Video killed the radio star, and now the internet killed MTV. It’s gone after 44 years, not that it has played music videos in ages.
The internet has also threatened print publications, and it’s a wonder they (we!) survive when so many people just want to read on their screens. Santa Cruz’s oldest comic book shop, Atlantis Fantasyworld is celebrating 50 years in the biz this year. Owner Joe Ferrara has shuffled through challenges, including the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake, rebuilding downtown and comics being distributed online, to make it five decades.
How has he done it? How has he created a shop that is a living fantasy world? Read Josh Logan’s cover story for the answers and you’ll get some tips on how to keep a struggling business afloat after so many challenges.
And you’ll see how Joe and his shop have been internationally famous, with parts and scenes in some big movies. Right on!
Other features you want to check out in this issue: ignorance of the law doesn’t pardon you from getting arrested for not following it, so you’d better catch Todd Guild’s news story about changes in 2026 ordinances. It’s now against the law for libraries to ban or censor certain books in California; declawing your cat is illegal; landlords must now provide appliances for renters; used car buyers have a three-day window for a full refund….and those are just the start.
You are going to want to clip this article and post it on your refrigerator. There are so many big changes. You can’t do that with your phone.
Does anyone not know someone who got a job at Zoccoli’s deli downtown? This institution has launched so many students into successful careers. For that alone, it should be celebrated…but the food has always been homemade and awesome. Check out Andrew Steingrube’s column for background.
One of the amazing things about Santa Cruz (broken New Year’s resolution not to ever use the word amazing again) is how many locals in a relatively small county (second smallest in the state by area) reach international fame. Photographer Rebecca Hall is one, and you have to read Lucille Tepperman’s story to learn about her. Truly…uh….amazing!
Food for your musical mind: Check out Christina Waters’ take on upcoming classical music shows. You’ll become instantly smarter and amazing.
Thanks for reading.
Brad Kava | Editor
PHOTO CONTEST
LOVER’S BENCH Photo taken by my cell phone camera in the Spring of 2025 of my wife Linda and me sitting on a bench on West Cliff overlooking the Monterey Bay. Photograph by John Aird
GOOD IDEA
Got a phrase that pops? A rhyme that shines?
Imagine your words splashed across every Santa Cruz County Fair poster and sign. If you’ve got a clever saying or catchy theme, now’s the time to share it in the Santa Cruz County Fair Annual Fair Theme Contest.
They are looking for fun, creative themes that celebrate the spirit of Santa Cruz County—with a little red, white, and blue sparkle in honor of the United States’ 250th birthday.
The winning theme will be featured throughout the 2026 Santa Cruz County Fair and score four free fair tickets plus a free parking pass.
The deadline for entries is January 13 at 5pm. Submit to: in**@*****************ir.com
GOOD WORK
Northern California is not considered a hot spot for high-level kids’ jitsu, but a small gym in the heart of Live Oak is on a mission to change that. Leading the charge is Dre Aiko, an 8-year-old Pee Wee Featherweight grey belt who brought home the American National Nogi title and Asian Championship gold in her first full International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) season.
Operating since 2018 at Toadal Fitness, Professor Nicolas Bellito joined Coach McKenna Mitchell to establish Santa Cruz Jiujitsu earlier this year. The black and brown belt powerhouse coaching duo are on a mission to use martial arts as a vehicle with which to empower and develop young athletes, from beginners to advanced practitioners and toddlers to teens.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
‘If you hire the right people, you don’t have to worry. They care.’
—Joe Ferrara
