THE OFFICIAL CAPITOLA
BEGONIA FESTIVAL PROGRAM 2017
SUMMER ACTIVITIES GUIDE Capitola Art and Wine Festival Program Woodies on the Wharf Wharf to Wharf Race Central Coast Adventures Santa Cruz County Foodies Published by Times Publishing Group, Inc. in association with the Capitola Begonia Festival Committee
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CONTENTS
BEGONIA FESTIVAL
WOODIES ON THE WHARF
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38 WOODIES ON THE WHARF 39 WOOD & STEEL A MEMORABLE COMBINATION
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BEGONIA FESTIVAL SPONSORS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE BY LAURIE HILL EVENT LOCATION MAP BEGONIAS MEMORIES TAKE A BOW – FESTIVAL COMMITTEE FLOWER FUN IN THE SUN HISTORY OF BEGONIAS ABOUT THE COVER ARTIST A ROYAL STORY – QUEENS OF THE FESTIVAL WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? 2016 EVENT RESULTS 2016 HIGHLIGHTS BEGONIA FESTIVAL LORE VILLAGE MAP
CENTRAL COAST ADVENTURES 30 33 34 36
CENTRAL COAST ADVENTURES FREE ENTERTAINMENT SUMMER HAPPENINGS BEER BOOM FLAVOR BOOM
WHARF TO WHARF 40 2017 WHARF TO WHARF
CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL 43 35TH ANNUAL CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL 44 STROLL THE FESTIVAL 45 GOURMET CUISINE THE MERMAID IS BACK! 46 ABOUT THE POSTER ARTIST GENERAL INFO 48 ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE 52 LET THE WINE TASTING BEGIN! FEATURED WINES 54 SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE
SANTA CRUZ FOODIES 55 SANTA CRUZ COUNTY FOODIES
THE OFFICIAL BEGONIA FESTIVAL PROGRAM PUBLISHER/EDITOR | Patrice Edwards GRAPHIC DESIGN | Kevin Markley PRODUCTION | Liz Senteney, Michael Oppenheimer, Cathe Race POSTER COVER ARTIST | Lori Ann Tharp MEDIA CONSULTANTS | Don Beaumont, Louisa Sandman, Jenny Rodriguez, Jay Peters PHOTOS | Jay Peters, Begonia Committee, Capitola Soquel Chamber of Commerce, Daubenbis Family, and Capitola History Museum The Official Begonia Festival Program & Summer Activities Guide 2017 is a publication of the Times Publishing Group Inc. located at 9601 Soquel Dr. Aptos, CA 95003. Entire contents © 2017 by Patrice Edwards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without publisher’s written permission.
TIMES PUBLISHING GROUP, INC. Office: (831) 688-7549 or Email: sales@cyber-times.com www.tpgonlinedaily.com 9601 Soquel Drive Aptos, CA 95003
FOR MORE FESTIVAL INFORMATION www.begoniafestival.com
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CAPITOLA
Without the help of our generous sponsors, the Capitola Begonia Festival wouldn’t be a reality. Please let these sponsors know how much you appreciate their support.
BEGONIA FESTIVAL 2017 GRAND BENEFACTOR
McDonald’s is very proud to welcome you to the final farewell of the beautiful Begonia Festival!
As the owners of your local McDonald’s restaurants, Jan and I have proudly been the Grand Benefactors of the Begonia Festival for eight years in a row more than anyone before us. We will continue to support the Capitola community even though we say farewell to the Begonia Festival. As part of our community spirit in Capitola for over 39 years, McDonald’s proudly participates with local organizations and schools helping to better enrich the lives of others. Whether it be through our involvement over the years with the Chamber of Commerce, supporting Surfing Santa, the Easter Egg Hunt and the Halloween Parade, or the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County’s Human Race, and especially the families served by the Ronald McDonald House of Stanford. We value and embrace Capitola’s commitment to friendship, family and giving back to the community. Ronald McDonald loves sharing his time with the Begonia Festival goers during his Nautical Parade experience and looks forward to his final year in leading the parade. Please join Ronald before the parade as he entertains us with a brief show on the Esplanade. He will also be available after the show for Photographs. We are truly humbled to be a part of this gracious and giving community and we thank each and every one of you for your continuous support. Sincerely Steve and Jan Peat - McDonald’s of Capitola
MAJOR SPONSORS
C APITOLA B EACH SUITES
EVENT SPONSORS
FRIENDS OF THE FESTIVAL Capitola Begonia Festival Committee: Friends and Volunteers . Nautical Parade Float Builders . Bob & Judi Allen . Janet Allinger . Bank of the West . Andrew Baumhardt . Bargetto Winery . Barnwood Bird Houses . Kelly Barretto . Beach House Rentals . Bed Bath & Beyond . Boardwalk Bowl . Ed Bottorff . Patti Bradley . Justin & Worth Brown . Café Cruz . Mary Beth Cahalen . Capitola / Soquel Chamber of Commerce . Cine Luxe . Discretion Brewing . Dave Dominguez . Romney Dunbar . El Toro Bravo . Rudy Escalante . Gaia Earth Treasures . Gayle’s Bakery . Ron & Diane Graves . Terry & Paul Gregory . Groat Family . Lynn Guenther . Mary Hannah . Harman Visions . Hideout Restaurant . Jamba Juice . Joe’s Window Washing . Jones and Bones . Lune Leotie . Thea Luiten . Lumen Gallery . Polly Malik . Margaritaville . Jason Mernick . Monarch Cove Inn . Nob Hill . Nubia Swimwear . Oceania Imports . Heather O’Hara . Meghan O’Neal . Pacific Edge Climbing Gym . Pacific Gallery . Palace Arts . Palapas . Pelican Ranch Vineyards . Pottery Planet . Pristine Skin Care . Safeway . Sandbar . Sante Adarius . Sea Level . Soquel Dental Office . Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits . Stockton Bridge Grille . Surf City Sandwich . SUP Shack . Michael Termini . The Kitchen . The True Olive Connection . Trader Joe’s . Verve Coffee . Vice Salon . Villa del Monte . Village Host Pizza . Village Sea Glass . Westside Beauty . Zelda’s Fundraiser Wines and Desserts: 37th Parallel Winery . Bottle Jack . Bouchee’s . Carousel Taffy . It’s Wine Tyme . Bob Marsh & Alexia Moore Marketing Dance Review Groups: Dance Center . Janelle’s Belly Dancing . Santa Cruz/Watsonville PAC . Sendero’s . Tehau Nui Polynesian Dance . Zumba
In memory of Frank Millang and Linda Bobbitt The Official Begonia Festival Program is a publication of the Times Publishing Group located at 9601 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003. Entire contents ©2017 by Patrice Edwards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without publisher’s written permission.
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SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE IN THE GROVE at DElaveaga park
july 5 - september 3, 2017 the 2017 season promises to surprise, suspend, and seduce you! william shakespeare’s
william shakespeare’s
FRinge: Voltaire’s
CANDIDE ADAPTED BY THE INTERN COMPANY
santacruzshakespeare.org
tickets on sale NOW santacruzshakespeare.org/tickets 5
BEGONIA FESTIVAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Thursday, August 31 CONCERT IN THE PARK 6 PM - 8 PM The Houserockers- live at the beach in Esplanade Park. Bring the family, a picnic dinner, chairs, blankets and your dancing shoes! sponsored by the Begonia Festival Committee
Friday, September 1 LET’S DANCE! REVIEW 5 PM - 9 PM Come down to Esplanade Park and enjoy dance reviews performed by local talent! sponsored by Britannia Arms
Saturday, September 2 SAND SCULPTURE CONTEST 8:00AM to Noon at Capitola Beach Registration begins at 8:00 AM on the beach. Trophy judging will be held at Noon. sponsored by Zelda’s and Capitola Self Storage FLOAT CONSTRUCTION VIEWING all day until 10 PM Stroll along the banks of Soquel Creek and watch as the floats begin to take shape. BEGONIA MURAL Noon - 7:00 PM Back for another year! Come try your hand at attaching begonia blossoms to chicken wire - just like the float-builders do! We will create a wall of flowers and a perfect photo opportunity! sponsored by Paradise Beach Grille MEET THE ARTIST 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Lori Ann Tharp- this year’s poster artist, will be signing posters during the Festival at the merchandise booth. CONCERT IN THE PARK 4 PM - 6 PM Spill the Wine - live at the beach in Esplanade Park. Bring the family, a picnic dinner, chairs, blankets and your dancing shoes! sponsored by Capitola Beach Suites
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SATURDAY MOVIE NIGHT AT THE BEACH Begins at dusk. Join us as we present a children’s favorite: Mary Poppins. Bring friends and family, a picnic dinner, chairs, blankets (it does get chilly) and we’ll provide the movie! sponsored by Green Waste Recovery
Sunday, September 3 FLOAT CONSTRUCTION VIEWING Take another stroll along the banks of Soquel Creek in the morning, and watch as the floats get their finishing touches.
MEET THE ARTIST 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Lori Ann Tharp- this year’s poster artist, will be signing posters during the Festival at the merchandise booth. CONCERT IN THE PARK 5 PM - 7 PM The Joe Sharino Band- live at the beach in Esplanade Park. Bring the family, a picnic dinner, chairs, blankets and your dancing shoes! sponsored by Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Toyota of Santa Cruz
HORSESHOES ON THE SAND 8:00 AM - Finish Doubles tournament at Capitola Beach in front of Zelda’s Restaurant. Teams will be chosen by drawing names from a hat. Participants must pre-register. Go to FORMS at begoniafestival.com sponsored by Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott and Zelda’s
Monday, September 4
CHALK ART ON THE SEAWALL 9:00 AM - Noon Sign up at Esplanade Park. Children preschool age and above are welcome to create their own masterpiece atop the seawall on the Esplanade for all to enjoy! Art chalk provided. sponsored by Capitola Surf and Paddle
CHILDREN’S ART PROJECT 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM In Esplanade Park. Children of all ages are welcome to come and create a “make & take” memory of the festival. sponsored and hosted by Bay Federal Credit Union
BEGONIAS TO GO, HEAD TO TOE! 10:00 AM - Noon Begonia blossoms in Esplanade Park. Become a part of the Festival! We provide the begonias - you put them Head to Toe! sponsored by Green Waste Recovery and hosted by the Capitola Museum 65TH ANNUAL NAUTICAL PARADE 1:00 PM - Finish Begonia covered barges float down Soquel Creek to the Lagoon. Great views from the Stockton Bridge, Cliff Avenue and Wharf Road. For ADA access, check our Visitor Info. Begonia blossoms for the floats are freely supplied by the fields of Golden State Bulb in Marina. sponsored by Our GRAND BENEFACTOR McDonald’s, Devcon Construction, and the City of Capitola
FISHING DERBY 6:30 AM - Noon Registration begins at 6:30 AM near the end of the Capitola Wharf. Bring your own fishing poles. Open to all ages. Final Tally begins at 11 AM. sponsored by Britannia Arms and Zelda’s
HOOPS FOR EVERYONE! 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Demonstrate your talent at fun-filled hooping. Meet members of Aerial Arts Santa Cruz at the Bandstand where they will be showing their talents and teaching you a few moves, too! sponsored by the Capitola Begonia Festival Committee ROWBOAT RACES 1 PM - Finish Registration at the pathway by the Stockton Bridge from NOON until 1 PM. Timed heats on Soquel Creek with two people per boat - We supply the boats!
Saturday, October 14 CAPITOLA BEGONIA FESTIVAL GRATITUDE EVENT
to be held at the Boardwalk Cocoanut Grove. Come celebrate 65 wonderful years of the Begonia Festival!
PRESIDENT’S NOTE BY LAURIE HILL
BEGONIA FESTIVAL EVENT LOCATION MAP
After thousands of volunteer hours, the enjoyment of tens of thousands of participants and visitors, and the whole-hearted support of Capitola’s business community and residents for 65 wondrous years, the last begonia festooned float will go under the bridge this Labor Day Sunday. Three days of celebratory events, music and activities have marked the Begonia Festival as the City of Capitola’s signature event, with the splendor of begonias always the main attraction. Throughout the history of the festival, begonias have been donated by Antonelli, Vetterles and Reinelt, and finally by the Brown family-owned Golden State Bulb Growers. During the more recent years the Float Builders trekked to picking fields near Marina on the property managed by the Brown Ranch Family to gather thousands of begonia blossoms of many vibrant colors for their floats. These early morning trekkers always took a moment to behold the colorful begonia fields in the dawn’s light, a treasured sight which will end this year with Brown Ranch retiring from the business of begonias. We will miss this experience, miss the begonias and will miss the relationships we forged with the Brown Ranch family. We sincerely wish them all the best. For this last Festival, “Begonias Take a Bow”, the Begonia Committee has planned some special activities. Joe Sharino and his band will play at Esplanade Park on Sunday evening and we have added a concert for Thursday night. Everyone is encouraged to attend, participate and celebrate the end of an era. There will be bitter-sweet moments amongst the fun, but none of it should be missed. For sixteen years I have had the privilege of working with committee leadership. These are community minded, committed, and talented people who appreciate the history of the Festival, care deeply about the City of Capitola and believe in giving back. Eddie Ray Garcia, Lin Banks, Linda Smith, Teresa Green and others dedicated themselves to annually bring the Festival to Capitola. In May the Capitola Chamber of Commerce honored the Begonia Festival Committee as the Volunteer Organization of the Year. In accepting this recognition we do so for all who have served on the Committee for the last six and a half decades. Although the Festival tradition ends this year, its memories will be shared at a Commemorative Gala Event scheduled for October 14. Don’t miss this year’s Festival because the show stops when the
“Begonias Take a Bow” .
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Thursday, August 31st 3
Concert in the Park, 6 pm - 8 pm
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Let’s Dance! Review, 5 pm - 9 pm
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Float Construction Viewing all day until 10 pm Sand Sculpture Contest 8 AM - Noon Begonia Mural Noon - 7 pm Meet the Artist 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm Concert in the Park 4 pm - 6 pm Saturday Movie Night at the Beach - Begins at dusk
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Float Construction Viewing all day Horseshoes on the Sand 8 AM - Finish Chalk Art on the Seawall 9 AM - Noon Begonias to Go, Head to Toe! 10 AM - Noon 65th Annual Nautical Parade 1 pm - Finish Meet the Artist 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm Concert in the Park 5 pm - 7 pm
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Fishing Derby 6:30 AM - Noon Children’s Art Project 11 AM - 2 pm Hoops for Everyone! 11 AM - 2 pm Rowboat Races 1 pm - Finish
Friday, September 1st Saturday, September 2nd
Sunday, September 3rd
Monday, September 4th
*Parking rates and durations are subject to change. Check regulations carefully when parking. Access to Village & Beach Parking Lots 1 & 2 are the Bay Avenue exit from Highway 1; turn right at the off ramp and continue past Capitola Ave. to parking on the right just before Monterey Ave. Or take the Park Ave exit from Highway 1 toward Capitola; cross Monterey Ave into the parking lot. Use cash or credit cards in the new Pay Stations for parking. There is a three hour time limit for Village parking. Capitola Police Department routinely checks for parking expiration; after three hours you must move your vehicle from the parking space or you will be ticketed. The cost is $1.50 per hour. The parking along Cliff drive is $1.00 per hour. Pacific Cove Parking Lots 1 and 2 are located behind City Hall on Capitola Ave. Just a short walk or shuttle ride to the Village. The cost at both lots is 50 cents an hour and there is a 12 hour time limit (meters run from 8 am to 8 pm). The shuttle runs Saturday, Sunday & Holidays from 10 am to 8 pm The shuttle will no longer stop at Crossroads Center as it has in prior years.
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BEGONIA MEMORIES CREEKSIDE AT WATERLEVEL
An interview with Nels Westman, past Festival President, Nautical Parade Chair for 20 years and Award Winning Float Builder brings Nautical Parade memories to surface. The 40th Begonia Festival in 1992 was unforgettable. Twenty-one floats participated in the Nautical Parade, simultaneously circling the lagoon. The creek that year was a “wall to wall blanket of begonias”. Every inlet & dock space was used as float builders created stunning displays. Barges lined both shores along Riverview Avenue and at Shadowbrook. The Margaritaville team built its own dock on the water, accessing it from their creekside patio. Maneuvering a top heavy, 8 x 12 foot barge is quite a feat. With 2”x 4” wood framing, chicken wire covering, thousands of heavy stemmed begonias, adding 2-4 adults, and the weight of the float approaches 1,000-2,000 pounds. If a float has a wide profile, it catches the wind. A Cal Poly team discovered if the weight shifts suddenly, a barge can flip. When the floatriders all stepped to one side their barge tipped over dumping all passengers and frame into the lagoon! Floats are propelled by electric motor or manpower. Pushed by watercrafts or pulled by paddleboard, rowboat, kayak, and canoe (Canoes tend to flip- dumping out paddlers). A float can move ‘gondola style’ - long poles pushing it along the shallow creek. Past floats have been pulled by swimmers wearing flippers and by ‘creek walkers’(In wet suits they walked the shallow creek bed) . Unmanned barges can respond to the current and wind and have ‘broken loose’ to drift upriver. Motors do fail or get tangled with creek grass. In recent years you’ll see enthusiastic Water Marshalls in kayaks chasing after and retrieving drifting floats, returning them to the parade. With final judging, each barge must pass under the Stockton Bridge. The distance from the bridge to the creek surface is approximately 10 feet. Floats appearing taller than 10 feet, add a crowd-pleasing element of drama. Announcers generate excitement, as it seems that a slow-motion bridge crash is often about to occur. Surely the next tall float will get stuck! With flair these tall floats reveal design creativity; folding masts or telescoping parts, which lower their profile and allow them to safely pass through. Despite best efforts, a design can fail. On a Humpty Dumpty float, he was sitting on the wall and he did have a great fall. When the float hit the bridge, Humpty did not land well but tumbled from the barge - in view of judges and all! Captain Hook and renegade crew got wedged passing under the bridge. Nearby paddlers clamored on board and the added weight lowered the barge enough to permit passage. Their float emerged in the lagoon with a crowd of thousands cheering their progress. The community is invited to join us creekside at the 65th Nautical Parade while we build our final memories as “Begonias Take a Bow!”. - by Thea Luiten, Nautical Parade Chair
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Bay Federal Credit Union would like to congratulate the Capitola Begonia Festival on its grand finale.
AL CREDIT ER D U FE
BR
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S
2017
1957
N IO N
BA Y
Thank you for 65 wonderful years of celebrating our community’s rich culture and beauty.
AT I N G 6 0 Y
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Federally Insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.
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TAKE A BOW
CAPITOLA BEGONIA FESTIVAL COMMITTEE
First Row: Gail Wingert, Laurie Hill, Teresa Green Second Row: Patti Bradley (sitting), Vicki Muse-Wallace, Judie Block, Polly Malik, Juanita Rodas, Ann Litchfield Third Row: Rocio Sullivan, Tuesday Salazar, Willard Schwartz, Vanessa Reed, Marcia Yallech, Linda Wadley, Frances Celentano Back Row: Mary Beth Cahalen, Thea Luiten, Shelia Anaya, Meade Fischer, David Peyton Committee Members Not Present: Charles Bradley, Ron Catley, Jill Ealy, Kim Hogan, Carol Lard, Bill Lewis, Suzanne Murphy, Heather O’Hara, Neal Savage, Ernie and Mary Tavella
BEGONIA FESTIVAL EXPRESSES GRATITUDE For 65 years the Capitola Begonia Festival has become very near and dear to thousands of people. This celebration of family fun has brought about memories that we all cherish. Announcement of the final Begonia Festival in 2017 has everyone talking about what this event has meant to them. Whether you were a sponsor, float builder, Queen, judge, a sand castle designer, volunteer, or participant, this event had a special impact on each, and everyone who had the privilege to experience it. What was your most favorite event and why? The Begonia Festival is best known for the Nautical Parade but what about the Sand Castle competition, Horseshoe Competition, Rowboat Races, Fishing Derby etc.? We want to know. All of us have had special experiences with one or more of these events that are calling to be shared. Because of the special love for the Begonia Festival we couldn’t say good-bye without the chance to share our memories and express our gratitude. What better way to do this than to gather as many stories, photos, people, and cherished memories together as we can and share them over a night of food, fun, love, appreciation and celebration. On Saturday, October 14, 2017, the Begonia Festival Gratitude Gala will be an evening to do just that. From
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6 to 11pm we will gather at the Cocoanut Grove in Santa Cruz to share memories, dine, dance, laugh, cry, and express the joy that this event has brought to us all. We have several ways of displaying memories, such as photos, videos, letters, and whatever memorabilia we can collect. We are asking anyone to participate by sending in your memories to Capitola Begonia Festival, P.O. Box 501, Capitola, CA 95010. Or, you may drop off your donations to the Capitola Soquel Chamber of Commerce at 716-G Capitola Ave., Capitola, CA 95010. It would be our pleasure to include them in our festivities. Please don’t send originals though as you would likely not get them back. Following the Gratitude Gala, there are plans to create a Begonia Festival memorial in the Capitola Museum so some of your submissions may remain part of that display as well. For more information on how you can contribute your memories, or if you would be interested in attending the Gratitude Gala, please contact begoniafestival@gmail.com or by calling Gail at 831-295-1622.
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FLOWER FUN IN THE SUN
SIX-AND-A-HALF DECADES OF BEGONIA FESTIVALS 1952 - First nautical parade on Soquel Creek using floats decorated with begonias. The parade is part of the annual Capitola Water Fantasy event, which started in 1950. 1954 - First year the name “Capitola Begonia Festival” is used. First Begonia Festival Queen is chosen, Jeanette Hayford. 1958 - Name changes to “National Begonia Festival.” 1961 - First Nautical Parade to have a theme: “Fantasy in Flowers.” 1962
- The usually well-organized festival is plagued with problems. The site of the annual dinner burns and confusion leads to the selection of two queens.
1966 - Begonia Festival organizers change from being a committee of the Chamber of Commerce to being an independent nonprofit organization. 1969
- Nautical Parade is moved to city streets this year due to poor water quality in the
lagoon.
1971 - First Sand Sculpture Contest. 1974 - Last Begonia Festival Queen, Teri Bennett, is chosen. 1975 - First Skateboard Races. 1980 - The word “National” is dropped and it again becomes the “Capitola Begonia Festival.” 1985 - Last Diaper Derby and last Skateboard Contest are held. 1990 - Honored guest is Barry Wilkins, director of the Ballaarat Begonia Festival in Australia. “Sister Festival” relationship is established with Ballaarat. 1992 - By-The-Sea: A History of the Capitola Begonia Festival, is written by Carolyn Swift and published by the Festival for its 40th anniversary. 1998 - It takes 50 people to build the “Grand Sweepstakes” winning float, which was titled, “The Capitola Bay Aquarium.” Individual petals instead of blossoms are used to decorate the sea animals. 2001 - Last spaghetti dinner fundraiser held. 2002 - 50th anniversary. The festival is changed from two weekends to one three-day weekend. There are five floats in the nautical parade.
2003 - The Chamber of Commerce becomes a festival co-sponsor and the first horseshoe tournament is held. One float features past Begonia Festival queens and princesses. 2016 - A shortage of begonia blossoms and increase in the number of floats (8) leads to a change in the rules allowing non-begonia materials to decorate the floats. 2017 - The Begonia Festival comes to an end after 65 years. The source of the blossoms, Golden State Bulbs, decides to cease growing begonias after 2017, and there is no other source for the large number of blossoms. - by Frank Perry Curator for the Capitola Museum
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HISTORY OF BEGONIAS IN CAPITOLA
1918, Capitola found itself growing famous in a new and advantageous way. Bulbs and their blossoms proved to be the ideal match for resort tourism. An agricultural news report noted the Santa Cruz County bulb crop was valued at one million dollars in 1931. Nearly all commercial quantities of begonias, calla lilies, and gladioli raised in the United States were from California and the majority came from five county ranchers: James A. Brown, brothers Lowell and Everett Vetterle and Rene Rochex of Capitola; C. Lamont of Santa Cruz, and H.A. Hyde of Watsonville.
When Capitola’s sun-washed canvas tents first unfolded along the seashore, the humble camp was festive but rugged, and anything but permanent. Within a few weeks, the 1874 season was over and nothing remained beyond a string of privies and an uneven dance floor. Even so, Capitola was firmly set down along a waterlogged flat within sight of fruit trees and brilliant flowers. It was a small advantage that added a colorful vitality that hinted at a promising future for the emerging resort.
Leedham Bulb Company and growers George Streator, W.E. King, and Thomas Thompson, were shipping bulbs from Santa Cruz by 1900. Their successes helped spread production across Live Oak toward Capitola. Robert O. Lincoln, who founded “Los Robles,” nursery near Twin Lakes in 1908, eventually counted 150 bulb growers on 85 acres in the region.
In the beginning it was all roses. A halfmile from the beach, more than a dozen varieties thrived on Augustus Noble’s farm. The pioneer had acquired 120 acres in 1856 and cultivated orchards of cherries and apples as well as flowers. By the time Capitola was finally identified as a real place on a map, Noble had opened a tract named the Village of Rosedale and was growing “choice exotic plants,” including freesias, and gladiolas. Noble became the first in Capitola to plant bulbs, even if they weren’t begonias. The pioneer grower jumped in as a regular competitor in the first flower shows of the early 1890s, and he knew the winners who raised tuberous begonias. One in particular, Edward Leedham, consistently triumphed at downtown Santa Cruz Floral Society festivals.
Santa Cruz Bulb and Plant Company offered premiums for freesia and calla lily bulbs grown locally in 1915. Farmlands were marketed as ideal sites for poultry, berry, or bulb ranching. “Capitola Heights,” the territory from Wharf Road to Forty-First Avenue was one of the fastest growing. At the same time, university professors teaching agriculture offered workshops for local growers during the annual Farm Institute sessions at Capitola Hotel. The local floral growing industry was gaining a reputation. Production steadily increased until World War I. When the market revived after
When Capitola incorporated as a city in 1949, its boundaries embraced the fields of nearby nurseries to the west of the village, and when it came time to pick out a symbol for an annual celebration, the choice was easy. Begonias. Vetterle and Reinelt hybridizing gardens, Antonelli’s Begonia Gardens and the enduring Brown Bulb Ranch all had awardwinning lath and greenhouses within walking distance of the beach. Vetterle brothers were growing an estimated two million tuberous begonia plants a year when it gained celebrity status in 1934. Frank Reinelt, a native of Czechoslovakia and former palace gardener for the queen of Romania, became a partner and was soon known here as “the begonia wizard.” During the 35 years he was associated with the Vetterles, Reinelt won numerous awards, including the gold Veitch medal from the Royal Horticultural Society of England. Suffering from arthritis in his later years, Reinelt eventually resettled in Nevada, where he died in 1979. Vetterle operations ceased earlier when Shasta Nursery, Inc. of Anderson bought the stock, seed, and growing material. Groundbreaking took place in March 1972 for an approved 342-unit apartment complex on the Vetterle site at 46th Avenue and Capitola Road. Patrick, John, Allie, and Peter Antonelli grew up at their family’s Live Oak homestead on Capitola Road and learned the bulb growing business while working for the Vetterles. By 1935 they were to set up their own bulb growing business growing continued on page 14
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ABOUT THE COVER ARTIST LORI ANN THARP
Growing up in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Lori Ann Tharp has always enjoyed nature in all its elements. She finds inspiration from the ocean and the local surf scene. Self taught Lori loves painting waves, landscapes, florals, and wildlife. Owls and big cats are favorites. Lori worked for years in Capitola where most of her family resides. It is where her love for painting the lovely begonia flowers began, and will continue, as they will always hold a special place in her heart. In 2005, Lori’s work “Capitola Begonia Fiesta” was chosen as the poster for the Capitola Begonia Festival.
yellow calla lilies on four acres near their home. Twenty years later, tour buses lined up every summer at Antonelli’s Begonia Gardens. Hollywood movie stars were regular customers. Helen Antonelli is remembered as a Begonia Festival founder and organizer. Tragically, the lath houses burned and the production had relocated to Moss Landing by 2010, when the Brown family’s Golden State Bulb Growers acquired Antonelli’s 73 years of begonia breeding stock. As the first and last of regional begonia growers, Brown’s Bulb Ranch supplied millions of blossoms for the festival over its lifetime sixty-five years. San Francisco resident James A. Brown started with ten acres of strawberries along Forty-First Avenue in 1911. A decade later he was renowned as one of the region’s most knowledgeable and innovative growers, nurturing his begonia production with the Golden Guernsey Dairy. Although the Brown Ranch and Dairy once spread over a broad expanse along what is today the busiest thoroughfare, Worth Brown, son of the founder, knew as early as 1958 that the industry was shifting toward Monterey County. In a news interview, Brown said he was already growing 75 percent of his bulbs there. Capitola, he said, could best claim fame more for begonia seed germinating than the blossoms themselves. Nonetheless, Golden State Bulb Growers always made sure that Capitola got its pick from the fields at Marina every summer.
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This year, the Brown family announced that it’s retiring at last from the business of growing begonias, although its bulb production of other flowers continues. Today the bright whites, corals, pinks, and reds of begonia blossoms can only be found in the yards and patios of Capitola residents, and the ending of the festival itself looms as a poignant moment in history. Thankfully, the City’s spirit is resilient and its love of the festival—as well as appreciation for all the begonia growers—will be for all time. - by Carolyn Swift Carolyn Swift is a writer and Santa Cruz County historian. She is the former Curator for the Capitola Museum and wrote the book titled “By-the-Sea, A History of the Capitola Begonia Festival”.
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A ROYAL STORY TO REMEMBER This reveals the mystery on how they got selected. The contestants sold tickets door to door and in doing so they became an important part in promoting community participation in the festival.
One thing will always be remembered, the glamorous ride of a Queen in her royal float coming graciously down the stream, enhancing the beauty of begonia flowers around them. It must have been spectacular to witness.
An Iconic picture became emblematic of the festival. The photo was taken of first Queen Jeanette Hayford (17) and her sisters Barbara (19) and Carolyn (15), acting as her court wearing a royal robe made entirely of Begonias. You might have wondered what happened to them. Interviewing Daniel Castagnola, the grandson of Barbara, assisted in recalling the memories of their stories. The Capitola Begonia Festival is full of memories and heart touching experiences and represents the core of an entire community. Festival Volunteers gathered to welcome families to Capitola and share the blessings of nature, combining the beauty of flowers and water.
Jeanette died tragically at 52 while vacationing in Vancouver being struck by a car while crossing the street. Barbara died in her early 30´s of an aneurism, leaving 3 young kids behind. Carolyn lives in a Senior home. Their happy smiles will remain as part of a wonderful era.
Let us not forget the beauty of the Women who participated as Queens of the festival. They brought joy, smiles and grace to the nautical parade.
As the festival comes to a glorious ending this year, the participation of these Queens in the festival also came to an end in 1974. Perhaps the women´s movement in the early 70´s had an impact or it could have been that the crowd was no longer interested in this event.
There were 20 charming young ladies, who reigned over the first 21 years of this traditioned event within the 65 years of its existence. You might wonder why 20 girls? It does not match the number of years. Well, there are some stories you might love to read. For example, in 1962, the Festival had Duo Queens (Karen and Loma Linda) due to an error in counting the fundraising tickets the contestants sold to become Queen. In the spirit of the festival, which promoted happiness and a close sense of community, they decided to have two Queens in the parade. One of the last Queens, Victoria Umphreys, reigned over 3 consecutive years.
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As an honor to all these lovely ladies here are their names and their respective year they were Queens.
1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960
Jeanette Hayford Marty Hurst Clara Gomes Rosemary Walpole Pat Conrad Maureen Trent Adele Louise Antonelli (Coronation Dinner Dance)
1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974
Virginia Jackson Duo Queens Karen Carroll and Loma Linda Sheffer Susan Olivieri Pat Nelson Janice Rothfuss Blythe Harrison Sandy Katz (Dinner Dance) Laura Anderson (Coronation Dinner) Patricia Merrit Susan Wright Vicky Umphreys Vicky Umphreys, they invited to expand her reign another year Vicky Umphreys (Now 18)
Teri Bennett reigned over the festival on parade day - by Rocio Sullivan
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WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
COMMUNITY, FRIENDSHIP, FAMILY AND FUN
You don’t need to go very far to find someone who has participated in the Capitola Begonia Festival. Whether they have planned, played, watched, or sponsored an event, most Capitolans have taken a part in making the Begonia Festival what it is today. It has truly taken a village of people to get it done, for generations. Without the passion of people like Peggy Slatter Matthews in the 1950s, Brad MacDonald and Ted Knight in the 60’s, and all the others leading up to today, we wouldn’t have this incredible Festival. As we prepare for our final festival it only made sense to head out and talk to some of those people who make this event magical, and write about their contributions to the Festival.
I received various responses as I wove my way from the Internet, to the Chamber of Commerce, and down into the Village. Most were not interested in talking about what they contributed. They really wanted to talk about what they, and our community, have gained from 64 years of Begonia Festivals. Many spoke of the Festival as if it was a childhood friend; a friend they are sad to see go, but happy to talk about and share their memories and photos. What began to resonate with these conversations was how they carried the same message and even these same words: friendship, family, fun, and community.
passion also remains float building and mentoring. He says it’s been “a luxury” to live creekside and be able to build floats right outside his door. He has cherished the time spent with family and neighbors and enjoys sharing his memories. He says “I like talking about the old Nautical Parade of the 70’s and 80’s, and the Begonia Wars, when there was huge creative energy capped off by the cathartic destruction of the floats immediately after the Parade. The spectacle of tens of thousands of begonia blossoms flushed out to sea as City crews breached the lagoon with a tractor Monday morning. A bit of the Burning Man mentality, I suppose.” Creativity and breaching the creek is something that “ The Friends of the Windmill House” know all about. Since 2001,this group has looked forward to gathering outside the historical Windmill House to create good memories and floats. They are probably best remembered for the cast of colorful characters they’ve launched off the train trestle. One year there was a flying witch; another year Peter Pan. Recently, Elvis, clad in one of his signature white suits and cape, swooped down from the trestle and landed in a floating pink Cadillac next to “Priscilla”. Viewers clapped with amazement and joy! While this group has given us some great floats it’s given More, as in a lot of people. “The Friends” invite families, friends, and even people right off the street to join in float building. Former Capitola Mayor, Dennis Norton, says for him the Begonia Festival is about locals, making new friends, and building community. He recalls the year “The Friends” invited a nice couple from the East Bay to join the float building fun. Ten years later Audrey and Dean are still coming back. While valuing an inclusive group, most important was making sure it was special and it was fun. When it’s time for a break and a reboot Dennis says fellow “Friends” Rory and Christine McBroom throw a yummy brunch for their community of builders. You’d likely find Nathan Cross and James Wallace
Few places in Capitola embody those words as well as the creek path where locals and tourists collide in the best ways. Dan Finkel is one local who has been putting his touch on the Begonia Festival for years. His group, Casa Finkel, won the 2016 Nautical Parade’s Grand Prize. Dan says that building floats and helping others who are new to the process of float building, has been his passion because it “seemed a great way to garner the esprit de corps of the community, helping to get people together to promote the bond between the community, it’s people, and traditions”. Sharing Dan’s passion for float building is Nels Westman. A resident on the creek, Nels has been a part of the Festival for 37 years. Twenty of those years he was a volunteer and board member of the Begonia Festival committee, serving as Nautical Parade Chair and Vice President. Nels has played many roles, though his
stopping in to fuel up before a day of float building. Both of these “Friends of the Windmill House” agree that the Festival is about community and bringing joy to the people. Nathan sums it up for the group when he says “The float decorating experience is seeing all the volunteers come together to create a true work of art, it’s heartwarming”. When participants leave “they leave feelcontinued on page 20
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around the local restaurants full of holiday travelers and locals taking it all in. This has become a Labor Day Weekend tradition for many.
ing they have been a part of something very special, and they have been”. Although the group has won a few honors Nathan says their most cherished prize came two years ago when “The Friends” were “recognized by the Begonia Festival Committee as having the most volunteers involved in the decorating. This was a highlight of our years of participation. Nathan is quick to point out that while the Nautical Parade is special, it’s not the only event. Also dear to his heart is the Fishing Derby where he spent a lot of his time as a Begonia Festival committee member. He says it was worth all those 5 am wake up calls to be able to spend time with the young and young at heart; the brave souls who ventured out into the cold dark mornings and headed over to the Capitola Wharf to try their hand at fishing. For many of the participants this event is an annual family tradition passed down for generations. Nathan loves to witness the look of pride on the young faces when they step up to get their fish measured and weighed. These youngsters just made memories that would last a lifetime.
Another Festival tradition started at the hand of Festival volunteer and current CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, Toni Castro. If you wandered down the beach during festival weekends between 2002 and 2016 then chances are good you came across Toni and the Horseshoe Competition. Full of electric energy, it has been a place where people of all backgrounds and ages come together to have some fun friendly competition. Watching proves to be just as fun. The sand is always covered in spectators with the deck
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People come from all over to participate in the Begonia Festival, but none will ever be as memorable as alumni and students from Cal Poly called Running Thunder Alumni, who discovered the Begonia Festival on their 2005 annual “T-Stock” reunion. Alumnus Derek Marin recalls their excitement as the barges and floats brought back fond memories of their college days. They were so inspired that in 2006 they built “Black Pearl”, a float complete with a begonia shooting cannon and pirates. Running Thunder created great floats that were always crowd pleasers, but in 2009 after a game of what Derek calls “bumper boats”, a capsized float resulted in a full 911 emergency response, and water rescues. “T-Stock” found themselves landlocked. Derek says the Festival gave the group of Alumni the opportunity to revisit their college days and that “it was an opportunity for many, whom time and distance had separated, to rally and reunite around a goal. A new dimension was added to T-Stock. We were no longer remembering old memories, but now, we were making new ones”. As old memories were shared, photos and events revisited, the question that has been on the mind of many Capitolans would find its way into the conversation: “what will happen next?” There is a reluctance to let go of the Festival, and it’s events, which have defined not only Capitola’s Labor Day Weekend for so long, but the lives of many. While it remains uncertain what the future will bring there is also a sense of excitement at the prospect of what’s to come and a comfort in knowing that one thing is certain; our little city by the sea has, since its incorporation in 1950, embodied community, friendship, family, and fun, and it always will.
Capitola Begonia Festival historian and author of “By-the-Sea”, Carolyn Swift, says it best: “Flowers, water festivities, and the joy of the summer season were all here when Capitola was founded. It’s natural for these to have been combined as an expression of joy in the summer season. It’s also a story that is continuing to evolve. It is changing, but it isn’t over and done.” - by Gail Wingert
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2016 EVENT RESULTS NAUTICAL PARADE GRAND PRIZE WINNER AND BEST SHOWMANSHIP: Group: Casa Finkel Name of Float: Inter-Galactic Begonia Explorer Mission Mission 14.64 Charity for $750 donation:
Four Paws to Love SECOND PLACE WINNER AND MOST IMAGINATIVE: Group: Tola Travelers Name of Float: : Team ‘Tola Charity for $750 donation:
Capitola Jr. Guards THIRD PLACE WINNER: Group: Hula Boola Name of Float: Polynesia Charity for $500 donation: Native Animal Rescue SPECIAL RECOGNITION WINNERS: Group: Friends of the Windmill House Name of Float: Windmills of the World Recognition: Best Historical Group: Barry Swenson Builders Name of Float:Around the World in 80 Days - It’s a Small World Recognition: Most Clever Group: It’s Wine Tyme Name of Float:Gondolas of Venice Recognition: Mayor’s Choice Group: Santa Cruz Koi Name of Float: Fish Are Our Global Friends Recognition: Best Zen Group: Pacific Golf Centers Name of Float: Golf More, Work Less Recognition: Rookie Award SAND SCULPTURE COMPETITION GRAND PRIZE WINNER: Name of Sculpture: Remember It’s a Small World
LARGE GROUPS: FIRST PLACE: Name of Sculpture: Bowsers Made America Great Again SECOND PLACE: Name of Sculpture:“Saand” Castle SMALL GROUPS: FIRST PLACE: Name of Sculpture: Capitola Billboard SECOND PLACE: Name of Sculpture: We’ve Got the Whole World in Our Hands. ONE CHILD, ONE ADULT: FIRST PLACE: Name of Sculpture: Capitola Around the World SECOND PLACE: Name of Sculpture: See You Later Alligator 9 TO 14 YEAR OLDS: FIRST PLACE: Name of Sculpture: Begonia Mermaid SECOND PLACE: Name of Sculpture: Bed 8 YEARS AND UNDER: FIRST PLACE: Name of Sculpture: Emoji’s Roxie and Lex SECOND PLACE: Name of Sculpture: Candy Castle HORSE SHOE TOURNAMENT FIRST PLACE TEAM: Name: Cheryl Reome From: Las Cruces, NM Name: Bevan Perry From: Santa Cruz SECOND PLACE TEAM: Name: Matt Rando From: San Jose Name: Jon Scofield From: Corralitos THIRD PLACE TEAM: Name: Grant Trager (Age 9!) From: San Ramon Name: Derek Murphee From: Santa Cruz Mtns. BUSTED SHOE AWARD: Name: Joey Montiel From: Name: Tammy Trager From:
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San Ramon
ROWBOAT RACES
FISHING DERBY
MASTERS 36 AND OVER FIRST PLACE: Greg Tedesco From: Capitola Time: 2:10 Coach: Jeanie Wolvers SECOND PLACE: Sam Abbey From: Capitola Time: 2:22 Coach: Karen Hegerle THIRD PLACE: Debbie Logan From: Scotts Valley Time: 2:24 Coach: Angella Abbey ADULTS 18 - 35 FIRST PLACE: Sam Smith From: Capitola Time: 1:50 Coach: Elleana SECOND PLACE: Brigitla Tolgyesi From: Los Gatos Time: 1:57 Coach: Gery Urban THIRD PLACE: Ricky Gonzalez From: Capitola Time:2:15 Coach: Maria Stalians JUNIORS 12 -17 FIRST PLACE: Mateo Livingstone From: Santa Cruz Time: 2:03 Coach: Ava Livingstone SECOND PLACE: Jaylen Dang From: Aptos Time: 2:51 Coach: Jeena Dang THIRD PLACE: Phoenix From:Santa Cruz Time: 3:05 Coach: Anne YOUTH 11 AND UNDER FIRST PLACE:Blake From: Pleasanton Time: 1:32 Coach: Landon SECOND PLACE: Ryan From: Mountain View Time:1:36 Coach: Xin THIRD PLACE: Roan Delamain From: Pleasanton Time: 1:38 Coach: Quinn Delamain
BIGGEST FISH (BY WEIGHT) OF THE DERBY ALL AGES: Andre Robinson - Age 7 From: Freedom TODDLER - 7 YEARS: Name: Kiernan Jacobs Meya- Age 7 From: Watsonville AGE : 8 - 12 YEARS: Name: Sofia Tavella- Age 12 From: Danville AGE : 13 - 17 YEARS: Name: Leya Pardes- Age 15 From: Santa Cruz AGE : 18 - ADULT: Name: Jim Hunsche- Age 55 From: Santa Cruz BIGGEST SKATE (BY WEIGHT) OF THE DERBY: Jake Iven - Age 13 From: Morgan Hill MOST FISH OF THE DERBY: TODDLER - 7 YEARS: Name: Natalie Tapia - Age 5 From: Santa Cruz AGE : 8 - 12 YEARS: Name: Harper Cloud - Age 9 From: Saratoga AGE : 13 - 17 YEARS: Name: Keone Sharlot- Age 13 From: Soquel AGE : 18 - ADULT: Name: Cyndi Mardaesf- Age 55 From: Soquel SMALLEST FISH OF THE DERBY: TODDLER - 7 YEARS: Name: Mason Cloud- Age 6 From: Saratoga AGE : 8 - 12 YEARS: Name: Ron Esche- Age 10 From: Santa Cruz AGE : 13 - 17 YEARS: Name: Steven Hannan- Age 13 From: Santa Cruz Age: 18 - Adult: Name: Chris Rodemeyer- Age 39 From: Santa Cruz
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2016 HIGHLIGHTS
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BEGONIA FESTIVAL LORE WHO IS THE COUPLE IN THE BOAT?
That boat that they row? My boys cut their teeth on that boat, literally and figuratively. At first, we used to tie off the dink up the creek at the house of a friend for Labor Day Weekend. We would all go down creekside, armed with a lovely picnic basket that included pb&j’s, fruits, cheeses, meats and bread from Gayle’s, champagne for the adults and soda pop for the boys. We all took turns rowing the boat up the creek, far away from the festivities going on down the way. Mostly, on that day we would all take a turn to row down the creek, watching the finishing touches being applied to the floats for the Nautical Parade. And mostly, we adults lazily let the boys row us along as we sipped champagne. About that boat that they row - it is a false dory. A small, shallow draft boat; local history should note that it was originally built by Bill Grunewald at his Aeolus Boat Works at Davenport. Bob acquired it and restored the derelict vessel for our personal rowing pleasure. At some point early on, inspired by a museum photograph of a turn-of-the-century couple rowing below the trestle as a steam engine passed over, Bob and Judi decided it would be fun to replicate that moment. So they assembled costumes appropriate for the era and fancied up. Thus began the questions and the mystery. That mystery continued for 15 years . . . we would have our picnic and our rowing and disappear for another year. I became involved with the Capitola Begonia Festival Committee in 2000, and in 2003 I suggested that we invite Bob & Judi to officially start things up for us by rowing ahead of the floats, heralding the opening of the Nautical Parade. The rest is Begonia Festival lore, and a mystery solved. By Lin Banks Lin Banks is a long-time volunteer in Capitola, currently a Board Member of the Capitola Foundation, a non-profit that augments public safety and community services. She was actively involved with the Capitola Begonia Festival for 12 years, serving as President for 7 of those years! Heralding the opening of the Nautical Parade one last time will be Bob and Judi Allen, former longtime residents of Capitola. They now live on Oahu, returning in time each year to participate in our Labor Day Weekend festivities. They have unofficially and officially participated in every Begonia Festival for three decades. I have known Bob & Judi since moving up the street from them 37 years ago. During that time my brood grew from one son to four, and the Allens welcomed every addition. Through the years we have had many & varied adventures together, but birthdays and the Begonia Festival were always a must; memorable and annual ones. Bob was Capitola Police Chief when we first started this tradition of ours . . . he told me that rowing the dink on the creek during the day of the Begonia Festival Nautical Parade was about as much fun as could be had in broad daylight without getting arrested.
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P LE AS UR E P O I NT
Discover the Best Kept Secret in Santa Cruz County! w w w. p l e a s u r e p o i n t g u i d e . c o m
YOU KNOW YOU ARE IN CAPITOLA WHEN… As you drive through Capitola you may have noticed our unique street signs decorated with a beautiful begonia flower. Many have wondered about the history behind their design, which I’d like to share with you. Sometime around 1980, it was noticed that the city’s street signs were badly faded and in need of replacement. Craig French, Capitola’s Public Works Director, thought this would be a great opportunity to design a new street sign that would set Capitola apart from others while celebrating Capitola’s colorful history as a begonia growing location. They changed the sign color from the standard green to a more vibrant blue, and then commissioned a local graphic designer named Denny Dederick to create the begonia flower sticker. The signs were then hand crafted and the sticker was applied to the sign before it was installed. While the 65th Annual Begonia Festival may be the last, the begonia flower’s place in Capitola’s history will always be remembered, and celebrated, in our street signs. By Eddie Ray Garcia
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UPPER CAPITOLA VILLAGE 53 54 55 SANTA CRUZ / SCOTTS VALLEY
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ESPLANADE
CAPITOLA VILLAGE 29
CENTRAL COAST
ADVENTURES
To help you appreciate the beauty and the variety of experiences available on the Central Coast, here is a list of possible adventures that are unique to this region. Imagine yourself floating on the water while whale watching, or diving and coming
face to face with a seal or otter, or zipping high above between enormous redwood trees, or floating from a parachute toward a beach, or stopping along a mountain trail to admire the wonders of creation, it’s all here for you. Here are just a few possibilities:
G OL FI N G
CL IM B IN G & HIKI NG
The Monterey Bay area is rich with a wide variety of Golf Courses and some really unique Driving Ranges. Green fees at our local courses do vary from location to location, with none of them being outrageous in costs. Certain times of the year, it can be busy, so you will want to call ahead to reserve a tee time.
There are more than 20 recognized hiking trails in Santa Cruz County that traverse the coastline, beaches, mountains and the redwood forests of this unique corner of the Central Coast. From Big Basin Redwoods State Park there is the famous Skyline to the Sea Trail. And to add climbing to your activities, there is the Pacific Edge climbing Gym in Santa Cruz.
S UR FI N G
B O AT IN G
Learn to surf where it all started when three young Hawaiian princes brought their love for surfing to Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz in 1885. Santa Cruz is one the best places to learn to surf with its consistent waves and its wide variety of surf breaks. Water temperatures range from the low 50s to low 60s, depending on the season. Excellent for teaching balance and patience.
Santa Cruz Harbor hosts thousands of visitors each year. Other anchorages are Capitola Wharf (May 1 to Sept. 30); Moss Landing Marina; Monterey has two Marinas; Monterey Municipal; and Breakwater Cove all within walking distance of excellent restaurants, old Monterey, historic Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
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Kayaking tours of Elkhorn Slough will take you into one of 17 estuarine reserves in the United States. Elkhorn Slough is home to saltwater, freshwater and marshland wildlife where you will see seals, otters, loons, egrets, pelicans and even small sharks. Along Monterey Bay there are open coast paddling tours, overnight sea kayaking trips and the thrill of surf kayaking.
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RETAINING WALLS & STAIRS
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TWILIGHT CONCERTS
Concerts are held at the Esplanade Park Bandstand, with the one of largest dance floors around. Bring a picnic or dine at one of our many area restaurants, many of whom sponsor our concerts. Seating is on the lawn, seawall, benches or the beach. Please bring your low back chairs or picnic blankets. Warm jackets suggested for cool evenings. No alcohol or dogs in the park or on the beach. ARTIST
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Mambo Tropical Todd Morgan & The Emblems Big City Revue Tsunami The Shanks Joint Chiefs Extra Large Mark Russo & The Classy Cats Johnny Mahalo & The Wild Coconuts Sage Robin Anderson Big Band Delta Wires Digbeats
June 7 June 14 June 21 June 28 July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 August 2 August 9 August 16 August 23 August 30
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LIVE MUSIC ON THE ESPLANADE STAGE 2 P.M.-4 P.M.
AT THE BEACH 2017 CONCERT SERIES
June 25 July 2 July 16
Ron Kaplan Simple Creation Singing Wood Marimba
Jazz Reggae/Roots/Dub World Music
FREE MOVIES
July 30 August 6 August 20
Samba Cruz Speak Easy 3 Kuzunga
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MOVIES BEGIN AT 7:30 P.M. OR DUSK. ALL MOVIES ARE SHOWN ON THE STAGE ON THE ESPLANADE
NEAR CAPITOLA BEACH
Bring a picnic dinner or dine locally at area restaurants. Low back chairs, blankets and jackets recommended. Free popcorn from 7 p.m. Donated by CineLux Capitola Cafe and Lounge. No alcohol or dogs on the beach. Fri., Aug. 25 Sat., Sept. 2
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Pizza My Heart Green Waste Recovery
nia Festival hosted event)
(Part of the Begonia Festival)
Fri., Sept. 8 Fri., Sept. 15
Chasing Mavericks Moana
Pizza My Heart Pizza My Heart
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SUMMER
HAPPENINGS in Santa Cruz County 2017
12th Annual Capitola Rod & Custom Classic Car Show June 10 & 11, 2017 Saturday 9am – 5pm Sunday 9am – 2pm Watch these classic beauties cruise the coastline on Saturday morning from the Santa Cruz Boardwalk to Capitola starting at 8:30 am. Be prepared for an amazing weekend of rods, customs, classics and American muscle gleaming in the California sun at the beach in the heart of Capitola Village. This is a truly unique event! Come and enjoy the outstanding cars in a festival atmosphere where you can also enjoy seaside dining, the many quaint shops, and one of the best beaches in California. Fun, family friendly and admission FREE. www.capitolacarshow.com
Woodies on the Wharf Saturday, June 24, 2017 10 am-3:30 pm Northern California’s largest Woodie show features more than 200 stylish, pre-1952 woodbodied cars. Admission is free! Music, Woodie goodies and prize drawings will add to the fun. www.santacruzwharf.com.
Fourth of July Weekend Celebration and Talent Show
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July 1, 2017 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Basin Redwoods State Park Day-use parking fee is $10. 21600 Big Basin Way Boulder Creek, CA 95006 Come and celebrate Independence Day with a campfire, singa-long and talent show! If you have a skit, poem, song or a talent you would like to share, sign up at headquarters in advance. All presentations should be appropriate for all ages. Acts should be only 3 to 5 minutes in length. Participants need to arrive promptly at 7 PM at the historic campfire center. Fire lighting and marshmallows (we provide the sticks and marshmallows!) at 7 PM.
Independence Day in Aptos Village July 4, 2017 Pancake Breakfast 7:00-10:00am Cost: $10 adults/ $5 children Location: Parking Lot of burger. Aptos Enjoy a traditional breakfast of pancakes, eggs, sausage, orange juice, and coffee before the “World’s Shortest Parade”. Partial proceeds will be donated to Search and Rescue. 4th of July Parade Time: 10:00-12:00pm State Park Dr. (Wells Fargo) to Trout Gulch (Bayview Hotel)
This year’s theme: America: Your Land, My Land, Our Land Sign up for the “World’s Shortest Parade” and participate in a local tradition! www.aptoschamber.com Party in the Park 12:00-4:00pm Aptos Village Park $5 donation
Scotts Valley 4th of July Parade and Fireworks 3:00pm - 9:45pm Skypark 361 King’s Village Road Come celebrate July 4th in Scotts Valley! Parade, flyover, fireworks, outrageous BBQ, two live bands, games, petting zoo and much more! The Fireworks show in Scotts Valley is the only sanctioned fireworks show in Santa Cruz County. Advance tickets $6, at the door $8 (4 and under free). Activities and food are not included in price of admission. www. santacruz.org
Hop n’ Barley Beer Festival Saturday, July 15, 2016 Skypark 361 King’s Village Rd. Gates open at 10 am. Beer flows from 12 pm to 4:30 pm. Music from 12 pm to 5 pm. Craft breweries, ciders, live music, food, beer games, and a fun, family & dog friendly atmosphere. www.hopnbarley.org
Wharf to Wharf Race July 23, 2016 (always the 4th Sunday in July) 8:30 a.m. A scenic six-mile race with forty live bands, throngs of festive spectators and the coveted Wharf to Wharf Runner T-shirt, awarded only to race finishers! For registration and more information visit www.wharftowharf.com
Tales of the Basin - A Storytelling Weekend Event July 28 – Aug 1, 2017 The oral storytelling tradition comes to life with the ancient redwood forest as a backdrop. Events throughout the weekend include Big Basin Nature Tails for children of all ages, guided walks that spin a yarn along the trail and a Storyteller Showcase in the historic Campfire Center. Presented in collaboration with South Bay Storytellers and Listeners. See more at www.santacruz.org
Day Out with Thomas™ July 28 - 30 & August4 - 6 Join Thomas the Tank Engine™ for the Friendship Tour 2017 through the Big Trees. Your ticket includes a fun-filled day of activities: a train ride with Thomas™, picture taking with Sir Topham Hatt,™ temporary tattoos, face painting, bounce
houses, storytelling, bubble making, live entertainment, train play tables, and more! So bring the family, come early, and enjoy the day. www.roaringcamp.com
Cabrillo Music Festival The Festival’s 2017 season welcomes new Music Director and Conductor Cristian Macelaru and features world-class artists and composers, a Free Family Concert, Open Rehearsals, Talks, and the Church Street Fair. All events held at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. www.santacruz.org
The 23nd Annual Watsonville Strawberry Festival August 5 & 6, 2017 10am to 7pm This multi-faceted celebration will serve up a menu of strawberry delights, non-stop entertainment, contests, and more. This free admission festival is located in historic downtown Watsonville around the City Plaza on Main, Peck, and Union Streets. For more information visit www. mbsf.com.
California Beer Festival August 11th and 13th located in the Aptos Village Park featuring
over 85 craft beers and food. Ticket holders will receive access to Live Entertainment, Food available from vendors, (1) Souvenir glass, and Unlimited Access to 85 Craft Breweries to sample from! All 21 and over craft beer enthusiasts are invited to join the fun! Purchase tickets at www.californiabeerfestival.com
Aloha Races & Polynesian Festival August 20, 2016 11am – 5pm Santa Cruz Wharf FREE ADMISSION The City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department invites you to experience a taste of the islands on August 21 at the Santa Cruz Wharf. Experience the exciting outrigger canoe races and then join us for the FREE Aloha Festival starting at 11 am. Festival features Hawaiian and Polynesian crafts, dance presentations and culture. For more information visit santacruzwharf.com.
Tequila and Taco Music Festival August 26th and 27th 11:00am-5:30pm 4th Annual Tequila & Taco Music Festival is back in Downtown
Santa Cruz at beautiful San Lorenzo Park! Join us for two days of fun in the sun on Saturday, August 26th and Sunday, August 27th! Saturday will showcase topshelf Tequilas sampling, while you indulge on gourmet tacos! Enjoy Live Music, Margaritas, Craft Beer and Art Vendors in a picturesque park setting. www.tequilaandtacomusicfestival.com
The Capitola Begonia Festival Sept. 1st thru 4th, 2017 The Capitola Begonia Festival features fun activities that the whole family can enjoy, from a Sand Sculpture contest, a Fishing Derby, Row Boat races, and a Nautical Parade of begonia-laden floats traveling down Soquel Creek. Join in on Children’s Art events, Horseshoes tournament, or decorate yourself with begonias! Watch as float builders rush to put the finishing touches on their parade entries. Or, really get involved and put together a team of family and friends to build your own float. Watch a movie on the beach, or dance to the sounds of the band. All events are FREE!
Wings Over Watsonville Sept 1st & 2nd, 2017. 8am – 6pm Join us at the fly-in....it’s fun, familyfriendly and FREE! Friday night kids movie - Friday and Saturday fly-in arrivals. Discounted AVGAS, food vendors, historic and antique aircraft, demo flights and much, much more! www.cityofwatsonville.org/478/ Wings-Over-Watsonville
34th Annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival September 9th & 10th, 2017 Saturday 10:00am – 6:00pm Sunday 10:00am – 5:00pm The Capitola Art & Wine Festival combines Art, Wine, Music, and Food, all in charming Capitola Village overlooking the beautiful Monterey Bay. Over 150 fine artists and 23 Santa Cruz Mountains wineries will participate in this year’s Festival. A Children’s Art Area with ongoing craft projects is conveniently located in the center of the Festival on Lawn Way. Enjoy great entertainment all weekend including local dance and performing arts groups, street performers and live music. Admission is FREE! Please visit www.capitolaartandwine.com for more information.
From the Mountains to the Sea - We’ve Got You Covered! Jayson Madani - The Madani Team The Number 1 Selling Team in All of Santa Cruz County in 2015 & 2016!
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BEER
BOOM FLAVOR
BOOM - by Jay Peters I had a roommate several years ago in San Diego that would often proclaim… “Ice Cold Beer makes me want to cheer.” There certainly are some wonderful Breweries and Brew Pubs to cheer about here in Santa Cruz. With 13 Breweries, and several fun and inviting brewpubs now operating in Santa Cruz County, the range of styles, offerings, and flavor has never been better. The current trend for local Breweries in 2017 shows an Increase in Sour Beers, Juicy IPA’s made with fruit, and a few brave Brewers are experimenting with vegetables as well. Yet one fact remains. The most popular of all the beer families is still the Lagers. Nine out of every 10 beers sold in the U.S. is a Lager. The trend for many Craft beer aficionados is looking for the newest flavors; willing to try something new from their local brewer. Brewers are constantly experimenting with new recipes, and improving their existing offerings at the same time. To sample beers and new flavors, most breweries offer “Flights” of 4-5 Oz. portions allowing you to try several different beers. You don’t have to plant yourself on a bar stool to enjoy a craft beer, the growth in Craft beer sales has been fueled by bottling some of their offerings which allows the customers to take their favorite beer home with them. Craft breweries have found that true Beer lovers are willing to pay a bit more for a good beer and if they can take it home with them, all the better. One of the latest trends sweeping the beer industry is canning. Some breweries offer glass or ceramic “Growlers” that will let you take a half gallon (32 Oz.) or full gallon (64 Oz.) of your favorite beer home with you, however 16 Oz. and 32 Oz. cans called “Crowlers” are becoming more popular lately. Cans keep the beer fresh longer than re-sealable glass, and the brewery can display artwork on the cans. A fun byproduct of the canning craze is that it offers breweries a canvas to create artwork that is attractive to the consumer. If the Artwork is interesting, it helps encourage the buyer to pick up a can. The Craft Beer industry now has almost 15% of the U.S. beer industry and there are over 5,000 Breweries operating in the U.S. today, the most ever in the history of our country. The next time you have an outing with friends and family, stop in to a local Brewery or brewpub to find out for yourself what all the fuss is about. Santa Cruz has some of the most talented Brewers on the West Coast, and they are making some of the best beer you will ever taste. Go try some today!
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HANDCRAFTED
BEER EXPLORE OUR LOCAL BREWERIES & BREWPUBS
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The Surf City 23rd Annual Classic “Woodies on the Wharf” is Northern California’s largest woodie show that features more than 200 stylish, pre-1952 wood-bodied cars. Admission is free! Music, woodie goodies and prize drawings will add to the fun. Plus, free bike valet is available. Woodies start rolling onto the Wharf early Saturday morning; the show starts at 9:00 a.m. and lasts until 3:30 p.m. the Parade off
the Wharf begins promptly at 3:30 p.m. This is a highlight of the show both for Woodie owners and for the thousands of people who come to the wharf to see the cars. During the day’s events there will be raffle prize drawings, surfboard shaping, many custom, stock and modified Woodie cars to see plus an assortment of vintage surfboards (strapped to the cars), and the official parade off the wharf.
In de p e n de n t ly O w ne d f o r 3 0 Ye a rs
WHY BUY TIRES FROM US? M-F 8:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. Sat 8:30 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Sun CLOSED
C re di t A v a i l a b l e
462-3323
2842 Soquel Ave. (Between 7th Ave. and Hwy 1 Off Ramp) www.autoexpresstirepros.com
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Wood and Steel, a Memorable Combination At the beginning of the 20th century, furniture makers began making “woodies.” they purchased an automobile chassis then built the body from wood. These custom vehicles were often designed as small buses or “Station Wagons” used by resorts to transport their guests to and from the local train station. Some woodies went upscale, referred to as estate cars, popular with “county gentlemen” for their large rural estates. Ford introduced the first production woodie in 1929 as part of their new line of Model A’s. Chevrolet introduced their first woodie in 1939 and Chrysler introduced its Town and Country series in 1941. Woodies were hand assembled and labor intensive to produce. They tended to squeak and rattle and the wood needed refinishing every 2-3 years even with constant care and attention. After WWII GI’s returned home the major manufacturers of the 1946, ‘47 and ‘48 automobiles included Station Wagons made with wood. Then the 1949 Chevrolet, Pontiac and Oldsmobile wagons had just a strip of wood running lengthwise along the side and a wooden tailgate. By 1950 wood was replaced by a wood grain decal. The 1949-51 Ford and Mercury wagons had real wood as inserted panels. For the 1952 Ford wagon, wood was gone and replaced by simulated wood. The last major maker to offer a production wagon with real
wood on the exterior was Buick in 1953... and the woodie era had to end. In the late 50’s, woodies were disappearing, accumulating in junkyards and abandoned in empty lots and backyards. Then came the surfing craze of the early 60’s. Surfers could buy woodies cheap, and were perfect for the long surfboards of the day. Most surfers didn’t restore their wagons, they simply kept them going. Music groups like the Beach Boys and Jan and Dean immortalized woodies and the connection between surfing and their wooden vehicles when surfers and their music coined the label “woodie.” “I bought a ’30 Ford wagon and we call it a woody (Surf City, here we come). You know it’s not very cherry, it’s an oldie but a goody (Surf City, here we come) – Jan & Dean, 1963 For half a century automobiles made of timber prompted jokes such as, “When are you going to take your car out of the crate?” Today, whether restored to their original factory specs or customized to a hot rodder’s dream, they command memories of the joining together of steel and wood that has created a cultural icon for us to enjoy. by Noel Smith
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2017 WHARF TO WHARF Sunday, July 23 2017 45th annual celebration
Each year, on the fourth Sunday in July, 16,000 runners from across America and around the globe return to Santa Cruz, California for the annual Six-mile race to Capitola-by-the-Sea. The event is the biggest summer event of its kind on the West Coast and a boon to local business, annually infusing more than eight million dollars into the Santa Cruz County economy. Wharf to Wharf Race, Inc. has contributed more than 5 million dollars to Santa Cruz County in its 45-year history. Race Director Scott McConville said, “We want to encourage both the competitive and fun aspects of this race. We brag that the Wharf to Wharf has the most “Bands per Mile” of any similar event and for those who want their race times “Official,” we have the technology.”
HISTORY
Wharf to Wharf 4TH SUNDAY IN JULY
2017
SANTA CRUZ TO CAPITOLA
© York Framing Gallery - Original Art by Sarah Bianco - Printing by Community Printers - Graphic Design by Ryann Hancock
The first Wharf to Wharf Race was run July 28, 1973 as one of a number of festivities scheduled by the City of Capitola’s Heritage Days to celebrate the dedication of Camp Capitola’s Superintendent’s Office, as a California State Historical Landmark with Soquel high School track coach, Ken Thomas, served as Race Director and The $200 race budget was underwritten by the City of Capitola. Race officials declared Stanford’s Jack Bellah the winner and duly awarded him a plaque proclaiming him Champion of the “WARF TO WARF” Race!
ON YOUR MARK... The 273 first race participants declared the race a grand success. When they clamored for the race the following year, and the race began a life of its own. Through the 70’s, the race grew dramatically. When 14,000 runners showed up in 1987, jamming village streets and race venues, organizers feared for the event’s future. In the years since, participation has been capped to preserve the integrity of the race and insure the safety of its runners.
GIVING BACK TO LOCAL ATHLETES The race was incorporated as a California nonprofit in 1980 to promote running health and fitness among the youth of Santa Cruz County. Its Board of Directors meets monthly to review policy, procedures and oversee the distribution of race proceeds to local programs and special projects. Race donations in 2016 totaled more than $240,000.
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PRESENT THIS AD AND RECEIVE: 1/2 Rack of Ribs, Coleslaw and Pint of Draft Beer or Glass of House Wine for
$15
Offer good Sunday through Thursday until September 30th, 2017 NO SUBSTITUTIONS **Please tell your server upon arrival that you have this coupon**
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(831) 462-0313
CREATORS OF THE WHARF TO WHARF POSTERS! Custom Design & Fabrication Ready Made Frames Mirrors Shadowboxes Experienced & Friendly Design Staff Since 1980 Back Nine Grill & Bar 555 Highway 17 (Pasatiempo Drive Exit in the Inn at Pasatiempo) Santa Cru3 4 831.226.2350
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GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
EVERYONE’S A WINNER
The Wharf to Wharf Race today has become a part of the local cultural fabric, touching the lives of thousands over its history. Many have felt compelled to run it once as a rite of passage. Others run it year after year just because it’s fun. It’s estimated that the 20,000 Wharf To Wharf visitors spend more than nine million dollars locally.
From start to finish, the Wharf to Wharf race is a fun-filled experience that people of all ages enjoy. Between the thrilling views of the Santa Cruz and Capitola Coastline, stellar local bands and music, and familiar faces cheering participants along the route, each year’s race is unforgettable.
WITH SUCCESS COMES CELEBRITY While most come for sun, fun, and fitness reasons, serious athletes run to test their mettle against the best. The race draws an elite, international field. The roll of past champions numbers several Olympic stars.
The Race is produced and administered by Wharf to Wharf Race, Inc., a California nonprofit corporation chartered to promote running as a means to health and fitness. Race proceeds benefit Santa Cruz County youth sports in general and the running community in particular.
wharftowharf.com
The largest summer event of its kind on the West Coast, Wharf to Wharf receives broad print and electronic media attention being broadcast live on radio, covered by local TV stations and televised by cable television on race day evening. It is highlighted in all running industry publications as one of the top races in America.
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CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL 2017 Stroll the Festival with friends and family, sipping exceptional wines from 23 Santa Cruz Mountain wineries while admiring the artistic talents of over 160 fine artists. Sway to the sounds of Extra Large, The Lost Boys featuring James Durbin, and The Fundamentals, while taking in the ocean breeze and breathtaking view of the Monterey Bay. Enjoy tantalizing cuisine from the Food Court, sample treats and handcrafted creations in the Local Artisans Marketplace. Relax while the kids create a masterpiece of their own in the Kids Art & Music Area. Kids of all ages will be fascinated by street performances from The Great Morgani and The Surfing Magician. And if that isn’t enough, Capitola Village is filled with restaurants for every taste, and charming boutiques to satisfy a shopper’s dream. Art, wine, music and gourmet cuisine in the enchanting beach-side setting of Capitola Village…summer’s last hurrah, and truly a weekend in paradise! More info at capitolaartandwine.com
Mexican Cuisine featuring locally grown fresh ingredients. DAILY HAPPY HOUR 3-6PM | DOG FRIENDLY | LOCALS TUESDAY 3-9PM SAT & SUN BRUNCH 10AM-12PM WITH BOTTOMLESS MIMOSAS 655 CAPITOLA ROAD, SANTA CRUZ 95062 | 831-477-9384 WWW.ELJARDINRESTAURANT.NET
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35TH ANNUAL GOURMET CUISINE
THE MERMAID IS BACK!
Folks are sure to get hungry while exploring the Festival, and there will be plenty of tasty options to tempt the palate! Capitola Village is filled with fabulous restaurants to satisfy every taste, and the Festival food court, located on Monterey Avenue, showcases outstanding Festival fare from around the county including local food trucks Zameen Mediterranean Cuisine and Holopono. When hunger strikes, there’s something yummy for everyone!
We’re excited to share that this aquatic beauty will be gracing the 2017 Festival glass for the 35th annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival, and looking better than ever thanks to the beautiful artistry of local painter and Festival artist Maia Negre! The mermaid logo swam away in 1989...we’re thrilled to bring her back! Glasses are $12 each, and will be available in Glass & Token booths throughout the Festival.
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CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL 2017 ABOUT THE ARTIST EVELYN JENKINS DREW Evelyn Jenkins Drew is a fifth-generation California artist. She studied at San Jose State University, receiving a bachelors’ degree in art. Evelyn paints bright and colorful “beachy” scenes with turquoise water, banana trees and palms that evoke the warmth of the tropical breezes of the Caribbean, California, Hawaii, and Mexico. Her art is about good times in fun places. She is a long-time participant in the Arts Council Santa Cruz County Open Studios Art Tour and her work is collected internationally. She has been chosen to create artwork for many festival posters in the Santa Cruz area. She and her husband Terry have lived in the sailing, surfing and beach culture of Santa Cruz for many years. They now spend four months each winter traveling on their sailboat in the Caribbean where she paints while her husband enjoys boat projects. During the summer and fall she exhibits in juried art festivals in California.
LOCAL ARTISANS MARKETPLACE Be sure to visit the new Local Artisans Marketplace located in the Capitola Mercantile lot between Esplanade and San Jose Avenue. There you will find locally made artisanal foods and crafts, such as jams, mustards, sauces, honey, coffee, baked goods, and more. While sipping wine, enjoying light music, and a soft ocean breeze, shop for handcrafted food, beverages, body products, and gifts made right here in Santa Cruz County.
GENERAL INFO FESTIVAL IS ADMISSION FREE FESTIVAL HOURS: Saturday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm WINE TASTING Must be 21+. Wine tasting requires purchase of 2017 Festival Glass ($12) and Tasting Tokens ($1 each). Wine tasting requires 2 – 4 tokens per tasting, depending on selected tastings. Visit the Local Artisans Marketplace located in the center of the Festival between Esplanade and San Jose Avenue behind the Capitola Mercantile. There you will find local purveyors of jams & mustards, baked goods, coffee, honey, organic vegan gelato, handmade soaps, candles, body products, and more. PARKING & SHUTTLE SERVICE 41st Ave Shuttle at Capitola Mall Ride the free shuttle from the Capitola Mall (handicap accessible). Park next to Bank of America and shuttle to the Festival. 41st Avenue shuttle drops off at entrance to the Festival at Stockton Avenue and Esplanade. Shuttles run approximately every 20 minutes. Saturday, September 9: 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM; and Sunday, September 10: 9:30 AM to 7 PM. Beach & Village Parking Lots on Capitola Avenue Memorial weekend through mid-September, the City of Capitola offers a free beach shuttle from the Beach and Village Parking Lots located behind City Hall at 420 Capitola Avenue. Parking Lots can be accessed from Capitola Avenue, Bay Avenue and Monterey Avenue. Free shuttle operates 10 AM – 8 PM and drops off in Capitola Village. Parking costs $0.50 an hour with no time limit in the designated parking lot. The pay stations accept cash, debit cards and credit cards. Meters run from 8 AM to 8 PM. FREE Bike Valet Parking: 1. David Lyng parking lot at corner of Capitola & Stockton Avenues 2. Monterey Ave. Festival entrance. Visit www.capitolartandwine.com or call Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce (831) 475-6522 for more information.
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35TH ANNUAL THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! The Capitola Art & Wine Festival is a community event, and the number one fundraiser supporting the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, as well as local nonprofit school and community groups that assist with set-up, recycling, break-down, and more. School and community groups include:
Soquel High Music Foundation Soquel High Sports Foundation Harbor High Leadership Team Pacific Collegiate School Fusion Dance UnChained – Canines Teaching Compassion Capitola Police Explorers
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CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL 2017
ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE ON THE BANDSTAND STAGE AT ESPLANDE PARK
SATURDAY
11:30 - 12: 00 12:30 - 1: 00 1:30 - 3:30 5: 00 - 7: 00
STELL ARIA ENTERTAINMENT TE HAU NUI DANCE & TAHITIAN DANCE EX TRA L ARGE THE LOST BOYS FEATURING JAMES DURBIN
S U N D AY
10 :45 - 11:15 11:30 - 12: 00 12:15 - 12:45 2:30 - 4:30
DANCENTER SANTA CRUZ PIPES & DRUMS EL AINE’S DANCE STUDIO THE FUNDAMENTALS
SEPTEMBER 9
SEPTEMBER 10
ON THE CORNER OF MONTEREY & CAPITOLA
SATURDAY
11:30 - 1:30 2:30 - 3: 00
THE GREAT MORGANI THE SURFING MAGICIAN
S U N D AY
11:30 - 1:30 2:30 - 3: 00
THE GREAT MORGANI THE SURFING MAGICIAN
SEPTEMBER 9
SEPTEMBER 10
WITH PERFORMANCES BY:
STELLARIA ENT. SAT. 11:30 - 12: 00
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DANCECENTER SUN. 10 :45 - 11:15
TE HAU NUI DANCE SAT. 12:30 - 1: 00
S PIP
SUN
35TH ANNUAL SATURDAY, T H E L O S T B O Y S SEPTEMBER 9 F E AT U R I N G J A M E S D U R B I N 5 PM TO 7 PM ON THE BANDSTAND STAGE AT ESPLANDE PARK
The Lost Boys featuring James Durbin are back to rock the 35th annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival! Band includes Santa Cruz natives Steven Moore, Scott McPherson, Ian Babcock and front man James Durbin, American Idol finalist and new lead singer for metal band Quiet Riot.
SANTA CRUZ PIPES & DRUMS
SUN. 11:30 - 12: 00
ELAINE’S DANCE STUDIO
EXTRA LARGE
SAT. 1:30 - 3:30
SUN. 12:15 - 12:45
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CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL 2017
S U N D AY,
THE FUNDA MEN TALS
2:30PM TO 4:30PM
ON THE BANDSTAND STAGE AT ESPLANDE PARK
SEPTEMBER 10
ON THE CORNER OF MONTEREY & CAPITOLA
THE GREAT MORGANI
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11:30 - 1:30
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
THE SURFING MAGICIAN
2:30 - 3: 00
EXPLORE CAPITOLA Jewelry, Pottery, Candles,
Thank you to the Begonia Festival for a great event over the past 65 years! From all of us at....
Windchimes, Sea Glass Jewelry, Art Glass, Books, Garden Art and 209 & 207 Capitola Avenue Capitola Village
BELLA ROMA
FEATURING
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE GAETANO BALSAMO CHEF/OWNER BELLAROMACAPITOLA.COM (831) 464-2606
316 CAPITOLA AVEENUE, CAPIOLA, CA 95010
MONDAY - CLOSED TUES - THURS: 5-9PM FRI & SAT: 5-10PM SUNDAY: 5-9PM
Your Friend when Gluten Isn’t
1440 41st Avenue
Come visit us to treat your taste buds!
Mon-Thurs 7:30-2 Fri-Sat 8:30-5 Sun 8:30-2
www.melindasgf.com
in the Four Star Shopping Center
Closed Tuesday
Celebrating our 40th Anniversary! Kites Windsocks Boogie Boards Buckets & Shovels
Bubbles Beatles Peace Aloha Beach Fun in the Sun!
476-9769 OPEN 8 DAYS A WEEK 116 San Jose Ave., Capitola
www.rainbowcitylimit.com 51
CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL 2017 LET THE WINE TASTING BEGIN! Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah…whatever your pleasure, you can sip and stroll your way through the Festival. Peruse beautiful works of art and listen to great music while enjoying the exceptional wines of the Santa Cruz Mountains. With 22 exceptional wineries in one location, deciding which to taste is your only challenge. Purchase a 2017 Festival Wine Glass ($12) from one of the six Glass & Token Booths conveniently located throughout the Festival. Tasting tokens are $1 each, with wine tastings varying between 2 – 4 tokens depending on the wine of your choosing.
FEATURED WINERIES 37th Parallel
Domenico Winery
Silver Mountain Winery
Alfaro Family Vineyards
Hallcrest Vineyards
Sones Cellars
Bargetto Winery
Martin Ranch Winery
Soquel Vineyards
Beauregard Vineyards
Naumann Vineyards
Storrs Winery
Bottle Jack
Nicholson Vineyards
Trout Gulch Vineyards
Burrell School Vineyards
Pelican Ranch Winery
Villa Del Monte
Chaucer’s Cellars
Poetic Cellars
Wargin Wines
Roudon-Smith Winery
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SOQUEL
wine making!
V I N E Y A R D S
Double Gold Medal
Gold Medal
Best of Region – Red Best of California Best of Class of Region
Best of Class of Region
95 Points
98 Points
June 2017
June 2017
2014 Intreccio
2014 Consonante
Library Selection
Reverence Vineyard Napa Valley
90 POIN TS
Napa Valley
90
“Aromas of red candy, cherry and red plum form
acidity and tannins that persistent.”
POIN TS
run
“Firm and vibrant, with a zesty personality driving the
tannins hold this in focus, te ending with a rich aftertas of fruit and licorice.” ~James Laube
~James Laube
2017 SF Chronicle Wine Competition GOLD MEDAL 2014 Consonante Reverence Vineyards 2014 Intreccio Napa Valley 2014 Merlot Paso Robles 2015 Chardonnay Nelson Vineyards
2016 SF International Wine Competition DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL 2013 Intreccio Napa Valley, 96 pts
2016 SF Chronicle Wine Competition BEST OF CLASS 2013 Grenache Silvaspoons Vineyard DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL 2014 Chardonnay Nelson Vineyard GOLD MEDAL 2013 Pinot Noir Library Estate 2014 Pinot Noir Estate 2014 Library SCM Pinot Noir
Come join us for a tasting and judge for yourself! Visit our Vineyard & Tasting Room
Saturday & Sunday, 11am - 4:30pm | 8063 Glen Haven Road, Soquel | 831.462.9045 | soquelvineyards.com
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Santa Cruz Shakespeare 2nd Summer Festival in the Grove
Three Main Stage Productions Highlight the Season “There are 20 million women in this island and I’ve got to be chained to you.” – The 39 Steps, 1935 Alfred Hitchcock film “We have strict statutes and most biting laws.” – Measure for Meaure “They do not love, that do not show their love.” – The Two Gentlemen of Verona For centuries, William Shakespeare and live theater has thrilled and inspired audiences and for the past 36 years, Santa Cruz Shakespeare has brought the theater to an evocative, outdoor venue only Santa Cruz can provide. For its second season in the Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park, SCS will kick off summer performances with the comedy thriller, The 39 Steps, adapted by Patrick Barlow. The 39 Steps begins July 5, featuring the entirety of the 1935 Alfred Hitchcock adventure film to be played by only four actors. Measure for Measure, Shakespeare’s dynamic dark comedy explores the body politic and the politics of the body, begins July 18 and is a co-production with California Shakespeare Theater (Cal Shakes). The final main stage production of the season starts August 1 with The Two Gentlemen of Verona, where romance and friendship vie for supremacy in Shakespeare’s sexy and surreal comedy. All three shows run in repertory after opening. Plus, Santa Cruz Shakespeare showcases the season’s intern acting Fringe company with its adaptation of Candide, Voltaire’s funny and fast-paced tale of the dangers of optimism. Tickets can be purchased online at santacruzshakespeare.org. Artistic Director Mike Ryan frames the season by saying, “We are excited to be presenting two Shakespeare plays this season that
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we last produced more than 18 years ago, along with the Santa Cruz premiere of The 39 Steps. Alfred Hitchcock was a resident of Scotts Valley for many years, and it is a privilege to honor him with this production in the city that inspired a number of his films. The power of theatre rests in community, and I am so excited that this collaboration with the California Shakespeare Theatre will allow the story of Measure for Measure to be shared with Santa Cruz’s much larger community, the Bay Area. Together with CalShakes, we affirm that theatre has the power to heal the wounds of division and to teach the power of inclusion that comes from recognizing our shared humanity.”
Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s 2017 Summer Festival July 5 through September 3. Wednesday and Thursday evening performances start at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening performances start at 8:00 p.m. Weekend Matinee performances start at 2:00 p.m. The Grove at DeLaveaga Park, 501 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz CA, 95065 Online: www.santacruzshakespeare.org/tickets Phone: 831-460-6399 $20 - $55 for single tickets. Member tickets, group rates, student and senior discounts are available. $25 Groundling Rush tickets are available one hour prior to performances, box office only. Santa Cruz Shakespeare (SCS) is celebrating its fourth season as an independent non-profit theatre company. SCS envisions a community where generations are increasingly passionate and knowledgeable about Shakespeare and live theatre, a community that engages in active discussion about language and art and reaches for passion, connection, and empowerment.
“Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win by fearing to attempt.” “O! it is excellent to have a giant’s strength, but it is tyrannous to use it like a giant.” – Measure for Measure
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
FOODIES
CAFE CRUZ ROS TICCERIA & BAR
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Peter Henry
MICHAEL’S ON MAIN Michael’s on Main has an expertly qualified staff headed by Chef Peter Henry, a graduate of Cordon Bleu. Chef Peter emphasized that the meals he serves are made with ingredients from organic, sustainable sources. “And we try to use suppliers,” he said, “that are within a hundred miles of our kitchen to make sure they are always fresh.” Chef Peter also said that much of his training as a Cordon Bleu chef was in preparing and serving fine food for large groups. That means that Michael’s on Main is capable of hosting formal business meetings, wedding ceremonies or receptions from the most intimate to celebrations of up to 350 guests in a variety of settings from its location overlooking scenic Soquel Creek to off-site catering to any location throughout the Monterey Bay area. The new owners, Michael and Colleen Harrison, officially started the newest chapter of Michael’s on Main in Soquel on December 20, 2016. The experienced staff was already in place and ready to provide the best in food and service. Michael’s on Main’ can design for you a special menu appropriate for the occasion whether the theme is casual, beach barbeque, or formal for family or business or even for that memorable and elegant wedding. Visit Michael’s on Main so will have the experience of having Chef Peter using his talents to create extraordinary meals that use special tastes and textures for you and yours to remember and will want to return to experience again.
live entertainment nightly Blues Tuesdays through the summer
Wednesday thru Saturday Dance to your favorite local bands & guest artists from all over
and don’t forget...Grateful Sundays featuring local bay area musicians that love Grateful Dead music
happy hour
2591 Main Street, Soquel, CA. 95073 831-479-9777
Tue-Fri 11am-Late | Sat-Sun 9am-Late | Closed Monday full bar menu half off TUES-FRI 4-6PM & 9-10PM
www.michaelsonmain.com
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open for
BRUNCH SAT/SUN 9AM
Jose and Amelia Espinoza with their two sons Andre and Johann
CILANTROS
In an area with lots of Mexican restaurants, there are two that stand out. Both are the creation of Jose and Amelia Espinoza and their sons Andre and Johann. They have been serving Santa Cruz County unique and fresh Mexican cuisine inspired by authentic family recipes since the 1983 opening of the El Palomar restaurant on Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz. Their commitment to excellence has continuously earned El Palomar the award of “Best Mexican Restaurant in Santa Cruz.” The second of Jose and Amelia’s handiwork is the Cilantros Parrilla Y Cantina, popularly know as “Cilantros.” For over two decades, Cilantros in Watsonville has continued the unique culinary tradition of El Palomar in Santa Cruz by serving award winning cuisine to the communities and visitors of the Pajaro Valley on California’s central coast.
El Palomar | 1336 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz | 831.425.7575 elpalomarsantacruz.com Cilantros | 1934 Main St. Watsonville | 831.761.2161 cilantroswatsonville.com
Both have full bar features, an extensive tequila selection and margarita list, a variety of draft and bottled beers, local premium wines, and classic cocktails made with the finest distilled liquors. They also provide banquet and catering services to bring Jose Espinoza’s Mexican cuisine experience to any event or location. El Palomar features a Taco Bar for those on the go, while Cilantros features nightly happy hour specials, weekend entertainment, and seven flat panel televisions for sporting events.
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STEVE WILSON CAFE CRUZ ROSTICCERIA & BAR Chef Steve Wilson, who owns and operates Café Cruz along with his wife Nikki Howe, delights in the flavors and cooking styles found in North America’s diverse cultures and regions, as well as many international cuisines. Launched in 1995, Café Cruz has been a favorite restaurant for locals and visitors for many years. Steve’s interest in cooking began as a teenager growing up in Pennsylvania. His early experiences in kitchens on the east coast and in Santa Cruz sparked a passion for blending regional flavors with locally harvested foods. Steve emphasizes healthy and high quality ingredients, embracing both American and Global cuisines. Wilson and Howe are committed to the environment and to the greater Santa Cruz Community. As a certified Green Business since 2006, Café Cruz was one of the first on board with the County food composting program. Café Cruz is an avid supporter of area schools and the programs of many community organizations. Steve was a former recipient of the Second Harvest Food Bank’s Hunger Fighters Award.
&
Lively Local Since 1995
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STAGNARO BROTHERS SEAFOOD The Stagnaro Bros. story begins in the tiny fishing village of Riva Trigoso, located in the northern Italian province of Genoa. It was from here in 1913 that Matteo Stagnaro left an impoverished Italy for a better life in the New World. He made his way from Ellis Island to Santa Cruz, a coastal town reminiscent of his home, where he joined a group of fellow Italian immigrants and fished the Bay Area waters from San Francisco to Monterey. Seventy-nine years later, twelve members of the Stagnaro family still work at the fish market and restaurant, continuing the Stagnaro legacy. Following our historic Wharf tradition, Stagnaro Bros. proudly presents the freshest and widest selection of seafood possible. Stagnaro Bros. features a menu with over 20 different types of fresh seafood every day, as well as pasta dishes, steaks, and a children’s menu. Come join us at the outer end of the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf and take in the spectacular ocean views with the best fresh fish around.
1937 i
The golden gate bridge opened to the public.
SO DID WE! Stagnaro Brothers Seafood
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JEFF & MINA LANTIS THE SANDBAR The Village in Capitola has become a destination for Local and Regional Music. The shining star of these music venues in Capitola is the Sand Bar. The Sand Bar is the Hot Spot, offering music lovers a great variety of musical styles and genres to choose from. With bands performing Rock, Jazz, Reggae and more, you will find some very talented performers on any given night. Sunday’s “Open Jam Night” has become a local’s favorite, and has been around for 20 years. If you are fortunate enough, you might actually catch Jeff the Owner and his lead bartender Benton performing with their band “Red Eye Jedi.” They have been playing together for many years, and you can bet the music is just as good, if not better than many other acts that perform there. If you arrive and have not had dinner yet, No Problem. The Sand bar has one of the best menus in the Village. If you are craving anything from a fish taco, to a great burger, you won’t be disappointed in the quality of the meals. The owners Jeff and Mina invite you to Dine with them for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner, and to make a night of it, and enjoy some of the central coasts’ finest music. You can find additional information on the Bands that are playing and of course “the Menu” on their website or Facebook page.
Great food and entertainment overlooking Capitola Beach The new Sand Bar and Grill in Capitola with amazing views of the sea and sand from our soundeck
Great breakfast, lunch and food into the evening Live entertainment five to seven nights per week Happy hour specials 3-6pm Monday thru Friday
211 Esplande Capitala, CA 95010 Phone: 831-462-1881 Email: thesandbarcapitola@yahoo.com THE SAND BAR CAPITOLA
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JOSHUA WHITBY ZELDA’S ON THE BEACH Zelda´s on the Beach is located in the quaint Capitola Village, overlooking beautiful Capitola Beach. The restaurant was purchased by John Ealy in 1978. And still today the Ealy family members own and operate this Capitola favorite. With a wide and wonderful menu, and an oceanfront dining deck, Zelda’s is a great choice for any size dining party, and a great place for groups to hold special events. With a full bar, you can enjoy your favorite cocktail, and maybe even spot a whale from the large outdoor beachfront deck. Head Chef Joshua Whitby, who graduated first in his class at the International Culinary Center, (formerly the French Culinary Institute) continues to revitalize and add to the already stellar menu. The always-favorite Fish and Chips and Prime Rib are a good choice, but don’t forget the latest additions to the menu which include Oysters, Filet Mignon and Lobster tail. A full menu of American dishes and seafood will impress even the pickiest of patrons. Zelda’s offers nightly specials that will treat your taste buds to some of the finest dining that Monterey Bay has to offer. Open daily for Breakfast, Lunch, Sunday Brunch, & Dinner. If you can only have one meal in Capitola this summer, make sure you have it at Zelda’s.
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OFF THE BLOCK Off The Block Snow Cream and Bubble Tea is shaking thing up Capitola Village with their unique treats! Offering Snow Cream, Bubble Tea (also known as “Boba”), Mug Cakes, and more, Off The Block promises to give you a delicious experience and leave you wanting for more! They also incorporate a fun way to give back to local non-profits by compelling the customers to be a part of the process. One of their unique products is the Snow Cream which is a dairy-based dessert made similar to traditional Taiwanese Shaved Snow. The cream is made by placing pre-flavored blocks onto a special shaver that turns the frozen blocks into smooth and creamy waves. The easiest way to think of it is like wavy ice-cream, after which you get to choose from over 40 different toppings to place on top. They also offer non-dairy snow cream made with either Almond Milk or Coconut Milk. At Off The Block, offering customers delicious beverages and snacks, and excellent services are always the topmost priority, but that is not just the only goal. In order to do that, they had custom blue arcade tokens made, and patrons receive one token for every item ordered. While their orders are being fulfilled, customers take their token worth 25 Cents to the charity wall in which they will have a choice of donating into one of three charity boxes. The boxes represent local non-profits in three areas which include Children, Animals, and Environment, and the charities are rotated quarterly. We like to call it a “Delicious Way to Donate,” says Carter. The first three charities which will be part of this program are Native Animal Rescue, Big Brothers-Big Sisters, and Surfrider Foundation. As of this printing, Off The Block will have donated nearly $2,000 to local charities!
F O E C ! N A A L H O C T I % 100 I N CA P W O N S
123 Main Street Capitola, CA 95010
310-988-5448
www.OffTheBlockSnowCream.com
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EQUIPMENT RENTALS & SALES Campbell
Morgan Hill
Hollister
408-378-4921
408-779-7368
831-638-1999
Santa Clara
Santa Cruz
Watsonville
900 DELL AVE.
408-727-0822
2550 LAFAYETTE ST.
95 E. MAIN AVE.
831-477-7133 3700 SOQUEL AVE.
2610 SAN JUAN RD.
Salinas
831-424-7368 210 W. MARKET ST.
831-722-0334 285 W. BEACH ST.
WE PAY THE SALES TAX ON RENTALS!
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IN THE
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O R U A N D F T R H U E T S E U H R T S F W B O N E K T T E E N R! O O N Tom Tomase
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on ils 706 e W8-3 nn 81
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