Local internet provider Cruzio has finished its “Equal Access Summits to the Sea” project, expanding affordable high-speed internet to thousands of residents from Half Moon Bay to Salinas.
Tech
Posted inEducation
How a UCSC student-built website helps undergrads go from career questions to options
UC Santa Cruz computer science major William Zhao built a web tool to help his fellow undergraduates chart their careers from entry-level positions to the C-suite.
Posted inLatest News
Monterey Bay Economic Partnership launches new survey on digital inclusion
The Monterey Bay Economic Partnership has launched a survey on digital inclusion that will gather information on internet access, affordability and digital skills from residents across the region to better understand where residents need the most assistance.
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Tech prophet Jaron Lanier, now a Santa Cruz local, returns to a primary passion – music
Jaron Lanier is known for both his accomplishments in high tech and his criticisms of its effects. But he also maintained a rigorous career as a musician. Back in Santa Cruz, he’s returning to his musical roots with a show at Kuumbwa and a new composition to be performed by the Santa Cruz Symphony.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Do battery energy storage systems belong in our communities?
January’s fire at Moss Landing has fueled debate over whether battery energy storage systems belong in local communities. While safety concerns are real, national battery safety expert Matthew Paiss argues that modern BESS fires are rare in proportion to the numbers installed.
Posted inEducation
Santa Cruz County teachers confront AI’s growing influence over the classroom
Some local teachers are changing up assignments and returning to handwritten work as artificial intelligence tools threaten students’ critical thinking development. But Santa Cruz County educators also see opportunities for AI to help students and teachers alike.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
Santa Cruz County quietly abandons blockchain program once touted as bleeding edge
Santa Cruz County has shelved its ambitious blockchain wallet project after two years, citing complexity and low public adoption. Officials now plan to pursue simpler digital tools they say are better suited to resident needs.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
State claims there’s zero high-risk AI in California government — despite ample evidence to the contrary
A state report provided to CalMatters says 200 agencies reported no automation around sensitive decisions. Some called the report befuddling.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Congress might strip Californians of protections against AI in health care, hiring and much more
House Republicans want to ban state regulations on artificial intelligence for 10 years. California leaders are alarmed.
Posted inHealth & Wellness
Kids should avoid AI companion bots — under force of law, assessment says
With input from a Stanford lab, Common Sense Media concludes that artificial intelligence systems can exacerbate problems like addiction and self-harm.