California Pushes Colleges to Grant Credit for Work Experience
State aims to have 250,000 students earn college credits for prior learning by 2030
Santa Cruz Launches Major Coastal Resilience Initiative
Search Suspended for Missing Santa Cruz Surfers
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
Weather
Coast Guard Suspends Search for Missing Surfers Near Santa Cruz
Authorities were unable to locate two individuals reported missing off the coast on Friday evening.

Coast Guard Suspends Search for Possible Missing Surfers Near Santa Cruz Lighthouse
Crews responded to reports of two surfers yelling for help about 200 yards offshore on Friday evening.
Coast Guard Suspends Search for Missing Surfers Near Santa Cruz Lighthouse
Authorities were unable to locate the two individuals after an extensive search effort.
Politics
California Counties Face New Requirements for Homelessness Funds
State threatens to withhold funds from cities and counties not doing enough to address homelessness

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.
Santa Cruz Readers Weigh In on Local Issues
Letters cover MLK convocation, Blue Zone diets, climate accountability, and county supervisor race
Entertainment
Singer-songwriter Swan Porter soars to new musical heights
Porter to perform alongside Bauhaus and Love and Rockets bassist David J at upcoming Legends: Live and Local concert

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.