Local Stories

By Misty Cryer William A. Brooks (aka Bill Brooks) was born and raised in Carlsbad, graduating from Carlsbad High School with the Class of 1968. He is well known in the community, primarily for his contributions to the performing arts, including music and theatre. From performing with his brother as The Brooks Brothers, to performing in and producing musicals, including The Promise, Brooks said, "We toured the world, had music hits, and performed for several million people."

By Misty Cryer Talent abounds at Carlsbad Community Theatre, with a dedicated cast and crew bringing entertainment and laughs in a farce by Michael McKeever, Suite Surrender. The show, directed by Donia Dunlap, opens just in time to celebrate the season of love. Showtimes are February 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22. The Friday and Saturday shows start at 7 p.m., with Sunday matinees beginning at 2:30 p.m. Set in the World War II era at a glamorous Palm Beach hotel, two rival perf

By R. Gabriel Villalobos What began eight years ago as a mother’s mission to satisfy a “very girly” daughter’s love for custom tutus and bows has blossomed into a full-fledged, in-house apparel business serving schools, teams, and individuals across the community. Jessica Ontiveros, the founder and creative force behind the custom print shop, Custom Chaos, started her venture as a hobby to keep her daughter, Joselyn, happy. When her youngest son started school, she faced a ch

Jewel Monroe is the daughter of Jeff and Jo Lynn Munro and the sister of Jennifer Wenner (24) and Jessica Munro (21). Jewel plans to attend Texas Tech University, with a major in Sports Media with a minor in Early Childhood Education. She is involved in Cavegirl Soccer, the Educators Rising Program, and sports photography. Jewel is a member of the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society and has earned A-Honor Roll recognition throughout high school. She is be