Opinion

By Congressman Jimmy Panetta and Supervisor Zach Friend As your federal and local representatives, we take very seriously the job of ensuring our communities are safe and resilient. To this end, we have been working closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to make...

In previous years, I have written about the year in review, however, since we are approaching the turn of the decade this coming year, it seems appropriate to have a decade in review.  As many of you are already aware, the county has been...

This is our last paper of the year and here comes 2020. I’ve never been one for New Year’s resolutions, mainly because I know I’m setting myself up for something that most likely will cave in—a new workout regimen, diet restrictions, fewer sodas, more walking....

Veterans commissaries will open to more Veterans As many of you already know, Commissaries are basically your neighborhood grocery store that happens to be located on a military base anywhere worldwide. Like a grocery store, they sell everything that you would need for your household....

Secondhand smoke in multi-unit housing Sometimes people tend to believe they have a “right” to smoke, but in reality, there is no constitutional right to smoke. Everyone does have the right to breathe, and a right to clean air.  Therefore, multi-unit housing complexes should regulate...

Politics is keeping Watsonville stuck I was quite bemused when I read that the Watsonville Planning Commission denied issuing a use permit to the developers of the drive-thru establishments on N. Main Street because of air pollution from idling cars! This is such shortsighted thinking!  Sure,...

"Try This" is a weekly column that celebrates local businesses — especially eateries, watering holes, coffee shops and the like. Tony Nuñez FOOD: El Valle Produce's Avocado Toast I believe I’ve written about El Valle Produce, 530 Walker St., before but I’ve never mentioned their incredible and...

In the days leading up to Tuesday’s Watsonville Planning Commission meeting I did several hours of background research on the proposed project at 975-1075 Main St. The more research I did, the more disappointed I became. The project is straightforward: 20,000 square feet over three commercial...

Clearing up the attacks on Panetta You may have seen strange and vague ads on TV this last week that mention our Congressman, Jimmy Panetta, and a bill that he introduced. I want to set the record straight and share how this bill will restore...

Special events SCDG Turkey Bowl (Nov. 27) The Santa Cruz Derby Girls invite fans, friends and supporters to participate in their 11th Annual Turkey Bowl at the Boardwalk Bowl from 6-9 p.m. This annual tournament raises funds to help offset costs for the league’s travel teams. Teams...