Otoboke Beaver an Unhinged Experience

Music

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February 21, 2024

In the age of instant access, fast streaming and the option to have any style of music from around the globe playing at one’s fingertips, nothing’s shocking. Been there, done that. Seen it all in the 21st Century.

Then comes along a band like Otoboke Beaver, the wild, all-woman, Japanese quartet that combines garage, punk, surf, pop and pure, unadulterated controlled chaos. The result? An intense cacophony that sounds like it should fall apart before it even begins. Instead, Otoboke Beaver creates tightly wound songs that blast through genres and time signatures like a tweaker shuffling Spotify.

And this Sunday, Feb. 25, they are bringing their savage sound and stage show to the Catalyst with openers, South Korean punk band Drinking Boys and Girls Choir and Pity Party, a two-piece from Los Angeles.

Otoboke Beaver’s music draws from manzai, a form of irreverent Japanese comedy, known for its fast-paced jokes, off-beat timing, double-talk and puns.

The evidence is sprinkled throughout their songs and live show.

Tracks like “Leave me alone! No, Stay With Me!”, “What Do You Mean You Have to Talk To Me At This Late Date?” and “Dirty Old Fart Is Waiting For My Reaction” start, stop and flow through a cornucopia of screams, distortion, pop beats, and cute, clean singing in just under a couple minutes.

“Acco brings the band with a phrase, and all members will start to add to it and we work together on it to build up over months of trial and effort,” says guitarist YoYoYoshie.

“Sometimes something isn’t working or is missing, so we leave it to work on another song and come back to it. We may add or take away elements as it evolves. Unused ideas may flow into other songs or elements from another song might be combined into this song. It takes a lot of time and practice.”

Originally founded in Kyoto in 2009, Otoboke Beaver was birthed out of the love for rock ‘n roll by singer Accorinrin and YoYoYoshie. The two met in a rock club while attending Ritsumeikan University, a private–and one of the most prestigious–schools in Japan.

“We played together and at first we leaned to more pop-sounding and catchy beats,” writes YoYoYoshie. “But as we played more we found that we liked it when we played faster and harder.”

Their debut EP dropped in 2011 but it wasn’t until 2016 after they signed to their current label, the British indie Damnably, that they released their first–technical–full-length, Okoshiyasu!! Otoboke Beaver, a compilation of previously released material.

In 2013 bassist, Hirochan, joined after their original bassist left and the current line-up was solidified in 2018 with the inclusion of drummer, Kahokiss.

Two years ago, the mad women dropped their first full-length of new, previously unreleased material, Super Champion. Or, as they lovingly refer to it as, “Season 2,” their first album after quitting their day jobs so they could focus exclusively on music.

Yet, as hardcore as their albums are, Otoboke Beaver’s live show is–somehow–even more deranged. YoYoYoshie’s unhinged onstage antics and stage-diving has landed the band several, temporary, social media bans.

Along with being praised by NPR, Stereogum and The Fader, Rolling Stone called their 2023 South By Southwest (SXSW) performance “both a goddamn riot and tight as hell.”

Still not sold? Then maybe take some advice from Mr. Rock himself, Dave Grohl.

“It’ll blow your mind,” the former Nirvana drummer and current Foo Fighter told Vulture–New York magazine’s entertainment site–in 2021 about Otoboke Beaver’s live show. “It’s the most fucking intense shit you’ve ever seen.”

**Otoboke Beaver, punk rock from Kyoto, Japan**

A Jewel of a Lion in Winter

News

Christina Waters

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February 21, 2024

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Power is the only fact, bellows an aging Henry II in playwright James Goldman‘s The Lion in Winter, a searing portrait of a scheming royal family. Comparisons with the current US government spring to mind watching these dysfunctional conspirators—the King of England, his imprisoned wife Eleanor, and their three grown sons, each determined to become the next king.

Goldman’s provocative plot in the new Jewel Theatre production is packed solid with lying and cheating from top to bottom. As her dowry, Eleanor of Aquitaine (Julie James) has brought Henry (Lawrence Hecht) half of France. Much time and many children later, Henry, now 50, keeps Eleanor imprisoned, releasing her once a year at Yuletide .

The play opens on Christmas Eve with Henry, determined to appoint an heir before he dies, trying to make peace among his three sons—treacherous Geoffrey (Andrew Davids), military mastermind Richard (Shaun Carroll), and the youngest John (Travis Rynders) who is both the dim bulb of the family and his father’s favorite.

Henry’s new paramore Alais (Michelle Drexler) and her brother the king of France (Andre Amarotico), have joined the household for Christmas. They all rage, at Henry and each other, jockeying for position and favor, while plotting for power.

Yes, it sounds familiar, which is why a play set in the year 1183 feels fresh. Think Succession with a splash of Larry David. Lion offers an engrossing dramatic premise, and Goldman’s play (his adaptation for the film won an Oscar) is outrageously funny when you least expect it. “What shall we hang? The holly or each other?”

This Lion in Winter showcases outstanding visuals. While the Jewel has always excelled at stage decor, I’d call this set by designer Ron Gasparinetti one of the best I’ve seen in the Colligan. Heavy stone walls, towering fireplace, curved stairway into an intimate dressing room, all are convincing and detailed by tapestry and oversized wall hangings below huge wooden rafters. The players are given many locations for intimate plotting, bedding, and lots of Mummy-why-didn’t-you-love-me confessionals.

Each cast member has some solid moments. As always, Shaun Carroll knows how to hold his turf and as Henry’s young love, Michelle Drexler is gorgeous to look at. But the show belongs to Julie James, a glorious Eleanor, clad by B. Modern in gold-trimmed satin and velvet gowns befitting a medieval queen.

James understands exactly what Eleanor has to lose, as well as gain. As the sons each come to seek her counsel, she reassures each of his legacy and his role in undercutting Henry. But as with today’s media, it’s hard to know what to believe. Do these characters all really hate each other, or love each other in some little-visited part of their hearts? The smart script forces us to figure out what even the characters may not know.

Strategies unfold swiftly. James unleashes her superpowers of quick change artistry. She coos sweetly to one son, while betraying him with another. Her invective gives off sparks. Does she mean any of it? Does she hate the king who has abandoned her? Or love him enough to try anything? Hints of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf perfume the verbal battles between Eleanor and Henry. A few whiffs of Camelot as well.

James lets us marvel at the shocking and juicy transformations of the aging queen as she lures each son into striking distance of their father. As webs of intrigue tighten, her Eleanor catches full fire. James’ performance is a triumph.

Director Susan Myer Silton‘s motivations often remain a mystery, especially in the ensemble scenes. But coherence of dialogue is bound to smooth out as the performance run continues. A captivating production. Don’t miss!

The Lion in Winter, by James Goldman
A Jewel Theatre Company production
At the Colligan Theater, through February 25
jeweltheatre.net

The Editor’s Desk

Letters to the Editor

Brad Kava

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February 21, 2024

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Santa Cruz California editor of good times news media print and web — Brad Kava | Good Times Editor

“If music be the food of love, play on,” wrote some famous guy with a quill. (How did Shakespeare do all that without a computer, anyway, or at least a typewriter?)

We have plenty of love for food and music in this issue.

When I lived in Kansas City there was never a party without at least an hour of debate about which pit restaurant made the best barbecue. It was a topic always guaranteed to spur plenty of conversation.

Based on the volumes of talk on our socials, Santa Cruz has the same fascination with the not-so-simple hamburger. We’ve taken them far out of the realm of bun-meat-bun fast food into a whole new galaxy, and this is your week to check out the varieties all over town at a fantastic price.

Food writer Mark C. Anderson has done a wonderful job getting the lowdown on what restaurants are cooking up for this favorite meat week.

You can also win gift certificates to sample all of the local candidates. This is almost better than the Iowa caucus.

My phone is blowing out with burger comments and I want to try them all. Keep those suggestions coming.

On the music front, I was enthralled with the fact that Santa Cruz locals flew to Maui to donate guitars to kids who lost everything in the devastating fires there. Some critics thought maybe they should have donated money or food, but see Willy B’s quote above for why guitars are crucial to living a fulfilling life. Check Mat Weir’s article for more info and to see how you can help.

One of the craftiest living guitarists will be in Santa Cruz Friday, only he’s not bringing his guitar. Robert Fripp whose band, King Crimson is so far from anything in the mainstream he might as well be living in a desert, will be talking and answering questions at Kuumbwa Jazz Center. John Malkin’s interview here gives you some insight into the life of a quirky legend unknown to most, but an influence to so many musicians who followed, including Tool, with whom they toured in 2001. (Crimson Trivia: the band opened for the Rolling Stones in Hyde Park, 1969 and Fripp played guitar on David Bowie’s 1977 song “Heroes”.

Thanks for reading.

Brad Kava | Editor

Photo Contest

RED SKY AT NIGHT Fire water at Black’s Beach from October. Photograph by Bethany Clare

Good Idea

Calvary Church is building a permanent labyrinth and native plant garden at the corner of Lincoln and Center streets in Santa Cruz. They are looking for volunteers to help build it.

“Our vision of this project is to provide a place of respite and renewal in the heart of Santa Cruz for downtown residents, workers, and visitors. A 7-circuit, classical labyrinth at the center of a

vibrant and colorful garden on the grounds of Calvary Church will invite visitors to follow its

winding path, relax, and reflect.

For info: calvarysantacruz.org/labyrinth

Good Work

Dignity Health Dominican Hospital is giving $207,942 to community based organizations across Santa Cruz County. They include: Family Services Agency of the Central Coast – Suicide Survivors Outreach Team, $42,942; WomenCARE Cancer Support Services, $35,000; Food, What – Youth Empowerment through Sustainable Agriculture and Culinary Arts

Training, $50,000; Kid Power – Kidpower Teenpower Fullpower, $30,000; Teen Kitchen Project – Medically Tailored Meals Program, $50,000; and The Diversity Center’s’ Health and Wellbeing Initiative,$35,000.

Quote of the Week

“If your dreams don’t scare you they are not big enough.”
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Letters

Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor

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February 21, 2024

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NO ON MEASURE K

I hope that people will not be fooled again and will vote NO on Measure K. Here is why.

Measure K is a general tax, meaning that the County will use the added revenues (estimated at $10 million annually) for whatever whim the Supervisors want. The County has no responsibility to actually spend the money on matters the Measure K ballot claims to benefit.

They have learned that people are worried about wildfire protection and want our miserable roads fixed, so they craft the ballot to claim the sales tax increase would fund that, but have no intention of keeping that promise.

The Board of Supervisors pulled the same trick in 2018 with Measure G half-cent sales tax increase, claiming nearly the same causes that would be funded…fire, emergency response, road repair….

The 2021-2022 Santa Cruz County Grand Jury investigated the County’s expenditures of the voter-approved Measure G and found the ballot wording was deceitful. ZERO DOLLARS have been allocated to fund County Fire agencies or other emergency responders. Money supposedly earmarked for Aptos Village Park vanished, with County staff explaining that $425,000 promise was only a “recommendation”.

Don’t be tricked again. Vote NO on Measure K. It’s just another trick to grab your money.

Becky Steinbruner, Aptos

MEASURE M SUPPORT

When political rhetoric gets confusing, follow the money trail. Yes on Measure M is grassroots, funded by locals, teachers, students, nurses, not by wealthy, out-of-town developers. Opponents of M have received tens of thousands from developer interests.

Opponents want us to believe that requiring 5% more affordable housing will stop developers from building here. They point to San Francisco where affordable housing requirements were recently lowered, but they neglect to mention the three year limit on the SF decision, and the context that led to it. Development in San Francisco screeched to a halt during the pandemic, when people fled urban centers to places like Santa Cruz- and development here boomed.

If we pass Measure M, residents can decide if they want high-rise buildings downtown or in their neighborhoods. Otherwise, only four city council members will decide for us. If Measure M passes, we will get more affordable housing for essential workers; other cities have this same affordable housing ratio so we know it can work. If M doesn’t pass, the city council will continue to let developers buy their way out of building affordable housing.

Don’t allow the city to sell our future to the highest bidder-vote Yes on M!

K. Durham, Santa Cruz

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Things To Do This Week

GT Staff

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February 21, 2024

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THURSDAY 2/22

REGGAE

LUTAN FYAH

Born in Spanish Town, Jamaica, Lutan Fyah has been one of the rightful successors in reggae royalty for the past 25 years. A follower of Bobo Shanti Rastafarianism, Lutan Fyah’s music overflows with peace, love, unity, praise and plenty of smoke. Over his career, he’s recorded over 20 albums and produced over 200 singles. The prolific artist is staying on-brand in 2024 and has already released two singles (“Judgement” and “Soulmate”) as well as a collab album with Norris Man and The Messenjah called Dubwise Trilogy. No stranger to Moe’s Alley, Fyah returns this week with the Purity Attack Band and DJ Moi opening up. MAT WEIR

INFO: 9pm, Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz. $20/adv, $25/door. 479-1854.

FRIDAY 2/23

FILM

THE NORTH FACE PRESENTS: REEL ROCK 18

Attention rock climbers! For those who thought Free Solo was a fun ride, Reel Rock 18 is an unmissable serial adventure sure to bring up heart rates for any height-fearing soul who dares watch. The evening presents four climbing films, including one about a . . . deep water solo? It’s a phrase that sounds almost too wild to be real, but the documentary is here to prove it happened. Plus, there’s a film about a climbing community bonded during the horrors of war in Ukraine. Reel Rock 18 offers art and insight into the heights humanity can reach—a necessary watch for these times. JESSICA IRISH

INFO: 7pm, Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. $25. 423-1854.

ROCK

JOHN MICHAEL BAND

Santa Cruz is home to some of the greatest rock cover bands, and the John Michael Band is no exception. Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Michael was practically born at a music festival. He began performing at age four and has never stopped. He is a wide-ranging and energetic vocalist, spanning R&B, blues, funk, Celtic, big band and even opera. He formed the John Michael Band in 2010 with other local greats like Vinny Johnson and Dylan Rose, and together, they’ve honed their magical ability to shift from Sublime to the Temptations and then throw in some Led Zeppelin without missing a beat. ADDIE MAHMASSANI

INFO: 6pm, El Vaquero Winery, 290 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville. $10. 607-8118.

SATURDAY 2/24

AMERICANA

MAX GOMEZ

From singing in the local bars of New Mexico to playing a show at The Ugly Mug in Soquel, California, Max Gomez blends folk and Americana to perform original songs and reimagined covers, bringing refreshing and emotional perspectives (along with dashes of country and blues) to classic genres. Stand-out tracks include “Joe,” “What It Means” and “Make It Me.” As a performer, he mixes stories from his life with his music to create a soulful performance, drawing the audience into each tale and each verse. This show heralds new music coming out later this year. ISABELLA MARIE SANGALINE

INFO: 7pm, The Ugly Mug, 4640 Soquel Dr., Soquel. $30/adv, $35/door. 477-1341.

FUNK

THE BUDOS BAND

The Budos Band, instrumental rockers with soul, look like characters who would be very comfortable in a bar catering to the coolest dads in Silver Lake. As for the music, it abides by the following rules: horns welcome, bass necessary, jamming out to the groove assured. If the Budos wrote the soundtrack to a life, it would have to be the life of a surf rocker who is also a secret agent—meaning, there’s a sense of epicness with them that cannot be denied. Intriguing! JI

INFO: 8pm, Felton Music Hall, 6275 Highway 9, Felton. $32/adv, $42/door. 704-7113.

SUNDAY 2/25

BLUES

ALBERT CUMMINGS

Since his performing debut in 1997 at the relatively advanced age of 27, blues-rocker Albert Cummings has worked his way upward through today’s great 12-bar string-benders one gig at a time. Inspired by a live performance by the late Stevie Ray Vaughan, Cummings released his debut album two years later, earning him comparisons to blues guitar titans like Albert and Freddie King and Jimi Hendrix. Cummings revealed an evolving, more eclectic style with a country tinge on his most recent album, Ten, with the help of Grammy-award-winning producer Chuck Ainlay. Cummings and his fans are looking forward to his upcoming album Strong, slated for release later this year. DAN EMERSON

INFO: 3pm, Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, $20/adv, $25/door. 479-1854.

MONDAY 2/26

POP

TROUSDALE

Quinn D’Andrea, Georgia Greene and Lauren Jones got what they were looking for when they enrolled in a popular music program at the University of Southern California: a successful band whose music speaks to people—specifically women—worldwide. With gorgeous, tight harmonies, raw lyrics and acoustic leanings, Trousdale is reminiscent of folk and pop trios like the Staves and the Chicks. They also give nods to ’70s-inspired rock ‘n’ roll, citing HAIM and Crosby, Stills, & Nash as influences. Their latest album, Out of My Mind, is a Day-Glo trip through heartbreak to self-acceptance. AM

INFO: 8pm, The Catalyst, 1101 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. $18/adv, $22/door. 713-5492.

TUESDAY 2/27

JAZZ

DIANNE REEVES

Over the years, the city of Detroit has produced a lot of jazz luminaries, and vocalist Dianne Reeves ranks among them. A 2018 NEA Jazz Master, Reeves has all the essential qualities for excellence: a vocal instrument that is powerful, wide-ranging and precisely controlled; the natural authenticity to take ownership of just about any song she chooses to sing; and an in-the-moment, improvisational ability to make her a crowd-pleasing scat singer. Since earning a Grammy nomination for her first Blue Note record in 1987, Reeves has won five Grammys. And she’s a consistently great live performer who doesn’t need studio polishing to delight listeners. DE

INFO: 7:30pm, Kuumbwa Jazz Center, 320-2 Cedar St., Santa Cruz. $99.75/adv, $105/door. 427-2227.

LITERATURE

CHARLES DUHIGG

What’s the secret to being a supercommunicator? Charles Duhigg knows; he wrote the book on it. Duhigg will be reading from and signing copies of his latest work, Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. In it, the Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist explores how supercommunicators connect with people for more meaningful and effective conversations. Using a practical storytelling narrative, Duhigg teaches readers tips and tools to communicate with anyone, anywhere. The event is free, but Bookshop Santa Cruz requests attendees register online for a more precise head count (their site also conveniently has a way to preorder the hardcover for signing at the event). MW

INFO: 7pm, Bookshop Santa Cruz, 1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. Free. 423-0900.

Free Will Astrology

Astrology

Rob Brezsny

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February 21, 2024

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ARIES March 21-April 19
In my astrological estimation, the coming weeks will be an ideal time for you to declare amnesty, negotiate truces, and shed long-simmering resentments. Other recommended activities: Find a way to joke about an embarrassing memory, break a bad habit just because it’s fun to do so, and throw away outdated stuff you no longer need. Just do the best you can as you carry out these challenging assignments, Aries. You don’t have to be perfect. For inspiration, read these wise words from poet David Whyte: “When you forgive others, they may not notice but you will heal. Forgiveness is not something we do for others; it is a gift to ourselves.”

TAURUS April 20-May 20
“When a mountain doesn’t listen, say a prayer to the sea,” said Taurus painter Cy Twombly. “If God doesn’t respond, direct your entreaties to Goddess,” I tell my Taurus daughter Zoe. “If your mind doesn’t provide you with useful solutions, make an appeal to your heart instead,” my Taurus coach advises me. All these words of wisdom should be useful for you in the coming weeks, Taurus. It’s time to be diligent, relentless, ingenious, and indefatigable in going after what you want. Keep asking until you find a source that will provide it.

GEMINI May 21-June 20
Gemini philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson offered advice that’s perfect for you. He said, “Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us, or we find it not.” Here’s what I will add. First, you very much need to commune with extra doses of beauty in the coming weeks. Doing so will expedite your healing and further your education—two activities that are especially important right now. Second, one way to accomplish that is to put yourself in the presence of all the beautiful people, places, and things you can find. Third, be diligent as you cultivate beauty within yourself. How? That’s your homework. You can start by making a list of the three most beautiful acts you have ever performed.

CANCER June 21-July 22
I bet that sometime soon, you will dream of flying though the sky on a magic carpet. In fact, this may be a recurring dream for you in the coming months. By June, you may have soared along on a floating rug more than 10 times. Why? What’s this all about? I suspect it’s one aspect of a project that life is encouraging you to undertake. It’s an invitation to indulge in more flights of the imagination; to open your soul to mysterious potencies; to give your fantasy life permission to be wilder and freer. You know that old platitude “shit happens”? You’re ready to experiment with a variation on that: “magic transpires.”

LEO July 23-Aug. 22
On February 22, ancient Romans celebrated the holiday of Caristia. It was a time for reconciliation. People strove to heal estrangements and settle longstanding disagreements. Apologies were offered and truces were negotiated. In alignment with current astrological omens, I recommend you revive this tradition, Leo. Now is an excellent phase of your life to embark on a crusade to unify, harmonize, restore, mend, and assuage. I dare you to put a higher priority on love and connection than on ego!

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22
My poet friend Jafna likes to say that only two types of love are available to us all: too little and too much. We are either deprived of the precise amount and quality of the love we want, or else we have to deal with an excess of the stuff that doesn’t quite match what we want. But I predict that this will at most be a mild problem for you in the coming weeks—and perhaps not a problem at all. You will have a knack for both giving and receiving just the right amount of love, neither too little nor too much.

LIBRA Sept. 23-Oct. 22
If the devil card comes up for me in a divinatory Tarot reading, I don’t get worried or scared that something bad might happen. On the contrary, I interpret it favorably. It means that an interesting problem or riddle has arrived or will soon arrive in my life—and that this twist can potentially make me wiser, kinder, and wilder. The appearance of the devil card suggests that I need to be challenged so as to grow a new capacity or understanding. It’s a good omen, telling me that life is conspiring to give me what I need to outgrow my limitations and ignorance. Now apply these principles, Libra, as you respond to the devil card I just drew for you.

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21
A taproot is a thick, central, and primary root from which a plant’s many roots branch out laterally. Typically, a taproot is fairly straight and grows downward. It may extend to a depth that is greater than the part of the plant sprouting above ground. Now let’s imagine that we humans have metaphorical taproots. They connect us with our sources of inner nourishment. They are lifelines to secret or hidden treasures we may be only partly conscious of. Let’s further imagine that in the coming months, your own taproot will be flourishing, burgeoning, and even spreading deeper to draw in new nutrients. Got all that? Now I invite you to infuse this beautiful vision with an outpouring of love for yourself and for all the wondrous vitality you will be absorbing.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec. 21
Behavioral ecologist Professor Dan Charbonneau has observed the habits of ants and bees and other social insects. He says that a lot of the time, many of them are just lolling around doing nothing. In fact, most animals do the same. The creatures of the natural world are just not that busy. Psychologist Dr. Sandi Mann urges us to learn from their lassitude. “We’ve created a society where we fear boredom and we’re afraid of doing nothing,” she says. But that addiction to frenzy may limit our inclination to daydream, which in turn inhibits our creativity. I bring these facts to your attention, Sagittarius, because I suspect you’re in a phase when lolling around doing nothing will be extra healthy for you. Liberate and nurture your daydreams please!

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19
“Education is an admirable thing,” wrote Oscar Wilde, “but it is well to remember that nothing worth knowing can be taught.” As I ponder your future in the coming weeks, I vociferously disagree with him. I am sure you can learn many things worth knowing from teachers of all kinds. It’s true that some of the lessons may be accidental or unofficial—and not delivered by traditional teachers—but that won’t diminish their value. I invite you to act as if you will in effect be enrolled in school 24/7 until the equinox.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb. 18
The planets Mars and Venus are both cruising through Aquarius. Will they generate synchronicities that weave magic into your destiny? Here are a few possibilities I foresee: 1. arguments assuaged by love-making; 2. smoldering flirtations that finally ignite; 3. mix-ups about the interplay between love and lust or else wonderful synergies between love and lust; 4. lots of labyrinthine love talk, romantic sparring, and intricate exchange about the nature of desire; 5. the freakiest sex ever; 6. adventures on the frontiers of intimacy.

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20
Unlike the Pope’s decrees, my proclamations are not infallible. As opposed to Nostradamus and many modern soothsayers, I never imagine I have the power to definitely and absolutely decipher what’s ahead. One of my main mottoes is “The future is undecided. Our destinies are always mutable.” Please keep these caveats in mind whenever you commune with my horoscopes. Furthermore, consider adopting my approach as you navigate through the world—especially in the coming weeks, when your course will be extra responsive to your creative acts of willpower. Decide right now what you want the next chapter of your life story to be about.

Homework: Make a guess about when you will finally understand your purpose here on Earth. Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology .com

Cheeseburgers in Paradise

Cover Stories

Mark C. Anderson

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February 21, 2024

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Introduction

Want to start a hot conversation at your next party? Ask someone where they find the best burgers in Santa Cruz.

Nothing gets talk going quicker here in what is ironically one of the best places on Earth to find vegetarian food. People love their burgers and not the fast food kind.

Leave it to the Cruz to find ways to liven up what you put inside a bun, from fish to shellfish to bacon and eggs and serrano peppers. It shows that once again there’s nothing boring about our town and you can find so many unusual things to talk about and gobble.

We are like nowhere else, even in our takes on what was once the most basic meal imaginable.

As the commercial says, we think outside the bun.

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS

This is gonna get personal.

It’s also going to get messy and massive, specific and saucy, creative and crave-making, euphoric and caloric.

But as much as anything, Santa Cruz Burger Week reveals how passionate its populace is about burgers, and how personally its citizens take them.

Chef Anthony Kresge has some ideas why. He’s the same flavor maker who built Belly Goat Burgers’ menu of Seoul Surfers, Drunken Onions and Foragers when it opened, and has now come to oversee operations in person after his Reef Dog Deli shuttered post-COVID.

“It’s America’s most loved combination,” he says. “It goes back centuries. People take burgers seriously because it’s one of the most consumed foods in America, and draws from vast intelligence from around the world, and can be adjusted on so many dimensions with so many ingredients, which makes it more interesting to the common consumer.”

Just the other day, Kresge got into a conversation with a patron on the importance of seasoning that bloomed into a full-blown dissertation.

“You have to season,” he says. “But if you overseason, nothing tastes right and salt overpowers. I like to season it on one side so it won’t dry out, and you really taste the meat.”

Speaking of meat, sourcing presents another priority for Kresge.

“People need to be aware of the impact a burger can create, not just as far as sustainable farming but choosing different places to buy burger meat other than mass producers,” he says. “That makes the chef want to elevate it further.”

There are other details to dial in from there. Kresge obsesses over everything from condiments (“Llke any great dish, whether a Michelin-starred plate or a taco, a lot comes down to sauce—very single thing on that burger has to compliment each bite”) to harmony (“A good burger is composed of all the flavors balancing out at once—the acid, the texture, the sweetness, the spiciness, the texture—not too mushy or too sloppy”).

When Good Times asked various participating restaurants what makes burgers borderline spiritual, the answers were appetizing.

Alisha Dodds, manager at under-the-radar burger destination The Crow’s Nest, says she knows when she has a burger connoisseur on her hands when they make multiple visits to try different featured burgers, regularly working through every burger on the menu.

“I feel like you either love burgers or you’re not a burger fan, without a lot of people in between,” she says. “If you love burgers, you probably have a go-to, but it’s also a platform for creativity. You can take it to elevated levels, which makes for a good conversation piece and inspires creativity in the kitchen.”

When discussing the higher art burgers can occupy, Kresge and Mad Yolks co-owner Peter Wong rank among artisans loyal to the power of a proper foundation.

“People often overlook the bun,” says Wong, who tinkered with Mad Yolk’s brioche recipe for months before they opened. “You have a quality half-pound Angus patty, and there’s a lot of juice in there. If your bun loses integrity, the burger loses integrity.”

Wong has his own way of diagnosing true burger believers.

“The first reveal is serious opinions, and they make at least one modification,” he says, reffing a common permutation on the Late Night Burger, a half-pound umami bomb with bacon, tomato, arugula, Mad Yolks sauce, cheddar and sautéed onions. “People remove the arugula. They are like, ‘I’m gonna go all out eating something super indulgent.’”

Which is a reminder Burger Week is not a long-term lifestyle.

It’s a short-lived celebration.

It’s not Carnaval, Christmas, Spring Break or Lunar New Year.

But for the real-deal burger lovers among us, Burger Week is the best time of the year.

Good Times turned to a fellow writer and local stage actor Sarah Kenoyer Thornton for a final thought because she’s so consistent in her burger consumption and comparisons she’s known among her friends as “The Burger Whisperer.”

“Bite into a good burger and all your problems fall away,” she says. “The juices connect soul and palate.”

Her final note: Don’t let their omnipresence distract you.

“Burgers are ubiquitous—you can order them almost anywhere—but to do it well is to achieve a beautiful feat,” she says. “A good burger is like the truth. You can’t deny it.”

•••

Do not pace yourself. Instead, get a plan, and get to it. Pronto.

Too many Animal Smashes, Da Bombs, Big Kahunas, Sopranos and Sicilians mean no time for dilly dallying.

Put differently, there are no fewer than 59 special burger creations on this list (!!), every single one of them crafted to maximize enjoyment in character-rich and flavor-forward ways.

And Santa Cruz Burger Week runs through Feb. 27, so pack in as much exercise as possible to help pack in all the indulgence on the menu.

Here appears the congregation of SCBW participants, with mini hymnals on their Burger Week specials, in alphabetical order:

Back 9 Grill & Bar

The casual ranch setting—overlooking the golf course—feels right for two rustic 1/2-pound ground chuck monsters like the Cheddar & Serrano Chili Pepper Burger and the Garlic, Feta & Black Olive Burger, both flame-grilled and $18 with a side.

Highway 17 at Pasatiempo, Santa Cruz, backninegrill.com

Belly Goat Burger

Two reminders Belly Goat doesn’t mess around with its messy from-scratch craft burger game: the Saigon Fusion with gochujang mayo, tamarind-citrus slaw, smoked cheddar and Korean barbecue sauce ($12) and the Sicilian with pepperoncini slaw, olive tapenade, truffled mushrooms, fontina, roasted red pepper, both with Angus patties on potato brioche buns.

Abbot Square Market, 725 Front St., Santa Cruz, bellygoatburgers.com

Betty’s Burgers

It’s not a contest, it’s a collaboration among the burger congregation. But here appear three BW reasons Good Times readers vote BB best: The Argentine with chimichurri, provolone and red pepper ($13) the Shoreline with hummus, arugula and spicy salsa verde and the Brie with jalapeño jam, fried onions, bacon and brie (both $15).

Four locations (Eastside, Midtown, downtown, Aptos), bettyburgers.com

Bruno’s Bar and Grill

The Soprano might off the unsuspecting with three prawns, onions grilled in red wine, bourbon bacon jam, pepper jack and Cajun aioli. #gangstergrade. SCBW special #2: the Goatbuster with pesto, garlic aioli, mushrooms, sautéed onions, goat cheese, arugula, both featuring 1/3-pound beef patties and brioche bun at $15.

230 Mount Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, brunosbarandgrill.com

Churchill & Beers

Sometimes the harder a burger is to eat, the more it deserves to be eaten. That applies with the Western Bacon with a stack of onion rings, melty cheddar, LTO, barbecue sauce atop Angus beef on Aldo’s house brioche, $18 with fries. Also appearing is a Jalapeño Jack with the titular items, LTO and fries for a tidy $15.

1110 Soquel Drive, Aptos, churchillandbeers.com

The Crow’s Nest

Uncommon creations help make SCBW beautiful, and two shine here, with the Rib-Eye with ground grass-fed steak, bacon-onion jam, Havarti cheese, horseradish and arugula, and the Pacific Rim marinade-seasoned Salmon Burger with sweet chili mustard, Asian slaw on a toasted francese bun. Either runs $18 with fries and beach views included.

2218 E Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, Crowsnest-santacruz.com

Empire Grille

On brand, the Empire deploys a realm of high-ranking tastes for a proletariat price. The Blue Cheese Burger, Breakfast Burger with bacon and egg, Guacamole Burger with Jack cheese and Mushroom Burger with bacon, Swiss and sautéed onions all rule benevolently for $15

6155 Highway 9, Felton, facebook.com/p/Empire-Grille-100063760202490/

Firefly Tavern

The relatively new Fly does a choose-your-own adventure with old-school instincts and contemporary care for the craft. Choices are a single patty with thick-cut bacon, Shropshire blue cheese and roasted radicchio; a double with Worcestershire onion jam, local mushrooms, manchego, LTO; and a double classic with beefsteak tomato, white onion and American cheese on a potato bun. Each $18 with French fries.

110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, instagram.com/firefly_tavern

Heavenly Roadside Cafe

A half-pound Angus patty is an investment by the maker and muncher alike. Smart money here lands on Ruby’s Devilish Delight with grilled jalapeño, pepper Jack, cilantro, chipotle mayo, LTO and choice of mixed greens or fries ($12) or Bella’s Cali with avocado, applewood smoked bacon, American cheese, secret sauce, the fixings and choice of accompaniment ($15).

1210 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, heavenlyroadsidecafe.com

Hula’s Island Grill

The Hula’s homies are not the types to miss out on a flavor-forward fiesta. So bring on The Cajun with bayou spices, Jack cheese and Hula sauce, and a welcome meat-free alternative in The Big Sur Veggie with an inventive-intuitive plantain-rice-panko patty made in house, crowned with portobello mushroom, avocado and pesto aioli. $15 each, dine in please.

221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, hulastiki.com

Laili

A pair of the more North African offerings across the whole beef scape share the room here. Behold the Beef Koobideh crafted with turmeric, cumin, coriander, fresh mint, garlic powder and jalapeño, topped with mint aioli, caramelized onions, arugula and gorgonzola cheese, and the Lamb Burger with Swiss. Both come with roasted paprika potatoes and mixed green salads for $18.

101 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, lailirestaurant.com

Laughing Monk Brewing

The most aggressive religious experience here is also the most affordable. The Smoked Gouda unlocks a double smash burger with red wine-grilled onions, barbecue sauce and LTO ($12). It comes flanked by a Fiesta (smash burger, sautéed bell peppers, guacamole, grilled onions and Sriracha mayo ($15) and an All American featuring crispy onion straws, bacon, cheddar cheese and beer cheese on a pretzel bun, ample napkins vigorously advised ($18).

262 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, scottsvalley.laughingmonkbrewing.com

Mad Yolks

The Yolked Bacon Angus Burger comes hard—in an over-easy way—with the mandatory egg dripping over a half-pound ground chuck, bacon, extra sharp cheddar, baby arugula, caramelized onions and house spicy aioli. Bonus offer to chase it: jasmine lemonade for $3. In some parts of the world, a fried egg is automatic on burgers. Here it’s a rare luxury.

1411 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, madyolks.com

Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery

The Barbecue Bacon Cheeseburger—with high-grade cheddar and an onion ring on brioche, $18 with fries—is new special for SCBW, and hopefully a keeper. The Hawaiian Mochiko Fried Chicken Sandwich, meanwhile, takes a house hit and turns it into a crave-creating wonder marinated in gojuchang and topped with tangy gojuchang aioli and sweet miso sauce, also $18. Dang.

49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, makaisantacruz.com

Mozaic Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar

For Burger Week, Mozaic goes the opposite of prosaic, with study, straightforward and saliva-drawing attractions on three wavelengths. The Mozaic Burger delivers a charbroiled Angus patty with caramelized onions, the Wild Salmon comes grilled with house honey Dijon sauce and caramelized onions, and the Lamb Burger also arrives grilled with fresh mint aioli, tomato and onions. Beyond patties also available, each $15 with fries.

110 Church St., Santa Cruz, mozaicsantacruz.com

Paradise Beach Grille

Tasty simplicity is an art form that finds expression with the Paradis Classic Burger, with a choice of turkey patty, garden patty or Star Ranch Angus beef, complete with LTO, fries and one of the better views in the SCBW lineup.

215 Esplanade, Capitola, paradisebeachgrille.com

Parish Publick House

PPH isn’t shy with its burger show. Exhibit A (like each, served with house barbecue chips and available with an Impossible or veggie patty): The Jack Bite with deep fried pepper jack bites, pickled jalapeños and creamy “honey stung mayo.” Exhibit B: Dave-O fried chicken with crispy bacon, shredded Parmesan,and pesto sauce. Exhibit C: The Gabagool with an antipasti mix of olives, pepperoncini, and shredded lettuce, crispy Italian cured meat and balsamic reduction drizzle. I rest my case.

841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, theparishpublick.com

Riva Fish House

The uncommon SCBW crab entry sounds incredible with the Crabby Patty Stack piling a broiled house crab cake with pickled red onions, arugula, tomato and the Riva’s five-star remoulade sauce. The other play is the Black & Bleu with a 1/3-pound patty loaded with bacon, arugula, tomato, homemade bleu cheese spread and a harmonizing balsamic drizzle. Both on ciabatta, both $18.

31 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, rivafishhouse.com

Rosie McCann’s Irish Pub & Restaurant

The Pacific Street institution plays to its strengths with the messy spectacle that is The Guinness Burger ($15),

1220 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, rosiemccanns.com/santa-cruz/

Roux Dat Cajun Creole

The Capitola gem hiding in plain sight amid the Brown Ranch strip mall goes high value and high flavor with three rich po’ boys ($15 “served dressed” along with Cajun fries, coleslaw or stew): the Black Angus Po’ Boy with caramelized onions and peppers; the Blackened Salmon Po’ Boy also with onions and peppers; and the Vegan Burger Po’ Boy with spicy black bean patty, onions and peppers and dairy-free Cajun aioli.

3555 Clares St., Suite G, Capitola, rouxdatcajuncreole.com

Santa Cruz Diner

The flame-broiled options at the textbook definition of diner all go for $15 and come with fries. Da Bomb Burger employs an egg of any style, bacon and cheese. The Mushroom Burger comes draped in sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss. The California Burger rocks avocado, Monterey Jack and crisp bacon.

909 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, santacruzdiner.com

Seabright Social Brewpub

False advertising is real. Not here. The Big Kahuna Burger proves precisely almost unbelievably big, and may be the tallest SCBW entry in town. Aboard the substantial Social Burger land pulled Kalua-style pork shoulder, grilled pineapple, fermented chili, tomato garlic aioli and a cilantro-ginger slaw. In a word, wowie.

519 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, seabrightsocial.com

Sevy’s Bar + Kitchen

Two takes on ambitious indulgence materialize this week at Sevy’s. The Ultimate Brunch Burger layers a big burger, fried egg and bacon on waffle squares. The Double Pizza Burger does all the mozzarella, marinara and pie game fame. It’s a lot for $18; $3 tags in tots or fries.

7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, sevysbarandkitchen.com

Solaire at Hotel Paradox

The freshly reborn Solaria Restaurant + Bar reveals its flair for zesty details with mozzarella sticks (and bacon, LTO and spicy barbecue sauce) on the Hitch Hiker, double pressed Angus patties (plus American cheese, caramelized onions and fancy sauce) on the Smashed Animal, and turmeric pickles (combine with green onions, pickled onions, little gem lettuce and spicy aioli on a Wagyu sesame patty) on the Paradox Burger. $18 a pop, with a selection of sides $5.

611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, hotelparadox.com

The Point Kitchen & Bar

Atop a brioche bun and an 8-ounce grass-fed beef patty gather bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato and bourbon barbecue sauce. In other words, BBB. Beef. Bourbon. Bacon. Everything you need, nothing you don’t.

3326 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, thepointkitchenandbar.com

The View at Chaminade Resort

This sneaky scenic hilltop spot provides landscapes in 3D and burgers in four dimensions ($18 each): 1) the Quesabirria Burger with house birria, queso and consommé to dip in, 2) the Angus Chuck Smashburger with melted onions and secret sauce, 3) the Prime Dip with ground short rib Angus chuck, Grazin’ Girl blue cheese, horseradish aioli and jus, and 4) the Plant-Based Burger with a black bean patty, vegan cheddar and tahini mustard on a gluten-free potato bun.

1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, chaminade.com

Zachary’s

One of the most bangin’ bargains in the SCBW sphere is also the lone melt. Zach’s Pesto Melt combines a 1/3-pound patty with house pesto, mushrooms, grilled onions and mozzarella on grilled sourdough, just $15 with home fries, fresh fruit or potato salad.

819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, zacharyssantacruz.com

More at santacruzrestaurantweek.com.

SIDEBAR

Back Nine Grill & Bar

555 Hwy 17, Santa Cruz, 831-226-2350, Backninegrill.com,

Belly Goat Burger

725 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-225-0355, bellygoatburgers.com

Betty Burgers

505 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8190

1000 41st Avenue, Capitola, 831-475-5901

1200 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-600-7056

bettyburgers.com

Bruno’s Bar and Grill

230 Mt Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley, 831-438-2227, brunosbarandgrill.com

Churchill & Beers

10110 Soquel Dr., Aptos, 831-612-6558, beeraptos.com

Crows Nest

2218 E Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz, 831-476-4560, crowsnest-santacruz.com

Empire Grill

6155 Hwy 9, Felton, 831-704-2130

Firefly Tavern

110 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, 831-291-5880

Heavenly Cafe

1210 Mt Hermon Rd., Scotts Valley, 831-335-1210, heavenlyroadsidecafe.com

Hula’s Island Grill

221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-4852, hulastiki.com

Laili Restaurant

101 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4545, lailirestaurant.com

Laughing Monk Brewing

262 Mt Hermon Rd. Unit 103, Scotts Valley, 831-226-2868, scottsvalley.laughingmonkbrewing.com

Mad Yolks

1411 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-291-3686, madyolks.com

Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery

49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-466-9766, makaisantacruz.com

Mozaic

110 Church St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8663, mozaicsantacruz.com

Paradise Beach Grill

215 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-476-4900, paradisebeachgrille.com

Parish Publick House

841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507

8017 Soquel Dr., Aptos, 831-708-2036

theparishpublick.com

Solaire at Hotel Paradox

611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-600-4525, hotelparadox.com/solaire-restaurant

The Point Kitchen and Bar

3326 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz, 831-476-2733, thepointkitchenandbar.com

The View at Chaminade

One Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz
831-475-5600
chaminade.com/santa-cruz-restaurants

Riva Fish House

31 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz
831-429-1223, rivafishhouse.com

Rosie McCann’s Irish Pub

1220 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-9930, rosiemccanns.com

Roux Dat

3555 Clares St. Suite G, Capitola, 831-295-6372, rouxdatcajuncreole.com

Santa Cruz Diner

909 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-7151. santacruzdiner.com

Seabright Social

519 Seabright Ave UNIT 107, Santa Cruz, 831-426-2739, seabrightsocial.com

Sevy’s at Seacliff Inn

7500 Old Dominion Ct, Aptos, 831-688-8987, seacliffinn.com/santa-cruz-restaurants

Zachary’s Restaurant

819 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831-427-0646, zacharyssantacruz.com

Street Talk

Street Talk

John Koenig

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February 21, 2024

0

It’s Burger Week! How’d you describe YOUR perfect burger?

“My dream hamburger has to be made with all-natural, hormone-free beef on a nice, soft bun, with lots of gooey cheese, any kind—sliced raw jalapenos all over it—and instead of mustard and ketchup, I like Ranch dressing on my burger.”

Patrick Williams, 51, Recovering Ex-Pro-Triathlete

“You got a medium size, medium cooked hamburger, cheddar cheese melted into the patty, avocado, bacon, lettuce, pickles and onions and definitely In-N-Out sauce on a little-bit toasted bun.”

Emily Thompson, 17, student

“Just a regular bacon cheeseburger is good with me, to tell you the truth. With thick cut applewood smoked bacon. American cheese or sharp cheddar. Some raw red onions on there—I’m not a sauteed onion guy. I like mustard. Pickles too.”

Austin Wilson, 46, State Employee

“Probably TWO patties, with melted swiss or cheddar, bacon—like extra bacon—lettuce, ketchup, mustard—on a toasted sesame.bun.”

Sarah Drees, 17, Student

“A bison burger, medium, on a toasted bun with melted, slightly burnt asiago. Heirloom tomatoes. Thick cut pickles right on the burger. More melted asiago. Two slices of slightly crispy bacon.”

Michael Osterbur 34 Physical Therapist

“It would be a medium-well beef burger with barbeque sauce and onion rings—like a rodeo burger, but gourmet. And crunchy lettuce. Some sauteed mushrooms. And Bubbies bread and butter pickles.”

Elise Baker, 36, Nanny—with daughter Aster

Santa Cruz District 2 City Council Candidate: Hector Marin

GT Staff

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February 16, 2024

1

Santa Cruz District 2 City Council Candidate: Hector Marin

Santa Cruz’s District 2 city council seat is being contested in the upcoming March 5 election between political newcomer Hector Marin and incumbent councilmember Sonja Brunner.

Marin previously ran for city council as a candidate for District 4 in 2022, but lost to current councilmember Scott Newsome. Marin is focused on addressing the housing crisis; supporting organized labor; protecting small businesses from corporate competition and bringing more Latinx voices into the political process.

GT sent questions to the candidates to get their takes on some of the city’s most pressing issues. Read Marin’s responses below.

(At the time of publication Sonja Brunner had not submitted her responses).

Why are you running for City Council?

Living in Seabright, I am running for City Council in District 2 to bring positive change to our East-side Santa Cruz, Seabright, Midtown and Lower Ocean neighborhoods. As a teacher’s aide, tenant and essential worker, I aim to amplify the voices of the most vulnerable, ensuring community involvement at all levels. I’ll work hard to preserve our city’s unique character and provide much-needed Latino representation in a town that is 30% Hispanic. Together, let’s put community first.

What do you think will be the most pressing needs for Santa Cruz over the next four years, and how would you address these needs as a council member?

Housing, homelessness and community safety are the most important issues to District 2. Our platform wants to create neighborhood councils which customizes the needs of affordable housing to every neighborhood’s needs and preference of density. Homelessness is also another huge problem, and our candidacy wants to ensure that we have a more transparent budgeting process in the City’s 3-Year Homelessness Emergency Plan so we can reallocate resources efficiently. Our candidacy will also advocate for community cleanups to beautify our public spaces and make them safe for our families.

What are your thoughts on how the city should address the increasing demand for affordable housing? Any ideas on how to keep public services adequate to accommodate potential new growth?

I think that we should consult with the community to provide housing needs for our district. We can build affordable housing and meet the state requirements with our current General Plan, maintaining the current height limits and zoning laws. We also want to make the new development projects more affordable at the very-low income and extremely very low income level. A public service that I would propose would be free legal consultation services that are City-funded for tenants who have been displaced or are facing eviction, enhancing tenant protections in the process.

Do you think raising the city’s sales tax to help fund assistance programs for the unhoused is a good idea? What else do you think could be done to address the issue?

Our candidacy believes in consulting with the community first when considering increasing sales taxes at a local level. I think that we can make the current City’s Homelessness Emergency Plan more transparent, and reallocate resources by better funding mental health services, shelter programs and job-training programs.

Santa Cruz District 5 City Council Candidate: Susie O’Hara

GT Staff

-

February 15, 2024

0

Santa Cruz District 5 City Council Candidate: Susie O’Hara

Santa Cruz’s District 5 city council seat is being contested in the upcoming March 5 election between two political newcomers, Susie O’Hara and Joe Thompson.

Over the last 15 years, O’Hara worked for the City of Santa Cruz as water commissioner and as program manager for the city manager’s office. She has served on local nonprofit boards, county commissions and has ties to UC Santa Cruz. O’Hara hopes to improve the effectiveness of local government.

GT sent questions to the candidates to get their takes on some of the city’s most pressing issues. Read O’Hara’s responses below.

Why are you running for City Council?

I’ve been a Santa Cruz resident for almost 18 years. I’ve raised my children here. I have worked along many invested and talented community members to bring about positive change. I have seen our community experience hardships and victories. I’m running for City Council to utilize my extensive experience, passion for change and problem-solving skills to ensure each community member has the very best quality of life, a consistent opportunity to engage, and a city government they can be proud of.

What do you think will be the most pressing needs for Santa Cruz over the next four years, and how would you address these needs as a council member?

Santa Cruz faces many pressing issues but none more important than our lack of affordable housing, the uncertain funding options to continue improving homeless response, and infrastructure resiliency, especially in light of climate change. To make progress on each of these issues, our City Council must follow through on our Housing Element plan, develop government and private coalitions to build affordable workforce and student housing, maintain a balanced budget and proactively invest in infrastructure resiliency.

What are your thoughts on how the city should address the increasing demand for affordable housing? Any ideas on how to keep public services adequate to accommodate potential new growth?

The City’s development standards take into consideration not only the building size, density and physical cohesiveness with the neighborhood, but how those new residents will integrate into our public service demands. Adequate water supply and pressure, adequate transportation access, fire safety and other services are integrated into our approval process. While that process happens project by project, the City’s General Plan considers growth within a holistic context, ensuring our community’s water supply portfolio, traffic patterns, revenue sources and public safety response are adequate today and well into the future.

Do you think raising the city’s sales tax to help fund assistance programs for the unhoused is a good idea? What else do you think could be done to address the issue?

Yes, I support the City’s sales tax increase. We’ve made a significant amount of progress on homelessness response and much of the City’s new programs are funded by one-time State funds. To continue to see success and impact, we must have a sustainable source of funding for not only homelessness response, but to ensure the City’s essential workers are fairly compensated, our streets, neighborhoods and open spaces are safe and inviting, and our good work on housing development can continue.

Good TimesGood Times

Good TimesGood Times

Snake Oil?

Foot Traffic Jammed

Trigger Plays

Making a Scene

Free Will Astrology

The Editor’s Desk

Beat It, Meat!

Beers for Cheers

Otoboke Beaver an Unhinged Experience

A Jewel of a Lion in Winter

The Editor’s Desk

Photo Contest

Good Idea

Good Work

Quote of the Week

Letters

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Free Will Astrology

Cheeseburgers in Paradise

Introduction

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS

SIDEBAR

Street Talk

Santa Cruz District 2 City Council Candidate: Hector Marin

Santa Cruz District 5 City Council Candidate: Susie O’Hara

Otoboke Beaver an Unhinged Experience

A Jewel of a Lion in Winter

The Editor’s Desk

Letters

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Free Will Astrology

Cheeseburgers in Paradise

Street Talk

Santa Cruz District 2 City Council Candidate: Hector Marin

Santa Cruz District 5 City Council Candidate: Susie O’Hara