UC Santa Cruz’s five-year agreement with BCycle could end early as the e-bike rental company seeks more university funding, citing bike and docking-station damage and rising operating costs. The bikes will remain on campus through at least the end of fall quarter, but students who rely on the service could lose access to campus stations if negotiations fail.
Kate Lipsky
Kate Lipsky is a fourth-year literature student at UC Santa Cruz with a passion for making accessible, reliable information available to a wide audience. She is joining Lookout Santa Cruz as a digital journalism intern.
Last year, Kate worked as a print reporter for City on a Hill Press, UCSC’s student-run newspaper. There, she developed a love for local journalism and gained valuable experience in reporting, writing and telling stories that connect with the community. She looks forward to building on that foundation with the guidance of Lookout’s experienced newsroom team.
Kate is excited to listen to and report on the diverse stories of people across Santa Cruz County while continuing to grow as a journalist and deepen her understanding of the communities she covers.
Posted inRecreation & Sports
Santa Cruz Marathon road closures: Which streets will be affected Sunday and when
Anticipate heavy traffic and local road closures this Sunday for the inaugural Santa Cruz Marathon. From Wilder Ranch State Park to Capitola Village, here are the locations and times to look out for as you plan your route.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Santa Cruz County Election 2026: Can you still register to vote? What to know before Nov. 3
With Election Day on Nov. 3 just around the corner, Santa Cruz County voters still have time to register, vote early or return their mail ballots. Here’s what to know about registration deadlines, voting locations and where to find Lookout’s coverage of local candidates and ballot measures.
Posted inEducation
Where to study, read and unwind at UC Santa Cruz: Students share their favorite campus spots
Looking for a place to study, read or take a break at UC Santa Cruz? Students share their favorite campus spots, from quiet libraries and scenic meadows to a hidden hideaway under a bridge near McHenry Library.
Posted inLatest News
Watsonville puppy wins Purina contest, earns $10,000 for Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter
Bowie, a 6-month-old Dalmatian from Watsonville, won a Purina contest and was named “chief snuggle officer” for Puppy Chow. The honor included a $25,000 “salary” prize and an additional $10,000 that was donated to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter.
Posted inLatest News
Central Fire District of Santa Cruz County to host veterans career event in November
The Central Fire District of Santa Cruz County is holding a veterans career event on Nov. 7 from 9 a.m. to noon at Station 5, 6934 Soquel Dr. in Aptos. The goal is to help veterans, transitioning service members and eligible military-connected family members build careers in both public and fire services.
Posted inArts & Entertainment
The Santa Cruz Public Libraries are hiring a poet laureate. Here’s how to apply
The Santa Cruz Public Libraries are searching for a community member to serve as the new poet laureate. The honorary role entails spreading messages about the value of creative expression, uplifting diverse voices and perspectives, encouraging new connections among county residents and increasing access to cultural resources.
Posted inFood & Drink
As Starbucks closes stores, what does it mean in a city built around independent coffee?
Starbucks has closed four Santa Cruz County locations in the past year, including two that shut down in September. We asked local coffee drinkers and independent baristas whether the closures matter in a city with a thriving independent coffee scene — and the answer depends on what customers want from their morning cup.
Posted inLatest News
Santa Cruz appoints 25-year veteran Jose Garcia as interim police chief
Jose Garcia will become Santa Cruz’s interim police chief on Oct. 31, succeeding retiring Chief Bernie Escalante. Garcia has served as the department’s deputy chief since 2020.
