Santa Cruz County History Overview

David Schmaltz outlines a pivotal point in California history in his Monterey County Weekly cover story on the Battle of Natividad.

California's government was born out of utter chaos. Here's how the state developed some sort of order to the way it operates, and how it makes and enforces laws.

Trustees vote in favor of changing the Aptos community college’s name

California is full of places and communities, but most are not cities. Here's what it takes for a community to become a city, the benefits of being one—and why the state has a 'de facto moratorium' on new cities.

One of Santa Cruz's iconic natural spots transformed forever in one night

UCSC icon looks at homophobia on the American left in her new book ‘Communists in Closets’

A theatrical performance based on Traci Bliss’ book, ‘Big Basin Redwood Forest: California’s Oldest State Park’

Coal is the dirtiest fossil fuel, yet it is the source of 40 percent of the world's energy. California remains an exception to coal industry dominance, using and producing less coal that almost any other state.

Oil aka petroleum holds a tighter grip on California than any other energy source. Here's how Big Oil came to dominate the state and world economy, and some hints at how oil's grip may finally loosen.

New book explores history through the eyes of local legend Laura Hecox