Local News

Marin Alsop grew up dreaming of being a conductor.  From a young age, she aspired to lead a group of talented classical musicians, performing for audiences and spreading her love of music—despite the fact there were very few women in such a position. Alsop is now...

WATSONVILLE—For the past three years, UC Santa Cruz’s (UCSC) We Belong research project has aimed to elevate immigrant voices, strengthen local community coalitions and inform local policy.  And next week, their work will be on display during a special event in downtown Watsonville. We Belong grew...

WATSONVILLE—After 18 years at the helm of the Lutheran Community Church of Watsonville, and 40 years total as an ordained minister, Rev. Susan Birkelo will soon retire. Born in Minnesota, Birkelo’s family moved to San Diego when she was still in kindergarten. After school, she...

The Watsonville City Council welcomed two dignitaries from Croatia on Tuesday as it established a sister city with Cavtat.

SANTA CRUZ—Saying that “people were not willing to be governed anymore,” Santa Cruz County Health Officer Gail Newel on Thursday said the county’s daily beach restrictions will be removed starting Friday. Save for water sports, county beaches have been off-limits between 11am-5pm since late April....

Special events Hempcon Halloweed (Oct. 26-27) A fully legal and licensed marijuana show at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds with live entertainment and many exhibits, including medical marijuana dispensaries, collectives, caregivers, evaluation services, legal services, educational institutions, equipment, accessories and more. For tickets or information visit hempcon.com/halloweed-2019. La Sonora...

WATSONVILLE—For the first time in more than two decades, the Watsonville First United Methodist Church (UMC) has a new pastor. Rev. Jon Song, who has been practicing ministry for the past 35 years, took helm of the church earlier this month. He follows Rev. Robin...

Grocery shopping is a different experience than what it was before the Covid-19 pandemic. Between long lines and being in close-quarters, navigating an indoor store can be a challenging and not altogether comfortable experience.  This is why many farmers markets across the Monterey Bay campaigned...

This week, communities across the U.S. are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, a month dedicated to the histories, cultures and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America. The origins of the observance began with President Lyndon Johnson, who...