Santa Cruz County Budget Deficit Looms

Local News

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May 5, 2023

This year’s budget comes amid a projected economic recession and in an era of slowed economic growth. It also predicts a grim future, with a budget deficit exceeding $10 million by 2028.

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday will hear an in-depth presentation of the county’s 2023-24 proposed budget, which totals $1.04 billion and includes a balanced $731.5 million general fund.

From the recent disaster response alone, the county is facing $2 million in unexpected costs. At the same time, the county experienced a $2.6 million drop in sales and cannabis tax revenue and has $300 million in deferred maintenance on the county’s facilities and roads.

One ray of hope is the continued low unemployment rates, a possible indicator the downturn could be milder than expected.

But the county also has numerous expenditures forecasted, with projects like the new South County Government Center in Watsonville, improvements at Juvenile Hall and a new Children’s Crisis Stabilization Center.

The county is also facing a $12 million increase in salaries and benefits for existing positions and plans to add roughly 21 new positions to the rosters.

Fully reopening Simpkins Family Swim Center will add to costs, as will completing the Live Oak Library and Aptos libraries, and completing a new DNA laboratory to reduce case processing times.

Worse, a meager 0.4% revenue growth spurred by the lagging economy and changes in retail shopping will pose additional financial challenges.

Tuesday’s talk will serve as the precursor to financial presentations by every county department beginning on May 30.

2023-24 Proposed Budget Hearings happen on May 9, 30 and 31 at 9am, and June 13 at 1:30pm at the Santa Cruz County Government Building (Board Chambers), 701 Ocean St., Santa Cruz. santacruzcounty.us/VisionSantaCruz/Budget.aspx

Hundreds Show Up for Trash Talkers Cleanup

Josué Monroy

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May 3, 2023

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Hundreds Show Up for Trash Talkers Cleanup

Last weekend, nearly a hundred students gathered to participate in a campus cleanup at UCSC organized by Trash Talkers, a new Santa Cruz County environmental initiative, in tandem with UCSC’s Sustainability Office and the campus maintenance department.

The event gave a glimpse into what the future of community beautification might look like.

According to organizer Sally-Christine Rodgers, the Trash Talkers coalition, which includes various county organizations and public servants, aims to make Santa Cruz the cleanest county in California.

Their focus is on litter abatement and curbing illegal dumping in the area. Volunteers have participated in various cleanups, including efforts to help flood victims in South County by removing debris from their residences.

Trash Talkers recognizes the importance of engaging with local youth and uses technology as a bridge to reach them. The UCSC cleanup brought together a new generation of environmentalists through a phone app called PishPosh, the “first app to crowdsource urban cleanup and reward those who participate.”

The PishPosh motto: “You can get fined for littering, but you can’t get rewarded for picking up? Nonsense.”

PishPosh CEO Jake Curreri was on hand to demo his new community service app, which seeks to revolutionize how community cleanups are organized.

The San Diego-based company launched in the fall of 2022 and hopes to zero in on Gen Z‘s tech affinity, incentivizing environmental stewardship.

“These are highly passionate people,” Curreri says. “Gen Z can change the perspective on community service.”

PishPosh users log their time on the app and accrue points for every minute they serve. The points can then be used to enter raffles and win prizes from corporate and nonprofit sponsors. A trip to Mexico was the prize for the UCSC event’s raffle.

According to Curreri, the app only focuses on serving coastal cities for now.

Main Beach and Seabright Beach are listed as future PishPosh cleanup sites.

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023

Best of Santa Cruz County

GT Staff

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May 3, 2023

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Last year’s Best of Santa Cruz County was a testament to perseverance. Following two years of pandemic-induced hardships and uncertainty, the community came out of lockdown with a newfound commitment to support all things local. People rallied around the businesses they love and consciously kept money here in the county instead of giving it to Amazon.

This year, the region has been tested yet again, with an onslaught of devastating storms causing destruction countywide. Yes, several old and new businesses shuttered due to unavoidable circumstances that began to hit over three years ago. But resilience has kept doors open to many favorite spots, from Capitola and the Santa Cruz Mountains to the Westside and south county.

Mandatory evacuations were ordered, and floodwaters hit hard. Yet, our readers still showed their unwavering support for the community, demonstrated by the thousands of votes we received from residents—longtime and those new to the area—showing appreciation for all the people, places and things they hold near and dear.

Santa Cruz County’s heart still beats strong, and, as you’ll read in our Editor’s Picks section, which includes “Best Sounding Horn,” “Best Addams Family Dive Bar” and “Best Place to Switch Up Your Coffee Order,” this slice of Central Coast paradise will always be the perfect amount of weird. Enjoy reading our 2023 issue of Best of Santa Cruz County.

ADAM JOSEPH | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: SHOPPING & SERVICES

Best of Santa Cruz County

Mike Lyon

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May 3, 2023

1

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: SHOPPING & SERVICES

Adult Store

Camouflage
1329 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-7613, shop-camouflage.com

RUNNERS-UP Frenchy’s, Good Vibrations

Alternative Health Services

Santa Cruz Core
317 Potrero St., Ste. C, Santa Cruz,
425-9500, santacruzcore.com

RUNNERS-UP Brandon Reynolds, CMT – Live Once Live Well: Myofascial Release, Santa Cruz Integrative Medicine

Antiques

Center Street Antiques
3010 Center St., Soquel,
477-9211, centerstreetantiques.com

RUNNERS-UP A Painted Cottage, Attilia’s Antiques

Arts and Crafts

Lenz Arts
142 River St., Santa Cruz,
423-1935, lenzarts.com

RUNNERS-UP Beverly’s Fabrics & Crafts, Palace Art & Office Supply

Auto Dealer

Chevrolet of Watsonville
490 Auto Center Drive, Watsonville,
536-4002, chevroletofwatsonville.com

RUNNERS-UP Subaru of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Toyota

Auto Dealer
(pre-owned)

The Argus Company
905 Water St., Santa Cruz,
457-1900, thearguscompany.com

RUNNERS-UP Santa Cruz Motors, Ocean Honda

Auto Repair

Chevrolet of Watsonville
490 Auto Center Drive, Watsonville,
536-4002, chevroletofwatsonville.com

RUNNERS-UP Glenn’s Auto Repair, Specialized Auto

Bank (local non-credit union)

Santa Cruz County Bank
7775 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 662-6000;
819 Bay Ave., Capitola, 464-5300;
75 River St., Santa Cruz, 457-5000;
2020 North Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 600-4000;
4604 Scotts Valley Drive, # 10, Scotts Valley, 461-5000;
595 Auto Center Drive, Watsonville, 761-7600;
sccountybank.com

Bank (credit union)

Bay Federal Credit Union
3333 Clares St., Capitola;
48 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos;
2028 Freedom Blvd., Freedom;
420 River St., Santa Cruz;
255 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley;
1481 Main St., Watsonville;
479-6000, bayfed.com

RUNNER-UP Santa Cruz Community Credit Union

Barbershop

Guido’s Barbershop
527 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz,
535-9509, instagram.com/guidosbarbershop

RUNNERS-UP Montgomery’s, Hairy Chair Barbers

Blinds/Shades

Interior Vision Flooring & Design
2800 Daubenbiss Ave., Soquel,
293-7237, interiorvision.biz

RUNNERS-UP Advanced Blinds and Shades, McCarty’s

Boat Tour

O’Neill Yacht Charters
L Dock, 275 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz,
818-3645, oneillyachtcharters.com

RUNNERS-UP Chardonnay Sailing Charters, Stagnaro’s Fishing Trips

Bookshop (new)

Bookshop Santa Cruz
1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-0900, bookshopsantacruz.com

RUNNER-UP Two Birds Books

Bookshop (used)

Bookshop Santa Cruz
1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-0900, bookshopsantacruz.com

RUNNER-UP Two Birds Books, Bad Animal

Butcher

Shopper’s Corner
622 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-1398, shopperscorner.com

RUNNERS-UP El Salchichero, Point Butcher Shop

Car Wash

Whalers Car Wash
2001 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-0676, whalerscarwash.com

RUNNERS-UP Cruz Car Wash, Splash

Carpet Cleaning

Connoisseur Carpet Cleaning
476-9721, santacruzclean.com

RUNNERS-UP Aptos Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Santa Cruz Carpet Cleaners

Children’s Day Care

Simcha Preschool
3055 Porter Gulch Road, Aptos,
479-3449, simchapreschool.org

RUNNERS-UP Happy Days Children’s Learning Center, Neighborhood Childcare Center

Computer Repair

Click Away
303 Potrero St., Santa Cruz,
420-1200, clickaway.com

RUNNERS-UP Pleasure Point Computers, Blue Screen Computers

Consignment Clothing

Jet Set Bohemian
1211 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
515-7275, jetsetbohemian.com

RUNNER-UP The Closet Shopper, Crossroads Trading Co.

Contractor

Ed Oreb & Sons Construction
1764 Lotman Drive, Santa Cruz,
479-3691

RUNNERS-UP Testorff Construction, Jason Graham

Crystals/Rocks/Stones

Mountain Spirit
6299 Hwy 9, Felton,
335-7700, mountainspiritstore.com

RUNNERS-UP World of Stones and Mystics, Serpent’s Kiss

Custom Framing

Lenz Arts
142 River St., Santa Cruz,
423-1935, lenzarts.com

RUNNERS-UP York Framing Gallery, Frame Circus

Dry Cleaners

Master Cleaners
2660 41st Ave., Soquel,
476-4589

RUNNERS-UP Vapor Cleaners, Almar Dry Cleaners

Eyewear

Eye Q Optometry
1101 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz,
466-3937, eyeqsantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Plaza Lane Optometry, Spex

Fabric

Hart’s Fabrics
1620 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-5434, hartsfabric.com

RUNNER-UP Beverly’s Fabrics & Crafts

Feed Store

Aptos Feed & Pet Supply
7765 Soquel Drive, Ste. C, Aptos,
685-3333, facebook.com/aptosfeedandpetsupply

RUNNERS-UP Scotts Valley Feed, Westside Farm and Feed

Financial Planner

Alison McClure-Ohana Wealth Management
2901 Park Ave., Ste. B1, Soquel,
216-5519, ohanawealthmanagement.net

RUNNERS-UP Cheryl Rebottaro, Rachel Wedeen – Morgan Stanley

Flooring

Interior Vision Flooring & Design
2800 Daubenbiss Ave., Soquel,
293-7237

RUNNERS-UP Bay Area Flooring, Samaya Flooring

Flower Shop

The Flower Shack
614 S. Branciforte Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-3877, flowershacksc.com

RUNNERS-UP Ace’s Flowers, Wild Banksia

Furniture

SC41 Furniture
2701 41st Ave., Soquel,
464-2228, sc41.com

RUNNERS-UP Natural Selection Furniture, Couch Potato Discount Sofa Warehouse

Garden Supply/Nursery

San Lorenzo Garden Center
235 River St., Santa Cruz,
423-0223, sanlorenzolumber.com/garden-center

RUNNERS-UP Dig Gardens, The Garden Company Nursery & Gift Shop

Gift Shop

Zinnia’s Gift Boutique
219 Mount Hermon Road, C, Scotts Valley,
430-9466, zinniasgiftboutique.com

RUNNERS-UP Home/Work, Outside In

Green Business

Shopper’s Corner
622 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-1398, shopperscorner.com

RUNNERS-UP Ethos, Staff of Life

Grocery Store (local)

Shopper’s Corner
622 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-1398, shopperscorner.com

RUNNERS-UP Staff of Life, New Leaf Community Markets – Aptos

Grocery Store (natural)

Staff of Life
1266 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 423-8632;
906 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville, 726-0240;
staffoflifemarket.com

RUNNERS-UP Shopper’s Corner, New Leaf Community Markets

Hair Salon

The Nook
920 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
295-6233

RUNNERS-UP Evolve, Lavish Salon

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: EDITOR’S PICKS

Best of Santa Cruz County

GT Staff

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May 3, 2023

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Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: EDITOR’S PICKS

Best Place to Switch Up Your Coffee Order

MARIPOSA COFFEE BAR

Mariposa Coffee Bar feels unique within Santa Cruz. Brightly colored velvet couches and pillows pop out from a dark interior, and the smell of peppers and onions mingles with the sweetness of condensed milk and coffee. Located at Cathcart Street and Pacific Avenue, Mariposa serves Cuban and Vietnamese-inspired coffee alongside vegetarian pastries, spring rolls and Cubanos. Owners Chelsea Cabrera and Tram Vu envision the bar as a social space fit for everything from casual mid-morning conversation to late-night dance parties. You won’t find run-of-the-mill drip coffee on the menu. Instead, the bar focuses on specialized drinks like strong phin coffee steeped with fresh mint over condensed milk and ice and the Bella Bon Bon, a creamy double espresso with whipped sugar and a splash of condensed milk. Other popular items include the guava and cheese puff pastry and a vegetarian Cubano with roast pork-style jackfruit. ERIN MALSBURY

Best Winter Dish

THE CHICKEN MUSHROOM RISOTTO AT HUMBLE SEA TAVERN

It’s been a long, cold winter. A minor comfort is a hearty, flavorful meal that is served hot. Felton’s Humble Sea Tavern’s chicken mushroom risotto fits this bill. While the citrus-brined chicken and mushroom risotto will work wonders on the soul, the fried Brussels sprouts take the dish to the next level. Pair with one of Humble Sea’s fine brews, and you might think you can survive another few winter months. STUART THORNTON

Best Place to Scout Music Talent

COASTERS BAR & GRILL/BOARDWALK BOWL

Let me paint you a picture of the first time I tried to do karaoke at Coasters. It was a Friday night. I walked past the bowling lanes, the shattering sound of bowling balls hitting pins and triumphant cheers fading into the background as I walked into Coasters. Tables faced the stage where a woman belted out Adele’s Rolling in the Deep, her throaty voice hitting every high note, blue and yellow lights illuminating her face. I had never witnessed talented singers perform at a karaoke bar, and I quickly erased my name from the list. Of course, there were the usual off-tune performances, but Coasters is, surprisingly for me, the place to find it if you want free entertainment from talented singers. AIYANA MOYA

Best Sounding Horn

GIANT DIPPER, SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK

You know you’re in for a wild ride when you hear the unmistakable hoot of the Giant Dipper’s horn. The iconic blast has been dispatching trains on the classic wooden roller coaster for decades and also reminds you that there is no turning back just as you plunge into the darkness. The Giant Dipper received a new coat of shining red and white paint this year as it prepares for its centennial anniversary in 2024. I want this horn to be my phone’s ringtone. ERIK CHALHOUB

Best Addams Family Dive Bar

THE BLUE LAGOON

Do you love things that are creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky? Look no further than Santa Cruz’s favorite goth/gay/metal/disco/punk sports bar, The Blue Lagoon. See the tattooed barkeeps, and stay for the weekly dance, bands, comedy, side shows and special events. If there is a bar in the middle of a black hole, where every molecule of your body is disassembled and reorganized every night, it’s The Blue Lagoon. A notorious “No Hate Zone,” the vibe at The Blue allows everyone (over 21) to be their strangest self. Want to dress like Wednesday and do the “dance”? The Blue Lagoon welcomes your dark, creative spirit. DNA

Best Meal By The Sea

SCRUMPTIOUS FISH AND CHIPS FOOD TRUCK

Most meals by the sea are enjoyable, but there’s something about eating warm, fried fish on the cliffside as waves crash on the beach below you that, as the kids say, hits differently. I can eat fried fish most days of the week, rain or shine, but it feels like a bright spot in an otherwise gloomy, rainy winter to stop by the Scrumptious food truck on Saturdays at Seacliff State Park. I claim one of the benches along the cliff, buy the fish and chips and a Guinness and pretend I’m on the Cliffs of Moher. What better way to spend your Saturday afternoon? AIYANA MOYA

Best Natural, Historical Wonder

HENRY COWELL REDWOODS STATE PARK’S FREMONT TREE

One of the many highlights of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Parks’ Redwood Grove Trail, the Fremont Tree sits at the far end of the loop. Its base is wide, and a little triangle of darkness at ground level reveals that the interior of the tree is hollow. Crawl inside with a flashlight to see the surprisingly roomy interior, where it is said that early California rabble-rouser and famed explorer John C. Fremont spent an evening in 1846. Did Fremont, who garnered the nickname “The Pathfinder” during his life, really sleep in the tree? “It makes a great story,” he later said. “Let it stand.” STUART THORNTON

Best Place to Get a Cannoli—You Can’t Refuse

THE LA PLACA FAMILY BAKERY

Have you ever felt like traveling to Italy without leaving Santa Cruz County? The La Placa Family Bakery is nestled in the towering redwoods of Ben Lomond. Every morning, two generations of La Placas make dozens of varieties of pastries and calzones. Specializing in the flavors of Southern Italy, the Sicilian bakers create a daily parade of the most tongue-twisting tantalizing flavors you’ve ever tasted. Once you take that first bite of an authentic cannoli, you are part of the La Placa family. Like Italy, it’s a little tricky to get to. Hwy 9 is closed, so you’ll have to do some tricky navigation, but it’s worth it. DNA

Best Town Tree

TWIN LAKES COAST LIVE OAK

You’ll know it when you see it. A huge, gnarled trunk bends at the perfect angle, beckoning you to sit. If you accept the offer and look up, you might get lost tracing dozens of branches that squiggle through the air in all directions, draped with California lace lichen. All the paths at Twin Lakes seem to lead to this old coast live oak. It stands alone near the edge of a meadow, within earshot of the waves and the occasional sea lion. Climbing one of the many twisting branches reveals a view of Schwan Lagoon and a peak at the sea. It’s the kind of tree that can pull you out of the bustle of modern life for a moment. That is until you look down and see all the cigarette butts lining cracks in the bark. ERIN MALSBURY

Best Place Where Strawberries Kill Fascists

SWANTON BERRY FARM

Take a short trip back in time, North on Highway One, to Swanton Berry Farm. Time travel is quirky; just a brief moment ago, you could buy a one-dollar cup of coffee, and the register was a box filled with cash that you make your own change out of. Now coffee is a bit more, and payment is more regulated, but the shelves are still stocked with the county’s most delicious pies and jams. Founded in 1983, Swanton Berry was the first farm in California to grow organic strawberries. The business is run with a Union mindset, where workers are as valuable as the product. Swanton Berry Farm became the first organic farm to contract with the United Farm Workers. Strawberry shortcake lovers of the world, unite! You have nothing to lose but your berries. DNA

Best Place to Ponder

KOI POND AT POGONIP

It’s a stunning juxtaposition: a square koi pond stocked with colorful fish tucked under a giant redwood in Santa Cruz’s Pogonip Open Space area. How did these fish get here? Who had the inspired idea to transform a spring box into a fishpond? Who feeds these fish? Why don’t local critters eat them? There’s much to consider as you take in this traditional Japanese garden feature in a forest of the world’s largest, tallest trees. To reach this place of contemplation, take the Spring Street Entrance into Pogonip, then follow the Spring Trail for 1.6 miles before heading uphill on the Spring Box Trail. Take a path to the right before its intersection with the Lime Kiln Trail to find this site of wonder. STUART THORNTON

Best Bodega Man

FELIX BLANCO

Walking into Pleasure Point Wine and Spirits initially feels like walking into most liquor stores. Pretty quickly, you realize it’s not: the mere selection of wines, liquors, beers and every mixer ingredient you need is enough to distinguish the store from its competitors. But what sets this store apart is its owner, Felix Blanco. Blanco will quickly remember you, as he does all of his regulars. Nearly every customer who walks in greets him by name, and he returns the favor. Aside from this sense of community Blanco brings to his store, he’s a walking encyclopedia of all things alcohol. He knows which French wine would be best to pair with your seafood dish or what Aperitif will impress your significant other’s parents; he knows which tequila can stand alone and which one to buy for mixed drinks. Next time you need any spirit, stop by and chat with him, it won’t take much prompting and you’ll walk away with more than just a bottle. AIYANA MOYA

Best Comeback Story

COWELL’S

I’ve been tempted to write an obituary for Cowell’s in the past. Between gross water and a lack of rideable waves, Santa Cruz’s famous, beginner-friendly surf spot has seemed dead for the last few years. But long-term cleanup efforts from the Cowell’s Working Group got the beach removed from Heal the Bay’s annual “Beach Bummer” list of dirtiest water in California, and this year the waves are back. Winter storms pushed so much sand into the area between the Indicators and Cowell’s stairs that there’s a new beach accessible at low tides. Getting in the water after heavy rains is still a health gamble, but as things dry out, the new sandbar just might revive this classic spot. ERIN MALSBURY

Best Hike to Become a Docent

QUAIL HOLLOW RANCH COUNTY PARK

Down a steep driveway in Felton—east of Ben Lomond—is a low-key set of trails and a working horse ranch that might be the quiet hike you didn’t know you needed. Buffered up against 300 acres is a seasonal wetland, dwarf Redwoods and the tallest Red Willow in California. The historic ranch house, drilled with thousands of Woodpecker holes, used to be the location of Sunset Magazine and now is a menagerie of taxidermied animals. The uplifting talk with a docent will illuminate why we need to see these critters close up. You can become a docent if you love history, nature and star gazing. Note: you cannot bring Fido on the 5 miles of trails that lead up from this idyllic spot. But for a short walk around the property, it’s very mellow. DNA

Best Nostalgic Trip for Millennials

LEVEL UP VIDEO GAMES, GAME VAULT, HADBRO TOYS AND RETRO ATTACK

As ’90s kids, my brother and I were glued to our Sega Genesis, playing endless rounds of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and failing just as often to get to the Death Egg Zone. When we were gifted a Nintendo 64 in 1996, it was game over for the Genesis, as Super Mario 64 and, later, Zelda: Ocarina of Time dominated our 18-inch CRTV. Many millennials, such as I, yearn for those simpler days of gaming before DLC and gigabytes of daily updates made turning on a console a chore. Luckily in Santa Cruz, we are graced with fantastic stores that allow us to revisit our childhood pasts. Level Up Video Games downtown constantly updates its inventory, featuring everything from Atari 2600 cartridges to PlayStation 5 downloads. The Capitola Mall is quickly becoming a haven for nerds, thanks to the recently opened Game Vault and its neighbor Hadbro Toys/Retro Attack. My wallet hates me. ERIK CHALHOUB

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: ARTS & CULTURE

Best of Santa Cruz County

GT Staff

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May 3, 2023

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Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: ARTS & CULTURE

Art Event

Open Studios Art Tour
santacruzopenstudios.com

RUNNER-UP Capitola Art & Wine Festival

Art Gallery (retail)

Curated by the Sea
703 Front St., Santa Cruz,
408-250-2224, curatedbythesea.com

RUNNERS-UP Artisans Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Museum of Art History

Artist (local)

Yeshe Jackson
3075 Salisbury Drive, Santa Cruz,
706-6580, yeshejacksonfineart.com

RUNNERS-UP Marie Gabrielle, Maia Negre

Author (local)

Laurie R. King
laurierking.com

RUNNERS-UP Jonathan Franzen, Sam Kabert

Classical Music Group

Santa Cruz Symphony
307 Church St., Santa Cruz,
462-0553, santacruzsymphony.org

RUNNERS-UP Santa Cruz Chamber Players, Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music

Dance Lessons (studio)

Motion Pacific Dance Studio
131 Front St., Ste. E, Santa Cruz,
508-5125, motionpacific.com

RUNNERS-UP Pacific Arts Complex, Palomar Ballroom

Festival (art/film)

Capitola Art & Wine Festival
capitolaartandwine.com

RUNNERS-UP Mi Gente, Santa Cruz Film Festival

Festival (music)

Redwood Mountain Faire
5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton,
redwoodmountainfaire.com

RUNNERS-UP Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music, Santa Cruz Mountain SOL Festival

Festival (street)

Capitola Art & Wine Festival
capitolaartandwine.com

RUNNERS-UP Pleasure Point Street Fair, Greek Festival

Kids Art Program

Studio Sprout
studiosprout.com

RUNNERS-UP Seven Directions, Santa Cruz Mountain Art Center

Movie Theater

Del Mar Theatre
1124 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz,
359-4447, landmarktheatres.com/santa-cruz

RUNNERS-UP CineLux Capitola Cafe & Lounge, Landmark’s Nickelodeon Theatre

Mural/Public Art

Shopper’s Corner

RUNNERS-UP Sea Walls Murals (multiple), Bay View Elementary (the wall)

Museum

Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
705 Front St., Santa Cruz,
429-1964, santacruzmah.org

RUNNERS-UP Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Photographer (local)

Shmuel Thaler
shmuelthaler.com

RUNNERS-UP Frans Lanting, Jana Marcus

Poet (local)

Ellen Bass

RUNNERS-UP Gary Young, Danusha Lameris

Radio Personality (local)

“Sleepy” John Sandidge

RUNNERS-UP Rosemary Chalmers, “Ralph Anybody” Jeff Juliano

Radio Station

KPIG-FM 107.5

RUNNERS-UP KZSC 88.1, KAZU 90.3

Theater Company

Santa Cruz Shakespeare
santacruzshakespeare.org

RUNNERS-UP Jewel Theatre, Cabrillo Stage

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: HEALTH & RECREATION

Best of Santa Cruz County

GT Staff

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May 3, 2023

1

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: HEALTH & RECREATION

Acupuncturist/
Acupuncture Clinic

Spring Smith, LAC – Santa Cruz Family Acupuncture
550 Water St., #3, Santa Cruz,
331-6901, santacruzfamilyacupuncture.com

RUNNERS-UP Dr. Beth Dorsey, LAC – Points For Wellness, Santa Cruz Core Fitness + Rehab

Bike Shop

Bicycle Trip
1001 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
427-2580, bicycletrip.com

RUNNERS-UP Epicenter, Spokesman

Cannabis Delivery

Santa Cruz Naturals
19 San Juan Road, Royal Oaks, 722-2018;
9077 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 688-7266;
santacruzcannabis.com

RUNNER-UP 3 Bros

Cannabis Dispensary

KindPeoples
533 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 515-4114;
3600 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 471-8562,
kindpeoples.org

RUNNERS-UP Treehouse, The Hook Outlet

Cannabis Edibles

KindPeoples
533 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 515-4114;
3600 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 471-8562,
kindpeoples.org

RUNNERS-UP Treehouse, 3 Bros

Cannabis CBD Product

KindPeoples
533 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 515-4114;
3600 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 471-8562,
kindpeoples.org

RUNNERS-UP Treehouse, 3 Bros

CBD Product (local)

Vital Body Therapeutics
713-5813, vitalbodytherapeutics.com

RUNNERS-UP KindPeoples, Jade Nectar

Chiropractor

Dr. Rhodes Walton, DC
317 Potrero St., Ste. C, Santa Cruz,
316-9040, santacruzcore.com

RUNNERS-UP Isabel Eden, Michael Quinn

Crossfit Studio

Seabright Crossfit
1619 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz,
600-7867, seabrightcrossfit.com

RUNNER-UP Crossfit Santa Cruz Central

Dentist

Dr. William R. Raffo, MD
2025 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
458-5570

RUNNERS-UP Dr. Trang Tran, DDS, Dr. Nanette Benedict, DDS

Doctor (MD)

Dr. John Grady, DO
317 Potrero St., Ste. C, Santa Cruz,
425-9500

RUNNERS-UP Dr. Karen Harrington, MD, Dr. Melinda White, DO

Doctor (ND)

Dr. Aimee Shunney, ND
740 Front St., Unit 130,
465-9088, drshunney.com

RUNNERS-UP Irene Valencia, ND, Tonya Fleck, ND

Doula

Natasha Joyet, BD, CMT – Mamacare
406 Mission St., Ste. E, Santa Cruz,
471-6262, mama-care.com

RUNNERS-UP Kendra Stone-Hinds, Holli Gilkie

Esthetician

Deann Bokariza-Neff – Studio Spa
21245 E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz,
studiospasantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Sue Bell – Simply Skin Esthetics, Jacquie Roque – Skin for You

Fitness Classes

GOAT Santa Cruz
1055 17th Ave., Santa Cruz,
216-5659, goatsantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP MADabolic Scotts Valley, Fuel PHitness

Golf Course

DeLaveaga
401 Upper Park Road, Santa Cruz,
423-7214, delaveagagolf.com

RUNNERS-UP Pasatiempo, Seascape Golf Club

Gym

GOAT Santa Cruz
1055 17th Ave., Santa Cruz,
216-5659, goatsantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Toadal Fitness, MADabolic Scotts Valley

Hot Tub/Spa Store

Hot Spring Spas of Santa Cruz
707 River St., Santa Cruz,
425-7727, hotspring.com

RUNNER-UP Appi Pool & Spa

Martial Arts

Allied MMA
1655 38th Ave., Capitola,
295-6240, alliedmma.com

RUNNERS-UP Lightspeed Martial Arts Academy, Rod Sanford Martial Arts

Massage Therapist

Tara Magpusao – Empowering Hands Therapeutic Massage
5215 Scotts Valley Drive, Ste. F, Scotts Valley,
888-7614, empoweringhandsmassage.com

RUNNERS-UP Cala Remick-Rodriguez, Yvonne Horner, CMT

Medi-Spa

Rejuvenate Medi-Spa & Wellness
595 38th Ave., Capitola
226-2108, rejuvenatemedi-spa.com

RUNNER-UP Pacific Coast Aesthetics

Midwife

Dana Ramsey – Nurture Women’s Health & Fertility
5161 Soquel Drive, Ste. C, Soquel,
515-7078, nurturesantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Santa Cruz Midwives, Serena Russell

Nutritionist

The Healthy Way
3251 Mission Drive, Santa Cruz,
462-5900, thehealthyway.us

RUNNERS-UP Rebecca Hazelton, Santa Cruz Core Fitness + Rehab

Orthodontist

Dr. Dan Hulme – Hulme Orthodontics
1773 Dominican Way, Santa Cruz,
475-5500, drhulmeorthodontics.com

RUNNER-UP Dr. John Hedrick

Outdoor Store

REI
1662 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz,
621-1938, rei.com

RUNNER-UP Patagonia

Personal Trainer

Carina Reid
ca****@**********ss.com, fuelphitness.com

RUNNERS-UP Beau Jansen, Cody Carter

Vitamin/ Supplements

Staff of Life
906 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville, 726-0240;
1266 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 423-8632;
staffoflifemarket.com

RUNNERS-UP New Leaf Community Markets, The Felton Nutrition

Pilates

Monarch Pilates
6894A Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
475-8994, monarchpilates.com

RUNNERS-UP Pleasure Point Pilates, Alli Quick – Toadal Fitness

Running Store

Fleet Feet
7960 Soquel Drive, Ste. I, Aptos,
662-0886, fleetfeetaptos.com

RUNNER-UP Santa Cruz Running Company

Sailing Charter

O’Neill Yacht Charters
L Dock, 275 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz,
818-3645, oneillyachtcharters.com

RUNNERS-UP Chardonnay Sailing, Nomad

Skate Park

Derby Park
508 Woodland Way, Santa Cruz

RUNNERS-UP Scotts Valley Skate Park, Mike Fox Skate Park

Skate Shop

Bill’s Wheels Skateshop
1240 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
469-0904, billswheels.com

RUNNERS-UP Santa Cruz Boardroom, Skateworks

Spa (pampering)

Well Within Spa
417 Cedar St., Santa Cruz,
458-9355, wellwithinspa.com

RUNNERS-UP Chaminade Resort & Spa, Tea House Spa

Spa (soaking)

Well Within Spa
417 Cedar St., Santa Cruz,
458-9355, wellwithinspa.com

RUNNERS-UP Sage Float Spa, Tea House Spa

Sporting Goods

Play It Again Sports
4770 Soquel Drive, Soquel,
475-1988, playitagainsports-soquel.com

RUNNER-UP REI, Big 5

Snowboard/Skiing

Helm of Sun Valley
1408 41st Ave., Santa Cruz,
462-6800, helmofsunvalley.com

RUNNER-UP Pacific Wave, REI

Stand-up Paddleboard

SUP Shack
2214 E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz,
464-7467, supshacksantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Covewater, Kayak Connection

Surf School

Richard Schmidt Surf School
849 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-0928, richardschmidt.com

RUNNERS-UP Surf School Santa Cruz, Club Ed Surf School and Camps

Surf Shop

O’Neill
110 Cooper St., #100D, Santa Cruz, 469-4377;
400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 459-9230;
1115 41st Ave., Capitola, 475-4151, oneill.com

RUNNERS-UP Pacific Wave, Freeline Design Surf Shop

Surf Spot

Pleasure Point

RUNNERS-UP Cowells, The Point

Swim School

Seahorse Swim School
1505 Seascape Blvd., Aptos,
661-5110, seahorseswimschool.com

RUNNERS-UP Adventure Sports, Jim Booth Swim School

Therapist

Ellen Garfield, LMFT
6233 Soquel Drive, Ste. C, Aptos,
854-7543, santacruzcountytherapy.com

RUNNERS-UP TherapyWorks, Macy Chapman, LMFT

Veterinarian

Adobe Animal Hospital
1600 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz
462-5293, adobevets.com

RUNNERS-UP Dave Shuman – Westside Animal Hospital, Aptos-Creekside Pet Hospital

Yoga Instructor

Robin Berkery

RUNNERS-UP Daniela Kosmolski, Jessica Weitzenhoffer

Yoga Studio

Pleasure Point Yoga
3707 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz
479-9642, pleasurepointyoga.com

RUNNERS-UP Village Yoga, Santa Cruz Yoga

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: COMMUNITY LIFE

Best of Santa Cruz County

GT Staff

-

May 3, 2023

0

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: COMMUNITY LIFE

Beach

Twin Lakes State Beach
E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz

RUNNERS-UP Seacliff State Beach, Capitola City Beach

Bike Ride

Wilder Ranch

RUNNERS-UP West Cliff Drive, Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

Boardwalk Ride

Giant Dipper
400 Beach St., Santa Cruz
423-5590, beachboardwalk.com

RUNNERS-UP Fireball, Log Ride

Derby Girl

Flower Power #9 Daisy Baxter

RUNNERS-UP Foxee Firestorm, Ima Hotmess

Dog Park

Frederick Street
168 Frederick St., Santa Cruz

RUNNERS-UP Chanticleer Park, Aptos Polo Grounds

Farmers Market

Monterey Certified Farmers Market (at Cabrillo)
6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos
728-5060

RUNNERS-UP Downtown Farmers Market, Live Oak Farmers Market

Local Athlete
(non-derby)

Nat Young

RUNNERS-UP Carina Reid, Annie Sakamoto

Local Hero

Carina Reid

RUNNERS-UP Curtis Reliford, Jack O’Neill

Nonprofit Group

Second Harvest Food Bank
800 Ohlone Parkway, Watsonville,
722-7110, thefoodbank.org

RUNNERS-UP Homeless Garden Project, The Romero Institute

Place of Worship

Twin Lakes Church
2701 Cabrillo College Drive, Aptos,
465-3300, tlc.org

RUNNERS-UP Temple Beth El (Aptos), The Beach

Place to Walk/Jog/Hike

West Cliff Drive

RUNNERS-UP Nisene Marks, Henry Cowell State Park

Retreat Center

Land of Medicine Buddha

5800 Prescott Road, Soquel,
462-8383, landofmedicinebuddha.org

RUNNERS-UP 1440 Multiversity, Mount Madonna

Wedding Venue

Chaminade Resort & Spa
1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz,
475-5600, chaminade.com

RUNNERS-UP Hollins House, The Beach

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: FOOD & DRINK

Best of Santa Cruz County

Mike Lyon

-

May 3, 2023

1

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: FOOD & DRINK

Acai Bowl

Café Brasil
1410 Mission St., Santa Cruz,
429-1855, cafebrasil.us

RUNNERS-UP Samba Rock Acai Café, Amazon Juices

Appetizers

The Crow’s Nest
2218 E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz,
476-4560, crowsnest-santacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Shadowbrook, Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen – Westside

Bagel

Bagelry
320 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 429-8049;
1636 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 425-8550;
4763 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 462-9888,
bagelrysantacruz.com

RUNNER-UP Firefly Café

Bakery

The Buttery
702 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
458-3020, butterybakery.com

RUNNERS-UP Gayle’s Bakery, Companion Bakeshop

Barbecue

Aptos St. BBQ
8059 Aptos St., Aptos,
662-1721, aptosstbbq.com

RUNNERS-UP Mission St. BBQ, Cole’s BBQ

Bar Food

Parish Publick House
841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 421-0507;
8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 708-2036,
theparishpublick.com

RUNNERS-UP Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen – Westside, The Hideout

Bread

Companion Bakeshop
2341 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 252-2253;
7486 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 612-6655
companionbakeshop.com

RUNNERS-UP Gayle’s Bakery, Manresa Bread

Breakfast

Santa Cruz

Zachary’s Restaurant
819 Pacific Ave.
427-0646, zacharyssantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Walnut Avenue Café, Harbor Café

Aptos / Soquel

Red Apple Café
783 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos,
685-1224, redappleaptos.com

RUNNERS-UP Silver Spur, Sunrise Café

Capitola

Avenue Café
427 Capitola Ave.
515-7559
RUNNERS-UP Gayle’s Bakery, Zelda’s on the Beach

Scotts Valley/SLV

Heavenly Roadside Café
1210 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley,
335-1210, heavenlyroadsidecafe.com

RUNNERS-UP Auntie Mame’s, Rocky’s Café

Watsonville

Cowboy’s Corner Café
946 Main St.,
761-8996, cowboycornercafe.com

RUNNERS-UP Red Apple Café, Beach Street Café

Brunch

Harbor Café
535 7th Ave., Santa Cruz,
475-4948, harborcafesantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP The View at Chaminade, Crow’s Nest

Burger

Santa Cruz

burger.
1520 Mission St.
417-0419, burgerlovesbeer.com

RUNNERS-UP Betty Burgers, Jack’s Hamburgers

Aptos/Soquel

Betty Burgers
415 Trout Gulch Road, Aptos,
612-6668, bettyburgers.com

RUNNERS-UP Parish Publick House, The Hideout

Capitola

Betty Burgers
1000 41st Ave.
475-5901, bettyburgers.com

RUNNERS-UP East End Gastropub, Carpo’s Restaurant

Scotts Valley/SLV

Malone’s Grille
4402 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley,
438-2244, malonesgrille.com

RUNNERS-UP Bruno’s Bar and Grill, Two Doors

Watsonville

Wooden Nickel
1819 Freedom Blvd., Freedom,
724-2600

RUNNERS-UP Fat Boy Burgers and Grill, California Grill of the Pajaro Valley

Burrito

Santa Cruz

Tacos Moreno
1053 Water St.,
429-6095

RUNNERS-UP Taqueria Vallarta, Taqueria Santa Cruz

Aptos/Soquel

Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant
261 Center Ave, Aptos,
688-0911, manuelsrestaurant.com

RUNNERS-UP El Chipotle Taqueria and Restaurant, Taqueria Los Gordos

Capitola

Taqueria Vallarta
893 41st Ave., Santa Cruz,
464-7022, enjoytaqueriavallarta.com

RUNNERS-UP Tacos Moreno, Mijo’s Taqueria

Scotts Valley/SLV

Taqueria Los Gallos
18 Victor Square, Ste. A, Scotts Valley,
439-9803

RUNNERS-UP Taqueria Vallarta, La Chimichanga Cantina

Watsonville

El Frijolito
11 Alexander St.,
724-8823

RUNNERS-UP Super Taqueria, Ranch Milk Market

Calamari

The Crow’s Nest
2218 E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz,
476-4560, crowsnest-santacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Café Cruz, West End Tap & Kitchen

Caterer

Barbara & Company
2431 Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz,
426-6051, barbara-company.com

RUNNERS-UP Five Star, Busy Bee Café & Catering

Cheap Eats

Charlie Hong Kong
1141 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
426-5664, charliehongkong.com

RUNNERS-UP Pretty Good Advice, Scrumptious Fish and Chips Food Truck

Cheese Selection

Shopper’s Corner
622 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz,
423-1696, shopperscorner.com

RUNNERS-UP Staff of Life, Cheese Shop 831

Chinese Cuisine

Canton
900 41st Ave., Santa Cruz,
475-8751, cantonsantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Panda Inn, Red Pearl

Chocolatier

Donnelly Fine Chocolates
1509 Mission St, Santa Cruz, 458-4214

RUNNERS-UP MacKenzies Chocolates, Ashby Confections

Clam Chowder

Stagnaro’s On The Wharf
59 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz,
423-2180, stagnarobrothers.com

RUNNERS-UP The Crow’s Nest, Riva Fish House

Coffeehouse (independent)

Cat & Cloud
3600 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz;
10 Parade St., Ste. A, Aptos
719 Swift St. Ste. 56, Santa Cruz
Abbott Square, 725 Front St., Santa Cruz,
catandcloud.com

RUNNERS-UP Verve, 11th Hour Coffee

Cookies

Pacific Cookie Company
1203 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz,
429-6905, pacificcookie.com

RUNNERS-UP Crumbl, The Buttery

Cupcakes

The Buttery
702 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
458-3020, butterybakery.com

RUNNERS-UP Nothing Bundt Cake, Buttercup Cupcakes

Date Night Restaurant

Santa Cruz

Oswald
121 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz,
423-7427, oswaldrestaurant.com

RUNNERS-UP Gabriella Café, VIM Dining & Desserts

Aptos/Soquel

Café Sparrow
8042 Soquel Drive, Aptos,
688-6238, cafesparrow.com

RUNNERS-UP Mentone, The Hideout

Capitola

Shadowbrook
1750 Wharf Road, Capitola,
475-1511, shadowbrook-capitola.com

RUNNERS-UP Trestles Restaurant, Café Cruz

Scotts Valley/SLV

Ristorante Casa Nostra
9217 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond,
609-6132, ristorantecasanostra.com

RUNNERS-UP Scopazzi’s, Otoro Sushi

Watsonville

California Grill of the Pajaro Valley
40 Penny Lane, Watsonville,
722-8052, californiagrillrestaurant.com

RUNNER-UP Cilantros, Jalisco Mexican Cuisine

Deli

Zoccoli’s Delicatessen
1534 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 423-1711, zoccolis.com

RUNNERS-UP Garden Liquors & Deli, Seabright Deli

Desserts (Bakery)

Gayle’s Bakery
504 Bay Ave., Capitola, 462-1200, gaylesbakery.com

RUNNERS-UP The Buttery, The Farm Bakery & Gifts

Desserts (Restaurant)

Chocolate Restaurant
1522 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 427-9900, chocolatesantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP VIM Dining & Desserts, Bittersweet Bistro

Donut Shop

Ferrell’s Donuts
2227 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 457-2760

RUNNER-UP Dunlap’s Donuts, Allbright’s Donut Shoppe

Falafel

Achilles by the Sea
1404 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 621-2834, achillesrestaurant.com

RUNNERS-UP Falafel of Santa Cruz, Zameen

Food Event

Greek Food Festival
Downtown Santa Cruz

RUNNERS-UP Clam Chowder Cook-Off, Gourmet Grazing on the Green

French Fries

Betty Burgers
1000 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 475-5901;
505 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 423-8190;
1222 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 600-7056, bettyburgers.com

RUNNERS-UP West End Tap & Kitchen, Parish Publick House

Frozen Yogurt

Yogurtland
1955 41st Ave Suite A4, Capitola, 462-3100
1487 Main St #102, Watsonville, 761-1500

RUNNERS-UP Top A Lot Yogurt,

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

Best of Santa Cruz County

GT Staff

-

May 3, 2023

0

Best of Santa Cruz County 2023: MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

Bar

Moe’s Alley
1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz,
479-1854, moesalley.com

RUNNERS-UP Brady’s Yacht Club, Front & Cooper

Bartender

Kayla Brasfield, Moe’s Alley

RUNNERS-UP Joey Driussi (Mozaic), Jasmine Dunbar (VIM)

Brewery

Woodhouse Blending & Brewing
119 Madrone St., Santa Cruz,
313-9461, woodhousebrews.com

RUNNERS-UP Humble Sea, Sante Adairius

Comedy Spot

Greater Purpose Brewing Company
21517 E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
713-5540, greaterpurposebrewing.com

RUNNERS-UP The Crow’s Nest, DNA’s Comedy Lab

Craft Brewer (local)

Humble Sea Brewery
820 Swift St., Santa Cruz,
621-2890, humblesea.com

RUNNERS-UP Discretion Brewing, Sante Adairius

Dance Club

Moe’s Alley
1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz,
479-1854, moesalley.com

RUNNERS-UP The Blue Lagoon, Motiv

Fancy Cocktails

Makai Island Kitchen and Groggery
49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz
466-9766 makaisantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP Venus Spirits, Front & Cooper

Happy Hour

Hula’s Island Grill and Tiki Room
221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz
426-4852, hulastiki.com

RUNNERS-UP Copal, Makai Island Kitchen and Groggery

Karaoke

Boardwalk Bowl/Coasters Bar & Grill
115 Cliff St., Santa Cruz,
426-3324, boardwalkbowl.com/coasters-bar-grill

RUNNERS-UP The Blue Lounge, The Catalyst

Live Music

Moe’s Alley
1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz,
479-1854, moesalley.com

RUNNERS-UP Kuumbwa Jazz Center, The Catalyst

Local Band

Alex Lucero & The Live Again Band

RUNNERS-UP Space Heater, Jive Machine

Local Comedian

DNA

RUNNERS-UP Karin Babbitt, Richard Stockton

Local Musician

Alex Lucero

RUNNERS-UP Anthony Arya, Ryan Price

Margaritas

Tortilla Flats
4616 Soquel Drive, Soquel,
476-1754, tortillaflatsdining.com

RUNNERS-UP Margaritaville, El Palomar

Place to Play Pool

Surf City Billiards Bar & Cafe
931 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz,
423-7665, surf-city-billiards.business.site

RUNNER-UP Fast Eddy’s Billiards

Place to Play Darts

One Double Oh Seven Club
1007 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz,
425-9580

RUNNER-UP Surf City Billiards Bar & Cafe

Pub

Parish Publick House
841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 421-0507;
8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 708-2036,
theparishpublick.com

RUNNER-UP Britannia Arms of Capitola

Tap Room

Beer Thirty
2504 S. Main St., Soquel,
477-9967, beerthirtysantacruz.com

RUNNERS-UP West End Tap & Kitchen, Sante Adairius

Good TimesGood Times

Good TimesGood Times

Adult Store

Alternative Health Services

Antiques

Arts and Crafts

Auto Dealer

Auto Dealer(pre-owned)

Auto Repair

Bank (local non-credit union)

Bank (credit union)

Barbershop

Blinds/Shades

Boat Tour

Bookshop (new)

Bookshop (used)

Butcher

Car Wash

Carpet Cleaning

Children’s Day Care

Computer Repair

Consignment Clothing

Contractor

Crystals/Rocks/Stones

Custom Framing

Dry Cleaners

Eyewear

Fabric

Feed Store

Financial Planner

Flooring

Flower Shop

Furniture

Garden Supply/Nursery

Gift Shop

Green Business

Grocery Store (local)

Grocery Store (natural)

Hair Salon

Best Place to Switch Up Your Coffee Order

Best Winter Dish

Best Place to Scout Music Talent

Best Sounding Horn

Best Addams Family Dive Bar

Best Meal By The Sea

Best Natural, Historical Wonder

Best Place to Get a Cannoli—You Can’t Refuse

Best Town Tree

Best Place Where Strawberries Kill Fascists

Best Place to Ponder

Best Bodega Man

Best Comeback Story

Best Hike to Become a Docent

Best Nostalgic Trip for Millennials

Art Event

Art Gallery (retail)

Artist (local)

Author (local)

Classical Music Group

Dance Lessons (studio)

Festival (art/film)

Festival (music)

Festival (street)

Kids Art Program

Movie Theater

Mural/Public Art

Museum

Photographer (local)

Poet (local)

Radio Personality (local)

Radio Station

Theater Company

Acupuncturist/ Acupuncture Clinic

Bike Shop

Cannabis Delivery

Cannabis Dispensary

Cannabis Edibles

Cannabis CBD Product

CBD Product (local)

Chiropractor

Auto Dealer
(pre-owned)

Acupuncturist/
Acupuncture Clinic

Local Athlete
(non-derby)