Good morning, folks. It’s Friday, Sept. 4, and a sunny day is on tap for Santa Cruz County, with temperatures warming into the 70s and lower 8os. That’s about the forecast through the long Labor Day weekend, though beachgoers beware: a beach hazards statement is in effect into Monday night, meaning sneaker waves and rip currents.
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Lily Belli takes us on a culinary tour of the best things she ate and drank around Santa Cruz County last month, and it’s certain to whet your appetite. From a pair of Instagram-ready burgers to a seasonal pasta and a stellar take on a classic salad, it’s another mouth-watering list.
Speaking of pasta, Lily also had the news Thursday that Santa Cruz-based Gooder Foods, the company behind macaroni and cheese brand Goodles, is being scooped up by pasta giant Barilla.
The TGIF headlines also include a cheat sheet to the coming long weekend and a federal grant for the Watsonville Police Department – away we go.
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The best things I ate and drank in Santa Cruz County in August
Santa Cruz County chefs went all out in August with four playful dishes, from tomato-loaded pasta to unconventional burgers and a memorable wedge. Get a taste of last month’s highlights from Lily Belli.
➤ WANT MORE? Check out Lily’s bests from months past
Barilla buys Goodles, the Santa Cruz mac and cheese brand making ‘noodles, gooder’
Gooder Foods, the maker of Goodles, agreed to be purchased by Barilla, the world’s largest pasta producer, the companies announced Thursday. Goodles will continue to be headquartered in Santa Cruz and operate independently as a standalone brand. Here are the details.
DAILY DIGEST
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Thank you for reading, today and all week. Here’s to a smooth Friday, and a safe, relaxing long Labor Day weekend beyond.
Will McCahill