Farmworkers worked despite positive Covid-19 tests for fear of job loss, study shows
CENTRAL COAST—Many Monterey County farmworkers are going to work despite testing positive for the novel coronavirus, and some of those laborers are doing so because they are concerned about losing their job, their pay or because their employer told them to.
That’s according to the...
Supervisor’s Update: Embracing progress and community
As July unfolds, District 4 is bustling with activity, showcasing multiple ongoing projects, both within city limits and the unincorporated. From road clearing and road resurfacing to infrastructure improvements and community initiatives, District 4 is experiencing positive transformations. Amidst the activity, we strive to...
Movie Review: McAvoy shines in so-so ‘Split’
If there’s any doubt that James McAvoy is one of the best actors working in Hollywood today, “Split” serves as a testament to his overwhelming talent and devotion to every role he takes.
Annual Obon festival set for Sunday
The annual Obon Festival will take place July 21 at the Watsonville Buddhist Temple.
Open to the public, the event will include entertainment, a vendor’s market, childrens’ games and an array of traditional foods.
The festival culminates in a dance, known as Bon-Odori, which participants practice...
Guest View: Fairgrounds future looks fraught
As a news reporter, I attended Santa Cruz County Fair Board of Directors meetings for years, sometimes covering scandalous fair managers and scarce finances. What I saw recently at the Feb. 28 fair board meeting was disturbing on a level I’d never before have...
Paso Robles Lavender Festival returns
Far more than just a pretty face, lavender — with its tiny purple blooms and distinctive perfume — has become one of the most popular plants all across the county. To celebrate its many purposes, the Central Coast Lavender Growers Association and Paso Rob
Four days of activities at wine festival
Ranked 11th by last year’s U.S. food and wine festival calendar critics, the 2017 Paso Robles Wine Festival is scheduled for May 18-21 and will feature four days of dinners, tastings and educational seminars fit for both experienced and inexperienced pala
Sarah Ringler, Dec. 28: Top down educational reforms endanger public schools
Evidence shows that teachers are stressed. A 2017 survey in British Columbia found that two-thirds of teachers felt “stressed and emotionally exhausted all, or most of the time.”
Mayor’s and Supervisor’s November updates
Shaping Watsonville’s Future Together
By Watsonville Mayor Maria Orozco
Our 2025 State of the City on Oct. 22 was a meaningful moment to pause, reflect, and look forward—to recognize how far we’ve come and how we’re shaping a brighter future for Watsonville together.
This year’s theme, Shaping...
On My Mind: The sound of music
A friend once asked me, “What kind of music do you like?” I said, “Good music.” I hope my answer wasn’t snooty or conceited. It was an earnest attempt at addressing my approach to music — and the arts — of trying to leave the doors open, and not narrowing my world.
Letters to the Editor Dec. 5-11
Suggestions for PVUSD
My recommendations regarding the Recommended Realignments of PVUSD:
1. Regarding school closure, I have advocated for an idea to sell the District Office...




















