VOL 7.2
AUG/SEPT 2020
533 Ocean Street 3600 Soquel Avenue Santa Cruz SantaAvenue Cruz 533 Ocean Street 3600 Soquel 8amCruz – 9pm Daily 8am – 10pm Daily Santa Santa Cruz 8am – 9pm Daily 8am – 10pm Daily View our full menu and place your Express Lane order at
kindpeoples.com View our full menu and place your Express Lane order at C10-0000172-LIC • C10-0000234-LIC 2 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
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kindpeoples.com
FRIDAY REALTY Best Real Estate Team
THE CREW Dale Friday Shevawn Torr Brenda Friday & Bronson (the shop dog)
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All stunts performed by Alasdair & Massey
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DALE FRIDAY Favorite Realtor
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DALE FRIDAY Favorite Realtor
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DALE FRIDAY Best Real Estate Agency Best Real Estate Team
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CONGRATS BRENDA FRIDAY VOTED IN THE TOP 3 BEST REALTORS
p l e H l l ’ e W e h t e k a M u o Y p m u J
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FRIDAY REALTY Favorite Real Estate Co.
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fridayrealty.com 831.440.7294
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FOR VOTING ME YOUR FAVORITE REALTOR
As a Santa Cruz native, it brings me so much joy to help others in my community find and sell homes in this beautiful area. I’m honored and grateful to support so many in their search for a perfect place to call home. I’d love to help you find the house of your dreams!
831.359.7189
DRE 01868652
JESSYK ASELLSSANTACRUZ.COM
BUYERSELLERCONNECTIONS.COM
Buyer Seller Connections is Jessyka’s new website that matches motivated buyers with sellers who own hidden gems that you won't find on the MLS. This is your chance to snatch up amazing off-market real estate in Santa Cruz County. Head over to buyersellerconnections.com and create a wish list for your dream home.
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PHOTOS BY TRICIA MOGENSEN
Thank you! SW
Rates as as low
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831.479.6000 • www.bayfed.com • 888.4BAYFED *Annual Percentage Rate (APR). Based on approval of credit with credit score (Experian FICO V9 Auto Score) of 730+, up to a 51 month term on the rate and term, for the refinance of a 2015 or newer vehicle. Rate example includes a .25% reduction for member loyalty of having a mortgage or checking account open prior to 4/1/2020 and a .25% reduction for enrollment in automatic payments. Payment per $1,000 for a 51 month term is $20.58 based on 2.24% APR. Minimum loan amount is $5,000. Maximum loan amount is 110% of Kelley Blue Book Adjusted Retail Value plus GAP. Your actual APR may vary based on your credit history along with the age and mileage of vehicle financed. ** First payment will be deferred for 90 days. Based on approval of credit with credit score (Experian FICO V9 Auto Score) of 640+. Minimum loan amount to qualify for the 90 day payment deferral is $10,000. Interest will continue to accrue from date of loan disbursement and becomes due once payments begin. All loans are subject to credit approval and income verification per Bay Federal Credit Union lending requirements and funded by September 30, 2020. Offer available on the purchase or refinance from another Financial Institution of a 2010 or newer vehicle. Credit Union membership required. Refinances of current Bay Federal loans are not eligible for this offer. Terms subject to change without notice and offer may not be combined with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply. For complete information, visit www.bayfed.com, visit any Bay Federal Credit Union branch, or call us at 1-800-4BAYFED.
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Thank You!
YOUR COMMUNITY SURF SHOP
@hermansphotos
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John Fuchs Properties thanks YOU for honoring us!
Nobody does it all like we do! Construction 4 Real Estate
John Fuchs Properties 758 Rio Del Mar Blvd, Aptos CA 831-688-8008 www.johnfuchsproperties.com Contractors License #444422 DRE # 00977045 SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 7
From all of us at Santa Cruz Toyota, thank you for voting us as Favorite Car Dealership. We are honored to win this award again.
831-462-4200 SantaCruzToyota.com
“Having Pete as our Realtor made all the difference in the world. He was so amazing and helpful in every way. My situation was a little more complicated than the usual sale of a house. I live on the East Coast and this was my parent’s house in Santa Cruz that I needed to sell. Just as we were about to list the house it was red tagged by the city. Pete was so helpful and able to meet the city when I couldn’t and he took a lot of that stress off my shoulders. He went WAY above and beyond the duties of a Realtor. He made the process of selling a home from a different state go very smooth. I would most definitely recommend Pete for any real estate needs”. - Brett
PETE PEARSON
"THE REAL ESTATE GUY"
DRE #00936463 | 831.818.1399
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THANKS SANTA CRUZ FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!
2656 Mission St. Santa Cruz, CA 831.469.8888 | sandbarsc.com SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 9
With moves likes this, our guess is that Adam Higgins is probably really good at Twister. PHOTO: EDIN MARKULIN
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Jim Boothol Swim Scho
WE MISS ! U O Y G N I E E S HARVEY WEST NOW OPEN!
I WOULDN’T BE THE SURFER I AM TODAY WITHOUT THE HELP OF JIM’S SWIM SCHOOL!
Thank You Santa Cruz County for voting us Best Yoga Studio and Best Pilates Studio! Thank you for your continued support, we love our community! • The highest cleanliness and safe practices
• Excellence in instruction • Exceptional class formats and offerings
• Access for everyone • And now....new class offerings!
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We are excited to introduce work.out.side, our new M-F outdoor classes with your favorite instructors!
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“THIS IS THE WAY TO START KIDS IN THE WATER”
1440 41st Ave. Suite E, Capitola, CA 95010
—Mike Bottom U.S. Olympic Team, World Record Holder
—Tyler Fox
OR VOTING US THANK YOU F
FAVORITE L! SWIM SCHOO CALL NOW!
722-3500
JimBoothSwimSchool.com 12 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
Poppy Magic by Maggie Renner Hellmann
FinestThe in Local Art Finest in Local Art THEThe FINEST IN LOCAL ART
Thank You for voting us your “Poppy Magic” by
Favorite Art Gallery
Thank Y voting us
Maggie Renner Hellmann
Many Hands Gallery
Favorite Art
Magic” by us Thank you for voting 510“Poppy Bay Ave, Capitola
FAVORITE ART GALLERY
831-475-2500 Maggie manyhandscapitola.com Renner Hellmann SW
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715 Capitola Ave Ste B, Capitola 831-475-2500 | manyhandscapitola.com
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Many Hands Gallery
510 Bay Ave, Capitola
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FAVORITE HOME DECOR
beautifully curated lifestyle boutique SW
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FAVORITE GARDEN SHOP & ONLINE STORE
HOME GOODS I GIFTS I INDOOR P L A N T S D O W N T O W N S A N TA C R U Z
701A FRONT ST. SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060 I 8 3 1 . 5 1 5 . 7 7 1 0 I O P E N E V E RY D AY 1 1 - 6
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Est. 1911
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Free your mind.... Where serenity and creativity coalesce
2776 SOQUEL AVE | 83 1.475.2900
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Favorite Garden Shop.
Favorite Home Decor
SANTA CRUZ
APTOS
831.466.3444 420 Water Street, Santa Cruz OPEN EVERY DAY 11-5:30
831.688.7011 7765 Soquel Drive, Aptos OPEN EVERY DAY 9-5
DIGGARDENS.COM
We will be limiting customers in store per social distancing requirements. Thanks for your support and understanding! SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 17
Nursery Gift Shop & Garden Art SW
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FAVORITE GARDEN SHOP
Locally owned since 1986
SANTA CRUZ WAVES M AG A ZINE
PUBLISHER TYLER FOX
EDITOR ELIZABETH LIMBACH
PHOTO EDITOR JAIME BODDORFF
PHOTOGRAPHY
SCW PHOTOGRAPHERS JAIME BODDORFF TYLER FOX BRYAN "WETFEET" GARRISON DAVE "NELLY" NELSON JEFF SCHWAB
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS JOSH BECKER APRIL BURKHART RYAN "CHACHI" CRAIG KAELYN DE YOUNG ADAM HIGGINS NICK LAVECCHIA EDIN MARKULIN ANNE MARTINETE BETHANY MOLLENKOF KYLE THIERMANN JASON ZULLO
EDITORIAL
WRITERS JOSH BECKER TYLER FOX CL AUDIA ISEMAN NEAL KEARNEY LINDA KOFFMAN DAMON ORION ARIC SLEEPER KYLE THIERMANN
PROOFREADER JOSIE COWDEN
DESIGN
CREATIVE DIRECTOR JOSH BECKER
DESIGNER JULIE ROVEGNO
PRESIDENT STEPHANIE LUTZ
CFO SARAH CRAFT
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES K ATE K AUFFMAN SADIE WIT TKINS
OFFICE MANAGER JENNIFER POLI
SALES & OPERATIONS
DISTRIBUTION MICK FREEMAN FOUNDER / CEO TYLER FOX
On the Cover: William Power takes one last glance after his squally sunset session at Steamer Lane. Photo: @chachfiles
The content of Santa Cruz Waves magazine is Copyright © 2020 by Santa Cruz Waves, Inc. No part may be reproduced in any fashion without written consent of the publisher. Santa Cruz Waves magazine is free of charge, available at more than 100 local distribution points. Anyone inserting, tampering with or diverting circulation will be prosecuted. Santa Cruz Waves assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements. For advertising inquiries, please contact steff@ santacruzwaves.com or 831.345.8755. To order a paid subscription, visit santacruzwaves.com.
2218 Mission St, Westside Santa Cruz (831) 429-8424 | f: thegardenco 1 8 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
F I N D US O N L I N E
www.SantaCruzWaves.com @SANTACRUZWAVES
s i b a n n a C e t i r o v Fa ! y r a s n e p s i D Thank You!
Masks ed! Requir
All profits from
Treehouse apparel for the months of July & August will be donated to the
Last Prisoner Project. Cannabis ♦ Community ♦ Creativity | Open: 10am - 8pm DAILY | | 3651 Soquel Drive, Soquel | 831.471.8289 | C10 - 0000105LIC | ourTreehouse.io @treehousedispensarysc
@treehouse_sc
Order Online!
Order on www.ourtreehouse.io, come by the shop, & go through the drive-thru for payment & pick up.
Curbside Ordering
Come by the shop & park your car. SANTA CRUZ | 19 Our budtenders will come to WAVES you!
Team Rider: Nat Young | Photo: Brandon Guilmette
1502 PACIFIC AVENUE | DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ 831.458.9283 | PACWAVE.COM 2 0 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
LETTER FROM THE FOUNDER
The boat partners do a docking drill in between sanding and repairs to their orange-hulled beauty. PHOTO: TYLER FOX
COPING with COVID And Other Life Lessons Aboard A 30-Foot Sailboat By TYLER FOX
folded my flannel, slid it under my knees for padding and continued to sand. Years of salt, seawater and relentless sunshine had left the wooden rails on this 1979 sailboat dried and cracked. As a new partner of this classic old vessel, it was now one of my tasks to sand and varnish. I continued to apply a generous helping of elbow grease and accelerated the square piece of 50-grit sandpaper until it turned into a blur. It wasn’t long until my fingers were fatigued and on the cusp of cramping, so I sat up to adjust my position, roll out my wrists and stretch my back. It was a scorching Sunday in the Santa Cruz Harbor and that ice-cold Pacifico down below was becoming more and more enticing. I resisted the temptation and leaned back in to inspect my work. The grains of the virgin wood below were starting to present themselves and the velvety finish was now soft to the touch. “This work is exquisite!” I quietly proclaimed. The fleeting moment of admiration was soon gone as my eyes followed the dry cracked wood foot after foot after foot to the stern and back up the portside of the boat. A sum of approximately 40 more feet of unfinished wood stretched out before me. I let out a large, defeated sigh, and once again repositioned my flannel under my knees and continued to sand.
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This lousy job of sanding dry, cracked wood for hours under the blazing heat reminded me, once again, that almost every great thing in life comes after you’ve put in the hours of hurt and hard work. And when I say great I mean that broadly. People’s definition of “great” will vary tremendously. All that matters is that you gave it your all. When I finally finished those rails—now rich in color and shine—it brought new life into the old boat. I was nowhere near done with all the projects that needed doing, but this one task was complete and it felt damn rewarding. Way more rewarding than topping 200 likes on some stupid social media post or any number of the mundane activities we find ourselves doing in our daily lives. During these crazy times where anxieties and fears of the future continue to overwhelm our collective consciousness, projects like these remind us to stay present; to devote our energy and attention to a project with purpose—no matter how small. And who knows, when you’re done with all that painting or pruning, sanding or sorting, you might just wake up from this bad dream and find yourself sailing off into the sunset on a sexy little 1979 sailboat.
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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US FAVORITE GENERAL CONTRACTOR!!! 9047 Soquel Dr. Aptos, CA 95003 | 831.684.2117 | www.testorffconstruction.com 2 2 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
CA LICENSE # 698917
INSIDE
INSIDE
VOLUME 7.2 - AUG/SEPT 2020
26
30
50 FIRST LOOK
21 Letter from the Founder 25 Word on the Street
DROP IN
26 Faces of Surf: Chelsea Woody 30 The 2020 Swellies Winners 46 Environment: Blume Distillation 50 Behind the Lens: Nelly 66 Outdoor: Cycling for a Cause 72 Art: Human Shaped Animal
92 FOOD & DRINK
79 Local Eats: Big Sur Salts 82 Dining Guide
COOL OFF
90 Field Notes 92 Company: SHILSHOL
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Do you have an outstanding beach property that you want to use personally, while collecting vacation rental income?
“
My family and I take pride in owning a beach home in beautiful Pleasure Point (Santa Cruz, Ca.) which means it can be very scary to think about renting our property to just anyone, but Beachnest has not only eliminated our stress, they have become a true extension of our family. We rest easy knowing that each and every potential tenant has been through their screening process, and being local we also know that whether a simple maintenance or emergency issue arise, I know we can count on Beachnest to handle the situation. Being a business owner with very little time to tend to our property, yet maximizing our income, communication is also very important to me in any relationship and I could not be happier in choosing both Liz and John Pickart to manage all aspects of our rental property. —R. and S. ROSITANO
”
Beachnest Vacation Rentals (831) 722-0888 • beachnest.com
Complimentary evaluation and proposal of our full service and high-end management services. Contact Liz and John Pickart for more information. 2 4 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
Relax•Restore•Unwind
Q:
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned lately?
WORD ON THE STREET
ASKED AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JAIME BODDORFF
Ellen Rossi, bartender "It's more important to give platforms to BIPOC voices right now: 'White supremacy won't die until white people see it as a white issue they need to solve rather than a Black issue they need to empathize with.' This has been a circulating tweet by Dwayne Reed, a Chicago-based educator."
Henry Spaulding, student "I've learned how to occupy my time with new skills like baking bread and making jam."
Heather Blume, nursery and garden manager "I've learned that I can't comfortably go to the beach I live next to, because people aren't considerate enough to wear masks when it's busy"
Kaelin Wagnermarsh, realtor "My husband's mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer a few months ago. ... It all happened so fast, and things changed dramatically right before our eyes while everyone was powerless. So, what have I recently learned? Do what you want most in life. See what you want to see, say what you need to who you need to, don’t hold grudges, and love with your whole heart, always."
Annie Laufman, instructional designer “I’ve been learning about the origins of race and racism … learning how racial injustice permeates so many areas: climate change, disparities in maternal and infant mortality, housing discrimination. … It’s a terrible reality to be waking up to, but I’m glad to be finally opening my eyes.”
Steve Evers, farm manager "I learned Donald Trump is even more horrible than I originally thought he was."
Fernly Mueller-Tuescher, coffee roaster “I’ve been trying to check out things I haven’t really known how to approach, but always wanted to learn about … like restorative justice. It’s sort of overwhelming but also exciting how it can be implemented in small, local ways. I’ve also learned how to distort 808s.”
Kenneth Thorstad, service technician "I guess I recently learned that people are a lot better at staying at home than they are at wearing a mask."
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Woody and Textured Waves co-founder Gigi Lucas share the stoke at a Southern California beach break. PHOTO: NICK LAVECCHIA 2 6 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
FACES OF SURF
CHELSEA
WOODY The Textured Waves co-founder on why representation matters By LINDA KOFFMAN
“I
’ve felt invisible in the water,” says Chelsea Woody, when asked how being an African American woman has influenced her experience as a surfer. “I’ve definitely had folks tell me that I don’t look like a surfer and that they don’t think I can surf based solely on how I look. I’ve had the experience of people disregarding me in the lineup, or paddling around me, even as they treat my white girlfriends of the same level whom I paddle out with differently.” She pauses, thinks, and repeats, quietly: “Yeah, I would say I’ve felt invisible.” Originally from Seattle, Woody and her husband relocated to Santa Cruz five years ago because they wanted to reside where they can surf every day. Now a nurse working at an Eastside hospital, she often spends her downtime hitting local waves with her favorite board, a Kalu 5’6” quad fish. But it can feel lonely as one of very few Black women in the water. Last year, in an effort to remedy this, she co-founded Textured Waves, a collective that started after she met fellow Black female surfers across the country online. They were seeking community, found each other, and then launched Textured Waves with an Instagram campaign to spotlight women of color—and especially Black—surfers. As of this writing, the account had 16,800 followers
and was quickly growing. The Textured Waves slogan? “Women of all shades, riding the waves.” “Our whole mission is to propagate that imagery to the world and surf media, and to inspire younger girls to get into surfing that may not look like the typical surfer girl,” Woody explains. While Woody is in Santa Cruz, the other co-founders— Gigi Lucas, Martina Duran, and Danielle Black Lyons—live in Florida, Hawaii, and Southern California, respectively. The group helped set up and promote various Black Lives Matter UNITY paddle outs, hosted a Hawaii pilot surf retreat for women of color in August of 2019, and is featured in the short film “Sea Us Now” (a collaboration with Seea swimwear that was written and co-directed by Woody). Textured Waves has received a lot more notice this year since the Black Lives Matter movement and protests fueled by the police killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor (and so many more) commanded headlines. Woody recently spoke with Waves about how surfing is affected by—and can play a role in healing—racism in our communities. “Yes, surfing is not gonna fix racism in this world,” she says, “but it’s one way to connect with surfers and show them how their lives and surroundings are impacted by systemic racism.”
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CHELSEA WOODY
PHOTO: JASON ZULLO
Some may feel diversity in surfing is a minuscule concern compared to other issues of injustice that are being addressed today. How does surfing fit in with the larger racial justice movement? I think the lack of diversity in surfing on the mainland is an extension of the structural racism that we have in this country—when you think about water spaces and who “belongs” in those spaces. It may seem very minuscule to somebody who doesn’t live in that world of generational restriction. But for example, if your grandparents were told that they cannot hang out at a certain beach or swim in a certain place, that gets passed down and it takes generations to undo that. Surfing is a broader visual of what systemic racism touches, and I would suggest that systemic racism touches all aspects of our daily lives. How is surfing a platform for creating change? I think social activism comes in many different forms, and with surfing, I feel like localism reflects some of the structural racism that this country has kind of been built on. If we just look back 60 to 70 years ago during Jim Crow and beach segregation and access to water—that has played a big role in what we see in outdoor spaces today and, specifically, beaches and surfing. I think that surfers tend to be environmentalists because they love the ocean and care how the environment is treated, but you have to open up that space to get more people on board with protecting it by letting them have a connection to it as well. And I think if you don’t have examples of folks that look like you in a space, you have a hard time imagining yourself in those places or achieving those things. How can the Santa Cruz community improve when it comes to issues of race in surfing? Of course, when we look through the pages of Santa Cruz Waves, it’s a lot of the same people and imagery being recycled. Maybe there can be some involvement with groups working on diversity, like The Wahine Project, Brown Girl Surf, and City Surf Project—there are a lot of groups in the Bay Area working on this. Also, I understand that waves are in limited supply and the thought of having more people in the lineup is cringeworthy, but the access to outdoor spaces is for everyone, and we have to learn to share that space. I think we have to let go of the idea that a space belongs to a particular person or group of people.
PHOTO: NICK LAVECCHIA
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FACES OF SURF
Woody (left) with Textured Waves co-founders Gigi Lucas, Danielle Black Lyons and Martina Duran. PHOTO: BETHANY MOLLENKOF
How have the recent Black Lives Matter protests affected your life and the Textured Waves project? It’s been wild. Even paddling out at my local break, I have found that people seem to be a little more welcoming; trying to be more conscious of how they treat others around them. As far as Textured Waves, we’ve been getting a lot of traction from big surf companies that are realizing they do have some changes to make and that there is a lack of diversity, especially among African Americans, in the surf industry. Being a nurse and a founder of Textured Waves are both focused on healing the community, in their own ways. Do you feel they are related? As a nurse I go into work every day ... [and] I care for people regardless of their background. And I think that is similar to Textured Waves in that we want people to feel welcome and not be treated differently because they may look different. What do you want readers to know about Textured Waves? That we’re not professional athletes, we’re just African American female surfers that want to share that we’re here in the lineup. We also want folks to be able to build off this history; we want to inspire the next grom to look back at that legacy because it’s not something we were really afforded. It’s not about fame or anything, it’s about showing the next generation what is possible for them.
What actions can people take to advance racial justice through surfing? I think there can be a little more kindness in the lineup, because the people you’re yelling at could be the same people that may take care of you at the hospital. It’s a small town, so be kinder to the folks around you regardless of if you’re in the water or on land. And education about the history of surfing in Santa Cruz is beautiful, but I think I want people to examine why it isn’t as diverse. I think that’s an extension of what was going on during the time of segregation and during the time period when surfing really started to gain popularity. Find Textured Waves online at texturedwaves.com and on Instagram as @texturedwaves. The Sea Us Now short film can be found at theseea.com.
EDUCATE YOURSELF
Want to learn more about the history of race in aquatic spaces in America? Woody recommends diving into the book Contested Waters: A Social History of Swimming Pools in America by Jeff Wiltse, and the 2011 surfing documentary White Wash by Ted Woods. SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 2 9
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Celebrate THE 2020 SWELLIES WINNERS
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by ELLE JEFE
Favorite Female Longboarder
CANDRA JORDAN
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andra Jordan, a 27-year-old Pleasure Point resident who loves weaving her way through all the shortbarders at First Peak, is putting in even more time at her local break than usual. Having placed seventh at the Vans Duct Tape Invitational in Portugal and fifth at the Relik Lowers in 2019, the longboarder has had to put extensive travel and competition plans on hold this year. She’s riding out the coronavirus wave by killing it in the lineup, earning a bachelor’s degree in interior and sustainable design, and exploring work opportunities. Here’s what else is keeping Jordan busy and motivated—in and out of the water. Current favorite boards: A single-fin performance log shaped by Ryan Engle and a Bing Elevator. Current sponsors: Matunas Surf Wax, Ryan Engle, Buell Wetsuits, Freewaters Footwear, [and] Rainbow Fin Co. And I would not be able to do what I do without the support of Stacy Forrester and Sawyer Land + Sea Supply. What book are you currently reading? Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less. I am juggling a lot at the moment and doing things half-ass is not okay with me. I am trying to find ways to balance my passions and careers while not hindering my mental and physical health. Favorite life philosophy that motivates you: “Be a rainbow in someone else's cloud" really plays into my every day. There are too many unhappy people in this world, in the water, on the streets, etc. I try and kill with kindness. A major challenge you’ve faced and what you learned from it: I had a rocky childhood surrounded by drug addiction and alcoholism. I have had to learn that you are not your parents; you write your own story. (I am pleased to say that they are both doing really well now.) I have been supporting myself since I was about 14 years old and had to learn to just put my head down and do that hard work. I lost my stepdad, the man who raised me, about six years ago and I had to dig down deep to understand that I had to keep living and keep fighting for my dreams, and that was how he was going to live on. I have always tried to hold my head high through it all and not let any of the negative define me. I have had my fair share of death, heartbreak, and injuries and I try to allow all of it to make me stronger. PHOTO: BRYAN GARRISON SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 3 1
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Favorite Nature Photographer
JEFF SCHWAB
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rom waves to ridges, capturing serenity in nature is Jeff Schwab’s thing. It all started when the 40 year old picked up a GoPro for his personal travels. Then came his Instagram account. Then came his first camera in 2015. Self-taught through YouTube videos and “lots of trial and error,” Schwab has come a long way in a short period of time. Today, the esteemed local nature photographer—born and raised in Santa Cruz—is snapping some of your favorite shots.
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HIGH
FIVE With Our Winning Photog
1. What is your favorite subject matter in general? Anything in Yosemite, especially El Capitan. 2. What is your favorite thing to shoot in Santa Cruz County? Walton Lighthouse, at sunrise with some good waves.
3. What is your preferred camera gear and why? I love all my Nikon gear. I shoot with a Nikon D850 and my lenses are 1424mm F/2.8, 24-70mm F/2.8, 70-200mm F/2.8 and 200-500mm F/4. I love the operating system that Nikon has and the dynamic range in the D850 is exceptional.
4. What keeps you passionate about nature photography? I just really love being out in nature and always trying to improve my craft. The small fanbase I have also keeps me motivated.
5. Where can people purchase your photography? You can purchase prints on my website, collectivefocus. photodeck.com, or directly through me on Instagram: @jschwab_24.
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Favorite Ocean Excursion
SEA SPIRIT OCEAN SAFARI
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our favorite sea-faring tour company has worked hard to adapt in recent months, as pandemic precautions have altered how many businesses operate. As of this writing, whale-watching excursions are not currently on the menu, but Sea Spirit Ocean Safari is busy offering private charters to small groups and cleaning the boat like never before. As always, their focus is the comfort of their passengers. Raina Stoops, owner and operations manager, gave Waves the following insight into Sea Spirit’s outdoor tours. What may surprise people to know about our local waters? We have resident whales year-round here. There is always something to see regardless of season, and no two trips are ever repeated.
What helps Sea Spirit stand out in the ocean tour industry? There are some great companies out there in the Monterey Bay and we enjoy the camaraderie we all share. I think as a whole we all have the same objectives and that is getting people out on the Bay to see some amazing animals as comfortable as possible. … [On our boat] everything can easily be seen without rushing to the rail. Comfort, along with customer service, is what we focus on here at Sea Spirit Ocean Safari.
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PHOTO: KAELYN DE YOUNG
After nearly 25 years, what keeps the Sea Spirit team excited? We're learning things all the time out there— things are always changing. We are humble and in awe of this Monterey Bay and we get just as excited, if not sometimes a little more, than passengers.
SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 3 5
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HW I N N E R SH 2020
EATS & DRINKS ACAI BOWL:
Amazon Juices Cafe Brazil Samba Rock BAR:
Alderwood Suda Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar DIVE BAR:
Brady’s Yacht Club JJ’s Saloon Castaway’s BBQ JOINT:
Mission St. BBQ Bruno’s Bar & Grill Aptos Street BBQ BLOODY MARY:
Bruno’s Bar & Grill Harbor Cafe Crow’s Nest Restaurant BREAKFAST BURRITO:
The Point Market Chill Out Cafe Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria BREAKFAST SPOT:
Harbor Cafe Zachary’s Restaurant Walnut Avenue Cafe BURGER:
Betty Burgers burger. Bruno’s Bar & Grill BREWERY:
DELI:
LOCAL FARM:
RESTAURANT, FELTON:
DINING WITH A VIEW:
MARGARITA:
RESTAURANT, BEN LOMOND:
Tortilla Flats Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant Palapas Restaurant & Cantina
Casa Nostra Tyrolean Inn Spanky’s Cafe
MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT :
RESTAURANT, SOQUEL:
Zameen Mediterranean Cuisine Laili Restaurant Mozaic
Home Cafe Cruz Tortilla Flats
MEXICAN RESTAURANT:
RESTAURANT, MIDTOWN:
Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant El Palomar Mijo’s
Lillian’s Italian Kitchen Crow’s Nest Restaurant Akira
MOLE:
RESTAURANT, WESTSIDE:
NEW RESTAURANT:
RESTAURANT, DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ:
Barceloneta Pono Hawiian Kitchen & Tap Vim Dining & Desserts
Laili Restaurant Oswald Restaurant Hula’s Island Grill / Alderwood
PIZZA:
RESTAURANT, SCOTTS VALLEY:
Zoccoli’s Delicatessen Garden Deli Seabright Deli / Black Point Market Crow’s Nest Restaurant Seascape Beach Resort Sotola Bar & Grill
DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT:
Harbor Cafe Seabright Brewery East Side Eatery FOOD TRUCK:
Holopono Gordo’s Saucey’s
FRIED CHICKEN:
Kickin Chicken HOME Bantum FRO-YO:
Yogurtland Top A Lot Juicy Sweet GROCERY STORE:
Shopper’s Corner Deluxe Foods of Aptos Staff Of Life HAPPY HOUR:
Crow’s Nest Restaurant Hula’s Island Grill TIE: Bruno’s Bar & Grill / Paradise Beach Grille HEALTH-CONSCIOUS RESTAURANT:
Humble Sea Brewing Co. Discretion Brewing Sante Adairius Rustic Ales
Dharma’s Cafe Gratitude Pretty Good Advice
BRUNCH:
HEALTH FOOD STORE, LOCAL:
Süda Harbor Cafe TIE: Chaminade / Seascape Beach Resort
Staff Of Life Wild Roots Aptos Naturals
CHEAP EATS:
Penny Ice Creamery Marianne’s Ice Cream Mission Hill
Charlie Hong Kong Pizza My Heart Taqueria Vallarta CHICKEN WINGS:
Wing Stop Bruno’s Bar & Grill Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar CHINESE RESTAURANT:
Canton Shen Feng Dynasty Restaurant COFFEE SHOP:
Cat & Cloud Coffee Cruise Coffee Verve Coffee Roasters CRAFT COCKTAIL:
515 Kitchen & Cocktails Alderwood TIE: Hula’s Island Grill / Süda
ICE CREAM:
INDIAN FOOD:
Ambrosia Mumbai Delights Royal Taj ITALIAN RESTAURANT:
Lillian’s Italian Kitchen Tramonti La Posta JUICE BAR:
Amazon Juices New Leaf Community Market TIE: Jamba Juice / Clean Juice Aptos KID FRIENDLY:
Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar Pono Hawiian Kitchen and Tap East Side Eatery LATE NIGHT:
The Parish Publick House Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant The Crepe Place
Dirty Girl Produce Everett Family Farm Gizdich Ranch
Tortilla Flats Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant Tie: El Jardin Restaurant / Palapas Restaurant & Cantina
The Cremer House Cowboy Grill & Bar Taqueria Vallarta
West End Tap and Kitchen Bantum VIM Dining & Desserts
Pleasure Pizza Pizza My Heart Woodstock Pizza / Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar
Ortoro Malone’s Grill Jia Tellas
PLACE TO WATCH SPORTS:
Whale City Bakery Cemitas Davenport Roadhouse
Bruno’s Bar & Grill The Parish Publick House TIE: Britannia Arms / Seabright Brewery POKE:
Pono Hawiian Grill Pono Hawiian Kitchen & Tap Poke Bowl PUB FOOD:
The Parish Publick House Hindquarter Bar & Grill Britannia Arms RESTAURANT:
Cafe Cruz Shadowbrook Restaurant Lillian’s Italian Kitchen / East End Gastropub RESTAURANT, MOSS LANDING:
Phil’s Fish Market & Eatery Whole Enchilada Haute Enchilada
RESTAURANT, WATSONVILLE:
Imura Japanese Restaurant TIE: California Grill & Bar / Cilantros Ella’s At The Airport RESTAURANT, APTOS:
Bittersweet Bistro Akira TIE: Cafe Rio / Persephone RESTAURANT, CAPITOLA:
Paradise Beach Grille Shadowbrook Restaurant TIE: Sotola Bar & Grill / East End Gastropub
RESTAURANT, DAVENPORT:
SANDWICH:
Surf City Sandwich Zoccoli’s Delicatessen Garden Deli SUSHI:
Akira Sushi Garden Mobo TACO:
Tacos Moreno El Palomar Taco Bar TIE: Habeneros Bar and Grill / Mijos TAPAS:
Barceloneta Lúpolo Tortilla Flats TAP HOUSE:
Beer Thirty Bottle Shop & Pour House Pour Taproom Santa Cruz TIE: Lúpolo / Pono Hawiian Kitchen and Tap THAI RESTAURANT:
Sawasdee Star of Siam TIE: Pacific Thai / Real Thai WINERY:
Bargetto Winery Soquel Vineyards Tie: Storrs Winery / MJA Vineyards WINE BAR:
Soif Restaurant + Wine Shop Vino Cruz Wine Bar + Kitchen Cantine Winepub
SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 3 7
SOQUEL CREEK ANIMAL HOSPITAL sends a huge shout out to ALL THE ANIMAL LOVERS!!! Our pets help us to live our best lives.
THANK YOU FOR CARING FOR YOUR PETS HEALTH
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US
SANTA CRUZ'S FAVORITE HEADSHOP!
so they can live their best life too.
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OPERATING WITH REDUCED HOURS DAILY, 11A-7P EL LIE S
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FAVORITE VETERINARIAN
TO ALLOW FOR SANITATION OF PREMISES DAILY
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT THROUGH THESE CHALLENGING TIMES.
2505 S. Main St, Soquel (831)476-1515 soquelcreekanimalhospital.com
ils Best Na uz r in Santa C HAIR • NAILS • FACIALS • WAXING • MAKEUP • LASH EXTENSIONS
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VOTED FAVORITE SALON 4 YEARS IN A ROW!
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VOTED FAVORITE SKINCARE & FACIAL
LOCATED IN CAPITOLA VILLAGE • 309 CAPITOLA AVE • (831) 464-1700 • SALONVICE.COM
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2020 W I N N E R S RETAIL SHOPS BIKE SHOP:
Another Bike Shop Spokesman TIE: Family Cycling Center / Epicenter CAR DEALERSHIP:
Santa Cruz Toyota Ocean Honda Aloha
CLOTHING SHOP, MEN:
Pacific Wave O’Neill Surf Shop Stripe
CLOTHING SHOP, WOMEN:
Zen Trading Pacific Trading Co. TIE: Typsy Gypsy / Stripe DISPENSARY:
Treehouse Kind Peoples Santa Cruz Naturals EYEWEAR:
Eye Q Spex Eyewear Vanity by the Sea
FURNITURE STORE: SC41 Furniture Redo Couch Potato GREEN BUSINESS:
SKATE SHOP:
Bill’s Wheels The Boardroom
SNOWBOARD/SKI SHOP:
Helm of Sun Valley Pacific Wave The Boardroom
SOLAR COMPANY:
SWIM SCHOOL:
Woodstove & Sun Capo Fireside Santa Cruz Stoves & Fireplaces SURF SHOP:
O’Neill Surf Shop Freeline Surf Shop Buell Wetsuits & Surf SUP SHOP:
Covewater SUP Shack Capitola Surf & Paddle TATTOO STUDIO:
Heavy Water Tattoo Triton Tattoo TIE: Staircase Tattoo / Black Pearl WAXING:
Bella Dawna Esthetics Artistry & Care Live Love Beauty European Wax Center
ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CLINIC:
Thrive Natural Medicine Santa Cruz Naturopathic Medical Center Five Branches University
GROM STORE: Pacific Wave Buell Wetsuits & Surf O’Neill Surf Shop
DAY SPA:
HEAD SHOP:
GROM, BOY:
Botanic and Luxe Om Gallery TIE: Dig Gardens / Outside-In JEWELRY:
Artisans Gallery Supersilver Seasalt by Em
DENTIST:
Nic Hdez Nat Young Noah Wegrich
STOVE & FIREPLACE STORE:
GARDEN SHOP:
HOME DECOR:
SHORT BOARDER, MALE:
SURF SCHOOL:
OUTDOOR & HEALTH/FITNESS
Pipeline Puff-N-Pass 831 Smokeshop
CREDIT UNION:
Ashley Held Autumn Hays Keanna Miller
Allterra Solar Sandbar Solar Solar Technologies
Ethos Santa Cruz Core TIE: Big Creek Lumber / Optimum Business Solutions Dig Gardens Botanic and Luxe TIE: Mountain Feed / The Garden Company
SHORT BOARDER, FEMALE:
Bella Dawna Esthetics Artistry & Care Well Within Spa Yoso Wellness Spa James Daniel Brody Price Adam Bartlett
GROM, GIRL:
Keanna Miller Madalyn Price Ava Burke GYM:
Toadal Fitness In Shape Santa Cruz Power Fitness
Richard Schmidt Surf school Surf School Santa Cruz
Bay Federal Credit Union Santa Cruz Community Credit Union Monterey Bay Credit Union Santa Cruz Children’s Dentistry Dr. Raffo Dientes Community Dental Care FINANCIAL BROKER:
LPL Brian Cook Coast Financial
Jim Booth Swim School Adventure Sports Unlimited TIE: Quicksilver / Seahorse Swim School
GENERAL CONTRACTOR:
YOGA STUDIO:
GREEN BUILDERS:
Hot Elevation Studios Hotsource Yoga Breath + Oneness
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Testorff Construction MG Builders John Fuchs Construction
Santa Cruz Green Builders Testorff Construction Talmadge Construction HOTEL:
Dream Inn Hotel Paradox Chaminade Resort & Spa
ARTIST:
INSURANCE AGENCY:
Sarah Jane Maia Negre Vince Broglio
AAA King Tedsen Insurance Agency
ART GALLERY
INSURANCE AGENT:
Many Hands Gallery Curated by the Sea Tony Pagliaro Gallery
Noemy Piña Matt King Ken Everett
DJ:
NATURE PHOTOGRAPHER:
DJ Sparkle Xica Hansen Joaquin Munoz FESTIVAL:
Capitola Art & Wine Festival Santa Cruz Greek Festival Santa Cruz Music Festival LIVE MUSIC VENUE:
The Catalyst Moe’s Alley Kuumbwa Jazz Center LOCAL BAND:
The Expendables Soulwise Nomalakadoja NIGHT CLUB:
Jeff Schwab Brant Schenk TIE: Tony Pagliaro / Alison Gamel NONPROFIT:
Housing Matters Save Our Shores Grey Bears MORTGAGE BROKER:
James Saville Tom Powers Ryan Buckholdt REALTOR:
Jessyka Soto Jeremy Larson TIE: Alistair Craft / Brenda Friday
Motiv The Blue Lagoon The Catalyst Club
REAL ESTATE COMPANY:
PROFESSIONALS
SALON:
David Lyng Sereno Group Friday Realty
Candra Jordan Bianca Dootson Tessa Timmons
BANK:
Santa Cruz County Bank Lighthouse Bank
VICE Salon Click Click Bang TIE: Evolve Beauty Lounge / Parlour At The Point
OUTDOOR SPORTING GOODS:
LONGBOARDER, MALE:
BOARD SHAPER:
SKIN CARE:
Reilly Stone Kyle Jouras Darshan Gooch
Doug Haut Bob Pearson TIE: Kalu Coletta / Ashley Lloyd
Yoso Wellness Spa Bella Dawna Esthetics Artistry & Care Divine Skin Etc.
ONLINE SHOP:
OCEAN EXCURSION:
CHEF: James Manns / Suda Brad Briske / HOME Jesikah Stolaroff / VIM
SURF PHOTOGRAPHER:
Sea Spirit Ocean Safari Chardonnay Sailing Charters O’Neill Yacht Charters
PET/FEED STORE:
PILATES STUDIO:
CHIROPRACTOR:
VETERINARIAN:
NEW BUSINESS, RETAIL:
Ethos Simpatico Shilshol
Outdoor World Play It Again Sports Patagonia
Burn Hot Sauce Botanic and Luxe TIE: Fybr Bamboo / Socksmith.com Pet Pals General Feed & Seed Aptos Feed
LONGBOARDER, FEMALE:
Hot Elevation Studios Coastline Pilates Pleasure Point Yoga
Dr. Sawyer Rhodes Walton TIE: Back in Shape / Dr. Love
Brant Schenk Dave “Nelly” Nelson Bryan Garrison
Soquel Creek Animal Hospital Mountain Animal Hospital Harbor Veterinary Hospital SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 3 9
Thank you Santa Cruz! Santa Cruz Naturopathic Medical Center Providing alternative & integrative healthcare to our community for over 11 years.
Favorite
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ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CLINIC
736 Chestnut St, Santa Cruz (831) 477-1377 • scnmc.com
santa cruz county’s
# 1 R E A L E S TA T E C O M P A N Y We understand that buying and selling a home or property is more than just a transaction, it’s often a life-changing experience and many times the client’s most valuable asset. Our agents and support team are dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized service for our clients. We take great pride in the relationships we build and work relentlessly on our client’s behalf to help them achieve their real estate goals and dreams. We’re home, let us find yours!
thank you! SW
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FOR VOTING US AS YOUR FAVORITE REAL ESTATE COMPANY
2701 41ST AVE SOQUEL • 831.464.2228 • SC41.COM 4 0 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
DAVIDLYNG.COM 831.476.0100
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Favorite Breakfast Burrito
THE POINT MARKET
PHOTO: JAIME BODDORFF
W
Favorite Tattoo
HEAVY WATER TATTOO
9
hile most people think the waves are what draw crowds to Pleasure Point, there are plenty who hit up the Eastside for the perfect breakfast burrito. And earning the nod for Favorite Breakfast Burrito in Santa Cruz County (again) is no small feat. The Point Market has long been making the famed combo of eggs and morning accoutrements that get people scrambling out of bed. There’s even a YouTube video about it. And it’s well-deserved: Eggs, bacon, avo, cheese, and grilled potatoes are rolled up into one heaving mass of goodness called The Barrel. Soothe your post-surf or presurf hunger pains the Santa Cruz way.
T
he man behind Heavy Water Tattoo’s masterful inking, Brayton Furlong, is a multi-talented artist (and surfer, of course) who also has a background in glass sculpture. Whether it’s detailed realism or innovative surrealism, Furlong has been turning bodies into canvases for the past 10 years. In addition to the usual creative expression involved in the intricate commissioned body art, what’s an added reward of the job? “I've done some scar cover-ups where the client was no longer hiding their scars but showing off their new work,” the artist says. “It feels good to be able to help people in those situations.” Pro tip: Book your appointment months in advance because Heavy Water Tattoo is, no surprise, in heavy demand..
SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 4 1
THANK YOU SANTA CRUZ FOR VOTING US
FAVORITE EYEWEAR 101 Capitola Ave | Capitola, CA 95010 www.ethossantacruz.com @ethossantacruz 831. 854. 2490
Pick-Up + Local Bike Delivery Available!
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1101 PACIFIC AVE • DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ 831-466-3937 • EYEQSANTACRUZ.COM
Thank You
To our amazing clients & customers for your continued support during these challenging times. It is a gift we will always treasure. With gratitude we thank you.
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831.688.3203 7556 | SOQUEL DR, APTOS CA 4 2 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
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FAVORITE DAY SPA FAVORITE WAXING
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FAVORITE SKINCARE
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PHOTO: COURTESY OF MISSION ST. BBQ
Favorite BBQ Joint
MISSION ST. BBQ
W
hen you want to tear into some saucy meat like a Jurassic-era predator, find the smell of smoke where Mission meets Bay Street. That’s where Mission St. BBQ is perched, serving up your favorite carnivorous delights. This family-owned-and-operated restaurant is famous for its St. Louis-style pork ribs, beef brisket, spicy shredded chicken, tri-tip, and some carefully seasoned bites, all—as their website says—“cooked low and slow with indirect heat. No gas here.” The selection of flavors—smoked daily atop seasoned oak wood—lures locals for the kind of beloved messy combo meals that keep napkins in demand. Visit missionstbbq.com to learn about delivery and online ordering options.
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FAVORITE CRAFT COCKTAIL
515 Kitchen & Cocktails
515 Kitchen & Cocktails has long been the spot for refined drinks. Have doubts that a casual surf town knows how to do high-class craft cocktails like the big cities? Just hit up 515 and sip your doubts away. The double-level staple in downtown Santa Cruz knows its way around smoky mezcals, fruit-infused vodkas, chai-infused gins, and mango-infused whiskey—just to name a few of the exotic scene stealers. As of press time, 515 was offering two- and four-serving cocktails available for pickup. Visit 515santacruz.com for the latest information about online ordering, business hours, and more. PHOTO COURTESY OF 515 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS
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PHOTO: JAMIE BODDORFF
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ENVIRONMENT
Making to Save the A local company’s ambitious plans for cleaner air and water By CLAUDIA ISEMAN
T
urning organic matter into alcohol is an age-old process, but here’s what’s new: farming kelp off the California coast to clean dirty ocean water, then using a process of bio-refining to turn the kelp into biofuel. Combine that concept with an effort to cut carbon dioxide emissions by powering local school buses with plantbased fuel, and David Blume says it’s a recipe for clean water and air. “All of us would like to have a cleaner planet,” says Blume, CEO of Blume Distillation in Watsonville. Blume, along with Vice President Tom Harvey, hopes to one day build biofuel plants from Seattle to Los Angeles. The vision begins with research and testing on a country road in Watsonville, at the site of a retired rose farm, where Blume Distillation converts everything from agricultural waste to stale candy and kelp into ethanol. By 2021, they hope to have all the financing in place to start up the commercial phase of ethanol production.
Harvey originally came to Santa Cruz to save the redwood trees but, since meeting Blume in 2005, his focus has turned to renewable fuels. Harvey handles the marketing and communications, while Blume is a scientist and biosystems expert. Both are passionate ecologists. Blume and Harvey are brewing up a smorgasbord of different environmental projects and Santa Cruz County is their test site. For example, one day they would like to clean up the Gulf of Mexico, where toxic fertilizers and pollutants from the Mississippi River are forming a cesspool and creating a large “dead zone” in which marine life can’t thrive. Blume Distillation would farm kelp, then mow it and convert it into fuel. “The kelp will lower the ocean temperature, reject oxygen and absorb all of the problematic nutrients deposited by chemical fertilizers and waste runoff from sewage treatment plants,” explains Harvey.
H Blume Distillation uses organic sugarcane, spent beer, and other organic materials to create their distilled alcohol
products. Here, formulation technician Lucky Morales adjusts the molasses distillation tanks.
SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 47
BLUME DISTILLATION
David Blume (left) and Tom Harvey (right) stand outside at Blume Distillation/Whiskey Hill Farms with their sanitizing and fertilizer products. PHOTO: JAMIE BODDORFF
Blume Distillation converts everything from agricultural waste to stale candy and kelp into ethanol.
Blume Distillation’s goal is to use the fuel to power the super tankers that crisscross our ocean waters. Abandoned oil derricks would serve as the platform for the kelp farms, while the pipelines could transport the biofuel. “There’s tremendous toxicity associated with the transportation of oil and gas,” says Blume, who authored the 2007 book Alcohol Can be a Gas. Blume began working on the kelp project in the Caribbean during the 1970s. “We are interested in getting a California coastal project going—and that could be a plant in either Watsonville or Richmond—where we can demonstrate the solution,” says Harvey. Blume Distillation works in cooperation with Whiskey Hill Farm, an organic farm located on the same property. Greenhouses left over from the rose farm now grow all kinds of plant matter for the experiments that sit next to high-tech equipment, like an alcohol hydrometer that
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measures the purity of the alcohol. The fermentation of plant-based waste begins with storing the organic material in tanks where it turns into alcohol mash. The distillation process separates the alcohol and water from the mash using heat. Currently, Blume Distillation is a lean operation with about 13 employees. Watsonville city councilmember Lowell Hurst is thrilled to support efforts for a greener Central Coast. He serves on the Monterey Bay Air Resources District and is involved in a project with Blume Distillation to convert Watsonville’s waste trucks into ethanol-burning vehicles. “It’s very appropriate to have waste vehicles powered by waste,” says Hurst. According to Harvey, the waste truck project will pave the way for bigger alternative-fuel projects like converting the large fleet of Pajaro Valley Unified School District (PVUSD) buses from diesel to ethanol. He said that
ENVIRONMENT
once they streamline that process, Blume can also produce ethanol fuel for marine vehicles. For now, though, Blume and Harvey are working to secure a commitment to finance the test phase of the PVUSD buses that transport 8,000 students each day to school, belching out thick diesel smoke along the way. In the spring of 2017, PVUSD entered into a partnership with Blume Distillation for a pilot program. “The partnership would convert some buses’ liquid fuel to use locally produced near-zero emission bioethanol as diesel or gasoline replacement,” says PVUSD Superintendent Michelle Rodriguez. To date Blume has raised over $5 million for their research and development from private, angel and impact investors. Learn more about what Blume is cooking up at blumedistillation.com.
Leticia Micelli shows the final product in use. PHOTO: JAMIE BODDORFF
FUELED BY
COVID E
Carlo Muñoz and Enrique Muñoz, both plant engineers for Monterey Bay Renewable Fuels, look over the equipment with Morales. Product from the distillation tanks enter the stripper column (white column), which strips off the alcohol from the waste product. The product then filters through the rectifier (silver column) which further separates the alcohol from the water content. Blume Distillation hopes to use this alcohol product to power diesel vehicles in Santa Cruz County. PHOTO: JAMIE BODDORFF
arlier this year, as the COVID-19 pandemic raged on, Watsonville City Manager Matt Huffaker mentioned to Tom Harvey, of Blume Distillation and Blume Organics, that city employees were desperate for hand sanitizer. An idea was born. Blume Organics leased its production equipment to Monterey Bay Renewable Fuels 1 (MBRF1), which quickly began making organic skin and surface sanitizer products. “The coronavirus pandemic has made us more aware of personal hygiene and I think hand sanitizer is here to stay,” Harvey tells Waves. MBRF1 is ramping up production at Whiskey Hill Farms with their all-organic, 75-percent alcohol sanitizing products. MBRF1 has the ability to pump out organic alcohol that’s not only drinkable but also pharmacy and medical grade. According to Harvey, many hand sanitizers contain petroleum products that may be harmful. He says tests show this can be especially true for children, who have more porous skin. The hand sanitizer went on sale mid June and so far, the folks at MBRF1 are encouraged. “In Santa Cruz people understand the value of organic production and cultivation. People in our community think local first,” says Harvey. For information on Blume Organics sanitizer products, visit MBRF1.com. SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 4 9
{
BEHIND THE LENS
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} Y L N E L DAVE
L E N
N O S
elly” Nelson N “ e v a D d n e g le onal with Up close and pers By NEAL KEARNEY
A
gainst a backdrop of the setting sun, a young surfer in a fluorescent-orange wetsuit moves with incredible speed across the face of a head-high wave. Nearby, a man lugging a heavy water-house camera positions himself to intercept the action. The gifted grommet knows the drill and proceeds to launch a huge air directly over the photographer’s head. A bright flash emanates from the housing at the peak of his maneuver. After what appears to be a near collision, they both pop up wearing jacko’-lantern grins. They’d just successfully “hooked up,” and they knew it. Magic moments like this have fueled Dave “Nelly” Nelson's legendary photography career over the last 25 years. From humble beginnings as a skate-influenced surfer who began documenting his travels and exploits with friends, to a worldrenowned surf photographer who regularly collaborates with some of the biggest names in the surf world, Nelson has cemented his place in the big leagues of global surf icons. A husband, father, and friend to many, this devoted, hardworking photographer has inspired a generation of artists, including local cinematographer Kyle Buthman. “Nelly was the first guy I remember seeing shooting from the water as a kid,” says Buthman. “I was inspired to capture similar angles of his still images, but with motion pictures. Seeing all he could accomplish swimming got me out there in the water, which is my favorite approach to this day.” Nelson is currently pouring over thousands of slides as he prepares his next project, Dual Perspectives, a two-volume collection of photos and the stories behind them, due for publication
H Koa Rothman on one of the meatiest monsters ever
surfed at Teahupo'o.
SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 5 1
Photo by Bryan Garrison, image was shot on 35mm Ilford HP5
Film is making waves again Film has been rediscovered by photographers in Santa Cruz and Bay Photo Lab is excited to be the center of the local film community! The visual quality and honesty of film are a timeless way to explore the art of photography and connect with your photos in a real way. From picking up a disposable camera for a weekend adventure, to using film for professional work to capture a unique look, Bay Photo Lab is happy to share our expertise and guide you on your analog journey.
Eastside Store 715 Soquel Ave. (831) 425-1100 5 2 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
Park Ave Store 2959 Park Ave. (831) 475-6090
Our local Bay Photo stores stock over 25 different kinds of film and new films keep coming onto the market for exciting new looks. We provide a full suite of film services including processing, scanning, and printing of all major film types and sizes. Like surfing, shooting film requires dedication, skill, and perseverance to master, but there is nothing like getting your photos back from the lab and seeing that you got the perfect shot. Find us at @bayphotolocal and join us in our passion for film photography!
Check out our NEW website! bayphotolocal.com
“ One thing I got out of this global pandemic is that it’s slowed me down, to the point where I had to start confronting the tough process of sorting through hundreds of thousands of slides in my office.”
at the end of 2020. Waves sat down with the intrepid artist on a beautiful day in June to discuss his upcoming project, his early days behind a camera, the perils and satisfaction inherent in his water photography, and his take on the future of surf photography.
BEHIND THE LENS
What barriers did you encounter when you entered the world of surf photography? I came from the era of all the photographers being protective over their crews here. I had a lot of respect for guys like Chris Klopf, Woody Woodworth, Tony Roberts, and Ron Edwards, just to name a few. I didn’t want to step on their toes, so for a while there I was walking on eggshells; not wanting to poach their sessions.
E "Before digital photography, all we shot was film, and we had to be very picky with what we shot. We also had to bring down an extra roll and a towel for a quick sprint to the beach to change rolls before swimming back out. When the session was done, we'd drop off the rolls off at Bay Photo Lab and wait in anticipation—because you really never knew if you were gonna score or get skunked. When we got the slides back and would come across an A+ shot, it was pure celebration.”
SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 5 3
BEHIND THE LENS
EÂ A glowing golden-
hour view of the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and, in the distance, Pleasure Point.
F Anthony Tashnick
is another one of Santa Cruz's surfing mad scientists, and he's always up for a night-time expression session.
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EÂ Human/pooch duo
Homer Henard and Skyler are always a blast to shoot.
H There was never a
dull moment when the late, great Shawn "Barney" Barron entered the water.
SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 5 5
DAVE “NELLY” NELSON
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BEHIND THE LENS
“ I didn’t want to step on their toes, so for a while there I was walking on eggshells; not wanting to poach their sessions.” What was it like establishing your own network of talent and crews? It must have taken a lot of time and effort. It did and didn’t. Luckily for me, I used to live down the street from Tony Roberts when he was at his peak, so I got to meet all these pros—not just from here, but [also] from other countries. I got to see exactly how he operated and corralled his crew. He taught me a lot. When he moved to Costa Rica, he sold me some of his equipment and gave me a lot of contacts. I was psyched. It was one of the most exciting times of my life. Explain your affinity for shooting from the water, as opposed to shooting from land. A lot of photographers want to do everything perfect and get all anal if it isn’t offshore with crisp lighting. Coming up, I didn’t care if it was sunny. I was shooting every day and I learned a lot fast. Shooting water shots was an advantage because some guys get lazy and just want to stand on the beach and shoot from there. The magazines wanted to see these water shots with different angles. They wanted to see up-close and artsy stuff, which is kind of difficult to get from land unless you’re getting into speed blurs.
H “Nathan Fletcher and I have always had a great
‘magnet.’ We’re always trying unique stuff and it’s always worked out great. I’ll tell him, ‘Do an air above me so I can go underneath you!’ Then, first wave he catches, he gyrates straight to wherever I am and hucks a huge air above me. We just look at each other and know that we’d scored before we’ve seen the actual image. It’s a special thing to have with someone.”
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BEHIND THE LENS
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Three-time Mavericks champion, Fleahab founder and all-around Renaissance man Darryl "Flea" Virostko finds some shade close to home.
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DAVE “NELLY” NELSON
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BEHIND THE LENS
“ I was able to shoot a bunch of whale, sunset, lighthouse, and full-moon shots ... [and sell] prints and ads while continuing to pursue my surf photography.”
Your water photos are so intimate. Have you ever had any sketchy run-ins with talent because of your proximity? Oh yeah, it just comes with the territory, but it’s the most exciting thing ever and you want to get as close as physically possible. I’ve had a lot of close calls, been run over and had my port shattered a number of times from collisions with surfers and the reef. I’ve been landed on multiple times by guys like Barney, Matt Rockhold, and Austin Smith-Ford. Lots of mid-air bails with guys landing on my back with their full body weight, knocking the wind out of me. For example, Rockhold. I’ve gotten more A+ photos with him than any other person I’ve shot with and I’ve had more collisions with him than any other person I’ve shot with. He’s broken his leg and almost had his eye taken out. There have been so many times I’ve taken that guy to the hospital. [Laughs.] So much of media is online now, instead of in print. How has that transition been for you, and how has your focus shifted? It’s a weird world now in the surf photography game. Luckily, I learned how to diversify my photography from shooting surfing to shooting pretty much everything. What that did was give me a bunch of freedom because I was able to shoot a bunch of whale, sunset, lighthouse, and full-moon shots … [and sell] prints and ads while continuing to pursue my surf photography. [That took] the pressure off me to make a living just doing surf photography. It worked in my favor, but I feel bad for the up-and-coming, budding photographers. They shoot all day and afterward everyone wants them to send them their shots to post up on their Instagram. That’s it. Either you’re charging your friends for photos or working all day for free, so it’s a lose-lose. For a photo to get [printed] in the magazines, it had to go through me, then through the magazine— from the photo editor to the whole editing crew before going to print. Nowadays anyone can post anything, and people don’t know any better. Are there any locations where you won’t shoot from the water because of the presence of sharks? Definitely, I’ll never shoot water down at Manresa, or anywhere near there. I won’t even go surf down there anymore. There’s a special yet secluded reef that I got chased out of by a huge great white shark about 15 years ago. I got a shot of Ruffo that session, which turned into a two-page [magazine] spread. And after that I was done out there.
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DAVE “NELLY” NELSON
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BEHIND THE LENS
What can you tell us about Dual Perspectives before it hits the shelves? I’ve always wanted to make a book. I’ve always had the intention, but I’m a psyched individual and don’t like to slow down. I go from dawn to dusk pretty much every day, whether it’s surfing, skating, shooting, golfing, or spending time with my wife and daughter. One thing I got out of this global pandemic is that it’s slowed me down, to the point where I had to start confronting the tough process of sorting through hundreds of thousands of slides in my office. The first half was miserable, but during the second half I started to see the end—that I only had 14 crates of slides left instead of 30 or 40. [Laughs.] I started finding photos that were magic [that] I’d forgotten I even shot at all. That made the process exciting, to where I was spending six or seven hours a day editing. [Friend and collaborator] Keith Meek and I were talking about ideas for a book and we came up with Dual Perspectives as a title and theme. Each page will have a photo along with a story from the surfer and one from me, illustrating the two different points of view on an epic moment in time. There are a lot of stories throughout the 25 years I’ve spent traveling the world. I’ve had to split the book into two volumes now. There’s no way I’m cutting out all the iconic A+ shots that I’ve taken, so I’m going to do a worldwide edition, along with an exclusively local Santa Cruz one. That’s the most exciting one for me because I really like to stoke my friends out. I like to see people's reactions when they’re happy. I have a lot of love for this town and everything it’s given me, so this is an epic opportunity to express that love. Follow Nelson on Instagram: @nellysmagicmoments. Visit liquidimagery. com to view his portfolio and prints for sale.
H Noi Kaulukukui surfs with impeccable precision
and lightning-quick speed. It's best to pull out the note pad when this kid gets in the ocean.
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A BIG RIDE FOR AN EVEN BIGGER CAUSE Words and Photos By Josh Becker
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Words and Photos by Josh Becker
n the wake of the recent police killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Rayshard Brooks, among others, every action counts. It’s important to stand up and support those in, and outside of, your community. And as athletes with platforms, professional cyclocross racer Tobin Ortenblad and fellow racer Dillon Hollinger wanted to bring their community together by raising awareness about racial injustice. To do this, Ortenblad and Hollinger developed a fundraising campaign around a cycling Everesting attempt, but with a little twist. The concept of Everesting is fairly simple: find a hill, ride up it, then down it, and repeat until you’ve climbed a total of 29,029 feet—the equivalent of climbing to the top of Mt. Everest. But what cyclist actually likes hill repeats? Instead, the two turned this into a 200-plus mile adventure ride throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains without a single hill repeat, all to raise money for two causes they believe in: Black Lives Matter and Bike Santa Cruz County’s Youth
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Advocacy Program. Within four days of launching, their GoFundMe campaign outpaced its initial $6,000 goal and they set their sights on raising $20,000 instead. Ortenblad and Hollinger completed their daunting 214-mile, 34,000-foot ride in about 16 hours on Friday, June 12, raising over $25,000 from their supporters. Inspired to keep the momentum going, the friends founded Big Rides for a Big Cause, an online hub that inspires cyclists across the country to take action on important issues by doing rides of their own. As of this writing, Big Rides for a Big Cause participants have collectively raised more than $110,000 for a variety of important causes. Learn more at bigridesbigcause.com.
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“ I often feel like the human race feels like they are so superior due to their human brain, but really I think that’s what causes just about all of our problems.”
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ART
Rachel Barnes, aka Human Shaped Animal, on the art of crossbreeding paintings with houseplants By J. D. Ramey
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hile earning her B.A. in painting and digital design at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, Rachel Barnes found herself making paintings of a new species: a hybrid of humans and plants. “They often were body parts morphed with plant matter, inspired by yoga poses,” the artist recalls. “Other times they were faces or heads that were the hybrid with the plants.” Over the years, plants have gradually taken on a starring role in Barnes’ art. These days one of her specialties is something she calls “art planters”: works of art that double as housing for live flora. “I’ve always liked the idea of plants being more incorporated into our world than they are,” she offers. “I think that’s my way of doing it.” Barnes, who markets her art under the alias Human Shaped Animal (“In college in sociology class,
my professor just said it in passing: ‘We’re all just human-shaped animals,’ and it stuck with me,” she explains), is fascinated with the way that plants and animals live “intuitively, by instinct, and really with their body rather than separated from it.” She notes, “I often feel like the human race feels like they are so superior due to their human brain, but really I think that’s what causes just about all of our problems.” Barnes became a Santa Cruz resident in 2016. A turning point in her artistic evolution came in the form of a membership to Idea Fab Labs, a Westside Santa Cruz space that offers access to tools like a laser cutter, a CNC router and 3D printers. “They’re constantly adding to the machines you can use,” she says. One particular machine—the laser cutter—has become essential to Barnes’ work. Among other things, it has made her designs cleaner and more concise.
OPPOSITE PHOTO: APRIL BURKHART / FOLLOWING PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY HUMAN SHAPED ANIMAL
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HUMAN SHAPED ANIMAL “When I was in college I did a lot of loose paintings,” she recalls. “It was very dripping and [full of] splatters. But I feel like it’s gotten tighter and tighter, especially with the use of the laser cutter, because I can map it all out first.” Geometric designs are key to Barnes’ style. “I think I’m drawn to that because [these shapes] are in everything, so I like the idea of breaking [objects] down into their pure form,” she muses. “And they really do make you feel things, even though it’s just shapes and colors. I can’t always pinpoint a feeling that I’m trying to convey with actual images, and I feel like sometimes shapes, weirdly, do that.” Another important part of Barnes’ aesthetic is her playful use of color. “I really enjoy color schemes that don’t always make sense right off the bat,” like pairing bold neons with muted natural hues, she says. “That’s kind of a little game I like to try to figure out: ‘Okay, these colors shouldn’t go together, but for some reason they kind of do in this scenario.’” Barnes, one of six members of the local collective/gallery/studio space The Art Cave, says she is always available for hire as a muralist. Her mural work can be seen in spaces like Moe’s Alley, West Lake Elementary School and the food court of Sunnyvale’s Yahoo! headquarters. Over the past couple of years, she has experimented with creating murals by arranging several different woodcuts on a wall as a single work of art. Formed to Emerge, the first piece she constructed using this method, can be seen at Idea Fab Labs. She says this technique is “definitely a little bit of a challenge, design-wise, because you have to think of the entire piece as a shape and then break it into multiple shapes that work together. But it gives you a lot of freedom to work during your own hours and in your own space. Plus, it gives this amazing dimension to it that you can play with.” Barnes feels that her self-expression runs parallel to her self-exploration. “I’m forever honing in on who I am, exploring and refining, and it reflects in my work,” she says. “It goes through big changes, yes, but it still keeps the same core essence … just like me.” Find Rachel Barnes online at humanshapedanimal. com and on Instagram: @humanshapedanimal. Learn more about Idea Fab Labs at santacruz.ideafablabs.com, and The Art Cave at theartcavesc.com.
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FOOD & DRINK
Season of the Sea Carlo Overhulser finds his purpose through Big Sur Salts
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By ARIC SLEEPER
ike the beat poets and folk singers, past and present— from Jack Kerouac to Father John Misty—sound engineer Carlo Overhulser found life-altering inspiration on the hallowed coast of Big Sur. There, perched on an undisclosed cliff side, sipping his favorite beverage, pondering the future, Overhulser met his fate in the form of an ocean wave. “I like to go out and watch how big the waves get in Big Sur, and I like to drink a Belgian beer,” says Overhulser. “I was like 40 feet up and this massive wave crept up the side of the cliff and nailed me. It completely ruined the beer so I dumped it out, but kept the bottle with ocean water still inside.” A month later, Overhulser noticed the souvenir from
his experience and the salt crystals that had formed after the water had evaporated. He tried the salt and felt that it was the best he’d ever tasted. He cut his feet harvesting small amounts of seawater in growlers he’d used for brewing beer, and began experimenting with drying techniques and blends. “I started passing the salt around to chefs on Alvarado Street [in Monterey], and they were like, ‘Dude, where can I buy this?’” says Overhulser. “And that’s how Big Sur Salts came about—kind of by accident.” Overhulser knew that naming his company after one of the most famous stretches of pristine California coastline meant he had to honor the title and keep it hyperlocal.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BIG SUR SALTS
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FOOD & DRINK
“Not everyone should start their own business. It kind of sucks. But it inspires me and makes me feel alive—like I’m living. And I had never felt that way until this came along."
All of Big Sur Salts’ partners, from its produce suppliers to the painter featured on its labels, hail from Big Sur, the Monterey Bay, and Salinas Valley. Big Sur Salts are also featured in a number of restaurants in Monterey including at the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Alvarado Street Brewery. Big Sur Salts are harvested directly from the eponymous coastline. The water is filtered nine times before being dried in a giant kiln in Moss Landing. According to Overhulser, the salt from
the Big Sur coast has elevated levels of potassium and calcium, and a unique mineral makeup, which gives it an extra bite. “I had the water tested and realized that the salt tastes different from others because it is different,” says Overhulser. “We have something really special here.” A community has sprung up around Big Sur Salts, which includes Overhulser’s friends who help him in various ways, like offering patches of their property to evaporate the ocean
water. However, as the demand for Big Sur Salts grows, operating out of his friends’ backyards may not be enough, and he’ll have to dream up a new way to do business. For Overhulser, a sound engineer by trade, growing a food business is all new and exciting. “Not everyone should start their own business. It kind of sucks,” says Overhulser. “But it inspires me and makes me feel alive—like I’m living. And I had never felt that way until this came along."
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* PLEASE NOTE: Restaurants need our support more than ever. Call or check a restaurant's website before visiting to learn about ordering and dining options.
CAFE CRUZ
DINING GUIDE Downtown 515 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS
With a focus on inventive small plates and cocktails, 515 Kitchen & Cocktails has been offering a nuanced take on internationally influenced California cuisine in downtown Santa Cruz since 2006. 515 Cedar St., (831) 425-5051, www.515santacruz.com
AQUARIUS DREAM INN
Spectacular oceanfront dining just off the beach in Santa Cruz. One of Santa Cruz’s top dining destinations, Aquarius offers seafood and organic Californian cuisine. Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as brunch on Sundays. 175 W. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, www.dreaminnsantacruz.com
BETTY’S EAT INN
Locally owned burger joint with a fun vibe. Features award-winning burgers, fries, salads, beer, wine and shakes. Soak up the sun on the outdoor patios at all three locations. Expanded menu and full bar at this location only. 1222 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, (831) 600-7056, www. bettyburgers.com. Other locations: Midtown (505 Seabright Ave.) and Capitola (1000 41st Ave.).
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HULA’S ISLAND GRILL
California twist on Hawaiian island grill and tiki bar. 221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, (831) 426-4852, www.hulastiki.com
IDEAL BAR & GRILL
A Santa Cruz institution with amazing beach, boardwalk and wharf views. Open every day, featuring nightly specials and a full bar. 106 Beach St., Santa Cruz, (831) 423-3827, www.idealbarandgrill.com
KIANTI’S PIZZA & PASTA BAR
Located in the heart of Downtown, stands boldly amongst fellow businesses with it’s vibrant colors and welcoming atmosphere. The indoor lively and update vibe is a crowd pleaser, with weekend performance. For those preferring a more relaxed experience, dine within the heated patio and cozy up to the fireplace. Kianti’s is as kid friendly as as they come. 1100 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz (831)4694400 www.kiantis.com
MISSION ST. BBQ
Serving up smoked barbecue, craft beer and live music. 1618 Mission St., Santa Cruz, (831) 4582222, www.facebook.com/missionstbbq
PACIFIC THAI
Authentic Thai cuisine and boba teas in a modern and casual dining atmosphere. 1319 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 420-1700, www.pacificthaisantacruz.com
SOIF RESTAURANT & WINE BAR
A comfortable place to drink great wine, eat food that is as good as the wine, and then—if the wine is to your liking—buy some and take it home. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., and until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 105 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 423-2020, www.soifwine.com
STAGNARO BROS. SEAFOOD INC.
Seaside eatery turning out fresh seafood staples on the Santa Cruz Wharf with views of the Pacific. 59 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, (831) 423-2180
ZOCCOLI’S
Iconic delicatessen, sandwiches, salads, sides. 1534 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 423-1711,www.zoccolis.com
Harbor THE CROW’S NEST
Iconic restaurant and bar located at the harbor. 2218 E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, (831) 476-4560, www.crowsnest-santacruz.com
Midtown AKIRA
Sushi made with fresh-caught seafood and locally grown produce. 1222 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 600-7093, www.akirasantacruz.com
CHARLIE HONG KONG
Vegan-oriented menu. Southeast Asian fusion, organic noodle and rice bowls. Chicken, beef, pork and salmon offered. Family and dog friendly. 1141 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 426-5664, www. charliehongkong.com
EL JARDÍN RESTAURANT
Delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine featuring locally grown, fresh ingredients. 655 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz, (831) 477-9384, www.eljardinrestaurant.net
Serving Authentic Hawaiian Food
Enjoy Pono 3 ways... Table service at our outdoor patio
Take out: Eat at our parking lot tables or the comfort of your own car. Delivery through DoorDash
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2621 41st Ave, Soquel | (831) 476-3801 | CafeCruz.com
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DINING GUIDE
LA POSTA RESTAURANT
With inventive Italian dishes crafted from local and seasonal ingredients, La Posta is a neighborhood restaurant that brings the soul of Italian cuisine into the heart of Seabright. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. 538 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 457-2782, lapostarestaurant.com.
SEABRIGHT SOCIAL
Rotating beer selection, with dog-friendly outdoor patio. 519 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 426-2739, seabrightsocial.com
TRAMONTI RESTAURANT
Made with organic, local or Italian-imported ingredients, Tramonti’s authentic recipes reflect its family traditions and the simplicity and warmth of true Italian cuisine. The original Italian-style thin crust is baked in a brick oven, with fresh for di latte mozzarella and San Marzano tomato sauce. 528 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 426 7248, www.tramontisantacruz.com
Westside/Scotts Valley BRUNO’S BAR & GRILL
Offers American cuisine for lunch and dinner all week long and brunch on the weekend, plus onsite and offsite catering and banquet space for special events. With two bars, it’s the perfect spot whether you are craving burgers, steaks, ribs or salads, or just want to have some fun in Scotts Valley. 230 Mount Hermon Road, Ste. G., (831) 438-2227, www.brunosbarandgrill.com
MISSION ST. BBQ
Serving up smoked barbecue, craft beer and live music. 1618 Mission St., Santa Cruz, (831) 458-2222, www.facebook.com/missionstbbq
PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE
British-influenced pub food with full bar. 841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 421-0507, www.parishpublickhouse.com
SUSHI GARDEN
Japanese cuisine specializing in fresh sushi, creative rolls and hot entrées. Spacious dining area with live music performances every Friday and Saturday night. 5600 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-438-9260, www.sushi-garden.com
VIM
Vim is named for the energy and vitality that it brings to the Santa Cruz culinary scene. Patrons are invited to linger over approachable New American cuisine, decadent desserts, and modern cocktails. Chef Jesikah Stolaroff brings the feeling of home together with local ingredients and refined technique to create food that fills the heart. 2238 Mission St, Santa Cruz, (831) 515-7033, vimsantacruz.com
Eastside/Capitola AVENUE CAFÉ
Grass-fed beef, fun atmosphere, and a great beer menu. 1520 Mission St., Santa Cruz, (831) 425-5300, www.burgersantacruz.com
Serving traditional breakfast and lunch, along with some Mexican favorites. 427 Capitola Ave., Capitola (831) 515-7559, www.avenuecafecapitola.com
BURN HOT SAUCE
BURN HOT SAUCE
CASCADES BAR & GRILL AT COSTANOA
CHILL OUT CAFE
BURGER.
Burn Hot Sauce hand-made sauces are fermented for a year with local organic peppers, and are loaded with natural living probiotics. Spice levels range from mild to wild. Available at Santa Cruz Westside and Live Oak Farmers Markets. (831)888-6576
Burn Hot Sauce hand-made sauces are fermented for a year with local organic peppers, and are loaded with natural living probiotics. Spice levels range from mild to wild. Available at Santa Cruz Westside and Live Oak Farmers Markets. (831) 888-6576
California cuisine, local, organic, and handcrafted ingredients. 2001 Rossi Road at Hwy 1, Pescadero, (650) 879-1100, www.costanoa.com
Breakfast burritos, espresso drinks, beautiful garden. 2860 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 477-0543, www.chilloutcafesantacruz.com
MALONE’S GRILLE
PLEASURE PIZZA
Long-standing eatery and pub offering steak, seafood, burgers, vegetarian options and patio seating. 4402 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, (831) 438-2244, www.malonesgrille.com.
Offering traditional pizza, as well as new and exciting tastes and textures. 800 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 431-6058, www.pleasurepizzasc.com
OPEN
Sun - Wed 11:30-9pm Thurs - Sat 11:30-10pm HOURS MAY CHANGE DEPENDING UPON BUSINESS CONDITIONS.
261 CENTER AVE. APTOS | 831-688-4848
DAHLIA GARDEN NOW OPEN FOR OUTDOOR LUNCH
SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 8 5
Thanks for your support!
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Favorite Deli
HOUSE-SMOKED BRISKET & CHICKEN NEW YORK PASTRAMI AWARD WINNING CLAM CHOWDER 415 Seabright Avenue Santa Cruz, CA
831.515.7484
10% Discount
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with this coupon. Not valid for buffet & drinks. Exp. 9/31/20
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US FAVORITE INDIAN FOOD! And a special thanks to our staff and loyal customers
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SCOTTS VALLEY 6006 La Madrona Dr. 831.713.5594
APTOS MONTEREY 207 Sea Ridge Road 751 CANNERY ROW #121 831.685.0610 831.324.4852
SeabrightDeli.com
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MONTEREY 565 ABREGO ST. 831.641.0610
AMBROSIAIB.COM
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FAVORITE ITALIAN
THANK YOU SANTA CRUZ
FOR YOUR LOVE AND SUPPORT!
DINE-IN, TAKE OUT, CURB SIDE PICK UP
Authentic, Organic, Locally owned and operated since 2012. Real Italian food & wine in the heart of Seabright
LUNCH 11:30 - 2PM DINNER 2 - 8:30PM WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY
FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN APTOS
OPEN EVERYDAY
EXTENDED OUTDOOR DINING AREA & TAKE OUT PRIVATE PARKING & DOG FRIENDLY PATIO SW
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787 Rio Del Mar Blvd, Aptos | 831-662-9799 bittersweetbistro.com 8 6 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
528 Seabrignht Ave, 95062 | tramontisantacruz.com
RESERVATIONS & TAKE OUT (831)426-7248 FOLLOW US ON I & f TRAMONTI_SANTACUZ
FOOD&DRINK
DINING GUIDE
KAITO
Quaint atmosphere specializing in ramen, sushi, Japanese tapas, beer and sake. in the heart of Pleasure Point. 830 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 464-2586,www.smilekaito.com
MARGARITAVILLE
Waterfront restaurant offering a lively setting for casual Californian cuisine and cocktails. 231 Esplanade, Capitola, (831) 476-2263, margaritavillecapitola.com
THE POINT CHOPHOUSE
A traditional neighborhood steak “chop” house restaurant where generations of local families, friends and visitors to the area meet to celebrate in a casual setting. With good honest food, local draft beer and wine, and premium cocktails, the Point Chophouse offers something for everyone—even the little ones. Dinner and happy hour daily; breakfast and lunch weekends. 3326 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, (831) 476-2733, www.thepointchophouse.com
PONO HAWAIIAN KITCHEN & TAP CAPITOLA
Hawaiian-style kitchen featuring 16 rotating taps with craft beer from the islands and beyond, Sabe cocktails, ciders, wine and, of course, the aloha spirit! Pupus, poke plate lunches and more. 3744 Capitola Road, 831-476-7458
ZELDA’S ON THE BEACH
Indoor and outdoor dining with a beachfront deck, where American dishes, including seafood, are served. 203 Esplanade, Capitola, (831) 475-4900, www.zeldasonthebeach.com
Soquel CAFE CRUZ
Rosticceria and bar, nice atmosphere, fresh and local. 2621 41st Ave., Soquel, (831) 476-3801, www.cafecruz.com
SURF CITY SANDWICH
Fast-casual dining with craft sandwiches, gourmet soups, salads, and a micro-taproom. 4101 Soquel Drive, Soquel, (831) 346-6952, www.surfcitysandwich.com
TORTILLA FLATS
For more than 25 years, their Mexican food has blended the fieriness of Mexico with the sophistication of French sauces, and the earthiness of the Yucatan and complexity of Santa Fe with all the freshness and lightness that Californians expect. 4616 Soquel Drive, Soquel, (831) 476-1754, tortillaflatsdining.com
Aptos/Watsonville AKIRA
THE SAND BAR
Now in Aptos, sushi made with fresh-caught seafood and locally grown produce. 105 Post Office Drive, Ste. D, Aptos, (831) 708-2154, akirasantacruz.com
SHADOWBROOK
APTOS ST. BBQ
Fine dining with a romantic setting, cable car lift. A Capitola tradition since 1947. 1750 Wharf Road, Capitola, (831) 475-1511, www.shadowbrook-capitola.com
Santa Cruz County’s best smoked barbecue, craft brews and live blues every night. 8059 Aptos St., Aptos, (831) 662-1721, www.aptosstbbq.com
SOTOLA
BITTERSWEET BISTRO
Capitola’s new hot spot for great food, cocktails, and weekly live music. 211 Esplanade, Capitola. (831) 462-1881
California farmstead concept focusing on local farms, ranches and seafood. In convivial quarters with an outdoor patio. 231 Esplanade Ste. 102, Capitola, (831) 854- 2800
SUSHI GARDEN
Japanese cuisine specializing in fresh sushi, creative rolls and hot entrées. Relaxing atmosphere with a beautiful koi pond. Separate sake bar with extensive list of sake pairings and local wine/beer during dinner. 820 Bay Ave.,831-464-9192, www.sushi-garden.com
With its vast menu options from burgers to filet mignon, locally sourced produce, fresh fish and amazing desserts, the varied ambiance is perfect for an intimate dinner or casual gathering with family and friends. Enjoy a local beer on tap in the lounge while watching one of your favorite sports. Relax during happy hour with a handcrafted cocktail. The heated outdoor patio welcomes good dogowners and their furry friends. 787 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos, (831) 662-9799, www.bittersweetbistro.com
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BOULDER CREEK 13159 Highway 9 9a.m.-9p.m. Daily 338-7211
Many Thanks to all our customers! 2020 Favorite Health Food Store
Certified Organic Since 2000
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THANK YOU SANTA CRUZ FOR VOTING US
FAVORITE FROZEN YOGURT WE ARE OPEN, COME SEE US! AT ONE OF OUR 2 LOCATIONS
Capitola | Watsonville 8 8 | SANTA CRUZ WAVES
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FAVORITE CHEAP EATS
11-9PM EVERYDAY PLEASE STAY HOME IF YOU'RE SICK SAFETY FIRST: MASK REQUIRED, SANITIZE & SOCIAL DISTANCING HONORED ORDER ONLINE FOR CURBSIDE PICKUP CHARLIEHONGKONG.COM PHONE ORDERS: 831-462-5664 WALK-INS OK
Locally owned since 1991
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Charlie Hong Kong is committed to serving our community.
Your
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FELTON 6240 Highway 9 9a.m.-9p.m. Daily 335-7322
The common denominator that connects humans is food. It is with much gratitude Charlie Hong Kong o�fers healthy food to nourish our community.
1141 SOQUEL AVE, SANTA CRUZ • 831.426.5664 OPEN DAILY 11AM - 11PM | CHARLIEHONGKONG.COM
FOOD&DRINK
DINING GUIDE
BURGER.
Grass-fed beef, fun atmosphere, great beer menu. 7941 Soquel Drive, Aptos, (831) 662-2811, www. burgeraptos.com
CAFE BITTERSWEET
Breakfast and lunch served Tuesday through Sunday. Outdoor dog-friendly patio. 787 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos, 831-662-9799, www. bittersweetbistro.com
CAFE RIO
Enjoy ocean-front dining with breathtaking views. 131 Esplanade, Aptos, (831) 688-8917, www.caferioaptos.com
CANTINE WINE PUB
Winepub serving wine, craft beer, cider, bubbles, and tapas. 8050 Soquel Dr, Aptos, www. cantinewinepub.com, 831-612-6191
FLATS BISTRO
Coffee, pastries and wood-fired pizzas. 113 Esplanade, Rio Del MarBeach, Aptos, (831) 661-5763, www.flatsbistro.com
MANUEL’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Traditional, delicious recipes, cooked fresh daily, served with a genuine smile. 261 Center Ave., Aptos, (831) 688-4848, www.manuelsrestaurant.com
PALAPAS RESTAURANT & CANTINA
SANDERLINGS IN THE SEASCAPE BEACH RESORT
Where your dining experience is as spectacular as the view. 1 Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos, (831) 688-7120, www.sanderlingsrestaurant.com
SEVERINO’S BAR & GRILL
Coastal Mexican Cuisine. Extensive tequila selection. Happy Hour, and dinner specials. 21 Seascape Blvd., Aptos, (831) 662-9000, www.palapasrestaurant.com
Award-winning chowders, locally sourced ingredients. 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, (831) 688-8987, www.severinosbarandgrill.com
PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE
Japanese cuisine specializing in fresh sushi, creative rolls, hot entrées and unique house specials. Casual and friendly atmosphere. 1441 Main St. Watsonville, 831-728-9192, www.sushi-garden.com
Two full bars, rotating taps, delicious pub fare, patio seating and thirst-quenching cocktails. 8017 Soquel Drive, (831) 688-4300, theparishpublick.com
PERSEPHONE
Persephone serves a seasonally changing farmto-table menu with influences ranging from Italian to Middle Eastern. All of the dishes are based on the locally available products and produce. Locally owned and family operated. 7945 Soquel Dr., Aptos, 831-612-6511, www.persephonerestaurant.com
SUSHI GARDEN - WATSONVILLE
SUSHI GARDEN - APTOS
Brand new location in Rancho Del Mar Center, serving fresh sushi/sashimi and delicious hot entrées in a spacious dining area and large communal bar seating. 38 Rancho Del Mar, 831661-0721, www.sushi-garden.com
San Lorenzo Valley COWBOY BAR AND GRILL
Sandwiches, steaks and American fare served in a kid-friendly joint with a country-western theme. 5447 Hwy 9, Felton, (831) 335-2330, www.feltoncowboy.com
THE CREMER HOUSE
The perfect spot to enjoy a cold, handcrafted beer, a glass of local wine, or a homemade soda while trying dishes using local, organic, farm-raised sustainable ingredients, as well as vegetarian items. 6256 Hwy 9, Felton, (831) 335-3976, www.cremerhouse.com
Bon appétit!
SANTA CRUZ WAVES | 8 9
N O S E C LI P S A SUMMER ROAD TRIP THROUGH THE AMERICAN WEST STORY & PHOTOS BY KYLE THIERMANN
T
his summer, I am driving through Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana with my Subaru, Jodie Forester. In the back of Jodie Forester is camping gear, a compound bow, and a stack of books on how to pursue writing as a career. I’m basically Elizabeth Gilbert from Eat Pray Love, but instead of eating linguine, meditating, and sobbing, I am fly fishing, hunting, and working out—while occasionally sobbing. I am actually reading Eat Pray Love. God, I’m a cliche! I was planning to use the book as reconnaissance to better understand the elusive and cunning creature that has flummoxed men since the Stone Age: women. Gilbert’s prose quickly hypnotized me, though, and by the end of the first day I was wet-eyed (because of the pollen) and journaling the same questions Gilbert asked herself as she set off on her year-long trip:
Who am I? Who does my life belong to? What is my relationship to divinity? What have I come here to do? Do I have the right to change my own path? With whom do I want to share my path—if anyone? Do I have the right to experience pleasure and peace? If so, what would bring me pleasure and peace? So far, I am coming up short on answers, but I plan to have all of life’s questions cornered by the end of summer. Stay tuned. I have felt brief glimmers of clarity, though. One morning I woke up
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in Vedauwoo, Wyoming, a rock-climbing destination known for immense boulders that rest, perfectly, on top of each other. I like to imagine that the gods got bored while creating Earth, so they took the day off and played a game of rock-stack in Vedauwoo. I hadn’t showered in days and was beginning to smell like Christopher McCandless from Into The Wild, so I ran through the pine trees, stripped off my clothes, and plunged into the icy river. “Yes,” I thought, “this is exactly where I am supposed to be.” Sleeping with Jodie Forester has deepened our relationship tremendously. While cocooned in my sleeping bag I open her sunroof and look at the stars. I cook Annie’s mac and cheese out of her trunk. The other day while driving on the freeway, an 18-wheeler flung a pebble at her front windshield, resulting in a spiderweb crack. I felt an absurd amount of rage, like someone had sucker-punched my girl and the only logical response involved a sniper rifle. Alas, my exit was next. I was en route to Salida, Colorado, where I now sit writing this. Salida is a small mountain town adjacent to the Arkansas river, which has re-opened since COVID-19, but, upon my arrival, most people are still wearing masks. Salida has a standing wave at the river where surfers and kayakers line up, then scurry into multi-minute rides. If I’m being honest, I can only describe the pursuit of river surfing and kayaking as achingly dorky. The freshwater fanatics don helmets, life jackets, and nose-clips to brave two-foot whitewater. I am aware that certain river waves allow for major maneuvers, but these waves only offer straight-
THE RIVER CARRIES ME UNDERWATER FOR AN IMPRESSIVELY LONG TIME, AS IF TO SAY, “WELCOME TO COLORADO.”
FIELD NOTES
handed butt-wiggles. But the surfers wiggle with such glee, I can’t help but hoot and fist pump as I wait for my turn. I am borrowing a surfboard and wearing only black board shorts. I may own a pair of rainbow-colored Chacos and a wide-brimmed hat typically reserved for someone who spends their weekends identifying downy woodpeckers and black-capped chickadees, but if you ever catch me wearing a nose-clip, please stage an intervention. “Kyle, we’re here because we love you … ” When it’s my turn, I paddle hard into the corner of the wave and catch it. Although the wave is small, water rushes beneath me much faster than it would on an ocean wave, and popping-up requires more focus than I anticipated. I’m up. I wiggle back and forth for a minute or so, then catch an edge and go head over heels like an airborne trout. A super-soaker of freshwater is promptly injected into my nostrils, and the river carries me underwater for an impressively long time, as if to say, “Welcome to Colorado.” As I sit on the side of the river, trying not to catch my breath too noticeably, it occurs to me that it’s not the size of the wave that determines the intensity of a wipeout, but the speed at which you move underwater. Despite my now-waterlogged brain, I still can’t bring myself to wear a nose clip. On this trip, I have vacillated between intense feelings of freedom and loneliness. These emotions smack into me at random, like a pebble flying off of an 18-wheeler. As I sit on the side of the river, shivering in the afternoon light, a masked couple walks by, and I am hit with the familiar feeling of isolation. Our culture fetishizes the individual pursuit. The howling lone wolf backdropped by a full moon, or, better yet, an American flag. But a wolf only howls to be heard by others, and right now I miss my friends. When Christopher McCandless’ journal was found in Alaska along with his body, he had written, “Beauty is only real when shared.” As I sit on the river’s edge, a lump firmly lodged in my throat, wondering what the hell I’m doing in Colorado, I think of my spectacular wipeout, and how I will definitely write about it. Folly is one of my favorite subjects. Although I am alone on this adventure, questions unanswered and at times rudderless, when I write I don’t feel so lonely. You, the reader, are sitting beside me at the river’s edge, sharing in the beauty, grinning with me at those goofy nose clips.
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CARRY ON
COMPANY
FEATURE COMPANY FEATURE
IN THE MIDST OF THE PANDEMIC, THE DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ BAG AND ACCESSORY SHOP SHILSHOL IS STANDING STRONG By J.D. RAMEY
B
efore moving to Santa Cruz from her native Seattle, Alaina Birch worked as a regional sales manager for a New York-based medical equipment company. Her job found her regularly traveling throughout the western half of the United States and Canada. It was a good life, but in the back of her mind was the nagging knowledge that something was missing—namely, the perfect tote bag. “I needed something that could fit all the essentials for traveling by plane, but also something that looked sleek and professional enough to take with me on appointments,” Birch explains. “I felt like all the bags on the market were always too overdesigned and/or had the company’s brand all over it, which was frustrating.” Using skills she picked up from her mother, apparel sewing lessons, YouTube videos and “a lot of trial and error,” Birch created the two-pocket tote she now sells at SHILSHOL, a downtown Santa Cruz shop that she opened in 2018, not long after moving to the area with her husband. (“It was a crazy time,” she recalls. “Within six months, we got married and moved from Seattle to Santa Cruz; he started a new job, and I started SHILSHOL.”) She has since expanded her inventory to include various other tote bags, acrylic-handle purses, and a slew of smaller items such as mini-wallets and key fobs, as well as a selection of home goods, jewelry and gifts created by other
small companies and artists. Storefront visitors can usually find some one-of-a-kind bags and sample sale items not listed on the company’s website, shilshol.com. In contrast to the overdesigned bags that were available to Birch during her time as a sales manager, SHILSHOL’s products rock a minimalist aesthetic that takes a cue from Scandinavian and Japanese design. “I love the clean lines and the emphasis on letting the design speak for itself,” says Birch, who purchases all of the leather, denim and canvas used to make her products from California businesses. “You can really elevate a simplistic design by the careful selection of the right colors and textures.” SHILSHOL’s 275 square feet are divided fairly evenly between a retail space in front and a workspace in back where all bags and accessories are designed, cut, sewn and finished. As for the name of the business, it’s a nod to Birch’s Seattle roots. To be exact, it’s a variation on Shilshole Bay, a part of Puget Sound whose beach the business owner grew up visiting. As a recently established business, SHILSHOL had scarcely lost its baby fat when the coronavirus hit. The store reopened over the summer with newly installed plexiglass shielding its entire counter, as well as a system for contactfree transactions: Birch enters customers’ items into Square on her iPad, and the customer inserts his or her credit card into the card reader attached to the counter. The store then
PHOTOS: ANNE MARTINETE
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COMPANY FEATURE
sends its customers their receipts via email or text. “The only contact we have is if the customer needs a paper bag for their items,” Birch explains. “In that case, I just hand it to them through the plexiglass slot, but most opt to just take the items with them.” The shop owner is quick to give thanks to everyone who has supported local businesses during the COVID-19 crisis. “I have to say, I am extremely grateful for our Santa Cruz community,” she offers. “It was so apparent that people really cared about keeping our local businesses afloat during the closure.” Birch says she would love to see SHILSHOL expand into a larger storefront in the future. “As we grow, there will be a need for both a larger workspace and retail space,” she notes. “It would be really cool to keep the current setup with both workspace and retail in the same storefront, but on a larger scale.” She adds, “With all that being said, over the past three years with SHILSHOL, I have learned to be open to your business changing and adapting in unforeseen ways. You never know what opportunity could pop up that could change the whole trajectory of your company. It is obviously important to have long-term goals, but to not let them be so definitive that you miss out on some really cool unexpected opportunities.”
SHILSHOL: 109 Locust St., Santa Cruz; (831) 440-8933; shilshol.com.
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Textures and layers—this town has plenty of both. PHOTO: ADAM HIGGINS
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e h t e r e ...wh e h t e r e ...wh Fresh Produce Natural Foods ✳ Award Winning Wine Selection ✳ Full-Service Butcher Shop
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re! We for making us your favorite grocery sto lity are proud to bring you the highest qua items. meats, produce, wines and speciality rner a We thank you for making Shoppers Co unity cherished part of the Santa Cruz Comm for over 80 years.
OPEN DAILY 6AM–9PM
LOCATED ON THE CORNER OF BRANCIFORTE & SOQUEL, SANTA CRUZ | SHOPPERSCORNER.COM | 831.423.1398
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vape it. eat it. smoke it. suck it. dab it. drink it. rub it. patch it. drop it. There are a dozen ways to use cannabis and we want to celebrate them all.
santacruznaturals.org
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