In today's newscast:
Santa Cruz Police Chief retires
Chief Bernie Escalante will soon retire after over 30 years with the Santa Cruz Police Department.
Escalante says his successor will have some challenges to face including a tight budget and the region’s high cost of living.
"It's very difficult for a young officer to even visualize buying a home and raising a family here, right? And so in order to do that, they either have to live outside the area and commute in, or they have to go somewhere else where they make more money," he said.
The Santa Cruz native started at the police department in 1996 and became chief in 2021.
He remembers fondly keeping watch on late nights and holidays so others could be safe at home with their families.
"It's difficult. It's a sacrifice at the time," he said. "But when you reflect back on it, it's pretty special."
Escalante says retirement will give him more time with his family and … an improved golf swing. His last day is Oct. 30.
Monterey Jazz Festival is underway
The 69th annual Monterey Jazz Festival runs through Sunday night.
The famous event took root on the Monterey Peninsula in 1958 and is the longest continuously-running jazz celebration in the world. The three-day lineup runs the gamut of jazz — from classic and contemporary to gospel, Latin and folk.
Performers include student groups, local ensembles and legends. Academy Award- and Grammy-winner Herbie Hancock will perform with Ron Carter, a former bassist with the Miles Davis Quintet.
The duo’s special show will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Miles Davis’ birth.
Jazz musicians will also accompany writers including Amy Tan, who will share stories from the stage.
The celebration of American jazz music and culture is held each fall at the Monterey County Fairgrounds.
