Community

By now, you have probably heard about the events that transpired in the wee hours of Sunday morning. In short, unknown people attacked downtown, throwing rocks and chairs through windows, throwing paint, setting fires, and spray painting. In all, they did an estimated $100,000.00 worth of damage.

Artisans was included in the 18 damaged businesses. One of our front windows was smashed, and most of the ceramics on display in the alcove were broken. Artisans owner, Linnaea Holgers James, and her family came down to the store at 11:30 till almost 2 in the morning to assess the damage and provide a temporary fix for the window.

The next day, Linnaea chose to not simply board up the window, but to create an installment in the window using the damaged ceramics, a newspaper account of what had occurred, and flowers. We at Artisans have a message for the perpetrators of this destruction: you failed. Since Sunday, we have had a stream of regular customers, old friends, tourists, and UCSC students and families pouring into the store to pledge their support and commitment to Artisans. People have offered their time, money, and construction skills to help us repair the damage. Instead of stopping our business, you reminded us that Santa Cruz is a close-knit community who cares deeply about downtown businesses.

And to those who are shocked, frightened, or angry about the events of last weekend, we have a message for you: downtown Santa Cruz belongs to you, too! Show your support by coming down and making your presence visible. Treat yourself to an ice cream sundae at Marini's, get ready for summer with a gardening guide from Bookshop Santa Cruz, sit and drink a cup of coffee on the outdoor patio at Cafe Delmarette, buy something for mom at Artisans (yes, Mother's Day is this Sunday). It's because of you that downtown is able to exist, and to you we are grateful.