Plunging into civilian life
Operation Surf was designed as a way to offer veterans – many with missing limbs and other traumatic injuries – to challenge themselves with a safe but thrilling activity.
Sheriff’s deputy, security guard thwart inmate escape
SANTA CRUZ — A Santa Cruz County Jail inmate was recaptured Monday during an attempted escape on a visit to Dominican Hospital, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Sgt. Dee Baldwin said.
County park will honor late Sheriff’s deputy
APTOS—Plans were announced Thursday of a major renovation of Willowbrook County Park to honor the late Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Sgt. Damon Gutzwiller, who was gunned down in the line of duty in 2020.
The project of “reimagining” the park was announced in a brief...
Aptos burglary case ends in mistrial
SANTA CRUZ—The Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office will retry the case of a man who was shot as he allegedly broke into an Aptos residence to burglarize it.
The trial of Damien Welch ended in mistrial Friday when a single juror did not agree...
Sheriff’s office warns of phone scam
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY—The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office is warning of a scam in which callers warn residents they have a warrant, and demand money.
The individual has identified himself as “John Steel” with the Sheriff’s Office and requests money from the victim. The number...
Illegal fireworks keep local law enforcement busy on Fourth
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY—Watsonville firefighters had a “very busy Fourth of July” as they responded to a total of 24 calls in the 24-hour period surrounding the holiday, including medical calls and fires to vegetation, dumpsters and structures. Units were also out patrolling for illegal...
Bay Federal accepting applications for scholarships
Three winners will each receive $1,500 to pay for post-secondary education expenses at any accredited college, university, trade/technical school, or career education program.
Artists sought for annual plein air competition
Registration is now open for the third annual Capitola Plein Air juried competition, exhibition and sale.
Man shot in Santa Cruz Beach Flats
SANTA CRUZ—A man was shot late Tuesday night in the Beach Flats area of Santa Cruz near the Beach Boardwalk. At least two shots were reported by multiple witnesses around Third Street at Kaye Street at 9:14 p.m.
Joyce Blaschke of the Santa Cruz Police...
Aptos thrift store breaks own gift-giving record
APTOS—Since Caroline’s Nonprofit Thrift Shop opened its doors in 2010, owner Christy Licker has given tens of thousands of dollars to local organizations that support children.
In 2017, Licker handed out $275,000 to 26 organizations, which at the time was a record-breaking amount for the...
