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Watsonville
December 19, 2025

Answering the wrong phone

Rev. Robin Mathews-Johnson
MEMO FROM REV. MATHEWS-JOHNSON It’s that time of year again. Christmas brings up wonderful memories for me. Maybe some of you can relate. But this year it just “ain’t like it used to be” on a lot of levels. Somehow, in some way, I believe we’ve...

How to improve public transit

letter to the editor pajaronian
By Frank Anderson Most everyone agrees that Santa Cruz County needs to improve its transportation. We’ve all observed large, virtually empty buses, the lack of a safe bike network, and a rail corridor that has sat unused for decades. All the while, thousands of cars...

Watsonville farm, biotech company receives major grant from USDA

Since 2009, Blume Industries (BI) and Whiskey Hill Farms (WHF) have jointly operated a research and development incubator in Watsonville, aiming to find regenerative solutions for food, fuel and waste management. And now they will have the opportunity to expand their reach, sharing what they...

An open letter to City Manager Matt Huffaker, Watsonville staff

In 2015, developer Kamalesh Patel proposed to replace the National 9 motel across from St. Patrick’s church with a four-story La Quinta. The proposed hotel did not comply with Watsonville ordinances intended to control development of downtown properties. In a 2016 public meeting, the...

Simón Salinas belongs in the Watsonville High School Hall of Fame

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15–Oct. 15) and reflect on the trailblazers who have opened doors for future generations, it’s time for the Watsonville High School Foundation to honor one of its most distinguished alumni, former California State Assemblymember Simón Salinas, with...

Congressman Panetta announces farmworker aid

jimmy panetta farmworkers
ROYAL OAKS—Congressman Jimmy Panetta was on the Central Coast Thursday, touting two pandemic assistance programs he helped pass that will benefit agriculture workers and the industries that employ them. The Pandemic Response and Safety (PRS) Grant Program will provide $650 million in grants to food...

Movie Review: 'A Cure for Wellness' not quite a comeback for Verbinski

“A Cure for Wellness” is not quite what I expected or would have wished for from Verbinski, but it challenged me enough that I can say I’m excited for him to do something similar but not as convoluted or heavy.

Mayor For The Day returns

Jimmy Dutra
Being the mayor of a city carries with it a lot of responsibilities and can be quite demanding. It can also be rewarding and gratifying. Many of us get elected with a vision for our community. I was green, but had the fire in my stomach to...

National Agriculture Day luncheon returns

Doron Comerchero, founder and executive director of Food What?!, will be the featured speaker at the 2019 National Agriculture Day Spring Luncheon on March 13.

New Logo, New Chapter: Watsonville Community Hospital Looks Ahead with Purpose

There’s something powerful about a fresh start—especially when it’s backed by real progress, deep community roots, and a bold vision for the future.  At our April 18 State of the Hospital event, Watsonville Community Hospital unveiled a new logo symbolizing its transition back to community...
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Photo story: Handgun, stolen vehicle recovered in traffic stop

Watsonville Police process evidence Thursday night following a car stop on Hushbeck Street just after 7:30pm. While police managed to take the driver into...