Taco Tradition

Foodie File

Andrew Steingrube

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December 10, 2025

A mere one-minute walk to and a stone’s throw away from the Boardwalk, Santa Cruz Wharf and ocean, Las Palmas Taco Bar opened in 1955 and has been in its current location since 1975. Ron Méndez and his father Rick are the owners. Ron started there over 20 years ago as a cashier and worked his way up, doing everything from cleaning to prepping and cooking the food.

The ambiance is colorful and vibrant, with indoor/outdoor seating and a big-screen TV for sports and movies. Ron says the food menu features Jalisco-born recipes, blending traditional Mexican favorites with American touches. The offerings are headlined by the heritage crispy tacos, filled with ground beef, shredded beef or chicken, plus lettuce, homemade spicy red salsa and their famous dry Monterey Jack cheese.

Proteins include carne asada, chili verde, chili Colorado, chorizo and carnitas. And the beverage side is held down by homemade horchata and local fountain drinks.

Customer receiving a plate of food at the counter from staff at Las Palmas Taco Bar in Santa Cruz. — **FAMILY RUN** Stan Welsh (left) receives his shredded beef taco with rice and beans from Las Palmas Taco Bar proprietors Ron and Rick Mendez. Photo: Tarmo Hannula

What has kept the business successful for 70 years?

Other sabroso selections include a chimichanga burrito, loaded deluxe nachos and super quesadillas, and a popular veggie burrito (recommended spicy) with rice, beans, sour cream, guac and a battered and fried cheese-stuffed chile relleno.

RON MÉNDEZ: It starts with great work ethic and then passion, love and the grace of God. The restaurant has been in the family for four generations, started by my great-grandfather, originally inspired by his cooking and especially his perfected-over-time ground beef recipe that we still use today. Both locals and people from all around the world have been to Las Palmas. I think our food, ambiance and world-class location really mean a lot to people and leave an impression that is now multigenerational. One of our customers even got a tattoo of our coordinates because she is such a superfan.

Tell me more about the crispy tacos.

It all started with the ground beef tacos that we’ve been serving for our entire 70-year history. And 50 years ago, the shredded beef and chicken options made their debut and decided to stay. These tacos really have a fan-based following and people often argue over which is best. But they are all really delicious—the way the meat is prepared combined with the cheese creates a deeply savory and memorable gotta-have-more experience.

55 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1220; laspalmastacobar.com

Path to Literacy

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December 10, 2025

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We’re well into the annual Santa Cruz Gives fundraising event, which runs until Dec. 31. Below, Good Times writer Kristen McLaughlin tells the story behind the nonprofit organization Live Like Coco, one of the 72 nonprofit organizations participating in Santa Cruz Gives. Following that, other nonprofits share their “elevator pitch,” explaining what they plan to do with the money they raise. To donate to any of these local groups, visit santacruzgives.org.

A rainbow-covered bookmobile is the latest addition to Live Like Coco, a local nonprofit helping kids in the Santa Cruz County area grow up happy, healthy and with opportunities to pursue their dreams.

Formed in 2016, Live Like Coco Foundation not only gets books into the hands of students who need them, it also strengthens the idea that a book is a gift. Focused entirely on literacy, the program connects with school librarians to provide every student at participating schools with a free book on their birthday. As the cornerstone of the Foundation, the books now reach approximately 6,000 K-6 students in 12 schools across the County.

The foundation is named in memory of Colette “Coco” Lazenby, a self-described “book lover, cat petter and environmentalist” who was killed in a car accident in August 2015 at age 12. Coco’s parents, Kate Pavao and Aaron Lazenby, started the foundation to honor her love of reading and community.

Coco was born in San Francisco, where she attended Maria Montessori of the Golden Gate and Adda Clevenger schools. After moving to Aptos in 2008, Coco attended Orchard School Santa Cruz Montessori and Pacific Coast Charter School.

Coco connected with many community activities during her short time here. She played the role of Dorothy in All About Theatre’s production of The Wizard of Oz. She sang with the Cabrillo Youth Chorus and performed with the Watsonville Taiko drumming group. She volunteered with Save Our Shores, the Homeless Garden Project and Team in Training. She loved nature and the outdoors, fostered cats and kittens through Animal Shelter Relief, and had her own pet-sitting business. She knew that whatever she did, she wanted to have lots of rescue animals in her life.

She was also a voracious reader, particularly fond of fantasy series, such as Harry Potter, Maximum Ride and The Hunger Games.

Birthday Books from Coco currently serves 12 area schools: Del Mar Elementary, Gault Elementary, Freedom Elementary, Green Acres Elementary, Hall District Elementary, Live Oak Elementary, Mar Vista Elementary, Ohlone, Radcliff, Soquel, Starlight and Valencia elementary schools.

“I look forward each month to share the excitement Coco brings to our students and school,” says Alma Rodriguez, librarian at Soquel Elementary School for 15 years. “When students returned to the library after Thanksgiving break, the first thing they were asking for was Coco books. ‘It’s my birthday month,’ they said. ‘Will I be getting a Coco book?’”

Launched in 2024, the bookmobile is building a culture of reading, one book at a time, especially in underserved communities. In 2026, Live Like Coco hopes to expand its reach and spark even more young imaginations by bringing bookmobile to even more events year-round. Studies show that putting books in the hands of marginalized populations can help shrink the achievement gap and create lifelong learners.

Santa Cruz Gives donations will pay for a driver, operating cost of the bookmobile for four hours per event, and new books—especially books kids love, such as Dog Man and The Baby-Sitters Club. The organization expects to attend one community event each month, so that all students are gifted with a book of their own choosing.

Volunteers also place Little Free Libraries around the county, including at the Homeless Garden Project, Seacliff Village County Park and Pinto Lake County Park. In addition, they participate in beach cleanups with Save Our Shores.

Nonprofit Organizations Benefiting Local Children

Activities 4 All—“This Watsonville-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, founded in 2010, is dedicated to providing high-quality recreational, artistic and cultural programs at accessible prices. We serve low-income, migrant and Spanish-speaking families through affordable, culturally rooted programs such as soccer, Mexican folklórico dance, and the Ilusión Music Academy. Through these authentic arts and sports experiences, Activities4All fosters confidence, discipline and cultural pride in youth.” —Ose Camacho

Birds of a Feather Tutoring—“Run by an experienced queer teacher, Birds of a Feather offers individualized academic tutoring sessions designed to embrace the unique and precious experience of each LGBTQ+ student providing them the support they need to thrive academically and in their lives. No matter who is creating the national policies, we remain steadfast, present, and ready to support queer youth in Santa Cruz County with their academic needs.” —Kris Kifer

Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County—“For over 55 years, the Club has been a place where local kids find the things that help them thrive, regardless of what is happening at home. Caring mentors, warm free meals, daily homework help, arts, sports, and music. As Santa Cruz builds new housing to accommodate the influx of new families waiting for affordable places to live, the Club will be ready to serve and welcome the next generation of Santa Cruz youth and families, helping them to achieve their great futures as caring, productive and responsible citizens. Scholarships are key to this, and local donors help us meet the rising need!” —Andrew Cunningham, director of development

Camp Opportunity—“Eight-year-old John doesn’t know his next meal, whether he will go to school, or how to swim. For one summer week, he gets three meals a day, picks classes like archery or Legos, and is able to learn to swim at Camp Opportunity, all for free. Thirty-six years later, John is our camp director, giving at-risk youth the same healing, fun, free week of camp he loved as a young boy!” —Jasmine Glenn, Camp Opportunity

Coastal Kids Home Care—“California’s only nonprofit pediatric home health agency serving Northern California improves the lives of children facing illness, injury, developmental delays, and end-of-life care. … We help medically fragile children live their best lives at home, providing expert medical care and unwavering support to them and their families. Meet Christopher, a 12-year-old from Aptos with Morquio A Syndrome, one of many children we serve in our community facing medical challenges so complex that each day demands extraordinary strength—and every smile is a sign of resilience.” —Savanna Harris, development specialist

Free Books for Kids—“Want to see a kid’s face light up? Watch that child choose a free book that they can take home and keep forever. Free Books for Kids has done this thousands of times in the past 11 years, keeping quality used books out of the landfill and putting them in the hands of children, where they belong.” —Pamela Randall, director

Pajaro Valley Prevention & Student Assistance, Inc.—“Did you know PVPSA is the only nonprofit in Watsonville solely dedicated to serving the behavioral health needs of children, families and youth? … We created Juntos Sanando/Healing Together, a Mental Health Awareness Day that brings families together for mental health education, wellness activities, guided art activities, resources and linkages to care, and shared meals. Last year, over 300 community members joined us. With your support, we can expand these services and make an even bigger impact in 2026, helping Watsonville heal, together.” —Jasmine N. Nájera, LCSW, chief executive officer

Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery—“Families are drowning in Santa Cruz’s sky-high cost of living, and the switch to universal TK created an unexpected summer care gap for 4- to 5-year-olds with few county options. The Children’s Museum of Discovery scholarship fund through Santa Cruz Gives will ensure young children access to high-quality summer education and care, solving a critical childcare need while parents work to keep up with rising costs.”

Youth Resource Bank—“Too many children in Santa Cruz County face unmet needs that limit not only their potential but also our community’s shared future. We fill those gaps with whatever the youth need to be successful: This may include fees for camps, school fees, a class ring, sports equipment, specialized shoes, and gift cards for retail or grocery stores that will address specific needs. When you donate to Youth Resource Bank, you are not just giving. You are investing in the resilience of our youth, in the health of families. … Together, we can ensure that small acts of generosity become the spark that changes a child’s life forever.” —Jo Ann Allen, vice chair

Tracks Derailed

Todd Guild

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December 10, 2025

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The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) on Thursday approved a plan to develop an interim bicycle and pedestrian trail on segments 9–11 of the Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line from San Lorenzo River in Santa Cruz to State Park Drive in Aptos.

Thursday’s 7-5 vote—which came after a six-hour meeting—means that a temporary trail will be built on top of the existing tracks, as opposed to the “ultimate” design of a trail running parallel to the existing rail line.

Segment 8, located along Beach Street in Santa Cruz, will continue to be developed in the ultimate trail configuration.

The decision fell short of trail-only advocates’ hopes for so-called rail banking, which would have meant removal of the tracks to be ostensibly replaced when funding materializes.

The plan was a combined effort of commissioners Fred Keeley—Santa Cruz’s mayor—and Manu Koenig, who holds the First District seat on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors.

This significant change in direction—County residents in 2022 soundly rejected Measure D that would have required the county to focus on a trial-only model—came after the RTC’s acceptance of the Zero-Emission Passenger Rail and Trail (ZEPRT) Project Concept Report in October, which identified significant capital and operating costs of more than $4.5 billion for future rail service, envisioned as a long-term project for our region.

Those costs have been a significant sticking point in the controversial issue that has divided the county.

Supporters of the rail-trail envision a future of a cross-county passenger rail system that could connect to the Bay Area rail lines and points beyond, as an adjacent trail would allow for walkers and bikers.

But opponents to the Coastal Rail Trail plan point to the astronomical $4.5 billion price tag, which includes replacing rails and several bridges, including the Capitola trestle.

The RTC has also been criticized for paying nearly $575,000 to Raleigh, N.C.-based engineering, planning, and design consulting firm Kimley-Horn and Associates from 2017-2019, and another $640,000 to architecture, engineering, and environmental and construction services to Nebraska-based consultant HDR Engineering, Inc. in 2020-21.

In addition, the RTC has shelled out more than $960,000 in labor costs from 2023-26.

The move away from a rail-trail model was necessary, RTC staff says, to reduce project costs and save grant funding for the Coastal Rail Trail, which otherwise would be eliminated or substantially reduced.

This includes a $96 million state grant that could be rescinded if the state doesn’t begin segments 8–11, from Santa Cruz to State Park Drive in Aptos, by June 2027.

RTC Staff says that estimated construction costs have increased significantly from the original estimate of $500 million, and the previously planned ultimate plan for Segments 9-11 cannot be delivered within existing funding, timelines, and grant requirements.

“Grant funds come with strict requirements and timelines, and failure to advance a buildable project within those timelines could result in the loss of significant public funds,” said RTC Executive Director Sarah Christensen. “The Interim Trail configuration ensures that construction can begin on time, opening the public corridor for near-term active transportation use, delivering grant benefits of enhancing safety, access, and mobility, while maintaining the possibility of future passenger rail service.”

At Thursday’s meeting, the Commission directed staff to continue seeking full funding for the ZEPRT project’s next step, which would be completion of preliminary engineering and environmental review.

The Commission directed staff to return within two months with a proposal to allow the construction of the Interim Trail without the need for adverse abandonment of the freight easement or railbanking.

But the decision does not mean the RTC has abandoned plans for a rail-trail.

The commission also approved a resolution of support for future passenger rail and continued partnership with the Caltrans Division of Rail on Corridor Identification and Development, which aligns with the 2024 State Rail Plan.

“The Interim Trail is designed so that the corridor remains preserved for potential future passenger rail service, consistent with the State Rail Plan and ongoing participation in the federal Corridor Identification and Development (Corridor ID) program,” Christensen said. “This step would also preserve existing freight for the customers being served along the branch line’s southernmost three miles in Watsonville.”

In addition, staff was told to prepare the final design and actions to implement the Interim Trail on Coastal Rail Trail Projects as expeditiously as possible, and additionally requested that staff investigate a design alternative that does not require the removal of the tracks.

Staff will also look into retrofitting the Capitola Trestle for bicycle and pedestrian use either as part of the project already under development or as a separate future project.

For information, visit sccrtc.org.

For the Holidays, Give Friends a Truly Local Experience

Cover Stories

sstreet

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December 10, 2025

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For the Holidays, Give Friends a Truly Local Experience

If you’ve ever stared at a gift list thinking, They don’t need more stuff, you are not alone. More and more of us are ditching material gifts in favor of memories—the kind that come with laughter, fresh air, salt spray, music, candlelight, creativity, even inner peace.

Here in Santa Cruz, we’re lucky. Experience gifts are everywhere, from ocean adventures and wine-tasting afternoons to weekend retreats and candlelit concerts that feel like stepping into a dream. So this holiday season, here are some of the most delightful, local and totally unforgettable gifts you can give.

Kayaking at Elkhorn Slough

A naturalist’s dream, and one of the most peaceful adventures you can give. The slough is a 7-mile-long estuary and otter sanctuary, home to hundreds of otters, along with countless species of birds, marine animals and plants. It’s an easy, beginner-level paddle through glassy waters as the otters play nearby. This is the kind of experience that reminds you how extraordinary our own backyard is. $95 for a double kayak | kayakconnection.com/elkhorn-slough/

Chardonnay Sailing Adventure

Whether you choose a sunset cruise or join the iconic Wednesday night race sail, gifting a seat aboard the Chardonnay is gifting pure Santa Cruz fun. Think sea breeze, local wine, good company and a front-row view of the coastline we never get tired of. For the adventurous or the romantic—better yet, both. From $76.59 | chardonnay.com

A Day of Retreat at Mount Madonna

No flights required. A visit to Mount Madonna Retreat Center is the perfect reset: towering redwoods, mountaintop views, meditation spaces, hiking trails, and peaceful, unplugged time. Gift a day pass or an inclusive and potentially life-changing weekend retreat—perfect for anyone longing for stress reduction, clarity or an opportunity for guided self-reflection. Price varies | mountmadonna.org/calendar

Golf Lessons at Pasatiempo

For the golfer (or the someday golfer), a lesson at Pasatiempo Golf Club is next-level. Designed by Alister MacKenzie, it’s one of the top courses in the world, right here in Santa Cruz. Whether beginner or seasoned player, this gift feels luxe, memorable and tailored. From $80 | pasatiempo.com/golf/golf-lesson-fees

Patio with pond and plants — CLUTTER-FREE GIFTS 1440’s Lunch & Learn series blends nourishing food with wellness experiences like breathwork, meditation and sound baths. PHOTO: Elizabeth Borelli

‘Lunch & Learn’ at 1440 Multiversity

Give the gift of a midday reset. 1440’s Lunch & Learn series blends nourishing food with wellness experiences like breathwork, meditation and sound baths. The eco-designed redwood campus itself is worth the trip. It’s perfect for someone who wants to try something new, deepen their wellness practice, or simply take a few hours to breathe. $125 | Choose from a variety of programs | 1440.org/events

Westside Wine Tasting Walk

No need to drive to Napa when we have award-winning wines right here in Santa Cruz, zero planning required: Head to Fair Avenue, park once, and spend the afternoon exploring the wineries. Some favorites include Stockwell Cellars, Silver Mountain Winery and Bottle Jack Winery. Pair your tasting with walkable eats from El Sacheiro charcuterie or Fonda Felix empanadas (order at the walk-up iPad window)—then finish the day with a full meal at Bantam or Venus. Simply plan the outing and present an itinerary wrapped with a bow.

Salsa Dancing at Palomar Ballroom

For the one who’s always wanted to learn the moves, or the couple who needs more fun in their week. Salsa lessons at Palomar Ballroom are joyful, energizing and beginner-friendly. Bonus: dancing is linked to better mood, memory and heart health. This is wellness disguised as fun. $60 for three-class series | palomarballroom.com

Paint-and-Sip Night at The Painted Cork

Give the gift of creativity, no experience required. The Painted Cork offers guided painting nights where guests sip wine, laugh, and leave with a personal masterpiece. Great for friends, couples, coworkers, or anyone who needs a playful night out. paintedcork.com/calendar/classes-and-events

Candlelight Concerts: A Valentine’s Classic, Elevated

Imagine stepping into a room bathed in warm candlelight, where a string quartet plays everything from Vivaldi to Queen. Santa Cruz’s Candlelight Concerts are one of the most romantic gifts in town—immersive, intimate, and totally transportive. If your Valentine swoons over live music, loves a moody aesthetic, or simply needs an evening that feels like a deep exhale, this is the ticket. February 14 | feverup.com/en/santa-cruz/candlelight

The best part? These gifts don’t end up in the landfill. Experience gifts create stories, not clutter. They support local businesses, encourage connection, and make people feel truly seen.

Whether your person loves adventure, creativity, wine, movement or deep relaxation, Santa Cruz has something extraordinary to offer.

And who knows, maybe they’ll bring you along!

Holiday Entertaining: Keep It Cozy, Keep It Local

Cover Stories

sstreet

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December 10, 2025

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Holiday Entertaining: Keep It Cozy, Keep It Local

Holiday entertaining doesn’t have to mean immaculate tablescapes, elaborate menus or perfectly matched plates. In Santa Cruz, we do things a little differently. We lean into warmth, creativity and community with a hint of coastal quirk. Forget Martha Stewart—the recipe for a memorable gathering starts with setting a theme, asking guests to bring something they love, and filling in the rest with local flavors that tell a story all their own.

This year, consider a theme that captures the season without tipping into tinsel overload. Think Winter by the Sea, Homegrown Holidays or Mediterranean Solstice—a nod to bright citrus, good olive oil and the comforting warmth of spices. A theme is less about rules and more about a vibe, a playful prompt that pulls everything together from décor to dishes.

Once you’ve set the tone, let the menu become a team effort. Asking guests to bring a favorite dish isn’t just practical; it builds connection. Instead of a potluck free-for-all, invite everyone to choose something that fits the theme or reflects a holiday memory. A favorite soup. A family-recipe dessert. A salad inspired by a recent farmers’ market haul. And let them know they don’t even have to make it. If they’re willing to brave the line at Gayle’s, more power to them, and you! Choose a beautiful main dish or a signature cocktail, and let your guests bring the color, creativity and the conversation pieces.

The best part? In Santa Cruz, we’re spoiled for locally sourced shortcuts that make hosting genuinely stress-free. Need a centerpiece cheese board? Shopper’s Corner or Cheese Shop 831 in Capitola has you covered with everything from truffle brie to perfectly aged goudas. For something more homegrown, swing by Bargetto Vineyards or Birichino for a vintage to warm up a crisp winter evening.

If your theme leans Mediterranean, stop by Companion Bakeshop for a loaf of naturally leavened sourdough that instantly elevates any meal. Add in some Tuscan herb olive oil and fig balsamic vinegar from True Olive Connection and you’ve upgraded simple ingredients into a small feast. For dessert, few things beat the macarons or honey cake from Sugar Bakery in Soquel—easy to plate, impossible to resist.

For the cooks who prefer shortcuts (no shame here), Zoccoli’s Deli carries local favorites like house-made dips, colorful salads and grab-and-go entrées that blend seamlessly into a home-hosted meal. And for an extra festive touch, pick up a bouquet or table greens from Far West Nursery, where the winter foliage is as inspiring as it is fragrant.

When the evening arrives, remember that the magic isn’t in perfection, it’s in atmosphere. Dim the lights, spark a few candles, put on some mellow holiday jazz, and let the afternoon or evening unfold at its own pace. With a thoughtful theme, good local ingredients, and dishes made (and chosen) with love, what you’re really serving is presence. Connection. A moment to exhale in the middle of a season that too often asks us to rush.

This year, let entertaining be easy. Let it feel like Santa Cruz.

Music for the Solstice

Christina Waters

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December 10, 2025

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Inventive, engaging and an out-and-out performance romp, the latest collection of Opera Project arias and vocal superpowers lit up the Woodhouse Brewery last month. A clever concept. Matching the voices of performers with flights of well-made craft beers (the IPA and the chocolate stout were outstanding!), from lightest to darkest/deepest, the afternoon offered a high-energy outpouring of opera and music comedy delights.

Singers Lori Schulman and Jordan Best—the Project co-founders—were joined by tenors Jorge Torrez and Alex Cook, bass Edward Tavalian and mezzo Solmaaz Adeli taking turns seducing the full house with sprightly offerings from Hamilton, The Magic Flute, Les Miserables, Faust, et al. All were accompanied smartly by Shannon d’Antonio on violin and Daniel Goldsmith on piano. Outstanding one and all, but most memorable for me included Tavalian’s shamelessly bravura rendering of “I Am a Pirate King” by Gilbert & Sullivan. And the shimmering legato of Jordan Best with Vilja’s song from The Merry Widow. Her gorgeous voice produced chills. Torrez’s deeply expressive “Dear Theodosia” from Hamilton had me in tears. Wow, just wow. The Project, fueled by the effervescence of Schulman, continues to attract new admirers of all ages, leaning into the accessibility of light opera—the beginning steps just before Verdi, Puccini, and…Wagner. Watch for their next performance! santacruzoperaproject.org.

Orchestra musicians rehearsing — Santa Cruz Youth Symphony rehearses with conductor Nathaniel Berman. PHOTO: Michael Cinque

SC Youth Symphony Wows

Congratulations to the musicians of the Santa Cruz Youth Symphony. The professionals of tomorrow gave a polished and utterly enjoyable concert at UCSC’s Recital Hall last week. In his 15th year as music director, Nathanial Berman knows how to elicit the very best from his 40 young musicians. They worked their way confidently through an ambitious evening. Wisely programming music both challenging yet accessible to his players, Berman has developed his players’ technical skills through classical masterworks they clearly enjoy performing. For me the surprise was a suite of highlights from the hit movie Wicked. A blend of pops and classical, the intricate selections composed by Stephen Schwartz and arranged by Ted Ricketts was diverse enough in style and orchestration to show off the colors of each section—brass, percussion, strings, and woodwinds. Soaring and playful, the Wicked excerpts led to my favorite of the night, a vigorous dispatch of two movements from Dvořák’s brooding and heroic New World Symphony. Special praise for pianist Matthew Mather and Amiel Goodman, whose sensitive flute embroidered the Dvořák. Impressive. And they’ve got another big concert in the spring.

Chorale Carols the Season

The mighty Santa Cruz Chorale will present its Winter Concert under the baton of maestro Christian Grube on Dec. 20–21 at Holy Cross Church. Honoring the Yuletide season, the program offers an enchanting array of carols from around the world—Lithuania, Germany, Spain, Estonia, England, as well as some beloved works the audience might fondly recall from childhood Christmases past. Joining the worldwide celebration of the 90th birthday of legendary Estonian luminary Arvo Pärt, the Chorale will present Pärt’s Magnificat, composed for Christian Grube and his Berlin boys’ choir. Plus the stunning O Magnum Mysterium by Morten Lauridson. To celebrate the centennial of American composer Kirke Mechem, the Chorale will present three pieces displaying Mechem’s unexpected and beautiful key progressions. In the gorgeous acoustics of Holy Cross Church, this stunning concert will open hearts to the spirit of the season. santacruzchorale.org

Smokin’ Hot Scoville Units

The rhythms of Brazil syncopated their way through sensuous music by Jon Scoville that had the packed Kuumbwa crowd hoppin’ on Nov. 14. To honor composer Scoville’s incredible career as a world music jazz creator, Tandy Beal & Company joined forces with Kuumbwa to produce an unprecedented display of powerhouse musical chops. The opening tour de force of Brazilian-inspired thunder absolutely brought down the house. Mambo and bossa nova flowed through many of these cross-cultural tapestries of progressive chords and alternative timing. In other pieces, such as Selabrise, the influence of Scoville’s studies in Java and India sifted up through the energy of one of the best bands ever put together in this town.

Musician on stage with horns surrounded by other players with the audience looking on — BRAZILIAN-INSPIRED THUNDER John Scoville and friends played Nov. 14 at Kuumbwa.

Keeping the percussion edgy and loaded with texture was Steve Robertson on a pulsating array of congas, gongs, scrapers, tambourines, maracas, woodblocks, you name it. Keeping it all driving was Dillon Vado on drums. Art Khu on piano simply dazzled, working through Scoville’s astonishing repertoire with Yale-trained classical chops as well as some awesome jazz improv. Dave McNab unleashed smokin’ hot rock ’n’ roll riffs on Outhood, among others, while Michael Wilcox on electric bass nailed down every moment.

Charlie McCarthy’s suite of woodwinds showed off his long career working with giants of pop song. Mark Pascucci-Clifford worked the vibraphone into a new dimension, practically levitating with sexy invention. Arranger and keyboard ace Jeffrey Gaeto kept the ensemble on track. After only four rehearsals of this complex music the group of Bay Area all-stars provided superb interpretation of Scoville’s finest. Let’s just say that everybody in the whole place—from audience, old friends (a who’s who of local music honchos), the musicians themselves, and the composer—was blown away. Kudos to all.

Tons of Toxics at Moss Landing

Brad Kava

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December 3, 2025

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Researchers monitoring effects on wildlife

Longterm effects from two-day fire. Photo: Tarmo Hannula

Staff report

Editor’s note: This story came in part from a report by San Jose State University Professor of Marine Geology Ivano Aiello for the website The Conversation

The Jan. 16 fire at the Vistra battery energy storage plant in Moss Landing spewed an estimated 25 metric tons—55,000 pounds—of heavy metals into the air, which were deposited across roughly half a square mile of wetlands around Elkhorn Slough.

That’s according to a report published Monday by San Jose State University Professor of Marine Geology Ivano Aiello on the website The Conversation.

Based on the amount of batteries that burned, roughly 1,000 to 1,400 metric tons of cathode material could have been carried into the smoke plume. What researchers found in local wetlands represents about 2% of what may have been released, Aiello said.

The fire burned for days, with thick black smoke spreading over farm fields and into neighborhoods. Residents reported a variety of maladies, such as headaches and respiratory problems.

The Environmental Protection Agency declared that the air quality met federal standards, but Aiello released an initial study in January that showed high levels of heavy metals in the soil.

“The smoke plume from the fire … released not just hazardous gases such as hydrogen fluoride but also soot and charred fragments of burned batteries that landed for miles around,” Aiello wrote. “The batteries’ metal fragments, often too tiny to see with the naked eye, didn’t disappear. They continue to be remobilized in the environment today.”

Aiello said that the metals can be a serious hazard for wildlife.

“These metals bioaccumulate, building up through the food chain,” he wrote. “The metals in marsh soils can be taken up by worms and small invertebrates, which are eaten by fish, crabs or shorebirds, and eventually by top predators such as sea otters or harbor seals.

Aiello’s group is now tracking the bioaccumulation in Elkhorn Slough’s shellfish, crabs and fish.

“Because uptake varies among species and seasons, the effect of the metals on ecosystems will take months or years to emerge,” he wrote.

Santa Cruz County is considering building another battery plant in Watsonville.

Letters

Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor

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December 3, 2025

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VETERANS NEED HELP

My name is Dave Ramos, a U.S. Army Veteran and Managing Director of the Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building. I am reaching out on behalf of a coalition of local veterans and their families to bring immediate attention to a crisis severely jeopardizing the quality of service provided by the Santa Cruz County Veterans Service Office (VSO).

The VSO, which provides vital assistance for veterans navigating state and federal benefits, is suffering from crippling staff turnover, severe morale issues, and leadership challenges originating from County management above the Veteran Services Officer. These internal structural problems are directly eroding the VSO’s ability to serve our community effectively. Losing these highly trained professionals has a direct, detrimental impact on veterans’ access to earned benefits.

We are calling upon the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors to take immediate and decisive action to return direct oversight of the Veterans Service Office to the Board as a standalone County department. This structural change is necessary to establish direct accountability for VSO operations and provide administrative protection for staff, allowing them to focus on service delivery free from toxic interference.

We are unified in our campaign, and we have a strong internal champion. Supervisor Justin Cummings (3rd District) is lending his full support to this mission and is ready to engage the public and the media on the necessity of this reform.

The entire veteran community and its supporters are mobilizing for a crucial demonstration of advocacy at the Board of Supervisors meeting: 9am Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 420 Capitola Ave at the Capitola City Council Chambers.

We urge the community to contact the Board of Supervisors immediately at Bo****************@***************ca.gov in support of this oversight change.

Dave Ramos | Santa Cruz

COVER BANDS VS ORIGINALS

As a commercial trumpeter, I’ve played all genres of music, which means playing other composers’ work. Classical, symphonic wind ensembles, jazz big bands, musicals, church services—it’s all about playing the ink. But I’ve also played in bands that perform a mixture of originals and cover songs, but those covers are usually obscure.

Straight cover bands just don’t do it for me, either playing with or listening to. I find great joy playing original music, supporting musicians who are searching for new sounds and new lyrics. I hope your readers step out and seek the various original bands.

Dan Young | Aptos

STOP SPRAYING

Driscoll’s, the largest berry producer in the WORLD, loves to give to nonprofits, school sports teams, and they are generous. During the Santa Cruz Gives drive, the Campaign for Organic and Regenerative Agriculture (CORA) is hoping that Miles Reiter and the entire Reiter family will consider giving the greatest gift of all for the kids in Watsonville: turning all fields near schools organic (filing for transition to organic) by the beginning of next year’s berry season.

According to the National Cancer Institute, Santa Cruz County has the second-highest pediatric cancer rate in all of California. One million pounds of pesticides are sprayed right here in this county and according to Ann Lopez, director of Farmworker Families, “98.5% of the pesticides associated with childhood leukemia and 95.2% of pesticides tied to childhood brain cancer were applied in 2019 in this zip code [95076] alone.”

Driscoll’s, this would be a lovely time to give the BEST GIFT of all to our children in the Pajaro Valley: no more pesticides in the 13 fields closest to schools starting in 2026.

Batya Kagan | Santa Cruz

TRUMP TIMES

I find it quite unappealing/distressing that Santa Cruz is going to spend the next three years hating Trump and throwing tantrums left and right, little else. While I suspect one party controlling all branches of government sure can lead to abuses of power, that is not Trump’s fault. The Dems just don’t offer much of anything and their ideas are dysfunctional. Imagine any state that was never a slave state paying reparations. Just an example of a Dem stupid idea. There are so many, like open borders, the Covid fiasco, an endless list.

People can sure protest all they want, but Trump is killing it in so many ways, and the media in Santa Cruz, and the people, just live in an empty echo chamber of TDS hate. I applaud Good Times for having somewhat uncensored online comments, unlike Sentinel, which has none, and the very judgy Nextdoor.

Garrett Philipp

CABRILLO COMPLAINT

As a parent of a freshman at Cabrillo Community College, I’m alarmed by the uneven curriculum in a required course—English C1000—and the chilling effect it’s having on free thought.

The course is supposed to teach college-level writing, research, and critical analysis. Yet in my son’s section, every paper demands a prescribed stance on race and social-justice topics, with little focus on grammar, thesis crafting, or source evaluation. Meanwhile, a friend in another section of the same course has seen zero assignments on race, gender, or LGBTQ issues—instead drilling on MLA formatting, argumentation, and expository writing.

Both groups must pass into English C1001, but they’re receiving wildly different preparation. My son now fears he’ll be behind—and that voicing concern in class could tank his grade. Students shouldn’t have to choose between honest inquiry and a passing mark.

Colleges promise consistency in core courses. When one section becomes an ideology seminar and another a writing boot camp, that promise breaks.

I urge the college to:

– Review all English C1000 syllabi against approved learning outcomes.

– Publish sample syllabi so students register knowingly.

– Guarantee no retaliation for good-faith dissent.

Parents and taxpayers deserve transparency. Students deserve equal preparation—no matter the instructor.

Katherine Rue | Aptos

KEEP THE TRAIN

Santa Cruz County Friends of the Rail & Trail (FORT) today released the following statement by Board President Matt Farrell:

As reported in local media, Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (SCCRTC) Commissioners Keeley and Koenig have proposed a so-called “peace deal” to address a funding shortfall for the Coastal Rail Trail that stretches from the Wharf in Santa Cruz to State Park Drive in Aptos.

Friends of the Rail & Trail opposes the Keeley-Koenig vision for several reasons, chief among them is that this plan will result in the railroad tracks being ripped up and replaced with a trail. Once the tracks are removed, they will not come back.

Less than four years ago, Santa Cruz County voters rejected Greenway’s proposal to rip out the tracks, with a historic 74% voting no. And in 2016, voters approved funding to support the Coastal Rail Trail project. Voters did not approve what amounts to a permanent delay of rail service. The proposed “peace” violates the will and intent of the voters.

Commissioner Keeley has stated publicly there are “five major players” involved in the Keeley-Koenig deal: SCCRTC, Progressive Rail, Roaring Camp Railroads, Friends of the Rail & Trail and Greenway. It should be noted that among the five players, the only public support expressed has been by Greenway’s current and former leadership. This comes as no surprise, since this deal nearly exactly follows the Greenway trail-only and no-rail-ever vision they have promoted for many years, despite rejection by voters.

The Santa Cruz Branch Rail Line has recently been accepted into the federal Corridor ID program for passenger rail planning, sponsored by Caltrans. Participation in Corridor ID provides SCCRTC with professional rail design services, funded entirely by the state and federal governments.

FORT discovered that if the SCCRTC removes the railroad tracks to create a trail, SCCRTC participation in the Corridor ID program will be jeopardized—a fact previously unknown by SCCRTC staff and commissioners and brought to their attention by FORT.

Admission into Corridor ID was a huge step forward for passenger rail in Santa Cruz County. It is unacceptable to remove the tracks and risk the loss of rail grant federal funding in order to proceed with Greenway’s trail-only vision that local voters have rejected.

It is concerning that the Keeley-Koenig deal has not been published and made accessible to the public. The Coastal Rail Trail project has been in the making for well over a decade and has twice been the subject of local ballot measures. Its outcome should not be determined by a deal that has not been made accessible in detail to the community and without adequate time to learn more information. We ask that the SCCRTC not take action on the proposed deal until adequate public engagement has taken place.

Commissioners Keeley and Koenig should be commended for their focus on finding a solution to what is clearly a vexing situation. Their vision needs significant revision to find a way forward for the Coastal Rail and Trail project that honors the will of the voters: build the trail and keep the rail for future passenger service.

Sally Arnold | Outreach & Development | Friends of the Rail & Trail

The Editor’s Desk

Editor’s Note

Brad Kava

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December 3, 2025

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

The thing everyone is talking about right now is the possible closing of the Catalyst nightclub and replacing the whole block—including Starving Musician—with more high-rise apartment buildings.

The question I have is: when is enough enough?

For years, Santa Cruz was protective of its downtown charm, restricting the height of construction and keeping the city more like Carmel than Mountain View or San Jose. That’s a big reason many of us chose to live here.

Now, if you visit downtown after not being here for a while, you see a giant stretch of high-rises along Front Street. I can live with it if it means more housing that could drive down prices and make for more affordable places to live. That’s something we’ve been demanding for years.

There are plans for many more of those towering giants in the south of Laurel neighborhood, which could be developed around a new arena.

OK. Again, I can accept that things change and can grow, maybe even for the better.

But, as someone else said, the Catalyst may be the catalyst for people waking up to the fact that things might be going too far.

The Catalyst has been the center for music downtown for 65 years, bringing in countless performers including Neil Young, Etta James, Peter Tosh, Emmylou Harris, Ice T, Nirvana, Alanis Morissette, The Specials, No Doubt, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Pearl Jam to name a few.

It’s dingy and funky and sometimes too crowded, but at this point, it’s a historic and important venue for our nightlife.

The proposal claims the club could be relocated to the bottom floor of a seven-story building. Can you imagine the noise complaints that will generate?

What are all these people crammed into new apartments going to do without the kind of entertainment a great music club provides? People are organizing to make their voices heard about this on a Facebook page called Santa Cruz Against Runaway Development.

The first politician I’ve seen weigh in is County Supervisor Justin Cummings, who wrote on his Facebook page.

“Unbelievably disgusting and definitely not affordable. We need to not just let the City know how horrible of an idea this is, but also let our state reps know that we’re fed up with not having control over development in our community.”

Now’s the time to let your City Council know what you think.

Thanks for reading.

Brad Kava | Editor

PHOTO CONTEST

A foggy winter morning at East Cliff shows green moss-covered rock formations exposed at low tide, with cliffs and silhouetted cypress trees rising in the background.

WOW! East Cliff during low tide. Photograph by Laurie Parenteau

GOOD IDEA

Residents in a Santa Cruz neighborhood are coming together to raise money for speed bumps because they say speeding on Dover and nearby streets creates “serious risks for children, families, pets, cyclists, and pedestrians,” especially for the 66 seniors who live in a 55+ apartment complex nearby and walk the area daily. According to a GoFundMe, after two years of working with Public Works, the neighborhood was approved for speed bumps but must raise half of the $16,272 cost.

Our goal is simple: Prevent accidents before they happen and create a safer, more livable community for everyone—especially our seniors, families, and children.”

GOOD WORK

Get a great deal on adopting a pet this month, thanks to the Bissell Pet Foundation. Dogs and cats can be adopted for $50 until Dec. 15 at the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter. The shelter is also having its Winter Wine Stroll Dec. 13 at Staff of Life. Tickets are at Eventbrite.com. Also, if you are having trouble affording food for your pet, Heather’s Pet Food Pantry gives free food to animal lovers every Sunday, 1–3pm. It’s at 2601 Chanticleer Ave. What a beautiful thing.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

‘If you’re lucky enough to have your life’s work be making music, that’s a win.’ —Bassist Tony Levin

Street Talk

Street Talk

John Koenig

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December 3, 2025

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What’s your favorite holiday gift to give or receive?

I love to give socks—I love everything about it. I love the ones with pictures that people will like—animals or holiday themes. I like whales, so I get whale socks. There are a lot of sock shops on Pacific and one on the pier.

Esha Vaggar, 18, UCSC Global Economics Major

I don’t like to ask for things, because it takes the whimsy out of it for me. It sounds cliché but I really love to give handmade things and receive handmade things, or something that someone saw when they were window-shopping or thrifting—when I know that I was thought of.

Catalina Garcia, 21, UCSC Environmental Studies

I like to buy what somebody wants, whatever’s on the wish list. And I like to receive socks.

Dave Mackey, 54, HR

I usually like the candy and all the surprises in the stocking stuffers.

Anne-Marie Joly-Patterson, 11, Student

I like to give socks—fun socks—for everybody. We go to The Sock Shop Company for socks with silly pictures—Intellectual Donkey, Golden Retriever Scientist, and Dumpster Fire. The ones in the bookstore are really funny too.

Heather Mackey, 42, “On sabbatical”

I like giving and receiving plants. It sounds silly but I like propagating plants and giving those away, because I prefer handmade gifts. A Pink Princess philodendron is my favorite now. People that I know like plants, so it works out.

Oscar Castro, 22, UCSC Latin American and Latino Studies

Good TimesGood Times

Good TimesGood Times

Pesticide Reality Tour

Framing the Band

High Art

Playing Live

The Editor’s Desk

Letters

Brew Chew

Baby Food

Taco Tradition

Path to Literacy

Tracks Derailed

For the Holidays, Give Friends a Truly Local Experience

Holiday Entertaining: Keep It Cozy, Keep It Local

Music for the Solstice

SC Youth Symphony Wows

Chorale Carols the Season

Smokin’ Hot Scoville Units

Tons of Toxics at Moss Landing

Letters

The Editor’s Desk

PHOTO CONTEST

GOOD IDEA

GOOD WORK

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Street Talk

Taco Tradition

Path to Literacy

Tracks Derailed

For the Holidays, Give Friends a Truly Local Experience

Holiday Entertaining: Keep It Cozy, Keep It Local

Music for the Solstice

Tons of Toxics at Moss Landing

Letters

The Editor’s Desk

Street Talk