This week’s letters highlight the passing of a beloved local artist, debate over national policy, and a community effort supporting immigrants in Santa Cruz County.

From the stark realities of who gets funded—and who gets left behind—to the local women working to rewrite those odds, this week’s issue explores both inequality and ingenuity. We spotlight community voices, from classical music discoveries and intimate local performances to a powerful report on Iranian students navigating life during wartime. And in a rare Santa Cruz appearance, actor-turned-author Andrew McCarthy brings his deeply personal journey into friendship to the Rio Theatre, proving that even the most familiar faces are still searching for connection.

From No Kings Day rallies to local candidates and reader responses, this week’s letters reflect a community engaged in democracy and debate.

Santa Cruz’s music scene is overflowing with talent—from rising acts like the Coffis Brothers to Dave Alvin's boundary pushing The Third Mind lighting up Moe’s Alley on Thursday night.

Community voices remembering Bill Raney, and speaking out on elections, politics, and Santa Cruz life in Letters to the Editor.

Editor Brad Kava reflects on turbulent political times and highlights the Watsonville Film Festival along with a week of music, theater and culture across Santa Cruz County.

Readers discuss Congressman Jimmy Panetta’s record on war funding and call attention to a beloved Santa Cruz chamber music series, “Munching with Mozart.”

Editor Brad Kava highlights a wave of inventive performances across Santa Cruz—from immersive chamber music and opera experiments to Hitchcock-inspired filmmaking and psychedelic therapy exploration.

PANETTA STATEMENT ON IRAN: For the eighth time in his presidency, Donald Trump attacked a country without informing or getting buy-in from the American people.

Lol Tolhurst, of the Cure and David J of Bauhaus and Love & Rockets, mix it up with our Santa Cruz band, Trestles and singer/songwriter Swan Porter. You won’t find something like this anywhere else.

Readers weigh in on the city’s support for unhoused residents, while a local nonprofit invites the community to learn hands-on farming skills this spring.

A DJ named Neumonic is putting Santa Cruz on the beats map. UCSC grad Nick Neumann, who synthesized his DJ name from a variation...