Robert Rivas sworn in as California Assembly speaker
It’s a day that seemed like it might not ever happen: Robert Rivas was sworn in Friday morning as speaker of the California Assembly.
The ascension of the Hollister Democrat—who represents the 29th Assembly District—to lead the lower chamber of the Legislature brings to a...
After public outcry, Santa Clara County supervisors order revisions to rural zoning proposal
The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors on Nov. 18 unanimously approved a change of course for proposed rural zoning amendments after hundreds of farmers, ranchers and equestrian business owners raised concerns the changes would devastate their operations.
Supervisor Sylvia Arenas, who represents much of...
South Valley unites for farmworkers
On a recent December afternoon, about 30 volunteers gathered at St. Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista to give their efforts to the sprawling, multifaceted Farmworker Caravan—an annual holiday donation drive for families in need in five counties.
Labeled a “Santa’s Workshop,” the Dec....
First storm of 2023 expected late Tuesday
Sunday's dry spell helped the greater Bay Area briefly recover from a powerful storm on New Year's weekend, but a Pineapple Express on the way will soak the region mid-week, forecasters said Monday.
Mop-up efforts to bail out flooded basements and clear mudslides from roadways...
Counting on sheep
As vineyard manager at the 7,000-acre Paicines Ranch in San Benito County, Kelly Mulville has a rather significant task: he’s trying to practice organic, regenerative farming on 25 acres of vines while surrounded by hundreds of acres of vineyards being conventionally farmed.
“Our underlying philosophy...
A sip of history
Fortino Winery, likely one of the most familiar Santa Clara Valley wineries to local people, reflects the history of winemaking in a region famed for the craft.
Premium wine has been made in the Santa Clara Valley longer than anywhere else in California. Part of...
County installs solar panel array at San Martin animal center
The goats at the Santa Clara County Animal Services Center in San Martin have a new source of shade: an array of solar panels that generate power for the 37,000-square-foot shelter.
The county Facilities and Fleet Department completed the project last fall. It’s one of...
Local Scene: Garlic City Car Show, Book Sale for the Library
Fundraiser supports therapeutic riding
One Step Closer’s 2024 fundraiser gala will take place 5-9pm June 23 at Coyote Ranch Event Center, featuring line dancing instruction, live auction, BBQ dinner, raffle, open bar and more.
Line dancing lessons will be taught by Janet Goddard, to live music...
Federal, state water managers announce increased deliveries
Managers of California’s two main water storage and delivery systems on March 22 announced increases to forecasted water allocations for millions of people and vast tracts of farmland.
The state Department of Water Resources, which runs the State Water Project, said its anticipated water deliveries...
Pajaro watershed focus of regional climate talk
About 80 people gathered March 10 in the historic Aromas Community Grange after the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) selected the Pajaro River Watershed as one of five watersheds to pilot the Watershed Resilience Program.
The initiative, which is supported by a $2 million...






















