated to covering everything in Aptos CA.

Comerica Bank Cabrillo Stage Challenger

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CHANGE YOUR BODY, CHANGE YOUR LIFE!

New Student Special 10 days of unlimited yoga for

$20 Class Schedule Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 6am Saturday Sunday

8am 8am 8am 8am 8am 8am 8am

10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am

12pm 12pm

4pm 4pm 4pm 4pm 4pm 4pm 4pm

6pm 6pm 6pm 6pm 6pm

8pm 8pm 8pm 8pm

Come check out our world class facility. Huge yoga room with Eco friendly antibacterial ooring. Locker rooms with 7 private showers, 4 private restrooms, and the most unique top of the line heat system in the county!

Stop in and shop our lululemon boutique!

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Table of Contents Aptos Farmers’ Markets 5-6 Comerica Bank Challenge 6 Surfing lessons Rio del Mar Beach 7 Community calendar 8-9 Café Sparrow 11 Theatre reviews 12 Let’s talk strength training ladies 13 Where are they now 13 Equine Rescue Center and Sanctuary 15 Baby boot camp 15

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Publisher

Photography

Jeremy Burke

Tarmo Hannula Jeremy Burke

General Manager Victoria Nelson

Editor

Tom Dunlap

Editorial Erik Chalhoub Todd Guild Tarmo Hannula Roseann Hernandez

Advertising Jeanie Johnson Tina Chavez Susie Ronzano Jessica Woods

Production Darryl Nelson

Design

Jeremy Burke

Aptos Life is published monthly by the Central Coast Publishing(The Marketing division of the Register-Pajaronian).

All rights reserved, material may not be reprinted without written consent from the publisher. Aptos Life made every effort to maintain the accuracy of information presented in this publication, but assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions.

Website

Aptoslife.com - Website coming soon should be live by the end of August.

Contact Us Aptos LIfe

7605-B Old Dominion Ct. Aptos, CA 95003 (located in the Aptos History Museum)

877-694-9048

info@aptoslife.com

Thank you for reading!

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Meet, eat and pick up

Something to treasure at Seascape Village Farmers Market

By Roseann Hernandez For the Aptos Life

If you are lucky, towards twilight you can sit on one of the benches at Seascape Park and catch a wave of pelicans just skimming the cliffs heading north as they make their way back from foraging along the beaches of the Monterey Bay. The park is a great venue for play dates for those who appreciate a good view and taking the trails down to the beach are like going on an Indiana Jones adventure without the Nazis and rolling, giant boulders. Actually, the trails are very nice.

Due to the breadth of the Seascape Beach Resort, a trip to Seascape feels like going on vacation – even if you are a local.

Men dress in polo shirts and short khakis and children have that sun-kissed look that isn’t quite ground in yet.

In Seascape Village, at the intersection of Seascape Boulevard and Sumner Avenue, a collection of shops and restaurants suits the needs and fancies of the tourist and local alike, and on Sundays a special treat – a certified farmers market where you can buy an organic, heirloom tomato but also handmade jams, vintage jewelry, children’s accessories, beach-inspired art, yummy cupcakes and more while listening to live music softly played and drink-

ing a nice, cup of caffeination from Full of Beans, coffeehouse and delicatessen.

The Seascape Village Certified Farmers Market has been providing a cozy selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods and fine and wearable works of art from local artists for four years. Julie Kellman, owner of Seascape Foods Market located in the village, said she started the market at the suggestion of a friend and customer.

“They said ‘why don’t you have a farmers market in the courtyard?’”

For a busy business owner the new venture was no easy task, Kellman said, having to “work out all the kinks” in the beginning and each week having to check all seller permits, making sure weights and measures are on and all vendors are “doing well.”

Yet for Kellman, the extra effort is worth it – the market provides a venue for local artists and small-scale farmers who may not be able to get into the larger markets while providing an opportunity for tourists to pick up a special keepsake to remind them of their holiday and a venue for neighbors to meet and socialize.

“Many people live but do not work in Seascape and the market provides a meeting place for the community,” said Kellman.

“Everything I like, I grow,” said Theresa Whalen of Sisters Harvest Family Garden.

Happy customer at the Nelson Family Organics stand. The small, CCOF certified organic family farm is based in Watsonville

Colorful display of Serendipity Jams, Spreads and Preserves - all handmade and crafted from locally sourced, organic produce. Photos by Roseann Hernandez/Aptos Life

The no-spray farm based in Watsonville is a family affair with the sisters, mom, dad and nephew all pitching in.

“My mom has a green thumb,” Whalen said, while overseeing a delectable stand filled with three varieties of blueberries, summer squash, edible flowers, and culinary herbs such as lemon balm and mint. Blackberries, peaches, apples and more varieties of squash are coming soon, said Whalen.

Next to Whalen is Janice Elizzabeth at the Berry Blessed Farms stand featuring kale, romain lettuce and baskets upon baskets of “the sweetest Albion strawberries.”

“I’ve had customers that come every year for my strawberries,” said Elizzabeth, who is also a teacher and artist.

Kristen Cederquist is a big fan of Berry Blessed Farms strawberries and uses them in her range of jams under the name of Serendipity Saucy Spreads, which she started with her mom back in 2009.

Using locally sourced, organic produce, Cederquist crafts nuanced jams, spreads and preserves that make you forget all about the PB in PB&J. Cederquist says they produce hundreds of varieties throughout the year such as – Strawberry Preserves with Reduced Balsamic Vinegar (“the darker side of strawberry,” Cederquist said) and BlackBerry Sage Preserves, adding ingredients that don’t outshine but enhance the fruit flavor.

“I get to play with fruit and make people

happy,” Cederquist said.

For visitors in search of a unique gift or keepsake to remind them of their time in Seascape, a number of jewelry makers have stands at the market, including designer and owner of Bella Mare Sea Glass, Leslie Stabile.

Stabile uses sea glass found during her travels to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Europe and throughout the California Coast to create jewelry with glass that took nature 20 to 30 years to soften.

“Nature took our mistakes and turned it into something beautiful,” said Stabile who can walk down her palette of rings, pendants and necklaces and tell you exactly where she found the glass, now encased in a silver band, ready to wear.

Alice Riordan is a gemologist who creates one of a kind jewelry from vintage parts, such as old lapels, pins and watches.

She said visitors may be surprised to see diamond engagement rings and said the market has a really pleasant atmosphere and is a nice, community market.

“You can find beautiful jewelry, jam and produce all in one market – it is great,” said Riordan.

Seascape Village Certified Farmers Market runs Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the courtyard at Seascape Village located at the intersection of Seascape Boulevard and Sumner Avenue across the street from the Seascape Beach Resort in Aptos.

Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College grows in popularity

By Roseann Hernandez For the Aptos LIfe

There really is no earthly reason to still buy your produce at a mainstream supermarket.

Sure, it may be more convenient, but with a bit of foresight and pure gall, one can join a CSA scheme, hit up the many fruit and vegetable stands where they at least sell in bulk and you don’t have to buy pre-packaged, five-pound bundles of green beans (you know who you are) or get really into the swing of things and buy fresh, locally sourced, organic, seasonal fruits and veggies at any of the at least six (by today’s calculations) farmers markets in operation throughout the county.

Heck, there is even a farmers market on Thursdays at the Capitola Mall.

Well, the swingiest farmers market of them all has to be the Aptos Farmers Market, held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon at Cabrillo College.

The multi-level extravaganza of goodness features 80 vendors selling produce, herbs, artisan cheeses, breads and baked goods, eggs from hens that get to live free, sustainably-caught fish, guilt-free meat, pastas and their sauces, olive oil produced from olives grown in Watsonville, fairtrade coffee served by winsome youth with dreadlocks and much, much more.

You can also get your knife sharpened and attend cooking demonstrations and

special programs offered at scheduled times each Saturday. During the next couple of weeks you can learn how to pickle and make jam, preserving the bounty of summer in a jar.

“This is such a fantastic market,” said Marguerite Remde, owner of Belle Farms in Watsonville and producer of Tuscanstyle olive oils. “There is a great selection of produce by a lot of great farmers,” adding that some loyal customers are here at 7 in the morning “ready to go.”

Cabrillo College student and market regular, Ariane Gerrard, appreciates that vendors are welcoming and eager to talk.

“The farmers are really friendly and interested in talking about their food,” Gerrard said. “They don’t get annoyed if you ask them questions.”

Gerrard and two friends, Caitlyn Vassaur and Suzy Martinez, are taking a break, watching the Farmer’s Market String Band as they cradle their cups of coffee and each clutches their reusable, cloth bag filled with market finds.

Vassaur, who will be starting Bauman College in Capitola in September, said that coming to the market is “a good Saturday morning ritual and a great way to start the weekend – we start at the bottom to get our coffee and make our way up.”

Walking through the market you will find unique products that can liven up a meal or cause you to rethink your very ideas of what food should look and taste like.

The Farmers Market String Band delights adults and children alike with American style folk music. Photos by Roseann Hernandez/Aptos Life

Watsonville-based Salsi Ranch is one of the only domestic producers of capers in the country, said proprietor Donna Bradford, who salt-cures the capers, which grow in low-lying bushes on the ranch off Mount Madonna Road.

The difference between salt-cured and vinegar soaked capers, she said, is like the “difference between a canned green bean and a fresh one.”

Cabrillo Market on Page 6

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Cabrillo Market

Continued from page 5

The eye is drawn to a pile of crisp-looking, purply-blue string beans at the corner of Webb’s Organic Farm stand. Lowell Webb, who works the same land in Soquel that his great-grandfather farmed in the 1800s, explained that the beans are not a visual hallucination but the result of a little old French lady who gave him the seeds and demanded he plant them.

“She said they are called ‘haricot bleu’, which is just ‘blue bean’ in French,” Webb said. The beans do not stay blue when cooked, so Webb recommends you add them to salads or pop them into the pot with regular, not quite as exciting green beans right at the end of cooking time to get the full flavor.

Speaking of color – did you know that different types of hens lay different colored eggs? Soquel-based Fogline Farms specializes in pasture-raised pork free of added nitrates and pasture-raised chickens and currently has ten different breeds of chickens, each laying their own unique color.

“All pigs and chickens are raised outside” and all breeds are selected for their heartiness and ability to be raised outdoors, explained Johnny Wilson at the Fogline Farm stand. A relative newcomer, Fogline Farms is in their fourth season and slaughters just two pigs a week in their own butcher shop where they produce their own cuts and sausages, Wilson said, so customers can be confident that their products are “extremely fresh.”

They also move their chickens to fresh grass everyday and the marinades they use are made from fruits and herbs grown on the farm.

Not satisfied with just growing one type

of tomato, Munak Ranch in Paso Robles currently has 12 varieties to choose from, in addition to five varieties of cherry tomatoes – and they are not even all red.

Frankie Gomez, at the Munak Ranch stand, said they have been farming for over 20 years and that his personal favorite is the pineapple tomato because it’s “the sweetest.”

The farm also has nine varieties of melon, which seem to be a big hit with the patrons as two ladies each walk off with a couple after trying a slice.

Customer Ed Nadolski selects a bunch of Munak Ranch’s lemon cucumbers, which to an untrained eye look more like a small squash than a cucumber. Nadolski said the crisp and slightly citrusy taste of the cucumber make them good in salads.

Nadolski is with wife, Michelle, Watsonville residents who get their provisioning for the week at the market where they said the produce is fresher than at stores, there are more heirloom crops and they get to buy fresh beef and locally caught fish.

“There is more variety at the Aptos Farmers Market than at any other farmers market we’ve been to,” said Nadolski.

Completing the market experience is Ben Lomond’s Mountain Feed and Farm Supply, “a sustainable living convenience store,” said Jorah Roussopoulos, as he makes final checks to cables and speakers before special musical guests, country singer/songwriter Larry Hosford and Jeff Cruse start their set at the store’s corner stand, “We have been invited here to round out the local food movement,” Roussopoulos said, who also runs the preserving workshops at the market. In addition to the workshops,

Taste testing : Zena Foods from Seaside provides a savory sample of “Mediterranean nachos” - handmade crisp pittas dipped into a tabbouleh and feta cheese salad.

their packed stand has all the products you would need for canning, preserving fruits and vegetables, making cheese, yogurt and kefir.

One stalwart lady enquired about the beginner beekeeping kit.

“What do you do with five flats of berries – you make jam,” he said. “What do you do with your extra cabbage – you make sauerkraut.”

A logical conclusion to a bumper crop of a morning.

Aptos Farmers Market is open yearround, Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon at Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, in Aptos. Parking is free.

Tennis world descends on Aptos

By Glenn Cravens For the Aptos Life

Aptos will once again host some of the top tennis players in the world.

Twenty-two players will compete for $100,000 in prizes. It is the longest running ATP Challenger Tour events in the United States.

The event begins Aug. 4 with a couple of qualifying matches, and the main draw for singles and doubles begins Aug. 6.

Two of the top 100 players in the world are scheduled to attend the event. Russian tennis player Igor Andreev is the highestranked attendee, coming into the event at 92nd in the world.

Andreev recently competed in the Farmers Classic in Los Angeles two weeks ago, where he went 1-1. He’ll try to reach a championship match for the first time since March, when he reached the finals of the Dallas Tennis Classic.

Andreev is one spot in the rankings ahead of Rajeev Ram, who is also scheduled to compete.

The Colorado native, Ram is the No. 93rd ranked player in the ATP. He played in three tournaments in July, reaching the semifinals twice. He, like Andreev, was at the Farmers Classic, where he reached the semifinals; he lost to eventual champion Sam Querrey.

Ram will try to make it to a finals match for the first time since April, when he battled for the Leon Challenger championship in central Mexico.

Ram is familiar with the Comerica Bank Challenger, having played for the singles title in 2005 — it was his first time competing in the tournament — where he lost to Andy Murray. This will be his fifth appearance.

Ram was last in Aptos in 2010, where he lost in the first round.

Defending champion Laurynas Grigelis is not scheduled to compete.

Ilija Bozoljac stretches out to hit the ball during the championship of the 2011 Comerica Bank Challenger at the Seascape Sports Club in Aptos. Bozoljac lost in straight sets to Laurynas Grigelis. The 2012 Comerica Bank Challenger is scheduled to take place in August. Photos by Glenn Cravens/Aptos Life

Laurynas Grigelis prepares to hit the ball during the championship of the 2011 Comerica Bank Challenger at the Seascape Sports Club in Aptos. Grigelis defeated Ilija Bozoljac in straight sets. The 2012 Comerica Bank Challenger is scheduled to take place in August.

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Sittin’ on top of the world:

An introduction to the world of surfing at Rio Del Mar Beach

By Tarmo Hannula Of The Aptos LIfe

Have you ever been tempted to surf?

Or have your kids shown interest — but you’re unsure how to get started and you don’t want to come across as a beach buffoon?

Here’s a simple way into the water: Take a few surf lessons with the locally based Club Ed International Surf School and Camps. Founded by professional surfer Ed Guzman in 1989, Club Ed welcomes all skill levels in either private of group lessons. All of the instructors at Club Ed are Lifeguard, CPR, and First Aid certified.

Unsure of the right gear? Club Ed provides wetsuits and surfboards (or you can bring your own). This way, if you catch the surfing bug, you’ll learn what you need and what you don’t need.

For the truly eager, Club Ed also features a Santa Cruz Summer Surf Camp for teens and adults. The five-day camp is held at Manresa Uplands State Park, steps away from the breaking surf.

“If people are willing to try, I’ve found, they are capable of so much more, even more than they know,” Guzman said.

“Teaching surfing is a blossoming process; people open up at different paces. We mainly try to teach people how to get centered and then to take that orientation out into the water.”

On Tuesday, Sandy and Ed Domburg of Holland signed their daughter, Roos, 6 and son, Sam, 8, up for an hour private lesson

A group of Girl Scouts learns the basics during a lesson at Rio del Mar Beach through Club Ed. Photo by Tarmo Hannula/Aptos Life

at Rio Del Mar Beach.

“We saw an ad about this and it sounded good,” said Sandy Domburg. “Our kids have always talked about surfing in California and this is our chance to do it while touring the state.”

Under the instruction of Sky Zucker, the pair of Dutch children, garbed in black wetsuits, were able to stand up and get several dazzling rides, on their own, after only about 15 minutes of instruction. Nearby a group of about a dozen Girl Scouts took part in one of Club Ed’s group lessons.

To the south, at Manresa Uplands State Park, about 18 teens sat in a large circle around a fire at Club Ed’s Summer Surf Camp enjoying sandwiches after a morning of surfing.

“I came to this camp when I was 11 and now I’m 16 and I’m back,” said Brooke Sabes of Minnesota. “I felt I made a strong connection with their instruction the first time. They are really caring people. I’ve learned so much, not just about surfing and ocean safety, but about being with people and getting along and working together. It’s definitely been a rewarding experience.”

Guzman said his lessons begin with ground school, where students learn the dynamics of ocean safety and awareness, the basics of how waves work, currents, rip currents and changing conditions. They get to know the surfboard and learn not only how to handle a board in the water but also on dry land.

“We also teach them about surfing etiquette — the dos and don’ts, the polite and friendly way to engage with other surfers,” Guzman said. “There’s road rage on the highway and there’s surf rage in the ocean and we want to avoid that. You learn to take your turn and show respect.”

Guzman said he has taught people as young as 3 and a half and as old as 82 to surf.

Austin Stewart, 15, who lives in Los Gatos, said he was enjoying his stay at Club Ed’s Surf Camp.

“I really wanted to learn how to surf and these folks helped me do that,” he said. “I learned extremely fast and they worked with me well. Now I have my own board and I want to continue surfing.”

Guzman said that swimming and surfing has been in his family for generations. His grandmother, Dorothy Becker, learned surfing in Hawaii in 1915 while competing in a national swim meet. She went on to become the first woman to perform a headstand while riding a surfboard.

“My grandmother came to this area in a wheelchair, suffering from Scarlet fever,” Guzman said. “One thing she started doing was swimming and she swam her way out of her illness. The ocean is a healing place.”

Kim Kaminski, 16, of Minnesota said she was taking part in the Surfing Camp for her first time.

“I’m loving it! I got up and rode for my first time on my first day out,” she said. “The ground school was really helpful. It saved me so much time to learn the basics. These people are great. Everybody gets along and everyone is willing to help.”

Guzman said that at the peak of summer he employs about 18 people. They set up the Club Ed Surf School and rental trailer in three locations: Cowell’s Beach on the north side of the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf; Rio del Mar Beach on Beach Drive and at Manresa State Beach.

“We’re also teaching stand-up paddle surfing; that’s a real big trend right now,” Guzman said. “Surfing is a great way to stay healthy. It’s wonderful to be able to push your fears and learn something new. It’s physical, it’s fun and it’s exhilarating. When you use your Roos Domburg is all smiles as she glides toward shore as her brother, Sam, recovbody and you’re moving all your parts, especially in the ers from a spill. Photo By Tarmo Hannula/Aptos LIfe

ocean, it feels good.”

Club Ed also features special surfing trips out of the country, including Baja and San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. For information visit www.club-ed.com or call 4640177.

Ed Guzman’s grandmother, Dorothy Becker, is shown doing a headstand in Hawaii in

Community Cale Wed. August 8 Cabrillo Stage Presents Anything Goes 7:30 pm Cabrillo Stage. All aboard for Cole Porter’s Tony Award winning musical. This saucy and splendid revival is one of the greatest musicals in Broadway history. Peppering this hilariously bumpy ride are memorable Cole Porter standards, including “I Get A Kick out of You,” “It’s Delovely,” “You’re The Top” and “Anything Goes.” It’s the perfect family show! For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 La Selva Beach Summer Camp From 7:30am 6:00pm Register your 6-12 year old child at one of our recreation sites for a fun-filled summer of games, arts & crafts, sports, cooking, field trips, and SUMMER ADVENTURE TRIPS! Four sessions are available with fullday and partial-day options. Sibling discount of 15%!

Location:: La Selva Beach Clubhouse Contact:: Registrations, 831-454-7941.www.scparks.com Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club.

Har-Tru clay court day Free Clinics offered by Har-Tru on Wednesday 2nd Round Matches. Sponsor Hospitality by Seascape Foods. 11a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information contact Seascape Sports Club 688-1993.

Wine Wednesdays at Sanderlings. Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort, One Seascape Resort Drive. Offering a different Santa Cruz wine, tapas & live music weekly. $15 per person (plus tax & gratuity).Phone: 800.929.7727 sanderlingsrestaurant.com

Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club. Quarter Final Matches Women s 105th Cal Open Begins. Sponsor Hospitality by Seascape Foods. A Night to Rally” (Fund Raiser / Wine Tasting Event) 11am - 11 pm. For more information contact Seascape Sports Club 688-1993.

Cabrillo Stage Presents A Chorus Line 8:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. A chorus line is a stunning musical-verite about a chorus audition for a Broadway musical. It tells of the achingly poignant ambitions of professional Broadway gypsies to land a job in the show, and is a powerful metaphor for all human aspiration. It is a brilliantly complex fusion of dance, song and compellingly authentic drama. The show was instantly recognized as a classic, receiving 9 Tony Awards and a Pulitzer, among many others, and being one of the longest running shows on Broadway. Adult themes and language. 8 pm. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Escaping Queens. 8:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. Escaping Queens is Santa Cruz composer Joe Ortiz’s musical memoir, making its world premiere at Cabrillo Stage on August 10. In the shadow of the Queensboro Bridge lies the heart-rending and comic story of an immigrant family. Through the eyes of a young boy, we meet a zany cast of jubilant characters—a gambling Puerto Rican father, a nurturing Italian mother, a lovecrazed teenager, a lurking neighborhood bookie and Doo Wop kids singing on the street corner—who weave the tale of a desperate escape from New York. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154

Thurs. August 9

Sat. August 11

Cabrillo Stage Presents Anything Goes 7:30 pm Cabrillo Stage. All aboard for Cole Porter’s Tony Award winning musical. This saucy and splendid revival is one of the greatest musicals in Broadway history. Peppering this hilariously bumpy ride are memorable Cole Porter standards, including “I Get A Kick out of You,” “It’s Delovely,” “You’re The Top” and “Anything Goes.” It’s the perfect family show! For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 La Selva Beach Summer Camp From 7:30am 6:00pm Register your 6-12 year old child at one of our recreation sites for a fun-filled summer of games, arts & crafts, sports, cooking, field trips, and SUMMER ADVENTURE TRIPS! Four sessions are available with fullday and partial-day options. Sibling discount of 15%!

Location:: La Selva Beach Clubhouse Contact:: Registrations, 831-454-7941.www.scparks.com Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club. Comerica Bank Day. 2nd Round Matches. Sponsor Hospitality by Britannia Arms. 11a.m. - 5 p.m.

Aptos Farmers Market Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel DriveWith over 80 vendors, find an unmatched selection of locally grown fresh produce, flowers & artisan products. FREE. 8am - noon, rain or shine. For more information contact Monterey Bay Farmers728-5060 montereybayfarmers.org Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club.

11am - 1:30pm. Semi-Final Matches. Sponsor Hospitality

by Zameen Mediterranean Cuisine Cabrillo Stage Presents A Chorus Line. 2:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. A Chorus Line is a stunning musical-verite about a chorus audition for a Broadway musical. It tells of the achingly poignant ambitions of professional Broadway gypsies to land a job in the show, and is a powerful metaphor for all human aspiration. It is a brilliantly complex fusion of dance, song and compellingly authentic drama. The show was instantly recognized as a classic, receiving 9 Tony Awards and a Pulitzer, among many others, and being one of the longest running shows on Broadway. Adult themes and language. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Anything Goes 7:30 pm Cabrillo Stage. All aboard for Cole Porter’s Tony Award winning musical. This saucy and splendid revival is one of the greatest musicals in Broadway history. Peppering this hilariously bumpy ride are memorable Cole Porter standards, including “I Get A Kick out of You,” “It’s Delovely,” “You’re The Top” and “Anything Goes.” It’s the perfect family show! For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Escaping Queens. 8:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. Escaping Queens is Santa Cruz composer Joe Ortiz’s musical memoir, making its world premiere at Cabrillo Stage on August 10. In the shadow of the Queensboro Bridge lies the heart-rending and comic story

Fri. August 10

Wine Tasting Seascape Foods. $3.00 Wine Tasting every friday from 4 pm - 6 pm. Featuring a different winery every week. For more information contact Seascape Foods in Aptos 685-3134 La Selva Beach Summer Camp From 7:30am 6:00pm Register your 6-12 year old child at one of our recreation sites for a fun-filled summer of games, arts & crafts, sports, cooking, field trips, and SUMMER ADVENTURE TRIPS! Four sessions are available with fullday and partial-day options. Sibling discount of 15%!

Location:: La Selva Beach Clubhouse Contact:: Registrations, 831-454-7941.www.scparks.com

of an immigrant family. Through the eyes of a young boy, we meet a zany cast of jubilant characters—a gambling Puerto Rican father, a nurturing Italian mother, a lovecrazed teenager, a lurking neighborhood bookie and Doo Wop kids singing on the street corner—who weave the tale of a desperate escape from New York. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154

Sun. August 12

Seascape Village Certified Farmers’ Market 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Courtyard Outside of 16 B Seascape Village - Aptos, CA, 95003 Yeah! The Farmers’ will be ready with beautiful local produce. Slide Man Slim and Penny Hanna will be back playing music. And don’t forget to check out our local artist section. We’re looking forward to a very bountiful year. For more information contact Seascape Foods 685-3134.

Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club.

11am - 1:30pm. Wheelchair Tennis Clinic, Women’s Finals Begin, Men s Finals Begin. Sponsor Hospitality by The Haute Enchilada Cabrillo Stage Presents A Chorus Line. 2:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. A Chorus Line is a stunning musical-verite about a chorus audition for a Broadway musical. It tells of the achingly poignant ambitions of professional Broadway gypsies to land a job in the show, and is a powerful metaphor for all human aspiration. It is a brilliantly complex fusion of dance, song and compellingly authentic drama. The show was instantly recognized as a classic, receiving 9 Tony Awards and a Pulitzer, among many others, and being one of the longest running shows on Broadway. Adult themes and language. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Anything Goes 3:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. All aboard for Cole Porter’s Tony Award winning musical. This saucy and splendid revival is one of the greatest musicals in Broadway history. Peppering this hilariously bumpy ride are memorable Cole Porter standards, including “I Get A Kick out of You,” “It’s Delovely,” “You’re The Top” and “Anything Goes.” It’s the perfect family show! For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Escaping Queens. 7:30 pm Cabrillo Stage. Escaping Queens is Santa Cruz composer Joe Ortiz’s musical memoir, making its world premiere at Cabrillo Stage on August 10. In the shadow of the Queensboro Bridge lies the heart-rending and comic story of an immigrant family. Through the eyes of a young boy, we meet a zany cast of jubilant characters—a gambling Puerto Rican father, a nurturing Italian mother, a lovecrazed teenager, a lurking neighborhood bookie and Doo Wop kids singing on the street corner—who weave the tale of a desperate escape from New York. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154

Mon. August 13

Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club. 5:30 pm. “Feature Match” La Selva Beach Summer Camp From 7:30am 6:00pm Register your 6-12 year old child at one of our recreation sites for a fun-filled summer of games, arts & crafts, sports, cooking, field trips, and SUMMER ADVENTURE TRIPS! Four sessions are available with fullday and partial-day options. Sibling discount of 15%!

Location:: La Selva Beach Clubhouse Contact:: Registrations, 831-454-7941.www.scparks.com

Tues. August 14

Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club. 5:30 pm. “Feature Match” La Selva Beach Summer Camp From 7:30am 6:00pm Register your 6-12 year old child at one of our recreation sites for a fun-filled summer of games, arts & crafts, sports, cooking, field trips, and SUMMER ADVENTURE TRIPS! Four sessions are available with fullday and partial-day options. Sibling discount of 15%!

Location:: La Selva Beach Clubhouse Contact:: Registrations, 831-454-7941.www.scparks.com

Wed. August 15

Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club. 5:30 pm. “Feature Match” Wine Wednesdays at Sanderlings. Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort, One Seascape Resort Drive.

Offering a different Santa Cruz wine, tapas & live music weekly. $15 per person (plus tax & gratuity).Phone: 800.929.7727 sanderlingsrestaurant.com La Selva Beach Summer Camp From 7:30am 6:00pm Register your 6-12 year old child at one of our recreation sites for a fun-filled summer of games, arts & Farmers’ Markets at Cabrillo College and Seascape Foods. Photo by Roseann Hernandez/Aptos Life crafts, sports, cooking, field trips, and SUMMER AD-

endar VENTURE TRIPS! Four sessions are available with fullday and partial-day options. Sibling discount of 15%!

Location:: La Selva Beach Clubhouse Contact:: Registrations, 831-454-7941.www.scparks.com Cabrillo Stage Presents Anything Goes 7:30 pm Cabrillo Stage. All aboard for Cole Porter’s Tony Award winning musical. This saucy and splendid revival is one of the greatest musicals in Broadway history. Peppering this hilariously bumpy ride are memorable Cole Porter standards, including “I Get A Kick out of You,” “It’s Delovely,” “You’re The Top” and “Anything Goes.” It’s the perfect family show! For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Escaping Queens. 8:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. Escaping Queens is Santa Cruz composer Joe Ortiz’s musical memoir, making its world premiere at Cabrillo Stage on August 10. In the shadow of the Queensboro Bridge lies the heart-rending and comic story of an immigrant family. Through the eyes of a young boy, we meet a zany cast of jubilant characters—a gambling Puerto Rican father, a nurturing Italian mother, a lovecrazed teenager, a lurking neighborhood bookie and Doo Wop kids singing on the street corner—who weave the tale of a desperate escape from New York. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154

Left: Bob Weers of Bargetto Winery educates patrons of Seascape Foods. Bob had several varitals of wine from Chardonnay to their very popular Old Vine Zin. Above: Seascape Foods showcased their talents by offering several mouth watering appetizers.

Wine Tasting Seascape Foods is every friday from 4 pm - 6 pm for $3.00. Featuring a different winery every week. For more information contact Seascape Foods in Aptos 685-3134

Thurs. August 16

Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club. 5:30 pm. “Feature Match” La Selva Beach Summer Camp From 7:30am 6:00pm Register your 6-12 year old child at one of our recreation sites for a fun-filled summer of games, arts & crafts, sports, cooking, field trips, and SUMMER ADVENTURE TRIPS! Four sessions are available with fullday and partial-day options. Sibling discount of 15%!

Location:: La Selva Beach Clubhouse Contact:: Registrations, 831-454-7941.www.scparks.com Cabrillo Stage Presents Anything Goes 7:30 pm Cabrillo Stage. All aboard for Cole Porter’s Tony Award winning musical. This saucy and splendid revival is one of the greatest musicals in Broadway history. Peppering this hilariously bumpy ride are memorable Cole Porter standards, including “I Get A Kick out of You,” “It’s Delovely,” “You’re The Top” and “Anything Goes.” It’s the perfect family show! For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Escaping Queens. 8:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. Escaping Queens is Santa Cruz composer Joe Ortiz’s musical memoir, making its world premiere at Cabrillo Stage on August 10. In the shadow of the Queensboro Bridge lies the heart-rending and comic story of an immigrant family. Through the eyes of a young boy, we meet a zany cast of jubilant characters—a gambling Puerto Rican father, a nurturing Italian mother, a lovecrazed teenager, a lurking neighborhood bookie and Doo Wop kids singing on the street corner—who weave the tale of a desperate escape from New York. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154

Fri. August 17

Wine Tasting Seascape Foods. $3.00 Wine Tasting every friday from 4 pm - 6 pm. Featuring a different winery every week. For more information contact Seascape Foods in Aptos 685-3134 Comerica Bank Challenger at Seascape Sports Club. 5:30 pm. “Feature Match” La Selva Beach Summer Camp From 7:30am 6:00pm Register your 6-12 year old child at one of our recreation sites for a fun-filled summer of games, arts & crafts, sports, cooking, field trips, and SUMMER ADVENTURE TRIPS! Four sessions are available with fullday and partial-day options. Sibling discount of 15%!

Location:: La Selva Beach Clubhouse Contact:: Registrations, 831-454-7941.www.scparks.com Cabrillo Stage Presents Anything Goes 7:30 pm Cabrillo Stage. All aboard for Cole Porter’s Tony Award winning musical. This saucy and splendid revival is one of the greatest musicals in Broadway history. Peppering this hilariously bumpy ride are memorable Cole Porter standards, including “I Get A Kick out of You,” “It’s Delovely,” “You’re The Top” and “Anything Goes.” It’s the perfect family show! For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Escaping Queens. 8:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. Escaping Queens is Santa Cruz composer Joe Ortiz’s musical memoir, making its world premiere at Cabrillo Stage on August 10. In the shadow of the Queensboro Bridge lies the heart-rending and comic story of an immigrant family. Through the eyes of a young boy, we meet a zany cast of jubilant characters—a gambling Puerto Rican father, a nurturing Italian mother, a lovecrazed teenager, a lurking neighborhood bookie and Doo Wop kids singing on the street corner—who weave the tale of a desperate escape from New York. For more infor-

mation and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154

Sat. August 18

Aptos Farmers Market Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel DriveWith over 80 vendors, find an unmatched selection of locally grown fresh produce, flowers & artisan products. FREE. 8am - noon, rain or shine. For more information contact Monterey Bay Farmers728-5060 montereybayfarmers.org Cabrillo Stage Presents Anything Goes 2 pm & 7:30 pm Cabrillo Stage. All aboard for Cole Porter’s Tony Award winning musical. This saucy and splendid revival is one of the greatest musicals in Broadway history. Peppering this hilariously bumpy ride are memorable Cole Porter standards, including “I Get A Kick out of You,” “It’s De-lovely,” “You’re The Top” and “Anything Goes.”

It’s the perfect family show! For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Escaping Queens. 8:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. Escaping Queens is Santa Cruz composer Joe Ortiz’s musical memoir, making its world premiere at Cabrillo Stage on August 10. In the shadow of the Queensboro Bridge lies the heart-rending and comic story of an immigrant family. Through the eyes of a young boy, we meet a zany cast of jubilant characters—a gambling Puerto Rican father, a nurturing Italian mother, a love-crazed teenager, a lurking neighborhood bookie and Doo Wop kids singing on the street corner—who weave the tale of a desperate escape from New York. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 4796154

Sun. August 18

Seascape Village Certified Farmers’ Market 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Courtyard Outside of 16 B Seascape Village - Aptos, CA, 95003 Yeah! The Farmers’ will be ready with beautiful local produce. Slide Man Slim and Penny Hanna will be back playing music. And don’t forget to check out our local artist section. We’re looking forward to a very bountiful year. For more information contact Seascape Foods 685-3134.

Cabrillo Stage Presents Anything Goes 2:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. All aboard for Cole Porter’s Tony Award winning musical. This saucy and splendid revival is one of the greatest musicals in Broadway history. Peppering this hilariously bumpy ride are memorable Cole Porter standards, including “I Get A Kick out of You,” “It’s Delovely,” “You’re The Top” and “Anything Goes.” It’s the perfect family show! For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 479-6154 Cabrillo Stage Presents Escaping Queens. 3:00 pm Cabrillo Stage. Escaping Queens is Santa Cruz composer Joe Ortiz’s musical memoir, making its world premiere at Cabrillo Stage on August 10. In the shadow of the Queensboro Bridge lies the heart-rending and comic story of an immigrant family. Through the eyes of a young boy, we meet a zany cast of jubilant characters—a gambling Puerto Rican father, a nurturing Italian mother, a love-crazed teenager, a lurking neighborhood bookie and Doo Wop kids singing on the street corner—who weave the tale of a desperate escape from New York. For more information and ticket fees contact Cabrillo Stafe 4796154

Wed. August 22

Wine Wednesdays at Sanderlings. Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort, One Seascape Resort Drive.

Offering a different Santa Cruz wine, tapas & live music weekly. $15 per person (plus tax & gratuity).Phone: 800.929.7727 sanderlingsrestaurant.com

Fri August August 24

Wine Tasting Seascape Foods. $3.00 Wine Tasting every friday from 4 pm - 6 pm. Featuring a different winery every week. For more information contact Seascape Foods in Aptos 685-3134

Sat August 25

Aptos Farmers Market Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel DriveWith over 80 vendors, find an unmatched selection of locally grown fresh produce, flowers & artisan products. FREE. 8am - noon, rain or shine. For more information contact Monterey Bay Farmers728-5060 montereybayfarmers.org

Sun. August 26

Seascape Village Certified Farmers’ Market 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Courtyard Outside of 16 B Seascape Village - Aptos, CA, 95003 Yeah! The Farmers’ will be ready with beautiful local produce. Slide Man Slim and Penny Hanna will be back playing music. And don’t forget to check out our local artist section. We’re looking forward to a very bountiful year. For more information contact Seascape Foods 685-3134.

Wed, August 29

Wine Wednesdays at Sanderlings. Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort, One Seascape Resort Drive.

Offering a different Santa Cruz wine, tapas & live music weekly. $15 per person (plus tax & gratuity).Phone: 800.929.7727 sanderlingsrestaurant.com

Fri. August 31

Wine Tasting Seascape Foods. Wine Tasting every friday from 4 pm - 6 pm. Featuring a different winery every week. For more information contact Seascape Foods in Aptos 685-3134

Please send us your events to info@aptoslife.com. Please include a short desciption of your event and contact information in case we have questions. Thank you.

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Au g ust 2 01 2 | p g 1 1 E v e ry t h i n g A ptos

Cafe Sparrow offers relaxed, home-like atmosphere

By Todd Guild of the Aptos Life

Walking into Cafe Sparrow’s cozy dining room is like walking into your own living room, assuming that room is constantly packed with dozens of people, all chatting over plates of expertly prepared food and sipping glasses of wine.

Celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary called for a unique and intimate culinary dining experience, and the Aptos mainstay certainly fit the bill for my wife Susan and I. With natural wood floors, tables that look like they came from grandmother’s kitchen and a sublime, upscale country decor, the restaurant seems like it was designed to look like home.

Two small rooms with just 17 tables enhance the cozy, intimate feel.

A notation at the bottom of the menu asks diners to keep their cell phones off, which we took to be less of an admonition than a reminder that we were there to enjoy our food and unwind.

In fact, every aspect of the restaurant seems to be a part of this overarching theme of leisure — relax. Enjoy your food.

We will take care of you.

If that is indeed the message owners Bob and Julie Montague want to impart, then it was certainly well received by the crowd of diners who filled the restaurant’s tables.

Most of the people we saw when we walked in were still there as we prepared to leave, most of them engaged in lively conversation.

The staff is attentive without being overbearing, and our waitress never left us wanting for anything.

More importantly, employees are not rushed, bring orders promptly and stand ready to make informed suggestions about the food and extensive wine offerings.

For those who enjoy wine with their meals, a giant, centrally located display rack features dozens of local and international varieties and serves a testament to another of the restaurant’s philosophies.

“We think that wine is as equal a part of the meal as the food,” he said.

Time restrictions that include two young boys and a full-time work sched-

Cafe Sparrow in Aptos boasts a French country setting and informal atmosphere. Photos by Tarmo Hannula/Aptos Life

ule prompted us to choose the restaurant’s lunch menu, which offers several types of sandwiches, salads and appetizers.

We started with the seared day scallops ($12), which come on polenta and are topped with a vanilla orange balsamic reduction.

The searing process seemed to be just the thing for the tender scallops, which had a slight smoky flavor. They were perfect with the buttery texture of the polenta.

From a list of specials that included two fish dishes, a portabella mushroom burger and a salad, Susan chose the grilled local king salmon served over sautéed spinach and tomatoes, capers and olives, with a basil and risotto cake and a basil and sundried tomato cream sauce ($25).

I went for the shrimp croissant ($12.50), which featured shrimp in crème fraiche with fresh dill.

As a novice home cook I know how difficult salmon can be to prepare well. So I was pleased that Susan’s was cooked to perfection. The cream sauce was a fine addition.

Paired with a risotto cake infused with basil, the salmon was an excellent choice for Susan, who often opts for healthier fare.

My sandwich was extraordinary, with crisp whole shrimp coated in a refreshing dill cream sauce atop a bed of lettuce.

Better still was the croissant, which was flaky and butAugust Materazzi serves up Cafe Sparrow’s Gigi fondue that includes tery, and yet held up well as I fresh fruit, vegetables and croutons.

ate. As a self-described connoisseur of the ubiquitous French pastry, it was one of the best I’ve ever eaten.

Susan, who had a harder time choosing dessert than she did lunch, went for the brownie sundae ($7.75), with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.

Anyone reading this should forget any image of canned sauce. Given a spoon and a pan, I could have eaten a serving of the restaurant’s homemade caramel sauce by itself.

As our waitress was quick to point out, all the desserts at Cafe Sparrow are all made in-house.

I tried the profiteroles ($8), small puff pastries stuffed with custard and vanilla ice cream and topped with Ghirardelli chocolate sauce. The cooks abetted my love for decadence with a dome of whipped cream in the middle of the plate.

Gilroy resident Sophie Gluhaich, who was eating at a nearby table with two friends, said they have been coming to the restaurant for two decades, since they all lived nearby. Although they have moved from the area, the tradition has persisted.

“Every time we come it’s awesome,” she said “The service is good, the food is excellent, what more do you want?”Cafe Sparrow also features a dinner menu, with dishes ranging from New Zealand rack of lamb ($32), calamari picatta ($32.50) and an extensive appetizer and salad menu.

History

Owners Bob and Julie Montague purchased the restaurant in 1989, just four months before the Loma Prieta earthquake struck, putting them out of business for nine months.

Bob Montague, who said he had a background in the restaurant business “as everything but a cook,” said he has learned the French cooking with a California flair for which the cafe is famous.

“I basically learned to cook here,” he said. “I always hired the best cooks I’ve been able to find.”

Montague said it is his experience as a bartender, which requires adherence to recipes, that has helped him bring the consistency to his food that customers demand and successful restaurants require.

“That’s what we hear most often,” Montague said. “They get good food but it’s consistently good. They know what they’re getting.”

Montague said that his dishes are in-

Bob Montague, co-owner of Cafe Sparrow in Aptos, prepares a dijon-crusted wild local salmon served on sautéed spinach with a lemon beurre blanc.

spired by French cooking, but with a leaning to fresh, local healthy ingredients typical in California cuisine. Montague strives to use organic ingredients when he can.

This is the “country French and California cuisine” for which Cafe Sparrow has become famous.

Additionally, those who fear they will get small portions famously found in French restaurants will not be disappointed. Customers will find dishes generous enough to satisfy without be overstuffing.

“Our driving point is to make sure we are giving people good value,” Montague said.

“It’s expensive to eat out.”

Cafe Sparrow is open for lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and for dinner from 5:30 p.m. Brunch on Sunday is from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Lunch prices range from about $13 to $25, while dinner from $20 to $32.

For information, visit cafesparrow.com or call 688-6238

Au g ust 2 01 2 | p g 1 2 E v e ry t h i n g A ptos

‘A Chorus Line entertains from start to finish

By Erik Chalhoub OF Aptos Life

When “A Chorus Line” actor Brian Conway said “we will keep your attention from lights on to lights out,” he certainly wasn’t kidding.

I attended the opening night performance of “A Chorus Line” on July 13 at the Cabrillo College Crocker Theater, the opener of Cabrillo Stage’s 31st season, and my attention was grabbed from beginning to end for the roughly two-hour duration of the musical.

Maybe it was the characters, with their humorous personalities, or perhaps it was the catchy tunes and the thoughtful-provoking plot.

Likely, it was a combination of all three.

The musical is about a chorus audition for an upcoming Broadway production.

The “director” Zach (played by Bill Olson) of the fictional production must choose seventeen dancers, including a strong dancing chorus of four boys and four girls.

“A Chorus Line” is directed and choreographed by Janie Scott, who was an original member of the 1970s Broadway Chorus Line Touring Company.

The musical begins with 24 dancers, who are quickly cut down to 17. In these opening sequences, the viewer is not able to get a handle on the characters and their personalities; they are just one of the crowd, or the chorus in this matter.

When the dancers are cut to 17, the interviews commence, and the actors are given an opportunity to shine, which they take full advantage of. One by one the dancers introduce themselves, and their distinct personalities are revealed. Bobby

(played by Hugh Halker) is a bit of a psychopath (to put it lightly), Connie (Jennifer Gorgulho) is obsessed with her height, or lack thereof, Sheila (Lauren Bjorgan) has attitude issues, and so on.

Each character is developed fully, and the plot makes a point of telling you everything you ever wanted to know about each individual (perhaps a little too much in some cases, but it’s all part of the humor).

With such distinct personalities, one wonders why these dancers are vying for a spot in a chorus, when clearly they could stand out on their own. This is addressed during “The Music and The Mirror” scene, when Cassie (Noelani Neal), once a star on Broadway, has now hit rock bottom in her career.

“A Chorus Line” is marked as having “adult themes and language,” and for good reason. There is some pretty raunchy stuff in here (but very hilarious), highlighted

by Val’s song (played by Lizzie O’Hara) “Dance Ten, Looks Three,” which is all about, well, Val’s surgically enhanced bottom and bosom. Let’s say it’s not for the kids.

Not surprisingly, O’Hara received the loudest cheers at the end.

While most of the adult themes come in the form of humor, the musical does have its share of maturity. Paul’s monologue, which has no music or singing, tackles the character’s confusing childhood and the search for his sense of self. Conway does an incredible job in this emotional scene, and not a peep was heard from the audience.

“A Chorus Line,” which was created by Broadway legend Michael Bennett, made its debut on Broadway at the Shubert The-

Noelani Neal as Cassie. Photo by Jana Marcus

atre on July 25, 1975. Scott’s goal was to recreate the original performance, and kudos to her for not trying to “modernize” the script with contemporary references.

While some references are outdated, such as dancer Kristine (played by Crystina Robinette) watching the Ed Sullivan Show as a child, it shows dedication to the original script.

I found “A Chorus Line” to be very unpredictable. I thought I knew which dancers were going to be chosen at the end, but I was wrong.

Tension can be felt as Zach puts the dancers through increasingly rigorous trials, making some of them question wheth-

er they want the job. That tension rears its ugly head during Paul’s mishap near the end, and judging by the gasps I heard in the audience, it seemed to catch them by surprise.

“A Chorus Line” has the humor, drama and top-notch dancing to make it a very entertaining piece. Those who I talked to afterwords echoed this statement.

For a schedule of performances, visit www.cabrillostage.com. Tickets can be purchased on the website or by calling 479-6154. I would recommend arriving at the ticket booth about 30 minutes early and avoiding the long line.

‘Anything Goes’ on this ship

By ERIK CHALHOUB

Lighted windows suggest warmth inside the ship.

Seeing the set transform into the inside Just like the title of the musical, “Anyof the ship by splitting into two pieces nevthing Goes” on the SS American.

Gangsters treated like royalty, tap danc- er got old.

The vibrancy of the set is matched by ing, an evangelist who turned into a nightclub singer ... all this and more I witnessed the enthusiasm of the actors. While the during the opening of Cabrillo Stage’s pro- premise of the plot has certainly been done duction of “Anything Goes,” directed by many times over (man in love with a woman who is already engaged), it’s the cast’s Kikau Alvaro, on Friday.

What jumped out at me immediately execution of their roles that keeps the muwas the elaborate set design. The bar scene sical fresh and exciting.

Reno Sweeney (played by Briana which opens the musical features a finely detailed set, from the wine glasses to the Michaud) and Billy Crocker (Andrew Ceglio) are the obvious stars of the show. The bar stools, which all twinkle in the lights.

The scene quickly transforms into the ever-sassy Sweeney can belt out (lyrics) deck of the SS American, the main set- with seemingly ease, and Crocker’s many ting for the musical. Spiral staircases line different voices and disguises are hilarious the left and right hands of the stage, with to witness.

But don’t sleep on Moonface the ship’s smokestacks in the background.

Martin (Max BennettParker). The “public enemy number 13” gangster puts on a tough guy act, but we can see that he has a soft side in his song “Be Like the Blue Bird.” Bennett-Parker’s portrayal of this character is excellent, from the New York accent to the one-liners (“Chinese honor is sold!”)

Erma’s (Anethra Moura) flirty act incited many laughs from the audience, and the British caricature Sir Evelyn Oakleigh’s (Robert Coverdell) simultaneous fascination Briana Michaud plays the role of Reno Sweeney. Photo by R.R. and obliviousness to Jones OF Aptos Life

Photo by R.R. Jones

American culture leads to many funny awkward moments (“Step in it, sir!”).

The high-energy tap dancing performance that ends the first act was contagious, firing up the crowd like no other scene. It should be noted that Michaud said she never knew how to tap dance before this production, but it didn’t show at all during this scene.

“Energy” is a key word to describe most scenes in “Anything Goes.” We can see the hustle and bustle of the ship’s crew and passengers during scenes on the

deck, dance sequences that fill the entire stage with the cast, and the antics of the actors never leave them sitting still.

The plot’s ridiculousness reaches it’s height during the very last scene. If you thought the musical had already pulled out all the tricks from it’s sleeve, you will be in for a surprise.

“Anything Goes” runs on select days through Aug. 19. For a schedule of performances, visit www.cabrillostage. com. Tickets can be purchased on the website or by calling 479-6154.

Au g ust 2 01 2 | p g 1 3 E v e ry t h i n g A ptos

Let’s talk strength training ladies!

If you could buy a magic bullet—a little wonder-working something that would help you lose weight, create your own best body, and reduce your risk of most major diseases—would you spring for it?

When you focus on strength training here are some great benefits you can expect.

You’re slimming your silhouette.

You’re shaving years off your age.

You’re ditching “down-on yourself” days.

You’re building strong bones.

You’re beating your odds against the #1 killer.

You’re cutting your cancer risk.

You’re keeping your blood sugar low.

You’re reducing knee pain.

Strength training helps develop muscle.

It’s simple – the more muscle you have, the more calories you burn on a momentby-moment basis. One key study showed, that just after 12 weeks of lifting weights, people burned 15% more calories per day – even while just sitting – than before they started strength training. This means the average woman could eat about 300 extra

calories per day without gaining weight.

Every year after 40, most of us lose a half of pound to a pound of muscle reducing the number of calories we burn and increasing the odds that we’ll pack on the pounds. Strength training helps reverse that part of the aging process by maintaining and building new muscle, which, in turn, helps oust the fat.

Research shows that when you perform strength-training exercises, your body image increases. In only a few weeks, you can see the firmness of muscle where flab used to be, or you can do more reps tha you used to – and that makes you feel good.

After age 35, the natural building up and tearing down of bone starts to slow, and you begin losing bone faster that you’re making it. The losses accelerate as estrogen levels dwindle during menopause. Strength training can reverse that trend.

Heart disease is the top killer of women, and strength training, which has been shown to lower blood pressure and arteryclogging cholesterol while raising good cholesterol can significantly lower your risk of heart disease by 23%.

Colon cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. and some experts say that strength training may slash your risk of developing it. Wayne Westcott, Ph.D., says strength training increases the rate at which food moves through your gastrointestinal tract, and when you increase that rate, you decrease your colon cancer risk.

Type II diabetes is an epidemic disease that is related to obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. When you strength train, your muscles become more efficient at taking up the sugar, our blood sugar levels are more regulated – and your risk of becoming obese and developing type II diabetes is greatly reduced, says Ben F. Hurley, Ph.D., professor of exercise physiology at the University of Maryland in College Park and an expert on exercise an aging.

A landmark study performed at Tufts University in Boston found that after 4 months of strength training, people with osteoarthritis had 43% less knee pain.

A membership at your local Curves can bring you al these benefits and more. Call

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7000 Soquel Drive Aptos, CA 95003 (new location next to Bunny’s) 688-2348 1058 S. Green Valley Rd Watsonville, CA 95076 724-0900 Also get start with loads of health information for woman FREE on-line with our Curves monthly magazine….DIANE… just go to the link below and get your monthly FREE magazine…

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Lose up to 20 lbs. of fat in 90 days New members only. Offer based on first visit enrollment, minimum 12 mo. c.d./e.f.t. program. Discount applies to initial service fee. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations. Expires 9/1/12. ©2012 Curves International, Inc.

Above: Elliott and Daniella Crowder are shown organizing the Coast Hills Mountain Bike Race. Elliott and Daniella were instrumental in reincarnating a very popular Oregon Coast Mountain bike race.

Over 200 riders and 300 attendees were there to expeirence mountain biking on the Central Oregon Coast.

Right: Bike Newport won Business of the Year in 2011-2012.

Elliott and Daniella Crowder grew up here in La Selva Beach. Currently they are in Newport, Oregon running a very successful bike shop called Bike Newport. Their business won several prestigious awards throughout the years and we throught it important to share them.

They include the Sam Braxton Bike Shop Award in 2010, the Austin Family Business Award in 2011 for business excellence, and finally the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year award for 2011-2012. Great job, Elliott and Daniella.

www.AptosLife.com

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Sign Up in August for $20.00 Discount

Tastings every Saturday from 12-5 Wine & Food pairing classes

Cotillion Classes Held at Best Western Seacliff Inn in Aptos • Build Confidence in Social Skills • Fun & Friendly Classes for Grades 5-8 & 9-12 • Friends & Family: $10.00 Rebate Class size is limited – reserve now!

Mariann Eichhorn, 831.688.5678 www.centralcoastcotillion.com

FREE TASTING

10% OFF ANY PURCHASE

18 Hangar Way Suite C, Watsonville CA 95076

18 Hangar Way Suite C, Watsonville CA 95076

Mica Cellars

Mica Cellars

Mica Cellars 831-227-4916

18 Hangar Way Suite C, Watsonville CA 95076

www.MicaCellars.com

baby boot camp Santa Cruz Where moms get fit!

Classes at Rio Del Mar Beach Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays • 9-10am

Aug. 20-Sept. 20 only - Mon.-Thurs. 4:30-5:30

Jump start weight loss, combat the baby blues, make new friends, be with your child. Classes taught by Nationally cerrtified finess professionals and deliver safe and effectve workouts. FIRST CLASS IS ALWAYS FREE! 322 Madison St. (Watsonville) REGULAR SALE! Newly remodeled home on larger lot featuring new kitchen cabinets and appliances, tile flooring, new interior and exterior paint. Large basement area and detached garage with long driveway.

Reduced $325,000

1525 Cushman St. Ste C Hollister, CA 95023 Office: 637-3900 Cell: 234-3017

Gloria Melo

Dentistry for Infants, Children, Teens & Orthodontics More than 30 years experience in providing gentle children’s dental care

Most insurance plans welcome Including Blue Cross, Delta Dental & Delta’s Healthy Families

Marc L. Grossman, D.D.S. James B. Smith, D.D.S. 230 Green Valley Road Freedom

831-722-9202

Check out our website! www.dental4kids.com

Call Dawna Lipari for more info.

(831) 761-2229

E v e ry t h i n g A ptos

Aptos Life is published monthly. We deliver to over 12,000 homes in Aptos and La Selva Beach. We also print another 5,000 for general distribution.

We are dedicated to covering everything Aptos. If you would like to advertise with us please call 877-694-9048.

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Equine Rescue Center & Sanctuary TODD GUILD Of the Aptos Life

On a trip to the Equine Rescue Center & Sanctuary near Aptos, visitors might get a warm greeting from several species of animals, not the least of which is David the goat, a friendly animal who demands pets and head-scratches by rubbing his sizable horns on visitors.

Several curious and affectionate horses also approach, some for affection and some to get a closer look at the strangers.

There are more than 40 horses that call the 60-acre property home, but most of them tend to stick close to the front gate to be close to Monica Hardeman, the woman who runs the “No Kill” sanctuary.

With an innate knowledge of equine behavior borne from years of working with the animals, Hardeman easily mingled among the herd, describing the behavior going on around her.

In one section of the pen, a female horse Hardeman described as “the coveted mare” attracted the attention of several males.

As one male horse stood guard, another ground his teeth in frustration and others waited on the fringes.

“This is what herds do,” she said, laughing.

In another area, several males were challenging each other while other horses scampered around, hoping for someone to play with.

Many of the horses, mules and ponies have benefitted from Hardeman’s ministrations and have become gentle and adoptable, but most have their own sad story of abuse, neglect or abandonment.

Several were once “slaughter-bound,” meaning that their owners saw no use for them and sold them at auction.

But most of them have left that part of their lives behind thanks to Hardeman.

Hardeman has worked to rehabilitate the animals, helping them regain their weight and get healthy again by romping on the 60-acre property.

Most importantly, the horses learn to trust people again, so much so that many of them get adopted, which is the ultimate goal of the organization.

“My mission is to rescue horses,” she said. “Give them a second chance and give them the life they deserve.”

When they come to her, many have problems that come from the neglect and abuse

Above: Monica Hardeman, owners of Equine Rescue Center, pays a visit to PJ, a paint horse, near Aptos. Right: Rescued horses are shown at Equine Rescue Center. Photos by Tarmo Hannula/Aptos Life

they suffered from their previous owners, she said Hardeman’s job, she said, is to find those idiosyncrasies and work with the horses to make them adoptable.

“Every horse can be trained,” she said, Her efforts seem to be paying off. Three will be adopted this week, while two more have adoptions pending.

Hardeman said she is often asked how she can make such a sacrifice, working on an isolated ranch with animals and foregoing the trappings of city life.

“I don’t think it’s a sacrifice, she said.

“It’s what has to be done. I’m lucky to have found something I love to do.”

Hardeman said her love of horses began at an early age.

“I grew up around horses,” she said.

“I’ve had them all my life.”

Her foray into rescue began in earnest, however, when she was 25 and her 29-yearold sister died.

“When my sister died I had to have something for myself,” she said.

Taking care of animals that desperately need help, she said, has helped her heal.

“I never thought a life of service could make me so happy,” she said. “I love it.

There’s nothing else I could do in this world.’

Equine Rescue Center runs solely on donations. For information, or to donate, visit www.equinerescuecenter.com, call 801-9805 or email Monica Hardeman at monica@equinerescuecenter.com.

Baby boot camp for healthy mamas on Rio del Mar Beach

By Roseann Hernandez For the Aptos Life

It is a sparkly gray morning at Rio del Mar Beach in Aptos – a hidden gem of a place where you can park for free, buy a coffee, go for a walk on the paved promenade all the way to Sunset Beach or simply stare out over the sea while you sit on the cement balustrade all pensive-like.

Get there before 9 a.m., and you’ll see a civilized crowd of joggers, dog walkers, middle-aged ladies in lycra power-walking, early morning beach-combers with buckets in hand, businessmen in hoody camouflage talking shop while breathing in the brisk, salty air and bleary-eyed stragglers embracing their cup of Joe like a light saber. It is the best beach between Watsonville and Santa Cruz.

Wander down the promenade and you might pass a group of smiley, toned mavens in workout gear doing lunges in the sand or charging up and down one of the many stairways leading to the beach, while a row of plump, contented babies watch fixated from the safe and padded confines of their strollers. They are the women (and respective children) of Baby Boot Camp, a postnatal, stroller-fitness program that aims to get moms back into shape without having

to leave their babies with a sitter.

“It is great to be able to do something for yourself and to be with your baby,” said Megan Tsuchiguchi, who has been attending Baby Boot Camp since the end of March.

Founded in 2001 by Kristen Horler, a certified pre- and post-natal fitness instructor, Baby Boot Camp has franchises throughout the country. Dawna Lipari, a certified fitness instructor, has run the Baby Boot Camp in Santa Cruz County for the last year. Lipari also holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and found that after having her last baby wanted to continue working with children but was drawn to the fitness program that she says not only helps moms get back into shape, but also empowers, builds confidence and gives them an hour for themselves.

“As new moms we forget that if we can’t take care of ourselves it’s more difficult to take care of others,” Lipari said.

Each workout incorporates cardiovascular exercises, stretching, and resistance and strength training – working to improve overall fitness, build endurance and zeroing in on key areas most affected by pregnancy such as the triceps and abdominals.

Women who once sported a flat tummy in the heady days of B.B. (Before Baby) know the pouty sadness of doing a zillion crunches and still not getting your old streamlined look. Now you can get all Zen-like and learn how to love momjeans or you can join Baby Boot Camp and with other moms do special exercises that, Lipari says will strengthen your core and help close the gap that forms between rectus abdominus muscles that can separate during pregnancy – leading to tummy-bulge.

The classes are also a good way for people who want to learn how to work with bands, Lipari adds.

No free weights needed – Baby Boot Campers use their own body weight and what the beach has to offer – stairs, curbs, benches and even the stroller. Try pushing a baby-filled stroller through the sand and see how much you sweat.

Jennifer Hoffseth was Lipari’s very first Baby Boot Camper and says the class is a good way to network with other moms and “get back into exercise mode” as most gyms do not offer childcare for infants less than six months old. Women must be sixweeks post-partum or eight-weeks if they had a cesarean section to start Baby Boot Camp.

“I really like the group setting,” said Erica Moyer with six-month old Mason looking calmly on. “It gets you moving in the morning and up and out of the house.”

Babies watching mom exercising is a good thing as well, says Lipari. They learn that physical fitness is important and they will want to exercise and be active, too.

“We cannot expect child obesity to stop,” Lipari said, “if we cannot get up and start moving ourselves.”

Baby Boot Camp is celebrating their one year anniversary at a special event sponsored by Fleet Feet Sports at the Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center in Aptos on August 10th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Meet at Fleet Feet Sports for supplier samples, discounts and prizes. You can also join Baby Boot Campers for a fun-run to Niscene Marks State Park –at your own pace.

Baby Boot Camp is held Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Rio del Mar Beach. New evening classes will be held Mondays and Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the same location starting August 20th for a month trial period. Call Dawna Lipari at 831-761-2229 to join or for more information. www.babybootcamp.com.

Thankknow You Aptos for your support of our Community Deli - We’ve thoroughly enjoyed getting to our neighbors and we appreciate your awareness of how important local support is.

~ Ericka ad Doug Glaum, Proprietors

1

In Celebration of 3 years service for our customers, we are offering 3 special ways to save!

$3.00 Wine, Bubbles and Beer - Happy Hour 4-6pm Every Day! Create your own tasting with our

great selection. Grab a salad or some cheese and crackers, enjoy our sunny patio under the beautiful redwoods.

2

Happy Birthday Lunch for FREE!

Bring a friend in on your birthday and when they purchase a sandwich, your sandwich is on us!

3

Help us spread the word and Save!

Purchase a Palm Deli T-shirt or Sweatshirt, wear it in when you visit and receive $1.00 off your deli sandwich - Every Time!*

BRING IN THIS COUPON for $1.00 OFF your next Sandwich purchase!

The Palm Deli • 3000 Valencia Ave., Aptos • 831-688-Deli (3354) Open 7am Every Day!

Join our Facebook page for daily updates and specials - The Palm Deli • www.ThePalmDeli.com

• Weddings • Proms • Sporting Events • Teacher Gifts & Appreciation • Banquet Arrangements • Succulent Arrangements

Located in the historic Redwood Village, right across from the Palm Deli.

831.685.8944 | 9099 Soquel Dr. • Aptos

Fresh Market Flowers and Gifts

Remember us for all your flower and gift needs! We always have pre-made bouquets and our famous "Posies-to-Go"!

Check out our selection of beautiful home goods and gifts too!

Open Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm Bring in this ad and receive $2.00 OFF any fresh flowers or pre-made bouquets.

Rediscover Redwood Village The Palm Deli • 831.688.3354

Cottage 1

The Wedding Connection

Cottage 2

The Tree of Health

Cottage 3

Twig and Petal • 831.685.8944 Facebook page: Twig-and-Petal

Cottage 4

A Room of Her Own www.aroomofherown.com

Cottage 5

Param Therapeutic Center www.fengshuireflections.com/paramcenter

Cottage 6

Travel Health Services • tahoetravelclinic.com

Cottage 8

Southall Environmental Associates, Inc. www.sea.inc.net

Cottage 9 Cottage 10

Moxie Salon Retreat • 831.662.8068 Moxie Salon • 831.662.8068

Cottage 11

JoAnn Riniti, Ph.D.

Cottage 12

Richard Alloy, Ph.D. License #PSY7159 831.688.5010

Cottage 15

The Art Factory • 831.688.8862 www.artfactorystudios.com

Off Hwy 1 at Rio Del Mar exit, Aptos Behind Bailey Properties