When I arrive at Hollins House to meet John Paul Lechtenberg, the 25-year-old executive chef emerges from the kitchen wearing a spotless white chef jacket and a pencil tucked behind his ear. He has a no-nonsense buzz haircut and a round face. I’m there to talk about his kitchen, but the first thing he wants to do is get away from it for a bit.
Articles by Georgia Perry
Kitchen Gardens: Oak Tree Ristorante
The Oak Tree Ristorante in Felton is nestled in tall Redwood trees that are over 1,000 years old. Growing next to them are fruit trees just starting their lives. Owners George and Kathy Topusidis opened the restaurant three years ago, and initiated the improvements on the land, and chef Sebastian Nobile has been working with them to plant the fruit trees and make garden beds for herbs, berries and artichokes.
Unique Issues Shape Fifth District Supervisor Race
This November, Hammer, a fourth generation San Lorenzo Valley resident and Boulder Creek Parks District board member, squares off against the ridiculously experienced former California Secretary of State Bruce McPherson for the supervisor position.
California Online Voter Registration Launches
“Today, the Internet replaces mailboxes for thousands of Californians wishing to register to vote.” That was California Secretary of State Debra Bowen at a press conference Wednesday, speaking about California’s new online voter registration system, which launched last week.
Santa Cruz’s Unusual ‘Party House’ Enforcement
Santa Cruz is a complicated rental market, and many people still don’t realize that the SCPD now keeps a list of “Loud/Unruly Addresses” that can be viewed on the police department’s website. A house can land on the list by throwing a party an officer deems disruptive to the neighborhood, says SCPD lieutenant and official “party advisor” Colleen McMahon. The designation lasts for a full year, and stays with the house, not the residents, so unfortunately it is relatively common for the rowdy renters to move out, leaving new tenants to suffer the consequences.
TEDx Brings in Big Names, Ideas
TEDx Santa Cruz (Sat. Sept. 15) brought several of the big-name speakers and bombshell moments the conference is known for. There were also some subtle messages that deserve props.
Canon Takes First in ‘Diaper Derby’
In the moments before the Santa Cruz County Fair’s third annual Diaper Derby, Loretta Estrada wanted to make sure everyone understood the competition rules. “You can coax them with the bottle, shake the rattle—I don’t care what you do,” fair board member Estrada told the nine families preparing for the big race. “But if your baby stands up, it will be disqualified!”
Desal Raises Questions for Some About Growth
During a recent forum led by UCSC Economics Ph.D. candidate Peter Towbin, community members gathered at the Cruzio Building on Cedar St. to discuss the various arguments for and against the proposed desalination plant. During the session, a fourth-generation Aptos woman squared off against a young couple from Chicago, arguing that without the influx of outsiders coming to Santa Cruz County, water would not be a problem. She said she’s against desalination because more available drinking water would make it possible for more outsiders to come.
City Council Candidates Host Kickoff Parties
Election season is here, and Santa Cruz city council candidates are planning their campaign kick-off parties, most of which are happening this week. Mayor Don Lane has locked down former Mayor Mike Rotkin, who will be performing live music (!) at Lane’s event. Set list is under wraps, but we’re sure the UCSC Marxist Theory lecturer won’t disappoint. “Back in the U.S.S.R.,” anyone?
First Friday Offers Best in Free Dining
The coming of “First Friday” means two things: One, another night of inspiring, innovative arts events. Two, you just paid rent. Luckily, once a month in Santa Cruz you can satisfy your inner culture vulture, while simultaneously acting like an actual vulture. Go ahead, eat that 18th cheese cube—save your groceries for Saturday night.
