Capitola Fall Festivals — 2021 Program & Guide by Times Publishing Group, Inc.

THE OFFICIAL

CAPITOLA

FALL FESTIVALS 2021 PROGRAM & GUIDE

CAPITOLA ART AND WINE FESTIVAL September 11 & 12 CAPITOLA PLEIN AIR 2021 November 1 – 7

CAPITOLA BEACH FESTIVAL September 25 & 26

Capitola A rt & Wine F e stival 4 38th Annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival 4 Gourmet Cuisine 6 Poster Artist, Brittany Costanzo 8 Cheers to The Mermaid 8 Local Artisans Marketplace 10 Entertainment Schedule 11 Thank You For Your Support! 14 Let the Wine Tasting Begin!

Capitola B each F e stival 18 Community Spirit / Fishing Derby 20 Sand Sculpture Contest 20 Poster Artist Sally Bookman / 2021 Committee 22 Capitola Then & Now 24 Schedule of Events 24 Horseshues in The Sand 25 Presidents Letter 25 Little Wharf 3 Miler 26 Rowboat Races 26 Chalk Art On The Sea Wall 28 Looking Back 30 2021 Plein Air

The Official Capitola Fall Festivals Program & Summer Activities Guide 2021

Committee, Capitola Soquel Chamber of Commerce, Daubenbis Family, Capitola History Museum, Laurie Hill, James Stanton, Neil Simmons and Teresa Green The Official Capitola Fall Festivals Program & Summer Activities Guide 2021 is a publication of the Times Publishing Group Inc.located at 9601 Soquel Dr. Aptos, CA 95003. Entire contents © 2021 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

Times Publishing Group, Inc. 3

Sep t . 1 1 & 1 2

th Annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival

Art, wine, music, dance, and good vibes…all in the enchanting beach-side setting of Capitola Village… summer’s last hurrah, and truly a weekend in paradise! Stroll the Festival sipping exceptional wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains while admiring the artistic talents of over 100 fine artists. Sway to the rock n roll sounds of The Lost Boys featuring James Durbin,

GOURMET CUISINE 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. When hunger strikes, there’s something satisfying for everyone!

and funky grooves from Extra Large. Be inspired by local dance groups and keep a look out for The Great Morgani, accordionist extraordinaire. Event is hosted by the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce. Admission free. Free parking and shuttle at Capitola Mall. Free bike valet parking at the festival. More info at capitolaartandwine.com.

We’re proud to give 10% of our after-tax profits to community programs.

At New Leaf, sustainable shopping choices like bringing your own bags benefits the Earth as well as local nonprofits. To date, we’ve donated over $1M through our Envirotokens program alone!

EARN REWARDS WHILE YOU SHOP

SHOP FALL HARVEST

SHOP FROM HOME

Fill your basket with the season’s best locally grown produce, like squash, corn, and tomatoes!

For contactless delivery or curbside pickup, start your order at newleaf.com/Instacart.

Half Moon Bay • Downtown Santa Cruz Westside Santa Cruz • Capitola • Aptos 5

V A

3 8 t h

A N N U A L

POSTER ARTIST — BRITTANY COSTANZO Brittany Costanzo is a maker, artist, designer, and muralist based in Santa Cruz, California. She paints a diverse range of subjects for commercial and individual clients. Much of her work is inspired by the beauty that is the central coast, as well as her love of animals, family and community. Brittany was born in Santa Cruz County and grew up in a big family of outdoor enthusiasts, artists, and craftsmen. She earned her B.A. in the History of Art and Visual Culture from UCSC and later went on to teach art for a private studio in Los Gatos. Today she primarily focuses on Pet Portraiture and Freelance work. Brittany is currently enrolled at CSUMB and will begin the Scientific Illustration program this fall. Poster will be available at Brittany’s booth at the festival, and online at www.costanzocreative.com. Follow on Instagram @costanzo_creative

V A

CHEERS TO THE MERMAID!

3 8 t h

A N N U A L

bit of history…a mermaid graced the very first Festival glass back in 1987, however swam away shortly after. Local artist Maia Negre recreated the festival logo in 2017 for the 35th anniversary glass, bringing the mermaid back to life and returning her to her place of honor

LOCAL ARTISANS MARKETPLACE Capitola Mercantile Parking Lot Be sure to visit the Artisans Marketplace located behind the Capitola Mercantile building with entrances on Esplanade and San Jose Avenue where you will find locally handcrafted creations including handwoven baskets, beeswax products, eco-friendly goods, reclaimed wood crafts, and more.

V A

ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

WITH PERFORMANCES BY:

ON THE BANDSTAND STAGE AT ESPLANADE PARK

AGAPE DANCE ACADEMY

S AT UR DAY

11:0 0 – 11:30 A G A P E D A NCE AC A DE MY

SEP T E MBER 11

12:30 - 1:0 0 D A NCEN T ER

S AT. 11:OO - 11:30

2:0 0 - 2:45 S A N TA CRUZ A R E A S COT T ISH B A GP IP ER S 5:0 0 - 7:0 0 LO S T BOYS FE AT UR ING J A M ES DUR BIN

SUNDAY

11:00 TO 11:30 TE HAU NUI DANCE

SEP T E MBER 12

12:00 TO 12:30 PACIFIC ARTS COMPLEX 12:30 TO 1:00

EL AINE’S DANCE STUDIO

3:00 TO 5:00

EXTRA L ARGE

ON THE CORNER OF MONTEREY & CAPITOLA

S AT UR DAY & SUNDAY

11:30 - 1:30

THE LOST BOYS FEATURING JAMES DURBIN

DA NC E N T E R S AT. 12:30 - 1:0 0

TE HAU NUI DANCE SUN. 11:0 0 - 11:30

THE GREAT MORGANI

EXTRA LARGE

PACIFIC ARTS COMPLEX SUN. 12:0 0 - 12:30

ELAINE’S DANCE STUDIO SUN. 12:30 – 1:0 0

S AT. 5 - 7

SUN. 3 - 5

3 8 t h

A N N U A L

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! The Capitola Art & Wine Festival is a community fundraiser supporting the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, as well as the local school and community groups that assist with the festival. We are grateful to our hardworking volunteers that help in more ways than we can count. It takes a village, and we’re thankful for ours. This year proceeds will support:

Soquel High Music Foundation, Soquel High Sports Foundation, Harbor High Leadership Team, Pacific Collegiate Dance Fusion Team, UnChained – Canines Teaching Compassion, Capitola Police Explorers, and more.

V A

3 8 t h

A N N U A L

S AT UR DAY, SE P T E MBE R 11 5PM TO 7PM

T HE LO S T BOY S

FE ATURING JA M ES DURBIN ON THE BANDSTAND STAGE AT ESPLANADE PARK

SUNDAY,

SE P T E MBE R 12 3:0 0PM TO 5:00PM

E X T R A L A RGE ON THE BANDSTAND STAGE AT ESPLANADE PARK You’ll be dancing and singing along with local band, The Lost Boys, featuring the powerhouse vocals of James Durbin playing classic rock n roll tunes from Journey, Bon Jovi, Led Zeppelin, and more! And Extra Large will get you moving and grooving in the California sun with their high energy funk and reggae beats.

ON THE CORNER OF MONTEREY & CAPITOLA

T HE GR E AT MORGA NI

S AT UR DAY & SUNDAY

11:30 - 1:30

V A

3 8 t h

A N N U A L

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 21 exceptional wineries in one location, deciding which to taste is your only challenge. Purchase a 2021 Festival Wine Glass ($15) 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 choosing.

Must be 21+ years of age to purchase glass, tokens, and to wine taste.

T HI S Y E A R ’ S PA R T IC IPAT IN G W INE R IE S A R E : 37th Parallel Armitage Wines Bargetto Winery Beauregard Vineyards Bottle Jack Winery Burrell School Vineyards & Winery Chaucer’s Hallcrest Vineyards Martin Ranch Winery Naumann Vineyards Nicholson Vineyards Poetic Cellars Roudon-Smith Winery Ser Winery Silver Mountain Vineyards Sones Cellars Soquel Vineyards Storrs Winery & Vineyards Valley Vista Vineyard Villa del Monte Winery Wargin Wines 14

Est. 1911

BUSINESS LOCATOR MAP

SOQUEL

11 14

18 OC

SEABRIGHT CA PIT OL A RD . HA VE.

S T.

17T

SEABRIG HT AVE

FRON

SANTA CRUZ

AV E

S T.

R LD

9 15

ER UE

41ST AVE.

S T.

RIV

EAN

R S T. WAT E

U OQ

E. C LIFF

PORTOLA RD.

AV E

UPPER CAPITOLA VILLAGE .

41ST / CAPITOLA

SOQUEL VILLAGE

16 BA Y

SOQ

CAPITOLA WHARF

12 19

DR.

SANTA CRUZ WHARF

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Amber Melenudo American Leisure A Tool Shed Aptos Village Square Bailey Properties Bay Federal Credit Union Big Kahuna Brady’s Yacht Club Brown Ranch Marketplace

PLEASURE POINT 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.

Capitola Boat & Bait Center Street Antiques El Rancho Shopping Center Hot Feet Interior Vision Kaito Michael’s on Main New Leaf Market Pet Pals

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27.

Pleasure Point– Sound Rainbow City Limits Robin Ronzano / Chase Bank ROOM Real Estate Slap Happy Tacos Moreno Trestles Vino by the Sea Zelda’s

THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY BUSINESSES FOR SUPPORTING OUR 2021 CAPITOLA FALL FESTIVALS

UEL

DR.

E. A AV RNI

AVE .

IFO

PIT OL

AA VE

SAN

APTOS

23 13

RIO

L DE

JOS

STO

E AV

CK T ON

CAL

. VD

CAPITOLA

E AV

JOS

E AV

STO

N TO CK

AVE.

SAN

27 24

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 puchase of 2021 Festival Glass ($12) and Tasting Tokens ($1 each). Wine tasting requires 2 – 4 tokens per tasting, depending on selected tastings.

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.

ESPLANADE

FREE BIKE VALET PARKING: 1. D avid Lyng parking lot at corner of Capitola & Stockton Avenues 2. M onterey Ave. Festival entrance. Visit www.capitolartandwine.com or call Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce (831) 475-6522 for more information.

CAPITOLA MALL PARKING & SHUTTLE Park in the former Sears parking lot at the Capitola Mall on 41st Avenue and ride the FREE shuttle to the Festival. Capitola Mall shuttle drops off at the Stockton Avenue Festival entrance. Shuttles run approximately every 20 minutes. Saturday, September 11: 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM; and Sunday, September 12: 9:30 AM to 7 PM. Visit www. capitolartandwine. com or call Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce (831) 475-6522 for more information.

FREE SHUTTLE

S e p t. 2 5 - 2 6 2 0 2

3 r d AN N U A L

COMMUNITY SPIRIT After a profoundly challenging year, help us reconnect and find our “Community Spirit” at the 3rd Annual Capitola Beach Festival: September 25 and 26.

Creek. Again, we are partnering with Wharf to Wharf for a 3 mile fun run on Saturday. On Saturday night our Lighted Nautical Parade will bring light and fun to Soquel Creek.

We offer family friendly and free events: Sand Sculpture Contest, Concert in the Park, Chalk Art on the Seawall, Children’s Art, Horseshoes Tournament in the Sand, Fishing Derby on Capitola Wharf, and Rowboat Races on Soquel

Join the activities in Capitola Village. Dance, play in the sand, fish, row a boat, and watch the parade. Build a float for the Lighted Nautical Parade.

FISHING DERBY -by Ernie Tavella

The Fishing Derby joined the Begonia Festival in 1967. From the very beginning, the Fishing Derby captured the imagination of young and old and became a vital part of the Capitola Begonia Festival. The excitement of landing a fish, no matter its size, is still one of the true pleasures of the Fishing Derby. The excitement starts with early Sunday morning sign up and builds with fish counts and weights throughout the event. Awards in several age brackets go for the most fish, biggest fish and smallest fish. Join the fun, its free! The Fishing Derby team would like to recognize the long standing support and involvement of Ed Burrell and the entire staff of the Capitola Boat and Bait Company for helping make the Fishing Derby a success. Signed waiver forms required.

Join our volunteers and help make it all happen. Capitolabeachfestival.com

Capitola Beach Festival

SAND SCULPTURE CONTEST -by Meade Fischer

Some of the sculptures from past festivals were so good that had they been in stone rather than sand, they might have ended up in museums. What will they come up with next? The contest takes place Saturday, September 25. Sign up (before you start your sculpture) at Capitola Beach starting at 8 am. Judging will begin at 12 noon with award ceremony around 1pm. You must be present to win. Sand sculptures are spread along the beach from the Capitola Pier down to the jetty on the other side of the beach - watch out for high tide. Plaques are awarded in five categories: small group, large group, one adult one child, 9-14 and under 8 with one overall Grand Prize Winner.

Returning as the event chair, I look forward to the same level of dedicated participants and volunteers that we've had in the past, and I ask that you encourage our neighbors to get involved and to contact me. Craig French, former Lifeguard in Capitola, started the sand sculpture contest in 1971 as a part of the Begonia Festival. This year marks its third year of being part of the Capitola Beach Festival and we look forward to carrying on this tradition at Capitola Beach for years to come.

The rules are: Have appropriate subject matter, building can be up to 20 x 20 feet. All objects used must be natural (not man-made) material found on a beach, ie. seaweed, drift wood, shells, pebbles and feathers. Forms may be used in the construction but must be removed prior to judging. For more information you can contact event chair Meade Fischer at info@meadefischer.com.

BEACH FESTIVAL POSTER ARTIST: Sally Bookman, long time local realtor and resident of Santa Cruz with a personal involvement in Capitola, is delighted to be the artist for this year's Beach Festival. Sally had her own art gallery in Capitola Village for fifteen years, and was the poster artist for five Capitola Art and

Wine Festivals in years past. Now, she is honored to have been invited to help promote this most fun festival of all the Beach Festival. Sally’s art captures everything that's special about the Beach Festival - the iconic Venetians, crowds of people on the bridge, the sandcastles, the horse shoe competition, the rowboat races, and of course, the nautical parade!

2021 COMMITTEE

Mary Beth Cahalan Teresa Green Cindy Kiernan Thea Luiten Neal Savage David Peyton Scott McConville

Ernie Tavella Laurie Hill Patty Bradley Meade Fischer Bill Lewis Tuesday Salazar Deb McDowell

Rocio Sullivan Kurt Langhoff Polly Malik Juanita Catley Ann Litchfield Sheila Anaya Mary Tavella

Capitola Beach Festival CAPITOLA – THEN & NOW -by Deborah Osterberg Curator of the Capitola Historical Museum Capitola’s popularity as a resort Race, a Married Ladies’ Race, began in the 1860s when visitors horse-shoe throwing contest, discovered its charms and began necktie tying contest and a marbles to set up vacation tents on the competition for “… young men beach. Samuel A. Hall, who over 60 years of age.” Children leased beach front property from enjoyed a beach treasure hunt for Frederick Augustus Hihn, quickly Captain Kidd’s booty, in this case, realized the opportunity presented “[t]wenty bags, each containing to him and in 1874 transformed a brand new $1 bill, buried few Soquel Landing into Camp inches in the sand comprised the Capitola. In light of the rustic treasure which was provided by the resort’s success, Hihn also began Pacific Portland Cement Company.” to promote Capitola as a seaside Capitola Esplanade c. 1924 – Photograph by Lionel Tracy Lenox from the Lenox The Builders also delighted in resort by constructing commercial Family Collection (Capitola Historical Museum) contests demonstrating their fields structures, camp cabins and a free of expertise including Nail Driving tent campground. In 1895 Hihn built the palatial Hotel Capitola and Bricklaying Contests for both gentlemen and ladies. But the and the city’s reputation as a leading tourist destination was Bathing Girls’ Revue was by far the most popular event. assured. Perhaps the Builders’ creativity and great sense of fun helped The Roaring Twenties in Capitola was a time of transformation, inspire Capitola’s tradition of festivals and celebrations which not only culturally but also in terms of the city’s physical layout. continue to delight thousands of locals and visitors alike. After his 1919 purchase of Capitola, Henry Allen Rispin, initiated a major redesign of the famed seaside resort. Rispin hired San CAPITOLA HISTORICAL MUSEUM: CAPITOLA OBSCURA Francisco area architect George McCrea to modernize the resort. McCrea, known for his Spanish Colonial Revival style designs, Capitola Historical Museum Curator Frank Perry retired on June chose 22-year-old Helen Benbow as his architectural intern. Their 30, 2021, after eight years of researching and sharing the history renovations included the curved realignment of the Esplanade, of this special place. Frank reflected that “From the very first concrete paved streets, a stairway to Depot Hill and the building day, the museum board, museum volunteers, city staff, and of Rispin’s impressive 22 room Italian Renaissance style mansion people of Capitola were exceptionally welcoming.” He enjoyed overlooking Soquel Creek. McCrea and Benbow transformed discovering and revealing Capitola’s amazing history and creating parts of Rispin’s vision into the Capitola we know today. the museum’s annual exhibitions. Best wishes in your retirement Frank! As we approach the end of summer, it seems appropriate to reflect upon the festivities of a September nearly a hundred years Come visit the museum to see Frank’s exhibition, “Capitola – ago. With all the improvements made by Hihn and Rispin, Capitola Then & Now”. Enjoy rarely seen photographs of Capitola of the drew not only more family vacationers but also quite a few past alongside current views of the city. Initially installed as the conventioneers. In September 1922, Capitola hosted the annual 2020 exhibition, it was only able to remain open to the public San Francisco Builders’ Exchange State Convention which drew for a few weeks due to the pandemic shutdown. That is why it over 3,000 members of the building trades and their families. was decided to keep the exhibit up through 2021 so everyone Over a three-day period, the Builders enjoyed a jam-packed can enjoy Frank Perry’s hard work on the final exhibit he created program of entertainments and competitions. In addition to the for the museum. The Capitola Historical Museum is open Friday typical surf bathing and boating, the visiting Builders hosted a through Sunday from noon until 4:00 p.m. dizzying array of contests with more than $2,000 worth of rather Check out the latest issue of the museum’s newsletter, Capitola unique prizes donated by their membership: prizes ranged from Sunset, available on the Capitola Historical Museum web site: paint brushes to truckloads of sand, rock, and brick. cityofcapitola.org/capitola-museum At the Hotel Capitola the conventioneers danced to the music Address: 410 Capitola Avenue (next to the trestle) of the Builders’ Exchange Jazz Orchestra. During the day Phone: 831-464-0322 they adjourned to a platform on the beach to watch running, Hours: Thurs.-Sun., noon to 4 p.m swimming, and canoe races. Competitions included a Fat Men’s Admission: free

Capitola Beach Festival SCHEDULE OF EVENTS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Little Wharf 3 MILER Fun Run 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM The Wharf-to-Wharf Race Committee presents a 3 Mile fun run beginning at 8 a.m. in the East Cliff Shopping Center located on East Cliff Drive near 16th Avenue. The course will follow East Cliff Drive to 41st Avenue, onto Opal Cliff Drive to Cliff Drive, and then down Cliff Drive across the Stockton Avenue Bridge, onto Esplanade, with the run concluding near San Jose Avenue. Must preregister. Shuttles available. Limited to the first 2,000 registrants Sand Sculpture Contest 8:00 AM – Noon; Award at 1:00 PM Register on the beach. at 8:00 AM. Trophy judging will be held at 12:30 PM. Children’s Art 11: AM – 2:00 PM Sign up at Esplanade Park. Children pre-school age and above are welcome to create their own masterpiece atop the seawall on the Esplanade for all to enjoy! All tools for art project provided. Music at the Beach 4:00 – 6:00 PM Houserockers sponsored by Strock Real Estate. Enjoy music and dancing in Esplanade Park. Lighted Nautical Parade on Soquel Creek Approximately 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm Enjoy a parade of lighted barges as they travel down the river to the Lagoon. Float builders who wish to light up a barge must preregister 831-239-1611.- the number of barges is limited to 6. There will be no access to the trestle during the Lighted Parade.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Fishing Derby 7:00 AM – 11:30 AM Registration begins at 7:00 AM near the end of the Capitola Wharf. Bring your own fishing poles. Open to all ages. Final Tally begins at 11 AM. Horseshoes on the Sand 7:00 AM - Finish Double’s tournament at Capitola Beach in front of Zelda's Restaurant. Teams will be chosen by drawing names from a hat. Participants must pre-register or at (831) 419-6399. Check-in time 7:00 - 8:00 am. Chalk Art on the Seawall 10:00 AM -1:00 PM Sign up at Esplanade Park. Children pre-school age and above are welcome to create their own masterpiece atop the seawall on the Esplanade for all to enjoy! Art chalk provided. Rowboat Races 1:00 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!

HORSESHOES IN THE SAND -by Vanessa Reed

“Horseshoes in the Sand” is a Capitola Beach tradition going back 16 years. The brainchild of Toni Castro, retired Executive Director of the Capitola Soquel Chamber of Commerce, the popular event was chaired by The Hamby Family for many, many years. In 2018, Capitola started a new tradition. The Capitola Beach Festival is a celebration of Capitola Village, the vivid merchant community, and the activities that bring people together to enjoy the sun and sea. 2019 Horseshoes in the Sand saw beautiful, cool weather, and great participation for its second year as part of the Capitola Beach Festival. We had 33 teams (66 participants), each made up of an amateur and a pro, vying for first place in a double elimination tournament that takes place in front of Zelda’s at the Beach. Every year at the horseshoe tournament brings something new and memorable, and 2019’s contest was no exception. A brisk early morning but as the beach warmed up, so did the players. The final rounds were played mother vs daughter. 8 year old Eveline Espinola and her partner, Riley Peoples, were undefeated until Mom, Alva Ramirez and her partner, Arty Vargas, fought their way back from Losers bracket for the 1st place trophy. Both mother and daughter were tied for most 6 packs in the women's division in the final round with their respective partners tied for most 6 packs in the men's division. Ultimately, it was little Eveline who walked away with 2nd place and a 6 pack trophy for the Women's division, and Arty took home 1st place and the men's 6 pack trophy. ‘Twas a match to remember, and everyone had a blast! If you love horseshoes, love beach sports, or are just looking for a fun way to pass the day in the beautiful Capitola sunshine, Horseshoes in the Sand could be just the event for you. Whether you’re an old hand, or have never thrown a shoe in your life, whether you play or prefer to watch and enjoy the excitement from the sidelines, we have something for you. New event chairs, Tuesday Salazar and Debbie McDowell, are excited to welcome you back after a years’ hiatus. A little fun in the sun with friends and loved ones may be just the thing you need to wash the summer blues away. Horseshoes in the Sand will take place on Sunday, September 26. Space is limited and registration is free. Preregister by calling 831-239-1611 2019 Results 1st place: Arty Vargas, Alva Ramirez 2nd place: Eveline Espinola, Riley Peoples 3rd Place: Luciano Ocanas, Chase Vargas

Capitola Beach Festival President's Message, Capitola Beach Festival After a year’s hiatus to help ensure everyone’s safety, the Capitola Beach Festival Committee proudly announces our return on September 25 & 26. This year’s 3rd annual festival, aptly themed “Community Spirit”, reflects our team’s desire to share a weekend of traditional fun family events with our extended Capitola family. On Saturday, come dance with us to the “Houserockers” band, sponsored by STROCK Real Estate, and then stroll down to Soquel Creek for the Lighted Nautical Parade. As this year’s President, it has been my pleasure to lead this amazing group of volunteers, without whose time, thought and efforts, these events would not be possible. We invite you to join this fun loving group of volunteers and help us return “Community Spirit” to Capitola. Please check out the Capitola Beach Festival website and join us. I look forward to sharing this special weekend with all of you.

Mary Beth Cahalen President

LITTLE WHARF 3-MILER -by Scott McConville, Wharf to Wharf On September 25th, Wharf to Wharf Race, Inc. is producing the 3rd Little Wharf 3-Miler as a part of the 3rd Annual Capitola Beach Festival weekend (formerly the Capitola Begonia Festival). The festival will kick off on Saturday morning with a point-to-point family fun run/walk starting at the East Cliff Village Shopping Center and run three miles along the Santa Cruz coastline, before finishing in the Capitola Esplanade. The event serves as a second fundraiser toward the Wharf to Wharf’s mission of supporting youth sports in Santa Cruz County. All participants receive race day

swag. The 3-mile run/walk is limited to the first 5,000 registrants. At the 2019 Little Wharf 3-Miler, participants came out to enjoy the race, with many walking or jogging together as a family or group. We encourage you to bring your friends and family out for the fun, and enjoy the final 3 miles of the Wharf to Wharf race course! All levels, ages and abilities are welcome. Registration information is available online at www.wharftowharf.com.

Capitola Beach Festival

ROWBOAT RACES FOR EVERYONE! -by Neal Savage

The Rowboat Races are a series of timed head-to-head races that go up and down Soquel Creek, between the bridge and trestle. Groups of two compete in races for the best time in their age group: Youth 12 and under

Adults 18-30

Juniors 12-17

Masters 31 & Over

There are always a few ringers in older groups seeking revenge from last year’s loss but the highlight is the Youth. Coaxed by

parents and siblings into rowboats along with a passenger, the youngsters often take their first ride in a rowboat. The crowds cheer everyone and there are groans when the boats get caught up in riverside plants or docked boats but it's all still a delight. "Passengers" are there to help the youngest rowers but depending on skill and relationship to the rower they have been described as captain, coach or just ballast. Sibling rivalries are fueled by the excitement, followed by the battles for inter-generational family honors. Oh, and the spouses battling each other are quite eye opening, but it's all in fun! Once the rowers figure out they are pulling the oars to go backwards, they think it is easy, but just wait for that first turn. Pulling the opposite side of where you want to go (backwards) with your coach yelling “encouragement” stresses out even the best of the rowers and the circles entail. This is when many are glad they are only spectators. The rowboats races are unpredictable in the details but always enjoyable and a crowd favorite. This is a great event of bow-to-bow competing with circling boats, intra-family feuds, loud laughs and a general great ending to a wonderful summer weekend where cherished memories are made in Capitola, California. Don't miss out, sign up noon – 1:00 Sunday, September 26 at Stockton Bridge! No late entrees. Waivers required, and parents need to sign up children. Races start at 1:00 pm.

CHALK ART ON THE SEA WALL

September 25 – 4:00-6:00pm Esplanade Park

“HOUSEROCKERS” sponsored by Strock Real Estate Team

The Chalk Art event has been a child and family favorite for years. Patti Bradley, event chair said “What a joy it is to see children of all ages work on their colorful creations. I am delighted to continue this well loved event for the Capitola Beach Festival. From pre-schoolers to art school graduates, everyone has a great time illustrating what makes Capitola so special.” We provide the chalk, a spot on the sea wall, and you provide the inspiration.

The Houserockers are thrilled to return to play another memorable community gathering in Capitola. For years we’ve had the pleasure of being part of the Begonia Festival and the Twilight Concert Series. Especially this year, when people relish any opportunity to celebrate life together, Capitola’s Beach Festival is going to be another fantastic event. We can’t wait to bring our big Rock & Soul show to one of our favorite venues.

Capitola Beach Festival LOOKING BACK: AND FLOATING FORWARD

Photo James Stanton -by Laurie Hill The Beach Festival’s 2019 Lighted Nautical Parade surprised many with its artistic, technical, and theatrical floats. The Parade Water Marshals opened the parade with a synchronized kayak dance led by the Nautical Parade Chair Thea Luiten. The 1st Place winner, Team ‘Tola’s “Sunshine Over the Venetians” presented a rising sun, followed by morning fog, and closed with full lit intensity and a 8’ long pair of Raybans to the tune “I Wear my Sunglasses at Night”. They were not deterred when a gust of wind sent their float reeling across the creek. This was Team ‘Tola’s second win.

& Santa Cruz Boat Rentals • Boat rentals • Safety equipment • Kayak & S-up rentals (Capitola) • Tackle • Gifts • Food, Drinks & Ice Santa Cruz Wharf 831-423-1739 15 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA

Boat rentals with safety equipment, kayak rentals, tackle, gifts, food, drinks and ice. Open everyday from sunrise to sunset on the Capitola Wharf & The Santa Cruz Wharf

462-2208

www.capitolaboatandbait.com

Capitala Wharf 831-462-2208 1400 Capitola Wharf Road, Capitola, CA

2nd Place winner, “The Jewel of the Ocean”entered by Friends of the Jewel Box highlighted the Capitola Wharf Arch, the Venetians, and waves crashing on a moonlit jeweled beach. A tall palm tree lowered to allow passage under Stockton Bridge. 3rd Place winner, The Sand Bar’s entry “Lights on – Party on at the Sand Bar” featured giant guitar and a live performance by Alex Lucero and the Live Again Band. The judges made hard choices. They all should have won! Shadowbrook Restaurant’s entry “Light up your Life” captured a half scale replica of their Cable Car that moved up and down on a track. Capitola Mall joined the fun with their “Under the Sea” jellyfish made of ribbons, mesh and bubble wrap, a Treasure Chest and “Ruby Begonia the Mermaid”. A pair of dolphins – repurposed after 25 years in the Capitola Mall fountain - sat center stage. Team Bravo’s float, celebrated El Toro Bravo’s 52 years in business as family members recalled their happy childhoods playing games of Skeeball and Hammer Down in Capitola Village. Dream Catch Properties shared their dream catcher logo and slogan “Never Stop Dreaming Big” Luiten said “We have all had a challenging year and I look forward to easing back the joy of community with this year’s small flotilla of twinkling lights down Soquel Creek. Floats returning for 2021 include our two time winner “Team Tola”, the “Ruby Group”, and “Dream Catcher”. Parade Co-Chair, Cindy Kiernan said “A few floats remain for anyone who wishes to join in the fun.”

CAPITOLA PLEIN AIR 2021

Capitola Plein Air Returns November 1 – 7!

Locals and visitors will once again be able to enjoy Plein Air artists “painting the town” around Capitola. The Capitola Art and Cultural Committee has invited artists from the past five years of Capitola Plein Air events to compete in the Capitola Plein Air 2021 Invitational November 1-7. “We missed having the artists in town last year and wanted to continue the tradition,” said Commissioner Laurie Hill. “The Invitational allows us to modify the event under the constraints caused by the pandemic.”

2 019 First Place winner Artist Cleo Vilett “Blues of Depot Hill”

Up to 40 artists will set up their easels on the wharf, shore, and streets of Capitola, to paint out of doors for six days. On Sunday November 7th the paintings will be judged and displayed at New Brighton Middle School. The

community will have the opportunity to view and purchase art created by the artists during this, or previous Capitola Plein Air Events. Enjoy the art and help us select the “People’s Choice” winner. The first and second place pieces will be purchased by the City of Capitola. Upon receiving her invitation, Wendy Brayton, 1st place winner in 2017 and 2018, remarked “I am excited to return. Five years ago I was introduced to Capitola through the Plein air event. I immediately fell in love with the tiny colorful town nestled among the hills spilling down to the bay. But also what I fell in love with was the wonderful warm and generous community that resides there”. Everyone is invited to visit capitolapleinair.com. or follow Capitola Plein Air on Facebook and Instagram to stay informed.

Selling Santa Cruz County & Beyond! roomsantacruz.com

Selling with us is

EASY:

0% interest loan to make cosmetic upgrades to your home, resulting in you getting best price for your home. Project Manager, Property prep coordinator, in-house photographer and stager. Top notch marketing with Single Property Websites, Videos, 3D tours, social media. Exclusive Zillow Flex partnership with hundreds of connections to real buyers.

Call Jayson Madani at

831.234.6683

#1 selling team in in Santa Santa Cruz Cruz County County since since 2015! 2015!

DRE# 01431948

6990 Hwy 9, Felton, CA 95018 COMING SOON! New office at 4746 Soquel Dr. in downtown Soquel. See you there soon!

Capitola Fall Festivals — 2021 Program & Guide

Articles inside

Poster Artist, Brittany Costanzo

2021 Plein Air

Community Spirit / Fishing Derby

Capitola Then & Now