For three decades, a single-story house — the state’s first bilingual recovery program of its kind — that sits on a quiet street in the middle of Watsonville has helped men heal their addictions. Many have gone on to successful lives and careers; others couldn’t outrun their demons. But those who have dedicated their lives to creating a brotherhood of recovery at the Sí Se Puede residential treatment program realize they are making a significant difference for the Latino population of South County.
Pandemic Life
Posted inCity Life
Post Nickelodeon, can Santa Cruz become a film lover’s paradise? A couple with deep industry ties thinks so
Dennis Bartok and Marja Adriance have an ambitious vision for a nonprofit, arthouse film center that would take over for the long-beloved, but beleaguered Nickelodeon Theater in downtown Santa Cruz — or find another venue. The couple wants to offer a wide array of restored classic and cult films and even add a cafe or wine bar. But as the pandemic lingers, a possible recession looms, they face starting costs of at least $5 million. Can they pull it off?
Posted inPolitics & Policy
A (very) early general election preview: 4 things to know about the November battles ahead
Election season may be in a lull, but it’s not over. In fact, a few political showdowns are still heating up. Here’s what you need to know as the Nov. 8 general election draws closer.
Posted inPandemic Life
New ultra-contagious Omicron subvariants BA.4, BA.5 worsening California coronavirus wave
Subvariants BA.4, BA5 are ultra-contagious and capable of reinfecting those who have survived earlier Omicron infection
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Soul-searching in Scotts Valley: Flag flap highlights ongoing community issues around diversity and inclusion
The flag controversy — possibly equating a gay pride flag with that of the NRA or KKK — simply reflected Santa Cruz’s least diverse city coming to grips with new realities. An active Facebook group, with 230 members, is pushing forward on diversity and equity while Scotts Valley leaders candidly confront their city’s issues.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
‘I’m the one who had to bury my son’: Scotts Valley mom fights for change in wake of bullied child’s suicide
Scotts Valley High freshman Mateo Deihl was different, his family and friends say, in wonderful ways. A traumatized product of the foster care system, he had compassion for others and tried to be nice to all. It made him an easy target for bullying. When his mother stepped in to try to help affect change, she says her attempts went unheeded at the middle school and high school. Mateo took his own life in February and now his mom, Regina Deihl, a longtime lawyer in the juvenile justice system, must decide what path to take in honoring his legacy.
Posted inCoast Life
Parenting with Omicron: Santa Cruz families with young kids tell their stories of a ‘lost month’
Farmworkers, teachers, nurses, physical therapists and writers — all parents — had to scramble as the virus upended their lives. Lookout parenting columnist Liza Monroy talks with four local families — from Watsonville to Ben Lomond — about their experience with Omicron.
Posted inFood & Drink
Anonymous complaints have curtailed New Bohemia’s outdoor business, cost it $25,000 and forced layoffs
With outdoor operations all the rage under COVID, will New Bohemia Brewing Company’s struggles be shared by others?
Posted inCOVID Today
Another bummer coronavirus summer for California? Cases keep rising along with concerns
Another bummer coronavirus summer for California? With cases on the rise, the state finds itself in a familiar, if frustrating, position.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
County closing last two COVID-driven Project Roomkey shelters
Project Roomkey provided shelter to more than 1,000 people in Santa Cruz County as a response to pandemic homeless needs. By the end of June, the county will close the last two of its six shelters — with most, but not all, of the residents placed in other housing.