NITROUS BAN
I am reaching out to encourage a discussion on banning the retail sale of nitrous oxide (Nâ‚‚O) in Santa Cruz County, but I am unsure where to begin. My goal is to raise awareness about the extreme recreational use of Nâ‚‚O in our community, an issue that often flies under the radar.
Earlier this year, Orange County became the first in California to ban retail sales of nitrous oxide, and Grass Valley is currently working to strengthen its municipal codes on the substance. I believe Santa Cruz County should consider similar measures to address this growing concern.
On a personal note, I struggled with severe Nâ‚‚O addiction for five years and was caught in possession of a canister on 12/12/24. Since then, I have been in recovery through the support of Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous, and I am thriving within these fellowships. My deepest desire is to be of service to others who are struggling with this substance.
Despite existing regulations under Penal Code 381e (see screenshot), enforcement appears lacking. I can name at least 10 smoke shops within a five-mile radius that, in my experience, do not adhere to these legal requirements. One particularly concerning example is GREAT GAS at 1024 Water St., Santa Cruz, which sells nitrous oxide 24/7, 365 days a year. Yet, due to its proximity to Monarch Elementary (0.2 miles away) and Branciforte Middle School (0.3 miles away), it is prohibited from selling cigarettes or vapes—highlighting an inconsistency in how substances are regulated.
I appreciate the work you do to make Santa Cruz a progressive, sustainable, and safe county, and I would love guidance on how to further this conversation.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Cody Mahler
Bare Necessities
When people told me to start saving up for college, I thought they were talking about tuition. Instead of spending my money on basic necessities like food, I’m limited by the classes that are supposed to be expanding my opportunities. What upsets me the most is that there is a whole industry thriving off of the grocery money of students just like me. As a UCSC student, now in my third year of college, I finally understand how the textbook market has completely monopolized the textbook industry for students. I recently found out that textbook prices have increased at 3x the rate of inflation. That’s a 1041% cost increase since 1977. However, there is hope for the new college age. Quite a few of my professors have started using free, online textbooks known as open education resources. This allows students to access readings and course materials without having to pay. According to US PIRG, 2 out of every 25 students fail a class because they couldn’t afford their textbooks. Every student deserves to have an equal opportunity to succeed in their classes without worrying about the expense of their success. There must be a change in the textbook market for the sake of all students, and I believe that change lies in the support and utilization of open education resources.
Jessica Cortez | Santa Cruz
ONLINE COMMENTS
RE: Bye Bye Bezos
How about a shout-out to Staff of Life, please? Like Shoppers too, but Staff has a lot more organic produce, that that, in turn, supports other local business (farms who are also stewarding the environment).
And where do I go for basic, everyday clothing (sure, REI is good too, and a co-op) but what if I need a pair of sturdy jeans, and don’t have time to dig for my size and fit at Grey Bears (which is also a go-to for me)!
Ann
RE: SAFE COASTERS
Whoa! What a great thing! I’m past the age of socializing in bars, but when I was younger, I used to worry about leaving my drink unattended. Even if it was just ginger ale. If I had to leave the table to dance or use the restroom, I wouldn’t touch my drink when I returned. I’d have to order another. This coaster test is a great idea, and I hope all the bars and pubs in the county take up on the practice.
Donna Maurillo
Correction In the March 12 issue of Good Times, author Jason Isralowitz’s name was misspelled in an article about Scotts Valley’s Hitchcock Festival. We regret the error.
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