Local bookstores provide a huge benefit to the local community. When you buy books in your local bookstore, a large chunk of that money stays in the community. Buying locally means less packing and transportation, and a smaller carbon footprint. It also means more local events, local interest books and local authors. … Read Entire Post
Sante Adairius Rustic Ales (SARA) is a small brewery & tasting room in Capitola, just south of Santa Cruz, Calif. SARA says its “approach to beer making is one of whimsy, highly inspired by the Belgian tradition, but also in harmony with brewers all over the world who push against … Read Entire Post
On April 14-19, wounded war veterans will take to the waves at Cowells Beach in Santa Cruz for Operation Surf. During the weeklong surf camp, wounded active duty service personnel will learn to surf and enjoy the healing & transformative powers of the ocean. Operation Surf is a recreational and rehabilitative … Read Entire Post
Looking for a dressy meal on a casual budget? Bittersweet Bistro in Aptos (Santa Cruz County) offers $6 Recession Crushers. Last night, I attended Pasta Party Wednesday with selected pastas priced at $6, beginning at 3:30 p.m. I sampled the Spinach Gorgonzola Pasta: penne pasta baked with gorgonzola, ricotta & parmesan cheeses, … Read Entire Post
If you missed the 2012 Mavericks Invitational last month, but want to see some big Northern California waves, check out Chasing Mavericks, newly released on DVD. I saw the movie when it was released in theaters last fall. Big waves call for big screens! The biopic tells the story of surfer … Read Entire Post
Like your coffee California-style? Surf City Coffee Company offers specialty coffees, food & more in the tradition of the California coastal experience. The employee-owned company has 3 locations—Aptos and Scotts Valley (Santa Cruz County), and Moss Landing (Monterey County). I visited the company’s original store at 9105 Soquel Drive in … Read Entire Post
Speaking of shark bites… Many Californians are calling 2012 the year of the shark. Last year in Santa Cruz, great white sharks were spotted at the Coldwater Classic surf competition in November and at Seacliff State Beach in July. In July, a shark also knocked a kayaker into the ocean near … Read Entire Post
