Sunday Reads: Peregrine falcons' fight against bird flu; building a friendship circle for older adults

Even the fastest bird on Earth can’t outfly bird flu

Peregrine falcons — long celebrated as one of the greatest wildlife recovery stories in modern history — have seen rapid deaths across the greater San Francisco Bay Area since 2022. Long-term monitoring by the UC Santa Cruz Predatory Bird Research Group suggests bird flu could be the culprit. Read the story from Cassidy Beach.

OPINION: Village Santa Cruz County offers connection and support for older adults – want to join us?

Mary Howe, co-founder of Village Santa Cruz County, responds to a recent Lookout op-ed about making female friends after 50 by highlighting the nonprofit’s work to combat loneliness among older adults. Founded in 2017, the membership-based group connects seniors through small social gatherings, educational programs and volunteer support in navigating life’s crises and remaining independent longer. The organization is part of the national Village to Village Network movement and currently serves more than 70 members locally. A public workshop on planning for medical crises will be held May 18 at the Aptos Branch Library. Read Howe’s Community Voices opinion piece here.

10 hot jobs in Santa Cruz County: Week of March 6

Looking for a new job in Santa Cruz County? Explore the top 10 exciting job opportunities across industries like education, health care and more. Your next career move starts here!