Adrian Gonzalez’s bid for freedom denied, case heads to jury trial
A Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge ruled Tuesday that there is enough evidence that the man who raped and killed 8-year-old Madyson (Maddy) Middleton in 2015 would pose a continued danger to the public if he is released.
Adrian Jerry (A.J.) Gonzalez, now 24,...
Watsonville Public House taproom opens in Watsonville
The former Watsonville Meat Locker building — which later became Stevie G Meats — was a huge draw Thursday, but this time it was for something new: a pint of homemade beer inside a sparkling new brewery and taproom on Main Street.
The Watsonville Public...
Demonizing immigrants threatens core values
A foundational aspect of our national identity is the widely regarded notion that the United States is a nation of immigrants.
While the country has also seen periods of restrictive immigration policies, our history is deeply intertwined with the movement of people from other nations....
Mayor’s column August 2025: In praise of the airport
When people hear “Watsonville Airport,” it often brings to mind moments of resilience and pride—whether it was serving as a crucial lifeline after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, playing a key emergency role during the 2020 CZU fires, or even welcoming a presidential visit...
A journey through the lights
When I first heard that the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds would be hosting its first-ever drive-thru Christmas lights event, I was both excited and surprised.
Considering the limited budget and resources the Fairgrounds is currently dealing with after not being able to hold its premiere...
Supervisor Felipe Hernandez – September 2025
As summer concludes and we transition into the fall season, I am pleased to share updates on recent accomplishments and upcoming initiatives in our district. Summer is always a busy time for infrastructure improvements, community events, and public engagement, and this year was no...
In support of CASA: California’s budget decisions are failing its most vulnerable children
Difficult decisions were made to pass the California state budget this year. We understand lawmakers worked hard to protect essential programs. However, much more could have been done for foster and justice-involved youth. Among the most alarming cuts was the elimination of statewide CASA...
Farm Bureau names Edward Ortega Farmer of the Year
Edward Ortega of Ortega Berry Farms was recently selected by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau as the 2019 Farmer of the Year.
Public input sought on Ramsay Park Nature Center design
The City of Watsonville, Watsonville Wetlands Watch (WWW), and Community Arts & Empowerment are teaming up to design and install a new mosaic mural for the entrance wall of the new Nature Center scheduled to open in Ramsay Park in late 2025.
The artwork includes...
Reshaping the focus of history
From the first day his administration assumed office this January, President Trump broke all records issuing executive orders.
He generated 26 on his first day alone. These presidential directives covered a wide swath of topics, from sweeping changes in how the federal government works to...
Lawmakers weigh in at State of the Region conference
Government, business and nonprofit leaders around Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties staged the 2025 State of the Region Oct. 17 at CSU...