County healthcare patients to receive refunds
About 43,000 former patients of Santa Clara Valley Healthcare (SCVH) will soon receive notice of possible billing corrections and refunds as part of a settlement between Santa Clara County and some past patients of the public hospital system.
The county said in a news release...
Retired Saint Louise surgeon reflects on career
Dr. Scott Benninghoven is hanging up his scalpel after 35 years of transforming lives in the operating rooms of Saint Louise Regional Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of healing that has touched thousands in South County and beyond.
“It is strange to look back. It’s...
Santa Clara County health officer announces retirement
Dr. Sara Cody—a nationally recognized public health official who was a leader and a pioneer in the Bay Area’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic—has announced her retirement from her position as Santa Clara County Health Officer.
Cody has served the county for more than 25...
Health officer urges residents to get booster shots
Santa Clara County’s top health official urged residents Monday to get an updated Covid-19 booster vaccine if they are eligible to do so as the holiday season approaches.
According to Health Officer and Public Health Director Dr. Sara Cody, just 11% of Santa Clara County...
State to lift indoor mask requirements for unvaccinated, schools, child care
California will lift its indoor mask requirements Tuesday for unvaccinated people and March 12 for schools and child care facilities, Gov. Gavin Newsom said Feb. 28.
The changes will mark the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic began that both unvaccinated people and students will...
New state law keeps medical debt off credit report
‘Everyday people across the country skip medical care because of cost. Those who do seek medical help may end up with a balance they can’t pay off. That debt can hurt people’s credit scores, resulting in long-term financial burdens.
Starting Jan. 1, a new state...
Julie Hutcheson named executive director of Green Foothills
Julie Hutcheson, a longtime Morgan Hill resident and environmental advocate for the South Bay, is the new executive director for Green Foothills.
Hutcheson has been on Green Foothills’ staff for more than 12 years and has taken an active role in leading the organization, most...
Public health department conducts door-to-door survey in South County
Over the next few days, the Santa Clara County Public Health Department will be conducting a door-to-door survey in Morgan Hill, San Martin and Gilroy.
The goal of the survey is to improve the county’s understanding of the community’s thoughts and knowledge on climate change,...
Newsom proposes lower spending on homelessness, affordable housing
After Gov. Gavin Newsom rolled out a deficit-bridging budget plan in January, advocates pushing for more affordable housing and shelters hoped he might reconsider his intent to make deep cuts—or scrounge up some more money.
On May 10, Newsom released a revised proposal showing that...
Spoking My Mind: Summertime, and the cycling is easy
First, an inspirational quote: “SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER!” - A. Cooper
Kids, enjoy your well-earned freedom. Celebrate with some sweet summer cycling, and don’t forget your helmets and sunscreen! Drivers, be extra alert!
Second, a quick thank you to all the riders who participated in last...






















