Teachers bargained and parents complained. After months of negotiation, the district and teachers within the Soquel Union Elementary School District have agreed to a new contract thanks to a boost from the state budget. Midcareer teachers should see a jump in pay to about $73,000 a year from $64,000, somewhat easing affordability pressures.
Capitola & Soquel
Posted inBusiness & Technology
Thinking outside of the (big) box: Capitola Mall leans into local
A half-century after opening, the Capitola Mall still hosts familiar national chain stores like Macy’s, Target and Kohl’s. But with a redevelopment on the horizon, 50% of the mall’s businesses are now locally owned.
Posted inFood & Drink
The CZU-inspired birth of Three Sisters Three Corners at Casalegno’s
Gina Lund, like so many others around Santa Cruz County, saw her life and community changed by the 2020 fires. She has reinvented a nearly 100-year-old country store in Soquel, aiming to create a new community center — and reinforce the local economy of food growers.
Posted inFood & Drink
EATERS DIGEST: Vamonos Comida opens in the Octagon and farewell to Funk’s Franks
Belly Goat Burgers owners open a Mexican cantina in the Octagon, Chicago-inspired food truck Funk’s Franks says goodbye, and a few summer pleasures to enjoy before the season’s gone.
Posted inHousing & Development
Ask Lookout: Are there any big plans for that empty lot at 41st and Soquel?
A barren lot at 41st Avenue and Soquel Drive has been in limbo for the past few years, after a car dealership project approved by the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors didn’t go as planned. Given its location at one of the highest-traffic intersections in the county, what can become of the parcel? Could we see more housing?
Posted inCoast Life
On self-care — and date night! — for Santa Cruz parents
More than ever, COVID-beleaguered parents need “Waves of Self Care: It Takes a Village,” the new book by Capitola’s Jaime McFaden. And Lookout parenting columnist Liza Monroy helps out with a half-dozen tips on how to arrange a date night around Santa Cruz County.
Posted inFood & Drink
EATERS DIGEST: Superlative seafood, Venus Beachside opens and can the Perg rise again?
Enjoy your Independence Day weekend with local seafood recommendations, a free treat at the Boardwalk and weekend events for craft beer lovers.
Posted inHealth & Wellness
Santa Cruz’s flavored tobacco ban: County now leads the state in latest regulations
As Big Tobacco fights California’s statewide actions, Santa Cruz becomes the first bigger county to ban those products with “a taste or smell other than tobacco.” Scotts Valley’s new ordinance, to take effect July 15, completes city and county action intended to reduce fast-growing use among young people.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Going to bat for affordable housing: In passionate tug of war over Soquel project, supporters get loud
While vocal neighborhood opposition turned out at Cabrillo College on Monday night, so did a fervent cast of believers in affordable housing projects such as the Project Homekey development on Park Avenue on the border of Aptos, Soquel and Capitola. That project has received a $10.7 million grant from the state to add 36 units to an area that, like much of Santa Cruz County, is unaccustomed to growth.
Posted inFood & Drink
Lily Belli on Food: Disposable cup tax kicks in, Chaminade revs up a food truck and Lily’s summer kitchen
Heads up, foodies: I’m now sending alerts every time I publish a story. Sign up for texts from me here. Thanks to those of you who’ve already subscribed and offered your thoughts! And catch up on my recent work here. … Residents in unincorporated areas of Santa Cruz County: If you’re not already using a […]
