A teacher once told me to be careful with the word best. Once you declare something is at the top of the heap, you’ve set the bar so high that nothing else can contend. What if you find something better?
To this day, verbally, at least, I often overuse the word. I’ve probably been to hundreds of best concerts and had many, many best meals. They can’t all be best, right? But they feel that way at the moment.
That’s why I’m glad our Best Of Santa Cruz issue is a democracy. You vote on the things that are best.
For me, this issue has always been a coffee table keeper. I open it when I’m ready to find a new restaurant, entertainment spot, place to shop, hike or bike trail or workout class. It really is the best resource about life in Santa Cruz and I treasure it. I think you will too.
Meanwhile, I have some fun, free Best Of suggestions.
Best Free Way to Learn About Your Community
Go on a police ride along. The local police and sheriff’s department will let you ride with an officer during their shift. Nothing has taught me more about my neighbors and what our towns are really like. And there’s more drama than anything you’ll see on those fake TV cop shows.
Best Free Drama
Head to the County Courthouse and watch trials. I’m always surprised at how few people know you can just sit in the audience and watch accused murderers, thieves and all sorts of criminals have their day in court. It’s real, it’s dramatic, it’s more intelligent and complex than TV portrays it. It’s a great way to see how the wheels of justice really turn.
Best Free Place to Impress Out of Town Friends
Bring them to the country’s only Grateful Dead museum exhibit at UCSC’s Library. They can see artifacts and concert movies.
The best is here and yet to come.
– Brad Kava
