We will do our best to keep you informed
Just 13 days ago Santa Cruz County officials announced the first confirmed case of COVID-19 within our tight-knit community. Since that fateful Saturday morning press conference, the Pajaronian news team has not had much time to take a moment to reflect and truly process...
Mural honors Filipino community
A large mosaic mural was installed this week on an exterior wall at Tabasa Gardens, a new apartment complex at 1482 Freedom Blvd.
The 10-by-30-foot mosaic was created by Watsonville artist Kathleen Crocetti and a team of volunteers at Muzzio Mosaic Arts Center. The topic...
Watsonville cancels most of its annual events, mayor says
WATSONVILLE—The city of Watsonville has canceled most of its annual events slated for this year because of the ongoing pandemic, Mayor Jimmy Dutra said Friday evening.
The events canceled include the Spirit of Watsonville Fourth of July Parade, The Fire in the Sky Firework show...
Freedom Boulevard project to begin in May
WATSONVILLE—A massive, long-awaited project that will completely overhaul one of Watsonville’s key arterial roads is set to begin in May.
The Freedom-Green Valley Water and Sewer Improvement project and the proceeding Freedom Boulevard Road Reconstruction Project were delayed because of global supply chain issues, the...
2 cars hit by gunfire
Two vehicles were struck by gunfire Saturday morning while traveling on Highway 101.
Freedom Bakery, teacher team up to support healthcare workers
WATSONVILLE—Freedom Bakery owner Anna Liu said her new line of cookies was inspired by her children.
Seeing her 9-, 12- and 15-year-olds dealing with school being closed due to the countywide shelter-in-place order is difficult, she said, and made her want to do something for...
Nine county jail officers test positive for Covid-19
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY—At least nine Santa Cruz County Jail correctional officers have tested positive for Covid-19, the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office announced in a press release Monday.
All nine are now off work, and six officers have been quarantined based on contact with infected...
Aptos Coffee Roasting Company to close
A little more than three decades after opening in Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center, Aptos Coffee Roasting Company will be closing.
Fireworks seizure the largest in Watsonville history
Watsonville police arrested two men on July 3 after they were found with more than 4,500 pounds of illegal fireworks.
The bust is the largest in Watsonville Police history, and the biggest on the Central Coast this year, police spokeswoman Michelle Pulido said.
Luis Martinez and...
Hecker Pass pursuit leads to DUI arrest
A 30-year-old Lemoore man was arrested Oct. 6 after he reportedly tried to evade police.
California Highway Patrol officer Israel Murillo said CHP officers observed a BMW M4 fail to stop at a stop sign near East Lake Avenue at Casserly Road on the evening...
Santa Cruz Wharf to reopen Saturday
About two weeks after heavy surf damaged the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, forcing its closure and all the businesses there, the city will host...