Abel Mejia: Negotiations progress?
Members of the Pajaro Valley Federation of Teachers received another email on Nov. 1 from the Pajaro Valley Unified School District detailing how they had “sweetened” their previous offer.
The future of the Rail-Trail: Montesino and McPherson share their thoughts
As long-time elected representatives for the northernmost and southernmost reaches of Santa Cruz County, we believe the community conversation over the Rail Trail should be thoughtful, respectful, and inclusive. We have sought to model those ideals both through our respective roles within county and...
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...
Supervisor’s Update: Winter readiness and community highlights
As the winter season approaches, ensuring the safety and well-being of our community becomes our paramount concern. Navigating the uncertainties of changing weather patterns demands unity and vigilance.
In preparation for the winter season and to foster community resilience, my office collaborates with regional partners...
Supervisor’s Update: Connecting communities
In this edition, we’ll discuss the collaborative efforts of a safer, stronger Santa Cruz County, the Pajaro Valley Healthcare District Bond, seek representatives for the Measure D Taxpayer Oversight Committee and shaping the “Age Well Santa Cruz County” Master Plan. Join us in staying...
From the editor's desk, July 11: A booming success for the airport
I figured I would show up an hour or so after the gates opened at the Watsonville Municipal Airport for the first-ever Fire in the Sky open house last week. Turns out, I almost missed my chance to park, and perhaps, miss the show entirely.
Letters to the Editor Nov. 28-Dec. 4
Medina ‘not shrinking back’ after Lelieur letter
Mr. Lelieur’s letter (Nov. 21-28, p. 8) tries to present a clear picture of the PVUSD Nov. 12 board meeting, but anyone who was present or watched the recording knows his version doesn’t match reality. The board president...
Now is the time to respect our leaders
Respect our leaders
I am a Ph.D. in agriculture and marine research in the Monterey Bay for the past 50 years. I have read about and seen nearly every political regime, agricultural and oceanic issue as it relates to Monterey Bay during those last five...
Building an equitable future
By Jimmy Dutra, Watsonville Mayor
I stopped using the word equality some years back in graduate school. In my opinion it did not put everyone on an equal playing field. Instead, I am an advocate for equity. With equity I believe we will find true...
Protest of teacher layoffs continue
Several dozen Pajaro Valley Unified School District teachers and staff were joined by community supporters early Tuesday morning at The Towers in Watsonville to...














