Powerful Christmas Day winds gusting up to 114 mph severely damaged UC Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton, forcing the nearly 140-year-old facility to close while officials headquartered at UC Santa Cruz assess structural damage and begin repairs expected to take months.
Lookout Santa Cruz Staff
Posted inLatest News
Sunday Reads: Wallace Baine’s retirement announcement; CZU survivor’s struggle to rebuild
Specially curated stories from Lookout correspondents and opinion pieces from contributors.
Posted inLatest News
Police arrest two suspects in October Beach Flats Park shooting
The Santa Cruz Police Department has arrested two suspects in connection with an October shooting near Beach Flats Park in Santa Cruz.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
In the Public Interest: Investors and the county housing market; where downtown projects stand; SCPD and Flock access
Around Santa Cruz County politics & policy with Lookout correspondents and contributors, including a look at what’s on local agendas this week.
Posted inThe Lookout List
Local favorites make perfect gifts: Explore the Lookout List winners
Looking for local favorites this holiday season? Browse a selection of 2025 Lookout List winners below. This Lookout reader-nominated group showcases Santa Cruz County’s most beloved shops, boutiques, makers and specialty retailers — all chosen by our community for their exceptional quality, service and creativity. Whether you need something unique, practical, luxurious or totally unexpected, […]
Posted inLatest News
Sunday Reads: Where downtown Santa Cruz’s transformation stands; progress over paralysis on rail trail
Specially curated stories from Lookout Santa Cruz correspondents and opinion pieces from contributors.
Posted inLatest News
Sheriff’s office makes arrest in 13-year-old murder case
Colin Sean Tisdale, 63, has been charged with the 2012 murder of a Soquel man.
Posted inEducation
Cabrillo College president search committee recommends Cal Poly Humboldt administrator for new president
Cabrillo College’s search committee announced Tuesday it will recommend the governing board select Jenn Capps, a Cal Poly Humboldt administrator, for the school’s next president.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
Visit Santa Cruz County kicks off push to bring World Cup soccer fans over the hill
With six World Cup matches coming to Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, local tourism organization Visit Santa Cruz County is preparing to support local businesses during the worldwide soccer tournament in 2026.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
In the Public Interest: Rail trail changes; Flock Safety searches; veterans’ appeal to supervisors
Headlines to know from around Santa Cruz County politics & policy, plus a look at what’s on local agendas this week and beyond.