For the last nine years, the NEXTies Awards have honored standout Santa Cruzans who inspire, inform and empower our community. The dress-up affair, which is hosted by DNA and Danielle Crook, is a showcase of some of the best and brightest Santa Cruz has to offer. This year’s NEXTies recipients include entrepreneur of the year Jennalee Dahlen; musician of the year Jesse Daniel; artist of the year Ann Hazels; new business of the year YaDoggie; green business of the year Upcycled Skate Art; “give back” person of the year Chip; and innovative business of the year Steeped Coffee. The event also includes drinks, food and music by Jesse Daniel, Katie Ekin, Kat Factor (above) and Henry Chadwick.
INFO: 6 p.m. Friday, March 23. Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. $25. 423-8209. WANT TO GO? Go to santacruz.com/giveaways before 11 a.m. on Monday, March 19 to find out how you could win a pair of tickets to the award ceremony.
