Local and national elections display the power of media and bias on politics
Editor’s note: Zen Weaver is a junior at Aptos High School. This is his second story for The Pajaronian. We welcome contributions from aspiring young journalists. Email [email protected]
In an era where headlines spread faster than facts, Santa Cruz County residents, politicians, and community leaders...
Johanna Miller: Fireworks irresponsible in summer heat
Last week, Watsonville experienced one of its hottest weekends on record. Temperatures reached 110 degrees at one point — practically unheard of for our region’s normally mild summer days. When things began to cool down slightly on Sunday, it seemed like most of us were breathing a collective sigh of relief.
Firework sales should be brought to the public
By Dennis Osmer, former Watsonville Mayor
Hardly anybody likes to work with somebody looking over their shoulder. And of those, nobody likes getting advice from somebody outside the circle. But for City Council and the City Manager, that’s the job they sought and got. According...
Movie Review: 'The Circle' disappoints, rightfully thuds in box office
“The Circle” is possibly the most disappointing movie I’ve seen this year. It’s a perfect example of a film that asks a great question but doesn’t ever follow through on the ideas and answers that follow. It’s also a great example of how smart moviegoers
First Noble Truth
About 2,500 years ago the young prince Siddartha Gautama became what is known as the Buddha. Soon after his Enlightenment the Buddha shared with his fellow seekers what is known as the Four Noble Truths. The first of these truths is “Life is Dukkha.”...
Is there no balm in Gilead … or anywhere?
Looking over the suffering of his people, the prophet Jeremiah cries out in grief and dismay, "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there?” (Jeremiah 8:22) That is, is there no comfort for the suffering? Is there no relief for the...
Serving the nation
Serving the nation
The United States Postal Service is committed to delivering your mail and packages throughout the current pandemic. We are proud of our role in providing an essential service to every community. The one constant throughout this crisis has been our commitment to...
Valuing those who teach our kids
Like so many others who live on the beautiful Central Coast, I make the daily trek over the hill to my workplace in Silicon Valley. However, unlike so many of my fellow Highway 17 warriors, I am not a techie at Google or Facebook, but rather I am a teache
Supervisor’s Update: Embracing progress and community
In the vibrant tapestry of our community, positive change is often driven by the dedication and collaboration of individuals who care deeply about the betterment of our shared spaces. From rejuvenating local landmarks to fostering future leaders, and recognizing outstanding contributions, the recent events...
Bill Monning, Jan. 6: January is Blood Donor Month
It is the beginning of a new year and it is time for us to remember how we can help our friends, neighbors, and community through the simple act of giving blood. January has been known as National Blood Donor Month since 1970 because people are busy with their post-holiday schedules, trying to get back into their work and/or school routines, and forget about making time to donate blood.
Santa Cruz County Fair theme announced
The folks at the Santa Cruz County Fair have chosen a theme for the 2026 fair: “Apple Pies and Starry Skies!”
“This winning theme for...























