As Carlos Palacios steps down from his post as Santa Cruz County’s executive officer, a national search will begin for his replacement.
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Watsonville police overuse handcuffs, detentions for minor crimes, county watchdog says
A new Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury report found that the Watsonville Police Department handcuffs, detains and transports more people for misdemeanors, such as theft, trespassing and DUIs, than other local law enforcement agencies.
Cabrillo Stage opts for dark and lurid with Sondheim’s ‘Sweeney Todd’
Cabrillo Stage is prepping for its second-ever production of Stephen Sondheim’s “Sweeney Todd.” The first time, back in the early ’90s, was controversial because of the musical’s dark and gory subject matter. But since then, “Sweeney” has become a beloved touchstone for many audiences. The production opens July 18.
Ella’s at the Airport grounded for good after rocky final chapter
Known for its scenic patio overlooking the Watsonville airport runway, Ella’s at the Airport closed suddenly this week after 10 years in business. The restaurant was the site of romantic dinners, community fundraisers – and, more recently, a public protest against a pro-Trump viewing party.
Weekender: Woodies roll in, fighting fascism with laughs and Catamaran’s summer issue
Recommendations for things to do all over Santa Cruz County this weekend, plus news and notes on our bustling local arts & entertainment scene from Wallace Baine and Lookout’s Team BOLO.
Best 9: Top events for the week ahead in Santa Cruz County arts & entertainment, June 19-26
With the weekend nearly here, check out Wallace Baine’s Best 9 recommendations for things to do around Santa Cruz County via Lookout’s BOLO events calendar.
County executive Carlos Palacios to step down in December
Carlos Palacios, Santa Cruz County’s top government executive, will retire in December after nearly a decade at the helm.
Morning Lookout: Longtime downtowners on ongoing changes, Scotts Valley off-leash clash and remembering Mike Rotkin
Santa Cruz County news and opinion headlines from Lookout for the morning of Thursday, June 19.
As downtown Santa Cruz changes, longtime residents fear soaring rents and loss of community
As rapid development reshapes downtown Santa Cruz, longtime residents worry about rising rents, lost convenience, strained affordability and preserving their neighborhood’s deep community ties.
In Scotts Valley, dog owners and officials clash over proposed off-leash crackdown in city parks
In Scotts Valley, a city plan to tighten rules around unleashed dogs in public parks, including banning pooches from some areas, is sparking tension among sports leagues, dog lovers and city officials.

