This Week in Pajaro Valley’s Past, March 12
Compiled by Steve Bankhead
25 years ago on March 9, 1996
Pajaro has developed community spirit in efforts to clean up and rebuild after last year’s flood. A major assist came from “Together in Pajaro” (TIP) organized by Diane Young to guide the effort. One target...
A new perspective on National Night Out
I was invited to sit in on a ride-along with Watsonville Police Capt. Michael McKinley and City Councilwoman Trina Coffman-Gomez as they visited a number of National Night Out celebrations throughout the city Tuesday.
Senior isolation and loneliness
For most of us, the holidays are moments of celebration, but for many isolated seniors it can be a triggering reminder of their loneliness. In the next couple of weeks, Meals on Wheels, Lift Line drivers and Elderday staff will continue to visit many...
Sandy Lydon: The Porter family legacy
The myth about how Watsonville’s original Chinatown (1870-1888) moved from the corner of Maple and Union to a new site across the river in Monterey County began even before the move was completed in September 1888.
The story of the delicate negotiations and the Chinese...
Letters to the editor June 6–12 2025
Having a ball as the times change
It was 1977. The world was playing tennis. I had been riveted by the Wimbledon final match between Bjorn Borg and Jimmy Connors. I was pulling for Bjorn Borg who looked like Jesus Christ with a racket. My...
Alliances in turmoil
In September of 1938, Adolph Hitler issued an ultimatum to Czechoslovakia, demanding it transfers the Sudetenland, a border region, to Germany.
He threatened acquisition by force if the country did not comply. This ultimatum led to the Munich Agreement, in which Britain, France, and Italy...
Supervisor Felipe Hernandez November update
Santa Cruz County steps up environmental and community support
This month, Santa Cruz County is enhancing safety, cleanliness, and access to essential services. The County has also secured state funding to sustain homelessness prevention efforts, and initiatives are underway to ensure all youth have access...
Let’s give thanks
I hope you enjoyed Halloween with your friends and family. Whether it was carving pumpkins, trick or treating or attending parties, many of us were happy to be out again enjoying the interaction with our communities. This time of year brings with it many...
Public defenders plan April 23 protest over caseloads, funding gaps
Public defenders in Santa Cruz County will join colleagues across California and the nation April 23 in a coordinated protest highlighting what they describe...

















