News

A weekly column that celebrates local businesses — especially eateries, watering holes, coffee shops and the like.

WATSONVILLE—A man was arrested after reportedly running from Watsonville police following a car stop Monday afternoon in downtown Watsonville. Master Officer Charles Bailey said he tried to stop the car around 12:30pm when the driver suddenly shot down East Lake Avenue and nearly crashed. After...

WATSONVILLE—Community members are teaming up nightly to serve hot meals to hundreds of residents who are under flood evacuation from the town of Pajaro.  Since Monday night, starting at 7pm under a tent donated by the community, scores of chefs serve up meals prepared on...

This story has been updated from a previous version with additional information. Watsonville Police on Friday afternoon arrested a Watsonville woman who allegedly robbed the Bay Federal Credit Union on the 1400 block of Main Street. Elizabeth Rojas, 34, was charged with robbery and attempted robbery....

WATSONVILLE—After years of wrangling by local, state and federal lawmakers—and of worries from residents of another catastrophic flood in South Santa Cruz County—the Pajaro River levee has enough money for a long-awaited upgrade that could offer a century’s worth of protection. But while the construction...

WATSONVILLE—Pajaro Valley Unified School District plans to install a water bottle filling station at Ohlone Elementary School over the upcoming winter break, a move that will bring the school in line with many others that are seeking ways to reduce their production of plastic...

SAN FRANCISCO—The family of an 8-year-old girl who was allegedly raped, tortured and murdered by a 15-year-old suspect is urging the California Supreme court to overturn a law that could allow him to walk free when he is 25. A.J. Gonzalez, now 21, is facing...

Monte Vista Christian School on Wednesday held a groundbreaking ceremony, heralding in construction for what will be the Don Price Performing Arts Chapel.

WATSONVILLE—After 33 years of service behind badge number 251, Watsonville Police Sgt. Henry Robles put in his final shift last week.  The San Diego native was surrounded by a swarm of officers, city officials, friends and family in the Squad Room for a farewell sendoff...

Rhea Wood DeHart was a longtime teacher, union member, mentor and activist who helped lead the drive to unionize South County teachers, reshaped Watsonville politics and remained deeply active in the community she loved until the end of her life.