Surfing for a Purpose: An Evening with Wingnut Weaver Benefiting VSA

Transitioning out of uniform often means leaving behind a deep-seated culture of shared purpose and trust. Founded right here on the Central Coast, the Veteran Surf Alliance (VSA) steps into that gap, utilizing saltwater therapy and ocean fellowship to assist military veterans navigating civilian life.

On Saturday, November 7, 2026, Sunny California is opening its doors for an evening dedicated to surf heritage, local craft, and ocean community. Event proceeds will directly benefit VSA’s ongoing programs getting veterans into the lineup.

Live Screening of The Endless Summer II with Robert "Wingnut" Weaver

Few cinematic works have documented the enduring spirit of global wave-hunting like Bruce Brown’s 1994 masterpiece, The Endless Summer II. We are honored to welcome legendary logger Robert “Wingnut” Weaver to lead a live-narrated screening in the shop.

Wingnut will provide real-time commentary, break down iconic sessions, offer unscripted behind-the-scenes accounts from production, and host an open Q&A following the film.

Schedule:

• Doors Open: 5:00 PM
• Screening Begins Promptly: 7:00 PM

Rare Vintage Surfboard Exhibition

Santa Cruz remains a sacred bedrock of surfboard design and shaping culture. For one night, our floor transforms into a curated retrospective featuring landmark shapes and historic craft from private regional collections—tracing the curve from early foam logs and transition-era single-fins to foundational local outlines.

Showcase a piece of history: We are accommodating a limited number of additional historical entries. If you hold a board with significance to California shaping culture, submit details to Dave McIntosh: david@sunnycalifornia.com.

Dave "Nelly" Nelson Photography Exhibit

For more than two decades, Dave "Nelly" Nelson has documented Northern California’s heaviest arenas with unvarnished clarity and raw instinct. His prints capture the power, solitude, and grit of cold-water surfing. This gathering serves as one of the final opportunities to view the gallery exhibit in person and acquire archival prints.

Santa Cruz Vibes Launch & Pickup Party

We are simultaneously celebrating the release of the newest issue of Santa Cruz Vibes Magazine. Pick up a copy hot off the press and connect with the writers, photographers, artists, and ocean stewards who document the culture of our region.

Raffle, Refreshments & Purpose

Throughout the evening, we’ll have fresh popcorn, local refreshments, and a raffle loaded with equipment and artwork from our community partners. Every ticket and raffle entry goes directly toward supporting the Veteran Surf Alliance's mission in the water.

Gathering Details & Admission

• Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
• Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Doors 5:00 PM | Screening 7:00 PM)
• Location: Sunny California, 912 41st Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
• Beneficiary: Veteran Surf Alliance (501c3 Tax ID: 84-2427441)