As news has spread throughout Santa Cruz about how the industrial zoning of the Seabright neighborhood could make it a camping destination for unsheltered people, many who live there are speaking out — most with harsh words for the city council. Now, Mayor Donna Meyers is responding.
Pandemic Life
Posted inCoast Life
Monterey Bay Aquarium releases reopening plan, day after Boardwalk news
The aquarium will reopen May 15 with masks required and limited capacity. Some play areas, scheduled feedings, and other activities that would encourage congregation will remain closed.
Posted inCOVID Today
California’s COVID-19 ‘honeymoon’ has been glorious. But it could end soon
New Leaf Community Markets brand manager Lindsay Gizdich said the store is moving from Pacific Avenue in order to have…
Posted inCOVID 2022
Santa Cruz County moves to less-restrictive orange tier effective March 31
Santa Cruz County has met the criteria for the orange tier under California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy, and new regulations will take effect Wednesday.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
A loud sign of orange: Giant Dipper screams will return as Boardwalk rides reopen Thursday
California COVID-19 safety guidelines must be followed, all guests will be required to wear a face covering and some rides will be closed. But the amusement park’s reopening is the latest sign of reopening.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
Finally, another ‘Staff of Life’ is born: Watsonville store expected to anchor a South County ‘mini downtown’
After a long pandemic delay, the East Lake Village Shopping Center this week will see the storied health-foods grocery brand join Coffeeville, Fruition Brewing, Sushi Qu and others which have high hopes of helping the Watsonville economy.
Posted inHousing & Development
‘Very good experience’: Streamlined permitting process shows early success for CZU fire home rebuilders
An expedited permit system, and a 40 percent reduction in fees for fire victims, are aimed at easing the path to recovery for owners of homes lost in the blaze that ripped through the Santa Cruz Mountains in August and September. Can county officials keep it up?
Posted inPandemic Life
Seeking ‘safety & community’: College minister forms local Asian American group, plans vigil to grieve, heal
In the wake of the Atlanta-area shootings, Stephanie Cheung took to social media to organize a group for Santa Cruz’s Asian American community. On Saturday, the new group is holding a vigil at the county administrative building to gather in solidarity for the victims in Georgia and Asian American elders who have been attacked and killed.
Posted inRecreation & Sports
Pumped in Watsonville: Years in the making, county’s biggest bike track opens at Ramsay Park
A new paved pump track opened at Ramsay Park in Watsonville on Tuesday, offering the only all-weather terrain for bike enthusiasts in Santa Cruz County. And bike enthusiasts have already been swarming it.
Posted inHealth & Wellness
In-person learning time varying greatly countywide. How does your school district stack up?
Santa Cruz County students returning to classrooms under hybrid learning models can expect to spend between 3 and 15 hours learning in person each week — depending on their grade level, and their school district. A look at every district, along with an expanded school reopening calendar.