Candidate Filing Period Opens Feb. 9 in Santa Cruz County
Individuals seeking statewide, federal, state, county, judicial or city offices must submit required nomination documents during the filing period.
Caltrans to Reduce Speed Limits on Highway 9 from Santa Cruz to Boulder Creek
Singer-songwriter Swan Porter soars to new musical heights
Lifestyle
Apple Pies and Starry Skies Chosen as 2026 Santa Cruz County Fair Theme
The nostalgic theme will be featured in all advertising and promotional materials for this year's fair.

Santa Cruz Vac & Sew Celebrates 60 Years of Community
The family-owned sewing and vacuum shop has evolved into a thriving hub for creativity, craftsmanship and connection.
Scotts Valley Celebrates 'Newsies' Production and MLK Day
City Council declares emergency to fix sinkhole, while sheriff's office investigates gun found at local high school
Science
Conservationists Purchase 2,284 Acres of Sargent Ranch Property
The Peninsula Open Space Trust acquires more land to preserve sacred native site and wildlife habitat.

California Moves to Permanently Protect Mountain Lions
State commission to vote on endangered species status for six puma populations
Amateur Radio Clubs Host 'Winter Field Day' Event
Annual training and educational event for ham radio operators to practice emergency communications in remote locations
Politics
Santa Cruz Readers Weigh In on Local Issues
Letters cover MLK convocation, Blue Zone diets, climate accountability, and county supervisor race

Santa Cruz Celebrates MLK Day With Parade
Thousands march through downtown to honor civil rights leader and protest current administration
Santa Cruz Supervisor Monica Martinez named 2026 Board Chair
Martinez will lead the county's Board of Supervisors for the coming year.
Entertainment
Santa Cruz Celebrates Work Ethic, Music, and Community Milestones
Editor reflects on local achievements, Grammy wins, arts recognition, and community progress.

Former Santa Cruz County Supervisor Wins Grammy for Regional Roots Album
John L. Leopold's album 'A Tribute to the King of Zydeco' honored Clifton Chenier's legacy.
Sundance Review: "Hot Water" Offers Distinct Take on Familiar Genre
Road-trip drama finds subtle humor in disconnected mother-son duo's journey.
Business
Santa Cruz County RTC ends rail operator contract, plans interim trail
Commission votes to terminate agreement with Minnesota-based Saint Paul and Pacific Railroad to pursue new vision for Coastal Rail Trail

Hovercraft Ventures Acquires Visual Endeavors Design Agency
The experience and innovation platform adds immersive design capabilities to its growing roster of creative companies.
Joby Aviation Prices Upsized Offerings of Common Stock and Convertible Notes
The electric air taxi company raises over $1.1 billion in concurrent public offerings.