Celebrating new birth
literal new birth: This year we welcomed into the world our grandson Emmett—and two more grandchildren are due before the end of the year!
I hosted Emmett’s mom, my daughter Elisabeth, on my daily video blog recently. As she pointed out, the year 2020 and...
Question of the Week
Are you in favor of renewing the updated public safety sales tax—previously known as Measure G—set for the March 2020 election?
Yes: 24 | No: 47
Public comment:
Daniel Dodge Jr. Yes. We need to continue to support our police, firefighters, and parks...
Carl Vucinich in...
This week in Pajaro Valley’s Past, March 5
Compiled by Steve Bankhead
25 years ago on March 4, 1996
Watsonville High teacher Kathy Anderson was named Santa Cruz County’s Teacher of the Year for her work in the Interactive Mathematics Program. She sought help from the Packard Foundation and received a $150,000 grant to...
Letter: Care for the wetlands, support the community
As so many of us are continuing to be affected by the recent storms, whatever comes our way, our community is in this together. The wetlands, creeks, and Pajaro River and the history of flooding in this valley have been fundamental to shaping the...
Letters to the Editor, Sept. 9
Naloxone can save lives
A billboard will be unveiled in Watsonville presenting how Naloxone can easily save and reverse an opioid overdose.
True convenience arrives as soon as anyone views the value and significance of this tool. It has the power to save a life. Why...
Letters to the Editor, Sept. 30
Murals express culture
Murals are about community and freedom of expression. In Watsonville, mural artist Jessica Evanjelista from the Arts Council of Santa Cruz County led Empower Watsonville, a youth-led group that focuses on expanding youth advocacy to implement more equitable policies, on a mural...
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...
Youth offenders must be housed locally
As part of the Governor’s “commitment to providing more treatment and rehabilitative services for youth closer to home” under SB 823, the state is closing the juvenile prison in Stockton (DJJ). This means that Santa Cruz County will soon be tasked with housing and...
Letter to the Editor, April 4
Response to Chávez scandal was knee-jerk reaction, points to wider plot
This whole César Chávez deal is curious to say the least. A few weeks...

















