California

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    L.A. NOW

  • Rodney King says boxing keeps him sober

    Monte Morin
    6 Nov 2009 | 9:11 pm
    Famed beating victim Rodney King says that brawling has helped him to stay sober for well over a year. King is currently traveling the country as part of a D-list celebrity boxing league, and said the experience has kept him focused and dry for 17 months. During an interview in Massachusetts tonight, King told an Associated Press reporter that he hoped to one day square off in the ring with Laurence Powell, one of the LAPD officers involved in King's videotaped beating in 1991. King said Powell pulled out of an exhibition that was planned five years ago, but said he hopes something can…

  • Garden Grove mechanic sentenced for sexual assualts

    Monte Morin
    6 Nov 2009 | 7:47 pm
    A Garden Grove auto mechanic who sexually assaulted five women after luring them into a service pit under the pretense of showing them needed repairs was sentenced today to 14 years in state prison, according to the Orange County district attorney's office. Adrian Montano Fuerte, 39, of Tustin was found guilty by a jury on Aug. 31 of one felony count of forcible rape, one felony count of assault with the intent to commit rape, two misdemeanor counts of sexual battery, and one misdemeanor count of battery, according to a news release.Fuerte had worked as a car mechanic at the Econo Lube…

  • MTA bus collides with car in Silver Lake

    Monte Morin
    6 Nov 2009 | 7:44 pm
    An MTA bus crashed into a car on Glendale Blvd. near the 2 Freeway in Silver Lake shortly after 6 p.m. today, police said.According to Officer Gregory Baek of the Los Angeles Police Department, the No. 92 bus was driving northbound just before the freeway ramp when the accident occurred. Passengers from the bus suffered minor injuries but were not sent to a hospital, said Sgt. Gregory Hoyte of the Central Traffic Division. “The driver did go to the hospital and may have suffered injuries prior to the crash,” said Hoyte, adding that the driver seemed to have lost control of the bus and…

  • Michael Jackson's father seeks an allowance from late singer's estate

    Monte Morin
    6 Nov 2009 | 5:08 pm
    Michael Jackson’s father wants the late singer’s estate to help him cover living expenses that exceed $20,000 a month, according to court papers filed Friday.The estate is already paying Jackson’s mother a monthly allowance of $26,000, and an attorney for Joe Jackson wrote in the Superior Court filing that the family patriarch was entitled to the “same manner” of support. In the papers, the 81-year-old’s lawyer wrote that Michael Jackson had footed his father’s bills for decades.“He does not have a regular or steady source of income, and he was dependent upon the money…

  • 'Bling ring' confession helped LAPD break celebrity burglary case, court records show

    Shelby Grad
    6 Nov 2009 | 3:55 pm
    Authorities arrested suspects accused of burglarizing the homes of Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan and other young celebrities after a member of the alleged “bling ring” confessed, according a search warrant affidavit obtained by The Times. The search warrant said the crew would surf the Internet to find where the celebrities lived, then watched the location and worked out ways to break into the home. In many of the cases, the doors were simply left open. In the case of Hilton and actress Rachel Bilson, the crew broke in numerous times, according to the search warrant affidavit filed at a…
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    SFGate: Bay Area News Stories

  • Newsom's back and he's not talking, yet

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Mayor Gavin Newsom was spotted Friday morning at City Hall, but he wouldn't come out and discuss his mysterious disappearance. Newsom arrived at his office about 9:30 a.m., walking past members of the media who were hoping he'd comment on his absence. No such...

  • State prisons plan to expand psychiatric care

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    State prison officials announced a five-year plan Friday to add beds and treatment space for about 2,600 mentally ill inmates, in response to years of federal court rulings that found substandard psychiatric care in California's penal institutions. Most of...

  • Another crash on Bay Bridge S-curve

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Another day, another Bay Bridge commute slowed to a halt by an accident at the famed S-curve. On Friday morning, a motorcyclist rear-ended a truck that resulted in a broken leg for the motorcyclist and an hourlong delay for San Francisco-bound drivers. The...

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    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  • $19.5 million settles Shell environmental suit

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Shell Oil Co. will pay $19.5 million to settle a lawsuit that accused it of violating rules on hazardous waste, underground fuel storage and other environmental regulations at its gas stations in California, Attorney General Jerry Brown said Friday. The...
 
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    Bottoms Up

  • Weekend Update 11.6

    Jay R. Brooks
    6 Nov 2009 | 3:45 pm
    ALL MONTH November 1-30 All November, the BRU/SFO Project will be going on at both 21st Amendment Brewery & Restaurant and Magnolia Pub & Brewery. What is it? “It’s an excursion of Belgian-style and Belgian-influenced beers, six from each brewery. Grab a boarding pass and take a trip to Belgium via Magnolia and the 21st Amendment. The first three beers at each brewery hit the taps on Monday, 11/2 and then both breweries will release a new beer every Monday for the rest of the month. Try all 12 and get the special commemorative glass.” The beers will be released…

  • Wine is processed grape food? Get over it

    Jessica Yadegaran
    5 Nov 2009 | 3:33 pm
    I was confused by Keith Wallace’s Daily Beast article, “How Wine Become Like Fast Food.” It’s about the fact that there aren’t as many actual wineries with physical addresses in the country as some wine consumers may have thought. The headline reads like there will be some scandalous exposure of the wine industry, like jug merlot is the next pawn in our national war on obesity. In reality, we all know that big brands and cheap conglomerates make up the majority of wines purchased and consumed by average Americans. Big deal. They’re drinkable and affordable,…

  • Holiday gift ideas for wine lovers

    Jessica Yadegaran
    3 Nov 2009 | 4:21 pm
    Times are tough. Presents are expensive. Still, that doesn’t change the fact that the gift-giving holidays are next month, and we gotta pony up for our loved ones. With that, here’s the first annual Corkheads Holiday Wish List. Cast your vote for the best wine gift, or better yet, post your own ideas. Whoever has the most creative idea wins a bottle of wintery petit sirah. 1. A copy of Robert Parker Jr’s new book, “Parker’s Wine Bargains: The World’s Best Wine Values under $25.” At $17.99, the book fits the bill. 2. A bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon from…

  • Rossi-Wallace Pinot Noir is wild, bright

    Jessica Yadegaran
    2 Nov 2009 | 4:55 pm
    We did dinner at Pizza Antica last night, where thin, Naples style pizzas are decorated with light fare, such as arugula, goat cheese and olive oil drizzles. With this kind of pie, as opposed to the deep dish stuff at Zachary’s, I really like drinking pinot noir, like this  Rossi-Wallace from the Antinori Vineyard in Napa Valley. The wine ($35) is just pretty. It sparkles like a jewel and because it is aged in spicy Burgundian oak (only 30 percent of the oak is new), the fruit - wild and full of cherries - dances on top of the wood. It’s integrated, but subtle enough as to not…

  • Weekend Update 10.30

    Jay R. Brooks
    30 Oct 2009 | 8:24 pm
    Halloween weekend is now the biggest keg sales time of the entire year, so most people will having their own beer events this weekend. THIS WEEKEND Saturday, October 31-Sunday, November 1 Rubicon, in Sacramento, will hold their 4th annual Hoptoberfest. Rubicon has been collecting their favorite hoppy IPAs and Double IPAs. At the fest they’ll be pouring 21 IPAs on tap. IN THE COMING WEEKS Saturday, November 14 The Bistro in Hayward will be hosting their annual Barrel Aged Festival, which will feature beers aged in various types of barrels, whether new or having previously held wine or…
 
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    california - Google News

  • Murder, assault charges filed in CSUS student's killing - Sacramento Bee

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:01 am
    New York Daily NewsMurder, assault charges filed in CSUS student's killingSacramento BeeMurder and assault charges have been filed against the California State University, Sacramento, student wounded last month by police after he Sac State student charged with murder in death of roommate from Mountain ViewSan Jose Mercury NewsHospital sends parents $29000 bill after son is murderedRaw StoryWhat's Wrong with US Health Care, Chapter 457The Moderate Voiceall 270 news articles »

  • Shell to pay California $19.5 million - United Press International

    6 Nov 2009 | 10:50 pm
    AsiaOneShell to pay California $19.5 millionUnited Press International7 (UPI) -- Shell Oil Co. has agreed to pay California $19.5 million over charges its gas stations violated environmental laws, Attorney General Jerry Brown UPDATE 1-Shell to pay $19.5 mln for California violationsReuters$19.5 million settles Shell environmental suitSan Francisco ChronicleShell Oil to pay California $19 mln over violationsAFPLos Angeles Times -Houston Chronicle -The Associated Pressall 143 news articles »

  • Big California bank fails, has China branches - Reuters

    6 Nov 2009 | 10:19 pm
    Los Angeles TimesBig California bank fails, has China branchesReutersO) said the transaction made it the second-largest independent bank in California. Based in Pasadena, East West has 137 US branches, including offices in United Commercial Bank is shut down, sold to East West BancorpLos Angeles TimesUCBH Holdings' Bank Is Seized, 120th US Lender Shut This YearBloombergFive more banks fail - 120 for the yearCNNMoney.comNBC Los Angeles -The Associated Press -BankInfoSecurity.comall 366 news articles »

  • Fiorina comes out swinging - at her cancer - San Francisco Chronicle

    6 Nov 2009 | 8:59 pm
    San Francisco ChronicleFiorina comes out swinging - at her cancerSan Francisco ChronicleIn California, where politics and drama are wedded, the Republican candidate's public embrace of a disease that has ravaged millions of American women could California Senate: The Next NY-23?RealClearPolitics (blog)Golden State ShowdownAmerican SpectatorCarly Fiorina's Political Donations Always Go to Republicans. Sort of.Center for Responsive PoliticsWashington Post -AlterNet -Los Angeles Timesall 782 news articles »

  • Authorities say man stole car to face theft charge - The Associated Press

    6 Nov 2009 | 8:31 pm
    TeleTextAuthorities say man stole car to face theft chargeThe Associated PressThe California Highway Patrol say a man stole a car to make a court appearance on a previous auto theft charge. Patrol investigator Chris Linehan says he CHP: Oakland man steals car to make court appearanceSan Jose Mercury NewsOakland Man Steals Car To Get To CourtExaminer.comSuspect in car theft may have stolen car to get to arraignmentVallejo Times-Heraldall 247 news articles »
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    California

  • Fort Hood victims enlisted for different reasons

    <p class="bylinejb">By Caryn Rousseau and Robert Imrie<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation">Associated Press
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:41 pm
    The 13 people killed when, according to authorities, an Army psychiatrist opened fire on fellow soldiers at Fort Hood, Texas, included a pregnant woman who was preparing to return home, a man who quit a furniture company job to join the military about a year ago, a newlywed who had served in Iraq

  • Highly trained officer brought down gunman

    <p class="normalparagraphstyle">By James C. McKinley Jr.<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation">New York Times
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:41 pm
    Sergeant known for fearlessness recovering after shootout with gunman left both with bullet wounds

  • Small details emerge, but big questions remain

    <p class="bylinejb">By Clifford Krauss and James Dao<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation">New York Times
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:37 pm
    Possibility of civilian co-conspirators raised

  • House Democrats, Obama push for health vote

    <p class="bylinejb">By David M. Herszenhorn and Robert Pear<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation">New York Times
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:37 pm
    WASHINGTON — House Democrats put the finishing touches on their health care legislation Friday, and cleared an abortion-related impasse over compromise language on the politically treacherous issue of insurance coverage for abortions, as party leaders and the White House pushed to lock in

  • Santa Cruz: Crab season opens today for sport fisherman

    <p class="bylinejb">By Liz Kersjes<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation">Bay Area News Group
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:13 pm
    A good crab season is especially important for local fishermen, as federal regulators canceled salmon season this year for the second year in a row.
 
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    L.A. Times - California | Local News

  • 'Bling ring' confession helped break celebrity burglary case

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Court records show that a suspect charged in eight of the crimes gave police a statement implicating several others in the thefts at the homes of Hollywood's young celebrities. Authorities arrested suspects accused of burglarizing the homes of Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan and other young celebrities after a member of the alleged "bling ring" confessed, according a search warrant affidavit obtained by The Times.

  • California cities act to ban cat declawing

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    L.A. is among those rushing to prohibit the practice before a state law backed by a group of vets says they can't. The law of unintended consequences has seldom been more clearly illustrated than by the catfight unfolding from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

  • Most California voters don't plan to get swine flu vaccine, Times/USC poll finds

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Though 70% overall think the vaccine is safe, blacks and Latinos are more wary of it. As concern spreads about H1N1 flu, a new survey of California voters found that while most consider the vaccine safe, a majority had no plans to get vaccinated. The poll also found that blacks and Latinos are far more likely than other groups to say they believe the vaccine could be unsafe.

  • Fork whets Pasadena's artistic appetite

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    The 18-foot-tall utensil was stealthily erected as a birthday present. Now the city is considering keeping it as a piece of street art. Pasadena has a fork in the road. And it's 18 feet tall.

  • Finding a deeper lesson in high school gang rape

    7 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Adults see Richmond High attack as the product of long-simmering immorality, indulgence and insensitivity. In last Saturday's column, I relied on teenagers at Richmond High to help me understand how gang rape became a spectator sport on their San Francisco Bay area campus. They explained that bystanders who watched the assault on a 15-year-old girl outside their homecoming dance last month may have been too afraid to intervene. Or they didn't feel compelled to help because the victim wasn't in their clique. Or they were simply paralyzed by shock, fixated as if the violent scene was a snippet…
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    The Homicide Report

  • Suspect named in killing of Robert Rodriguez, 14

    Anthony Pesce
    6 Nov 2009 | 4:28 pm
    Los Angeles police issued a murder warrant Thursday for the arrest of a teenage suspect in the killing of Robert Rodriguez, a 14-year-old Latino boy. LAPD Det. Marc Matinez said Ignacio Araujo, a 16-year old Latino, is accused of killing...

  • Lancaster: Arthur Hicks, 34

    Anthony Pesce
    6 Nov 2009 | 1:39 pm
    Arthur Hicks, a 34-year-old black man, was shot and killed Sunday, Nov. 1, in the 1600 block of Renee Street in Lancaster, according to Los Angeles County coroner's officials. Ed Winter, a spokesman for the coroner's office, said Hicks was...

  • Highland Park: Javier Mejia, 43

    Anthony Pesce
    5 Nov 2009 | 9:36 pm
    Javier Mejia, a 43-year-old Latino, was stabbed to death Saturday, Oct. 31, in the 100 block of East Avenue 45 in Highland Park, authorities said. Mejia and Salvador Ayala, a 26-year-old Latino, were drinking with a third person when they...

  • Highland Park: Salvador Ayala, 26

    Anthony Pesce
    5 Nov 2009 | 9:35 pm
    Salvador Ayala, a 26-year-old Latino, was stabbed to death Saturday, Oct. 31, in the 100 block of East Avenue 45 in Highland Park, authorities said. Ayala and Javier Mejia, a 43-year-old Latino, were drinking with a third person when they...

  • Athens: James Jones, 43

    Anthony Pesce
    5 Nov 2009 | 9:33 pm
    James Jones, a 43-year-old black man, was shot and killed Wednesday, Oct. 28, in the 11400 block of South New Hampshire Avenue in Athens, authorities said. Jones and another man were standing in front of a residence when they were...
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    Outposts

  • Saltwater fish count for Southern California, Nov. 6

    Kelly Burgess
    6 Nov 2009 | 8:37 pm
    Attention anglers: Outposts will attempt to post the daily Southern California saltwater fish count, courtesy of 976-TUNA, each evening. Hope you find it useful:Daily Wrapup Boats Anglers Fish Audio Helgren's Oceanside 2 28 2 Halibut 2 Calico Bass 5 Sand Bass 8 Sheephead 3 Whitefish 7 Bocaccio 74 Rockfish 36 Sculpin 1 Cabazon Dana Wharf 2 24 1 Halibut 18 Calico Bass 31 Sand Bass 14 Sheephead 3 Rockfish 6 Bonito 2 Sculpin Pierpoint Landing 2 14 16 Sand Bass 25 Sheephead 10 Whitefish 17 Rockfish 46 Sculpin 4 Perch LA Harbor 1 13 14 Calico Bass 16 Sheephead 57 Whitefish 45 Rockfish 60…

  • Florida python trapper faces charges for staging snake capture

    Kelly Burgess
    6 Nov 2009 | 12:10 pm
    A Florida man is facing criminal charges for staging the capture of a 14-foot Burmese python. Justin Matthews, of Bradenton, Fla., was arrested this week following a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission investigation into a July incident. Matthews, a professional nuisance animal trapper, called media to his neighborhood to witness the capture of a large Burmese python from a drainage pipe. Turns out, Matthews put the snake there in the first place and staged the whole event. Matthews apparently purchased the reptile a month before from a licensed reptile dealer and released it to…

  • Irvine Lake trout season opens today

    Kelly Burgess
    6 Nov 2009 | 11:19 am
    The trout season opens today at Irvine Lake, with more than 20,000 pounds of newly released trout awaiting anglers. Closed since Monday, the lake has been stocked with rainbows ranging in the 1- to 6-pound range, although there were also a decent number of fish released that weigh from 8 to 12 pounds and also some lunkers weighing in at more than 20-pounds.For good measure, some brown and steelheads were also added to the waters.Longtime angler and outdoor writer Steve Carson offers the following trout angling tips:--Veteran trout chasers at Irvine Lake always recommend using ultra-light line…

  • Saltwater fish count for Southern California, Nov. 5

    Kelly Burgess
    5 Nov 2009 | 7:47 pm
    Attention anglers: Outposts will attempt to post the daily Southern California saltwater fish count, courtesy of 976-TUNA, each evening. Hope you find it useful:Daily Wrapup Boats Anglers Fish Audio Point Loma 1 0 8 Yellowtail 26 Rockfish 23 Bonito Seaforth 2 40 1 Halibut 1 Calico Bass 21 Sheephead 4 Whitefish 77 Rockfish 1 Bonito 2 Lingcod 6 Sculpin Dana Wharf 1 14 11 Calico Bass 9 Sand Bass 24 Sheephead 1 Sculpin 3 Perch 3 Sargo Davey's Locker 2 18 22 Calico Bass 2 Sand Bass 1 Barracuda 1 Sheephead 2 Whitefish 1 Bocaccio 42 Rockfish 7 Bonito 1 Lingcod 1 Mako Newport Landing 1 16 2…

  • Sea Shepherd's Paul Watson responds to 'South Park' episode on Japanese whaling

    Pete Thomas
    5 Nov 2009 | 4:14 pm
    I missed the now-famous "South Park" episode that premiered last week and offered a satirical portrayal of Japanese whaling and dolphin-killing tactics. But I did view a few short clips. (Your thoughts? Was it insensitive or accurate? Did you laugh your head off?)If you viewed the episode, you know that it opened with Stan and his family celebrating his birthday trying to swim with dolphins at the Denver Aquarium. But the party is interrupted when the Japanese dive in and attack the dolphins and turn the pool into a dolphin blood bath. Stan then takes up the cause and tries to…
 
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    Local News

  • Meg Whitman s charitable foundation s biggest benefactor was environmental group

    <p class="bylinejb">Ken McLaughlin<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation"><a href='mailto:kmclaughlin@mercurynews.com'>kmclaughlin@mercurynews.com</a>
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:37 pm
    In 2007, the GOP gubernatorial candidate contributed $100,000 to the Environmental Defense Fund, which is now at odds with Whitman over water policy. The foundation also invested $3 million in hedge funds based in the Cayman Islands — a Caribbean tax haven that’s been the subject of political controversy.

  • Pro surfer in California says shark broke his board — and his nerve

    <p class="bylinejb">By Alia Wilson<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation">Santa Cruz Sentinel
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:21 pm
    Pro surfer Eric Geiselman of Florida had his surfboard broken in half by what he thinks was a great white shark Thursday evening while he was surfing near Davenport.

  • Detective: Palo Alto real estate agent Jennifer Schipsi apparently was strangled

    <p class="bylinejb">By Will Oremus<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation">Bay Area News Group
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:13 pm
    Jennifer Schipsi, the real estate agent found dead after a Palo Alto house fire Oct. 15, appeared to have been strangled, according to a police affidavit unsealed Friday.

  • Santa Cruz: Crab season opens today for sport fisherman

    <p class="bylinejb">By Liz Kersjes<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation">Bay Area News Group
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:13 pm
    A good crab season is especially important for local fishermen, as federal regulators canceled salmon season this year for the second year in a row.

  • Audit details ousted East Side schools Superintendent Bob Nunez's expenses

    <p class="bylinejb">By Sharon Noguchi<br /></p><p class="bylineaffiliation"><a href='mailto:snoguchi@mercurynews.com'>snoguchi@mercurynews.com</a>
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:13 pm
    Ousted Superintendent Bob Nunez routinely spent $1,000 a month for meals, travel and lodging and sometimes much more. But the auditors found no illegal expenditures.
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    State of California Portal Highlights

  • Check a License

    13 Oct 2009 | 2:36 pm
    Links to various license verifications.

  • Halloween Safety

    13 Oct 2009 | 2:30 pm
    Stay Safe and Healthy This Halloween Plan safe costumes, offer healthy treats, ensure safe trick-or-treating, and stay active this Halloween... more

  • ShakeOut October 15

    13 Oct 2009 | 2:29 pm
    At 10:15 a.m. on October 15, 2009, millions of Californians will participate in the largest earthquake drill ever! The purpose of the ShakeOut is to practice how to protect ourselves during earthquakes, and to get prepared at work, school, and home. Everyone can participate! Use the map and links below to learn how...more

  • Storms Info

    13 Oct 2009 | 2:28 pm
    Cal EMA Press Release - California Officials Urge Everyone to Prepare for First Significant Storm Been affected by this years fires? Know your landslide risks and be prepared. FEMA landslide info. Visit www.ready.gov for more info on how to prepare for storms and other hazards. Before the Storm...more

  • Furlough Fridays - Office Closures

    2 Jul 2009 | 11:29 pm
    State government offices will be closed three days a month. Refer to the list of furlough Fridays to see which days offices will be closed... August dates are Fridays August 7, 14 and 21, 2009... http://www.dpa.ca.gov/personnel-policies/furloughs/main.htm
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    Mercury News Photo

  • Recession ‘09

    Staff
    2 Nov 2009 | 10:55 pm
    The 2009 recession by the Mercury News staff.

  • Prison Overcrowding

    Patrick Tehan
    27 Sep 2009 | 7:52 pm
    The California Institution for Men in Chino is at almost 200% capacity. [See post to watch Flash video]

  • Los Lupenos

    Josie Lepe
    22 Sep 2009 | 4:25 am
    Los Lupenos in San Jose celebrates their 40th anniversary.

  • Carnatic Singing

    Gary Reyes
    6 Sep 2009 | 5:34 am
    A classical Indian musical art form with strong spiritual roots is practiced in Sunnyvale. [See post to watch Flash video]

  • Shontale’s Emancipation

    Gary Reyes
    19 Aug 2009 | 4:49 am
    Shontale Taylor leaves the foster care system to begin a new life. [See post to watch Flash video]
 
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    CSPF Podcast Series

  • Top 40 Stories - Laura O’Loughlin

    California State Parks Foundation
    19 Oct 2009 | 1:00 pm
    In this episode, Santa Monica resident Laura O’Loughlin describes her favorite SoCal day: taking a ride with her seven-year-old son on the bike path at Santa Monica State Beach.

  • Top 40 Stories - Gerry Low-Sabado

    California State Parks Foundation
    12 Oct 2009 | 1:00 pm
    In this episode, CSPF member Gerry Low-Sabado visits Pt. Lobos State Reserve in Carmel, which is steeped in family history. In the 1850s, Low-Sabado’s great-great grandparents landed at Pt. Lobos after journeying across the sea from Southern China.

  • Top 40 Stories - Matt Samet

    California State Parks Foundation
    5 Oct 2009 | 1:00 pm
    In this episode, Matt Samet, Editor of Climbing Magazine, takes us rock-climbing at one of his favorite spots in Malibu Creek State Park in Southern California. The climbing wall—about a mile’s hike into the park—looks like it’s been placed there just for climbers.

  • Top 40 Stories - Bill Rupel

    California State Parks Foundation
    28 Sep 2009 | 1:00 pm
    In this episode, avid hiker Bill Rupel treks the Kiln Trail in Fall Creek, which is the northern unit of Henry Cowell Redwood State Park in Santa Cruz. Rupel says Fall Creek is one of the best kept secrets of Henry Cowell – and he likes it that way.

  • Top 40 Stories - Mark Saxon

    California State Parks Foundation
    21 Sep 2009 | 1:00 pm
    In this episode, Los Angeles resident Mark Saxon checks out the view from Mount San Jacinto State Park near Palm Springs in Southern California. He says what he appreciates most is the diversity of both landscape and climate.
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    Legislative Analyst's Office

  • Legislative Term Limits Reform Act of 2010 (Amendment #1-S)

    11 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm
    This measure amends the Constitution to reduce the total number of years that an individual could serve in the Legislature during his or her lifetime from 14 years to 12 years. This measure would allow future legislators to serve in either or both houses of the Legislature for up to their entire term limits of 12 years.

  • Religious Freedom (Amendment #1-S)

    3 Nov 2009 | 12:39 am
    This measure would adopt several amendments to the State Constitution regarding the free exercise of religion.

  • The Free Exercise of Religion (Amendment #1-S)

    3 Nov 2009 | 12:32 am
    This measure would adopt several amendments to the State Constitution regarding the free exercise of religion.

  • Jack Herer Cannabis Hemp Initiative

    1 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm
    This measure is related to the use, possession, and sale of marijuana.

  • Marriage Equality (version 5)

    30 Oct 2009 | 2:53 am
    This measure amends the State Constitution to (1) repeal Proposition 8, which states that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California, and (2) define marriage as between only two persons no matter their race, color, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, or religion. In addition, the measure states that it does not require clergy of any church to perform a marriage in violation of his or her religious beliefs.
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    Press Releases

  • Governor Schwarzenegger Orders State Flags at Half-Staff for Victims of Fort Hood Shootings

    6 Nov 2009 | 6:07 pm
    Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the Fort Hood Shootings:   “Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of this absolutely senseless tragedy. On behalf of all Californians, we join the nation in sending our thoughts and prayers to all of the Fort Hood shooting victims and their loved ones.”   In accordance with the President’s order, Governor Schwarzenegger has ordered the flags at all state buildings to be flown at half-staff in remembrance of the victims of the Fort Hood shootings until Veterans Day. 

  • Gov. Schwarzenegger Presents Remarks Delivered at Press Conference to Discuss the Legislature's Historic Passage of Comprehensive Water Package in Weekly Radio Address

    6 Nov 2009 | 4:17 pm
    English and Spanish links and transcripts of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s weekly radio address are below.   English:   The 2-minute, 21-second address is available at http://gov.ca.gov/mp3/press/GovAddressWater110609_dry.mp3. The file is 1.07 MB.    Spanish:   The 2-minute, 46-second address is available at http://gov.ca.gov/mp3/press/GovAddressWater110609_span_dry.mp3. The file is 1.10 MB.   Governor Schwarzenegger:   Good morning, everybody. First of all, let me just say thank you very much for some of the legislators and legislative leaders for…

  • Legislative Update

    6 Nov 2009 | 3:49 pm
    Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed the following two bills:   SBX7 6 by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) - Groundwater.   SBX7 8 by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) - Water diversion and use: reporting: resources: Disaster Preparedness and Flood Prevention Bond Act of 2006: Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2006.   (Note: Click on bill number for more information on the bill.)

  • Legislative Update

    5 Nov 2009 | 4:10 pm
    Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed the following eight bills.   AB 187 by Committee on Budget - Cal Grant Program. Click here for signing message.   AB 188 by Assemblymember Dave Jones (D-Sacramento) - Medi-Cal: quality assurance fee revenue.   AB 189 by Committee on Budget - Budget Act of 2009.   AB 813 by Assemblymember John Pérez (D-Los Angeles) - Alcoholic beverages: advertising. Click here for signing message.   AB 1009 by Assemblymember V. Manuel Pérez (D-Coachella) - Bonds.   AB 1188 by Assemblymember Ira Ruskin (D-Redwood City) -…

  • Gov. Schwarzenegger Announces Appointments

    5 Nov 2009 | 11:32 am
    Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today announced the following appointments:   Roy Ashburn, 55, of Bakersfield, has been appointed to the Western Interstate Commission on Higher Education. Since 2002, he has served as a member of the California State Senate, representing the 18th District. Previously, Ashburn was a member of the California State Assembly, representing the 32nd District, from 1996 to 2002 and the Kern County Board of Supervisors from 1984 to 1996. This position requires Senate confirmation and there is no salary. Ashburn is a Republican.   Kate Leyden, 54, of Chico,…
 
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    L.A. Times - Opinion Blog

  • From the top: Q&A with LAPD Chief-designate Charlie Beck

    Paul Thornton
    6 Nov 2009 | 4:46 pm
    Charlie Beck, chief-designate of the Los Angeles Police Department, visited with reporters, editors and members of The Times' editorial board Wednesday, the day after Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced his nomination of Beck as the next LAPD chief. In some areas, Beck distinguished himself (though cordially so) from former Chief William J. Bratton, pointing out that his method of effecting change by focusing on rank-and-file officers differs from his predecessor's emphasis on establishing policy and working with political leaders. Beck expressed support for greater transparency in…

  • In today's pages: Coverage for abortions and the real story of the Berlin Wall

    Karin Klein
    6 Nov 2009 | 11:56 am
    Public option, shmublic option. If you really want to get people worked up about healthcare reform, start talking about whether it should cover abortions and illegal immigrants. Today, the editorial board tackles both those issues, saying that abortion opponents are looking to "extend federal prohibitions into private pocketbooks. By restricting coverage offered through the exchange, they hope to make abortion coverage so unattractive that insurers eventually stop offering it in the market for individual and small-group policies." Healthcare reform thus should…

  • The mayor and the former chief, sharing air time with bias cuts and belly laughs

    Patt Morrison
    6 Nov 2009 | 7:48 am
    I'd deliberately stopped watching the news late Thursday evening after being overwhelmed by the horror out of Ft. Hood and the daylong tsunami of news in general. Sometimes, you've got to switch brain hemispheres. I thought comedy and fashion would do that for me. So I skipped over to ''Project Runway,'' now with extra added fun in the sighting of L.A. landmarks, inasmuch as this season was shot here. Lo and behold, there on the Lifetime channel was one landmark I didn't expect to see. Beaming bright in the sunshine, on a hillside above the 405 freeway -- yes, that…

  • Broadcasters challenge songwriters' price-setting power

    Jon Healey
    5 Nov 2009 | 5:57 pm
    Federal law gives copyright owners a legal monopoly over public performance of their works, among other uses. But their market power is supposed to be limited by the competition from other copyright owners. Consider the case of songwriters. Paul McCartney can make you pay for the privilege of including "Jet" in your movie, even if it's recorded by Shonen Knife instead of McCartney's Wings. But if you don't like what he charges, you can write your own material or go to another songwriter who demands less.Unless you can't go to someone else. That's the problem TV…

  • Humans are more than 50% water. Do we hate more than half of ourselves?

    Patt Morrison
    5 Nov 2009 | 8:34 am
    This won't take long to spell out. How long it'll take to fix, I don't know. Spinning around the radio dial Wednesday, I alighted on a news story about the water deal reached in Sacramento. The announcer said something to the effect that the deal balances both ''human and environmental'' concerns. What? Stop! When are we going to get it through our still-insufficiently evolved craniums [crania, if you like] that environmental concerns ARE human concerns, that we are only as healthy and as likely to survive as are our fellow species and the land and…
 
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    SFGate: Niner Insider

  • Go to the spread - slooooooowly

    5 Nov 2009 | 2:07 pm
    I got brutalized by Gary Radnich on channel 4 Wednesday night for writing that Alex Smith has the potential to be the next Peyton Manning or Tom Brady. With Radnich, it's always good natured fun and the Bay Area has been lucky to have such a unique sports personality over the years. Radnich also...

  • The news of this Wednesday

    4 Nov 2009 | 1:30 pm
    Here's the news for a relatively quiet Wednesday here at 4949. - Mike Singletary said rookie Ricky Jean Francois would replace Demetric Evans (shoulder) in the defensive-line rotation. Singletary also said Arnaz Battle and Brandon Jones will battle it out this week for the right to...

  • Now Singletary must change

    3 Nov 2009 | 11:51 am
    What's the line from the Stones - "You can't always get what you want, but you get what you need"? That applies to Mike Singletary and his San Francisco 49ers. Singletary envisioned a basic, tough-running, mistake-free team that pummeled the opposition into the loss column. Turns out that...

  • Singleray news conference: Clements fractured scapula

    2 Nov 2009 | 10:01 am
    Cornerback Nate Clements is out indefinitely with a fractured shoulder. Singletary doesn't know the degree of the crack and will know later. That will determine Clements recovery time. Singletary said he won't put Clements on IR. Here's a first half evaluation of the passing game. ...

  • 49ers-Colts: Second half

    1 Nov 2009 | 11:44 am
    FIRST-HALF ASSESSMENT: The 49ers have to try the no-huddle in the second half, Alex Smith runs it so well and the increased tempo makes it hard for defenses to adjust. Colt receivers have been open, but Manning hasn't been sharp. The zone blitz with a DB coming into Manning's face has worked, let's...
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    The Fabulous Forum

  • Al Thornton talks about loss of starting role

    Lisa Dillman
    6 Nov 2009 | 8:24 pm
    The Clippers' Al Thornton is dealing with losing his spot in the starting lineup. Accepting it, but, of course, not happy about the demotion. “If you ask me now, the coach is doing what’s best for the team," he said...

  • Jeff Gordon is 1 for 33 in NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in 2009

    Tim Haddock
    6 Nov 2009 | 7:24 pm
    Jeff Gordon has won only one race in 2009. That came at Texas Motor Speedway in April. The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers are back in Texas for a race Sunday. Gordon was asked about returning the site of his...

  • Lakers vs. Grizzlies: Kobe Bryant makes history again in a victory

    Brad Turner
    6 Nov 2009 | 7:18 pm
    There were two milestones for Kobe Bryant on Friday night during the Lakers' 114-98 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies at Staples Center. By scoring 41 points, Bryant became the youngest player in NBA history to score at least 24,000 points....

  • UCLA basketball: For a good cause

    David Wharton
    6 Nov 2009 | 6:42 pm
    The final tally is in for "Dribble for the Cure II," and the UCLA men's and women's basketball teams helped to raise approximately $85,000 for the fight against pediatric cancer. The players were joined last Sunday by more than 630...

  • Dodgers: Manny Ramirez to return in 2010

    Dylan Hernandez
    6 Nov 2009 | 4:37 pm
    Manny Ramirez will return to the Dodgers next season, according to his agent, Scott Boras. Boras said that he informed General Manager Ned Colletti today that Ramirez would not exercise the escape clause in the two-year, $45-million contract he signed...
 
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    Garden Bliss

  • Rest in peace, Emily... "Emmy"... "Em"

    12 Oct 2009 | 11:27 am
    You were my constant companion in the garden for the last decade. I could always count on you to jump on my back whenever I bent over to pull a weed... you kneeded my soft flesh with your sharp claws while I "relaxed" in the hammock... you slept in my birdbath and flower pots and window boxes... you tormented the dogs... and you made me laugh. You will be missed.

  • Mother Earth News tomato survey

    17 Sep 2009 | 2:01 pm
    C'mon, Sacratomatans, this upcoming article needs your input!Take the survey.

  • The New Digs

    17 Jun 2009 | 9:54 pm
    Lordy.Haven't had time to think about putting my horticultural stamp on this place yet... been too busy taking care of the basics-- like (temporary) window coverings, a washer/dryer, dish rack (buh bye, dishwasher), new IKEA bedroom furniture for the teen, cable TV/internet/phone and... God, I'm exhausted. And broke.Did I mention being without internet for seven long days? Barbaric.Love my new (old) neighborhood, love my funny little house, and love my new life. Stay tuned for gardening adventures and misadventures, backyard barbecues, and summer evenings spent swaying in my backyard hammock.

  • Want to learn more about California native plants?

    18 May 2009 | 10:49 am
    “Please join Demo-Garden volunteers Brigette and Alicia this summer”And California history? Then carve out some time in your busy, busy schedule to volunteer at the SacValley CNPS Native Plant Demonstration Garden at Sacramento City Cemetery. If you're not already familiar with the demo garden, see one of my past blog posts here.Here's a recent update from SacValley CNPS chair, Sabrina Okamura-Johnson:Notes from the Demo-Garden: Spring at the Chapter’s native plant demo-garden has been glorious this year. The garden has been ablaze with the brilliant yellows of our Sunset fremontias,…

  • More April blooms

    27 Apr 2009 | 7:45 pm
    Chilean Rock Purslane (Calandrinia grandiflora)- just keeps performing better and better each year, in the ground and in pots. Love it, love it, love it, and soooooo easy to propagate.Byzantine glads (Gladiolus byzantinus)Chinese Ground Orchids (Bletilla striata) just beginning to openGeumNot pictured but blooming now... and totallly worth mentioning: Queen's tears (Billbergia nutans)!
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    About.com California Travel: What's Hot Now

  • The Watchtower

    gocalifornia.guide@about.com
    6 Nov 2009 | 2:03 am
    Grand Canyon National Park Pictures : The Watchtower

  • Intake Towers

    gocalifornia.guide@about.com
    6 Nov 2009 | 2:03 am
    Hoover Dam Pictures : Intake Towers: hoover dam united states department colorado region interior bureau colorado river

  • The Strand

    gocalifornia.guide@about.com
    6 Nov 2009 | 2:03 am
    Manhattan Beach Pictures : The Strand: manhattan beach beach sunset form contact strand

  • Colorado River

    gocalifornia.guide@about.com
    6 Nov 2009 | 2:03 am
    Hoover Dam Pictures : Colorado River: colorado river water hydroelectric generators united states department hoover dam colorado region

  • Toy Story Mania

    gocalifornia.guide@about.com
    6 Nov 2009 | 2:03 am
    See a picture of the Toy Story Mania ride at Disney's California Adventure in Anaheim, California and read about the ride - who likes it, height restrictions, rating
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    Power Plug » Commercial

  • Strategic Energy Innovations Receives Award for Energy Saving Progams

    Megan Toth
    6 Nov 2009 | 1:21 pm
    SEI helps empower schools, businesses and other groups to save energy and promote a healthy environment. (Photo: SEI) Strategic Energy Innovations (SEI), a nonprofit organization centered in Marin, was recently awarded Marin Economic Commission’s 11th Annual Award of Excellence for Environmental Values and Resources for four of its K-12 programs. The programs, which number among a variety of services offered by SEI, promote energy efficiency and renewable energy while also educating students about environmental issues. Here is a brief description of the winning programs: Awareness for…

  • e-Newswire Sign-Up Contest Continues, Congratulations to First 6 Winners

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:30 pm
    Congratulations to our first six winners! Flex Your Power is holding an e-Newswire sign-up drive and contest, and we have already given away six of our ten no-cost tickets to West Coast Green. That means there are still four tickets left, so stake your claim! Sign up three friends for e-Newswire and you will receive a no-cost floor pass to the 2009 West Coast Green conference in San Francisco this October (normally $45 in advance, $50 at the door). Simply ask your friends to write “Referred by your email address” in the “How did you learn about e-Newswire?” box when they sign up, and…

  • CPUC Approves $350 Million for Utility Demand Response Programs

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:28 pm
    On hot summer days, utilities may have to resort to using older, dirtier backup plants, demand response programs help avoid this. (Photo: Flickr) Last Thursday, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) voted to give the state’s three largest utilities approval to spend a total of nearly $350 million on energy saving demand-response measures. Edison International’s electric utility will spend around $188.8 million on demand response programs over the next three years, Pacific Gas and Electric around $109 million, and Sempra Energy’s electric utility around $51.6…

  • Coolerado Air Conditioner Tests 80% More Efficient than Standard Units

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:23 pm
    Image: Coolerado Recent innovations in air conditioning technology could save customers over 50 percent on their cooling bills. Air conditioner manufacturer Coolerado recently won the Western Cooling Challenge, sponsored by UC Davis, with a unit designed specially for the hot, arid environments of the western U.S. While most air conditioners are actually designed for muggy climates of the East Coast, the Coolerado H-80 system uses a form of indirect evaporative cooling which humidifies outside air and then de-humidifies it through a series of plastic plates. The innovation could prove to be a…

  • Chipotle Restaurant Goes LEED-Platinum

    Megan Toth
    20 Aug 2009 | 5:22 pm
    Photo: Flickr Would you like some clean energy with that burrito? Newly opened in the town of Gurnee, Illinois, a Chipotle Mexican Grill recently became the first restaurant in America to achieve LEED-Platinum certification, the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) highest rating. Now in addition to serving up savory food, the restaurant can also offer a helping of sustainability with green features that include: A 6 kilowatt wind turbine, expected to produce about 10% of the restaurant’s energy A 2,500 gallon underground water cistern for harvesting rainwater LED lighting…
 
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    Power Plug » Institutional

  • Strategic Energy Innovations Receives Award for Energy Saving Progams

    Megan Toth
    6 Nov 2009 | 1:21 pm
    SEI helps empower schools, businesses and other groups to save energy and promote a healthy environment. (Photo: SEI) Strategic Energy Innovations (SEI), a nonprofit organization centered in Marin, was recently awarded Marin Economic Commission’s 11th Annual Award of Excellence for Environmental Values and Resources for four of its K-12 programs. The programs, which number among a variety of services offered by SEI, promote energy efficiency and renewable energy while also educating students about environmental issues. Here is a brief description of the winning programs: Awareness for…

  • e-Newswire Sign-Up Contest Continues, Congratulations to First 6 Winners

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:30 pm
    Congratulations to our first six winners! Flex Your Power is holding an e-Newswire sign-up drive and contest, and we have already given away six of our ten no-cost tickets to West Coast Green. That means there are still four tickets left, so stake your claim! Sign up three friends for e-Newswire and you will receive a no-cost floor pass to the 2009 West Coast Green conference in San Francisco this October (normally $45 in advance, $50 at the door). Simply ask your friends to write “Referred by your email address” in the “How did you learn about e-Newswire?” box when they sign up, and…

  • CPUC Approves $350 Million for Utility Demand Response Programs

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:28 pm
    On hot summer days, utilities may have to resort to using older, dirtier backup plants, demand response programs help avoid this. (Photo: Flickr) Last Thursday, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) voted to give the state’s three largest utilities approval to spend a total of nearly $350 million on energy saving demand-response measures. Edison International’s electric utility will spend around $188.8 million on demand response programs over the next three years, Pacific Gas and Electric around $109 million, and Sempra Energy’s electric utility around $51.6…

  • Sempra Energy Holds $1 Million Environmental Contest for Non-Profits

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:26 pm
    Non-profits will be awarded prizes for environmental stewardship in CA including natural resource conservation (Photo: Flickr) The Sempra Energy Foundation is ready to give away $1 million to environmentally-focused non-profit organizations this fall, with their new Environmental Champions Awards program. Applicants must explain what they would do to ‘green’ Southern California if they were given prize money, and each winner will receive between $25,000 and $100,000. The program was created as part of an effort to recognize the environmental efforts of Southern California…

  • Coolerado Air Conditioner Tests 80% More Efficient than Standard Units

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:23 pm
    Image: Coolerado Recent innovations in air conditioning technology could save customers over 50 percent on their cooling bills. Air conditioner manufacturer Coolerado recently won the Western Cooling Challenge, sponsored by UC Davis, with a unit designed specially for the hot, arid environments of the western U.S. While most air conditioners are actually designed for muggy climates of the East Coast, the Coolerado H-80 system uses a form of indirect evaporative cooling which humidifies outside air and then de-humidifies it through a series of plastic plates. The innovation could prove to be a…
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    The Daily Mirror

  • Found on EBay – 1883 L.A. Directory

    Larry Harnisch
    6 Nov 2009 | 6:00 pm
      Here’s an unusual item: An 1883 Los Angeles city-county directory has been listed on EBay.  As the vendor notes, there is only one copy listed in online catalogs and that’s at UCLA. As the vendor also notes, a copy from the Dawson collection was sold in 2007. That copy (item 228) sold for $5,175.Bidding starts at $3,750.

  • Matt Weinstock, Nov. 6, 1959

    Larry Harnisch
    6 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm
      Racing the Stork    A woman in the throes of becoming a mother was being driven to General Hospital by a  neighbor one night recently and as they reached the Civic Center it became apparent they weren't going to make it.    On a frantic impulse the neighbor swung into the parking lot of the City Health Building at 1st and Main Sts., and burst into the lobby seeking a doctor.  The building guards, James W. Payne and Aaron F. White, told him everyone was gone.    Informed of the crisis, one guard phoned the Receiving…

  • Paul V. Coates – Confidential File, Nov. 6, 1959

    Larry Harnisch
    6 Nov 2009 | 2:00 pm
      Now Hear This and Then Smell This     THOUGHTS ON THE LONG VOYAGE HOME:  The things you remember most are the sounds and the smells of the Orient.     The sound, in Japan, of women's voices, subdued but constant, like the chattering of a million delicate, well-bred mice . . . The wailing pleas of Hong Kong women begging the price of a bowl of rice for the gaunt infants they carry strapped to their backs.     The mysterious, resonant crash of temple gongs . . . The giggling of immaculately uninformed, well fed Japanese…

  • A Kinder, Simpler Time Dept.: Your Movie Columnist

    Larry Harnisch
    6 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm
       Nov. 6, 1943: “Rene Clair, before deciding as to whether Lily Pons will sing for Nellie Melba in ‘It Happened Tomorrow,’ takes two days off to listen to more would-be Melbas. I'm amazed that Lily Pons would even consider doing it.” Notice that Lily Pons isn’t in the cast for “It Happened Tomorrow” … And the Pasadena Playhouse stages “Rebecca.” 

  • Movie Star Mystery Photo

    Larry Harnisch
    6 Nov 2009 | 9:00 am
    Los Angeles Times file photoUpdate: This is Lili Gentle on Jan. 27, 1956, after a judge approved her contract (she was 16) with Twentieth Century Fox. Jan. 11, 1958: Lili Gentle and Richard Zanuck are getting married. Update: I inadvertently grabbed an old post and used it for coding, which is why there are so many guesses.... The only way to fix the problem is with a new post. Just a reminder on how this works: I post the mystery photo on Monday and reveal the answer on Friday ... or on Saturday if I have a hard time picking only five pictures; sometimes it's difficult to choose. To keep…
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    Greenspace

  • Governor signs part of water package

    Bettina Boxall
    6 Nov 2009 | 3:52 pm
    Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger today went to a scruffy field in the San Fernando Valley to sign two pieces of water legislation passed earlier this week. The setting was the Tujunga well field of the San Fernando Valley aquifer, part of Los Angeles' water supply.One of the bills establishes a statewide program to measure groundwater elevations. The other adds 25 state enforcement officers to track down illegal water diversions.Unlike other Western states, California has not monitored or regulated groundwater pumping, which has caused major subsidence in some regions.In its early forms, the…

  • Shell Oil paying millions for tank violations

    Bettina Boxall
    6 Nov 2009 | 2:23 pm
    Shell Oil Co. will pay $19.5 million in civil penalties and fees to settle a state complaint involving hundreds of environmental violations at its California gas stations.A state investigation found problems with leak detection and monitoring of underground storage tanks, as well as hazardous waste handling at Shell gas stations across the state, according to the attorney general's office. One of the gas stations was next door to the office of the Contra Costa County hazardous materials program. An Alameda County Superior Court order released today also requires the company to improve its…

  • Flat-tailed horned lizard gets boost from Arizona judge [Updated]

    Steve Clow
    4 Nov 2009 | 5:55 pm
    In the latest chapter in a 16-year legal battle to keep the flat-tailed horned lizard safe from urban encroachment, a federal court judge in Arizona has reinstated a 1993 proposal to list the creature as a threatened species. U.S. District Judge Neil V. Wake’s ruling follows a recent U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals order that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reconsider its earlier decision to deny the lizard protection under the Endangered Species Act. That decision rejected a Bush administration policy that environmentalists complained favored development at the expense of the lizard…

  • Religious group pushes to protect San Gabriel Mountains

    Louis Sahagun
    30 Oct 2009 | 6:30 pm
    An activist religious group has joined the effort to designate the San Gabriel Mountains as a national recreational area eligible for additional federal resources including law enforcement personnel, interpretive signs and hiking trails. The group, Progressive Christians Uniting, is touting the proposal to congregants of dozens of San Gabriel Valley churches near the 650,000-acre range that constitutes about 70% of Los Angeles County's open space. "We are helping to bring the moral compassion of people of faith to bear on an urgent public issue," said Rev. Peter Laarman,…

  • Washing machines: the new water savers?

    Susan Carpenter
    29 Oct 2009 | 4:50 pm
    Washing machines account for 20% of an average household’s water use in California, but that may change now that the California Energy Commission has prevailed in a years-long lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Energy, which had prevented the commission from adopting a more water- and energy-efficient standard for clothes washers. Currently, there is no standard for how much water a washing machine uses. It’s estimated that the average washing machine uses 39.2 gallons of water per wash, or 15,366 gallons a year for a normal household. If California’s proposed standard goes into…
 
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    L.A. Land

  • Hot Property: Former 49er Joe Montana lists 500-acre wine country spread for $49 million

    Lauren Beale
    6 Nov 2009 | 5:02 pm
    Football great Joe Montana and his wife Jennifer have listed their 500-acre estate in Sonoma County’s wine country for $49 million. The Calistoga property includes a 9,700-square-foot Tuscan-inspired main house, an equestrian center, two year-round creeks, a pond, a regulation-sized basketball court, a skeet shooting range, a caretaker’s residence, a guesthouse, a swimming pool with a spa, a gym, a bocce court and a producing olive farm. The main house has a loggia open to the outdoors, a sitting room in an upstairs tower and a climate-controlled wine cellar and tasting room. There…

  • Malibu picks sewers over smell

    Lauren Beale
    6 Nov 2009 | 11:15 am
      The Malibu septic-tank-versus-sewers issue has finally been settled after years of debate, according to "Septic tanks on their way out in Malibu" at latimes.com. The timeline: New septic systems will not be permitted in Malibu, and owners of existing systems will have to halt wastewater discharges within a decade. What it'll cost homeowners: Residents in affected areas would be required to pay about $500 a month to cover the cost of hooking into a central sewage system, according to the city's projections. And businesses would face payments of up to $20,000 a…

  • Prefab housing goes green in Newport Beach

    Nancy Rivera
    5 Nov 2009 | 6:13 pm
    Here's something a little different on the home-building front: We took photos of a prefab home being put together this morning in Newport Beach. We're not talking double-wide prefab, but rather a sustainably designed modular home by LivingHomes, a developer based in Santa Monica. The house is "poised to become Orange County's first LEED Platinum Certified Home, the nationally accepted third-party benchmark for the highest-performing green buildings," LivingHomes said in its news release.The two-story residence came in four preconstructed modules, which were…

  • Open mansions: A sign of the times?

    Lauren Beale
    5 Nov 2009 | 12:32 pm
    Public open houses being held at Westside properties priced as high as $21.9 million is the subject of my story today at latimes.com. Most of us can never afford a house costing more than a fraction of that price. If you are a diehard lookie-loo, at least now you can step inside one. The real estate agents I talked to were split on whether this is a good idea or a bad one, but it's something to think about when you have family in town over the holidays and are looking for that only-in-L.A. experience. --Lauren Beale Thoughts? Comments?Photo: Agent Florence Mattar has been holding public…

  • Redfin announces sale prices in real time, uh, maybe

    Alex Lazo
    5 Nov 2009 | 11:06 am
    The online brokerage Redfin announced a cool new tool for those interested in SoCal real estate prices. The Seattle-based online brokerage is now posting closed-sale prices and photographs for houses in a variety of big real estate markets as soon as the listing broker marks the property as sold. The new version of the company’s website integrates data from the local databases that brokers use to take properties on and off the market, according to a release by the company this morning. The upgrade added 9.6 million photos for 1.4 million recent property sales with an average of more than…
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    Courtinfo: California Courts

  • The Supreme Court in Action

    5 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Watch the California Channel for the state Supreme Court's oral arguments heard in the special session held at Berkeley School of Law on Nov. 3, 2009. See News Release

  • Innovations in the Courts

    16 Oct 2009 | 12:00 am
    Innovations in the California Courts highlights court programs that enhance the integrity, accountability and responsiveness of the judicial branch.

  • Elkins Family Law Task Force

    1 Oct 2009 | 12:00 am
    Draft recommendations from the task force are open for public comment through Dec 4, 2009 and address 21 topics, including live testimony at hearings, family law forms and procedures, enhancing safety, and rules of court.

  • 2009 Art Contest

    28 Sep 2009 | 12:00 am
    The contest, for children, youth and elders who have experience in California’s courts, is intended to highlight their permanence needs and give them a voice by encouraging self-expression through the arts.

  • More news...

    2 Nov 2007 | 12:00 am
 
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    California State Library Blog

  • State Library Creates Library Twitter List

    CSL Info
    4 Nov 2009 | 2:38 pm
    The State Library has created a Twitter list consisting of California libraries that Twitter.   Twitter lists are a new feature offered on Twitter that allows you to create topic-based lists of users so you can follow tweets from a specific set of users.  You can find the link to the list on the State Library's Twitter page. Please email Kris Ogilvie (kogilvie@library.ca.gov) if you’d like your library to be added to the list.

  • ProLiteracy Accreditation Awarded to Two California Libraries

    CSL Info
    4 Nov 2009 | 9:46 am
    The State Library congratulates two of its California Library Literacy Services libraries -- Nevada County Library and Huntington Beach Public Library -- for achieving accreditation from ProLiteracy.  ProLiteracy offers the only national accreditation service in the adult basic education and literacy field. The accreditation process requires local organizations to plan and evaluate their services using nationally recognized standards. The system is designed for programs in which volunteers provide most of the tutoring. Once a program is accredited, students, volunteers, board members,…

  • Deadline Extended for National Library Week Grant

    CSL Info
    29 Oct 2009 | 11:24 am
    The deadline for the Scholastic Library Publishing National Library Week grant has been extended to Friday, November 6, 2009.  U.S. libraries of all types are invited to apply for a $3,000 grant that will be awarded to the best public awareness campaign that promotes the theme “Communities thrive @ your library” during National Library Week (April 11-17, 2010). The 2010 grant application is an electronic form that can be accessed from the Scholastic Library Publishing National Library Week Web site at www.ala.org/nlwgrant. Guidelines are also available at the Web site.

  • Free Online Course on Needs Assessment

    CSL Info
    27 Oct 2009 | 3:50 pm
    State Library staff reviewing LSTA grant applications have noted that needs assessment is often the weakest, rather than the strongest, part of the application. To improve the quality of applications submitted for FY 2010/11, the State Library has asked Infopeople to provide a free online course on needs assessment. The course will be offered in advance of the LSTA application process so potential applicants have time to plan and conduct an effective needs assessment. If you think you may submit an LSTA application for 2010/11, you’re strongly encouraged to take advantage of this free…

  • Scholarships for New Online E-government MLS

    CSL Info
    27 Oct 2009 | 3:00 pm
    The Center for Library and Information Innovation in the iSchool at University of Maryland College Park, in partnership with the Government Information Online Initiative and the University of Illinois at Chicago, is accepting applications for 20 Master of Library Science (MLS) scholarships. The scholarships are for a new online MLS program focused on e-government services and digital government information. Applications are due by February 1, 2010.  The program is scheduled to begin in fall of 2010.  For more information, visit the University of Maryland E-government Librarianship…
 
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    Caltrans News

  • CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON ORANGE COUNTY'S LARGEST RECOVERY ACT TRANSPORTATION PROJECT

    3 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Irvine – The first shovels went into the ground today on a $59.5 million project - the largest Recovery Act transportation project in Orange County - that will relieve congestion and ease a chronic traffic bottleneck along State Route 91 (SR-91), a major transportation artery connecting Orange County with the Inland Empire...

  • STIMULUS FUNDS NEW BUSES IN TRINITY COUNTY

    29 Oct 2009 | 12:00 am
    First two buses purchased with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act rural transit funding in State of California. Trinity County – After receiving a $250,000 rural transit grant funded by President Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act), the Trinity County Department of Transportation today accepted delivery of two brand new 21-passenger buses. The buses are the first in the state to be purchased with Recovery Act rural transit funding...

  • NEW "MOVE OVER" LAW WILL INCREASE SAFETY FOR CALTRANS HIGHWAY WORKERS

    19 Oct 2009 | 12:00 am
    Sacramento – Caltrans wants the public to know about a new law signed by the governor that requires motorists to move over or slow down when they see a Caltrans vehicle flashing warning lights. ...

  • CALTRANS AWARDS $8.7 MILLION FOR STATEWIDE PLANNING GRANTS TO IMPROVE TRANSPORTATION IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES

    23 Sep 2009 | 12:00 am
    Sacramento – Today, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) announced the release of more than $8.7 million allocated for transportation planning grants with 68 agencies, including local governments, planning groups, community-based organizations, and tribal governments. California provided $5.4 million of the funding from its State Highway Account. The remaining $3.3 million came from the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration...

  • $139 MILLION TARGETED TO UPGRADE TRANSPORTATION AND ENHANCE ECONOMIC GROWTH

    10 Sep 2009 | 12:00 am
    Allocations include $2 million from federal stimulus funds. Sacramento - Today, the California Transportation Commission (CTC) allocated $139 million to improve the state’s transportation system and provide further support for the state’s economy. The allocations include $2 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act). The remaining $137 million in allocations came from assorted transportation accounts funded by state and federal dollars...
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    Daily Dish

  • Thanksgiving countdown: Intertwined rosemary and black pepper breads

    Rene Lynch
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:33 pm
    How about serving this showstopper at the Thanksgiving table? A wheat-brown wreath of braided breads -- one seasoned with rosemary, the other spiked with pepper. Here's your recipe. Want more? Check out some of our favorite Thanksgiving recipes from the L.A. Times Test Kitchen, and check out this photo gallery of just a few of the highlights. (But don't blame us if you gain weight just looking at these photos....) --Rene Lynch Photo credit: Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times

  • Foodies: The latest foot fetishists?

    Krista Simmons
    6 Nov 2009 | 6:52 pm
    Gourmands have been known to like the funk of a good Camembert, but drinking out of a shoe? That's stepping across the line. After stumbling across these Bread Shoes from DaDaDa studios, I began to smell a trend: Footwear designers seem to be steering their creative energy toward foodies. What's next, gladiator sandals with bacon straps? True, the inside of a fresh baguette is pillowy and soft as an Ugg boot, but are these leavened slippers really meant to be worn? Or eaten with a slathering of, um, toe jam? Christian Louboutin and Piper Heidsieck say that history is the inspiration…

  • Growing and eating it all on the family farm

    Mary Macvean
    6 Nov 2009 | 6:00 pm
    When Greg Nauta of Rocky Canyon Farm kills a cow, he gets two tri-tips. That’s doesn’t put him in a good position to sell to customers looking for tri-tip in quantity, so he needs people willing to cook all the other parts of the animal. Fortunately, chefs such as Ben Ford of Ford’s Filling Station in Culver City are interested in doing just that. They, along with farmer Phil McGrath and moderator Evan Kleiman, talked Thursday night on a panel at the Santa Monica Library called “Eating the Whole Farm,” about a revivial of “nose to tail” farming and cooking practices. Ford…

  • Family dinners, deep-fried cheese sandwiches and endless recipe-testing with Jack Bishop

    Rene Lynch
    6 Nov 2009 | 12:30 pm
    The reader recipes arrived by the thousands, just as Jack Bishop knew they would. Some were indecipherable. Some were clearly awful. But the majority were family treasures. And not just a tasty recipe for meatloaf or pot roast, but the story behind those recipes as well. The result -- one of Bishop's latest projects, "Cook's Country Best Lost Suppers" -- is like pulling up a chair to the nation's kitchen tables. But consider yourself warned: Don't pick up this cookbook when you are in a rush to get dinner on the table; it's far too…

  • Market Watch: Mexican limes, Arkansas Black apples and Autumn Lady peaches

    Rene Lynch
    6 Nov 2009 | 8:41 am
      Just-picked peaches in November? It seems preposterous, but Tenerelli Farms of Littlerock just started selling their Autumn Ladys, making them probably the latest peaches in the Northern Hemisphere. Surprisingly, it's a good peach, not mealy like many late varieties. Read more about peaches, strawberry guavas (above), limes and more at David Karp's weekly Market Watch column: RECENT & RELATED Thanksgiving recipes from the L.A. Times Test Kitchen Apres Gourmet: Food magazines find their niche Photo caption: Strawberry guavas. Photo credit: David Karp / For the Times
 
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    Power Plug » Blog Post

  • Strategic Energy Innovations Receives Award for Energy Saving Progams

    Megan Toth
    6 Nov 2009 | 1:21 pm
    SEI helps empower schools, businesses and other groups to save energy and promote a healthy environment. (Photo: SEI) Strategic Energy Innovations (SEI), a nonprofit organization centered in Marin, was recently awarded Marin Economic Commission’s 11th Annual Award of Excellence for Environmental Values and Resources for four of its K-12 programs. The programs, which number among a variety of services offered by SEI, promote energy efficiency and renewable energy while also educating students about environmental issues. Here is a brief description of the winning programs: Awareness for…

  • CPUC Approves $350 Million for Utility Demand Response Programs

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:28 pm
    On hot summer days, utilities may have to resort to using older, dirtier backup plants, demand response programs help avoid this. (Photo: Flickr) Last Thursday, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) voted to give the state’s three largest utilities approval to spend a total of nearly $350 million on energy saving demand-response measures. Edison International’s electric utility will spend around $188.8 million on demand response programs over the next three years, Pacific Gas and Electric around $109 million, and Sempra Energy’s electric utility around $51.6…

  • Sempra Energy Holds $1 Million Environmental Contest for Non-Profits

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:26 pm
    Non-profits will be awarded prizes for environmental stewardship in CA including natural resource conservation (Photo: Flickr) The Sempra Energy Foundation is ready to give away $1 million to environmentally-focused non-profit organizations this fall, with their new Environmental Champions Awards program. Applicants must explain what they would do to ‘green’ Southern California if they were given prize money, and each winner will receive between $25,000 and $100,000. The program was created as part of an effort to recognize the environmental efforts of Southern California…

  • Coolerado Air Conditioner Tests 80% More Efficient than Standard Units

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:23 pm
    Image: Coolerado Recent innovations in air conditioning technology could save customers over 50 percent on their cooling bills. Air conditioner manufacturer Coolerado recently won the Western Cooling Challenge, sponsored by UC Davis, with a unit designed specially for the hot, arid environments of the western U.S. While most air conditioners are actually designed for muggy climates of the East Coast, the Coolerado H-80 system uses a form of indirect evaporative cooling which humidifies outside air and then de-humidifies it through a series of plastic plates. The innovation could prove to be a…

  • Top 5 Misconceptions About Home Energy Retrofits

    Megan Toth
    25 Aug 2009 | 3:19 pm
    Home energy retrofits are becoming increasingly common, but as the market spreads, so do misconceptions about how to best generate savings. While some marketers have attempted to advertise “silver bullet” strategies, in reality, says Matt Golden of Sustainable Spaces, no one solution is right for every house every time. One of the best ways to figure out which retrofits work for your home is to have a professional energy audit, and in the meantime, watch out for these five misconceptions about home energy efficiency. Myths: 1.   You should install solar PV as a first step: Solar systems…
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    About.com California Travel

  • Where Does a Pardoned Turkey Go?

    5 Nov 2009 | 5:00 pm
    Well, if you're the National Thanksgiving Turkey who just received a pardon from the President, you want to get out of Washington before someone changes their mind. For the past few years, the recently-pardoned bird and his backup have hopped onto United Airlines Flight Turkey-1 to Los Angeles, California, and then on to Disneyland, where they take up residence at Santa's Reindeer Ranch.Where Does a Pardoned Turkey Go? originally appeared on About.com California Travel on Friday, November 6th, 2009 at 01:00:27.Permalink | Comment | Email this

  • Forget the Turkey, Go to the Theme Park

    3 Nov 2009 | 5:52 pm
    If you'd rather do something else with your Thanksgiving Day than tank up on turkey and watch football games, Universal Studios will be open on Thanksgiving Day again this year (Christmas too). Disneyland will also be open, with hours until midnight all week. Years ago, Thanksgiving was a good day to go, with lighter crowds, but nowadays the place is packed. Even the pardoned turkey from the White House ends up there. If you're going, we suggest buying your tickets online and taking a look at 7 Ways to Stay Out of Line at Disneyland. Sea World, the San Diego Zoo, Legoland, Knotts Berry Farm,…

  • Great Ideas for Thanksgiving Weekend

    1 Nov 2009 | 5:32 pm
    If you need a break during the holiday weekend, we've got some great ideas for you: run off the calories, skate them away, get in the Christmas spirit or just relax with the family.Great Ideas for Thanksgiving Weekend originally appeared on About.com California Travel on Monday, November 2nd, 2009 at 01:32:00.Permalink | Comment | Email this

  • New iPhone App for Disneyland

    29 Oct 2009 | 6:26 pm
    I'm a self-confessed gadget geek and that snazzy new iPhone I bought quickly turned from an indulgence into a necessity, keeping track of things and getting me back on track when I get lost. Just when I thought I'd found a place where I didn't need it so much, my friend Annie told me about Wait Watchers. Here's the deal: the app presents a list of rides in the theme park. Individual users post the current wait times as they go around the park and everyone benefits. Safeguards are built in to report and prevent anyone from entering bad data. I tried it out last month, posting wait times every…

  • Disneyland Weekend Getaway

    27 Oct 2009 | 6:24 pm
    Some people go to Disneyland for days on end, but one of the joys of living in California is that you can also go for just a weekend. Use the Disneyland weekend getaway guide to find everything you need for planning a quick trip in one place.Disneyland Weekend Getaway originally appeared on About.com California Travel on Wednesday, October 28th, 2009 at 01:24:02.Permalink | Comment | Email this
 
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    California Energy Blog

  • Go Fly A Kite!

    6 Nov 2009 | 9:15 am
    And from the news of the weird file, I commend to your attention, David Baker's piece in the San Francisco Chronicle today. (I suspect Baker had some fun with this one.)Adding a new twist to wind energy, several companies have come out with prototype generators that seek to capitalize on high altitude wind, which is more reliable than wind patterns closer to the ground. These efforts are, depending on your point of view, entrepreneurial, innovative, or just plane strange, but they include a giant kite, a massive inflatable ball, a skeltal, unmanned "helicopter," and a serpent. Each would be…

  • Watching TV Is Still Ok

    5 Nov 2009 | 9:18 am
    There is a great scene in the neo-fraternity classic movie Old School, where the sycophantic assistant to the college Dean informs his boss that efforts to kick a rowdy fraternity off campus have been derailed because, "The thing is sir, they are very good at paperwork."The same could be said of the Consumer Electronics Association which managed to postpone the CEC's vote on new regulations governing the kind of TV's Californians can watch in their homes.The CEA availed itself of its right to use darn near every second of the 45 day public comment period for the regulations and submitted a 91…

  • Toyota To Roll Out Innovative New EV Charging Stations

    4 Nov 2009 | 8:42 am
    In advance of the launch of the plug-in version of the Prius, Toyota is getting into the electric vehicle charging station business.The company has announced plans to roll out individual charging 100-200 volt charging stations that will be anchored to telephone polls.Two interesting features about these stations: 1) The stations will be the first to be solar powered, and 2) the stations communicate with a central computer that will authorize user access, thus giving Toyota a way to monetize the service by making it subscription based or perhaps even "pay as you go."Nissan has also announced…

  • The Other Side Weighs In On The TV Saga

    3 Nov 2009 | 12:31 pm
    Last week we noted the absurdity of CARB's proposed regulation that would require metallic window glazing on cars (glazing that would impair GPS, cell phone, and other devices). Today we revisit the CEC's absurd proposed regualtion to ban some flat panel TV's in California.Gary Shapiro is the CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association, which means he is a paid flack for the people who make and sell the TV's CEC wants to ban. We mention that for transparency. It's no secret where Shapiro's allegiance lies. That said, his oped in the San Francisco Chronicle makes a lot of very good points…

  • Solar Schools

    2 Nov 2009 | 8:58 am
    The key to building grassroots support for any issue is public education. PG&E is taking that seriously when it comes to solar energy and is going back to school-- literally.Through the "Solar Schools" program, the company has spent more than $8 million on a 125 schools in California, outfitting them with 1.3 KW solar arrays sufficient to power school operations, handing out "Bright Idea" grants, and working with the National Energy Education Development Project on school currculum about solar energy.The Bright Ideas grants are $10,000 prizes awared to teachers and amisnistrators in fiver…
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    The Unofficial Stanford Blog

  • Harvest Party and Pumpkin Muffin Recipe

    6 Nov 2009 | 2:22 pm
    Students for a Sustainable Stanford and FEED held their potentially-annual harvest party in White Plaza today. As if having the opportunity to dance like a tree to live bluegrass music didn't make my inner hippie orgasm enough, I also left with my face painted and a tummy full of homemade pumpkin muffins (made with REAL pumpkins - click here for recipe) and fresh persimmons. Well done my farm-loving friends, well done. The wheel of compost knowledge wows yet another unsuspecting bystander.

  • Claw To Get New Innards

    6 Nov 2009 | 2:05 pm
    If you've been in White Plaza lately, you may have noticed that its centerpiece, The Claw, has been dry. The fountain is normally a repository for pennies and toes on a warm day, but without water, it resembles something out of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater. Why? Ted Tucholski, grounds manager at Stanford, explains: "The fountain has been off due to renovation and installation of a new filtration system . It is now off so that the piping to the bubblers in the sculptural part can be replaced . This is being done to increase the efficiency of the fountain and to conserve water." So there you go. The…

  • Happy Guy Fawkes Day

    5 Nov 2009 | 1:09 pm
    Remember, remember the 5th of November... Greetings from Stanford at Oxford where we are currently celebrating Guy Fawkes Day with plenty of festivals and fireworks! So today is basically a national holiday commemorating the prevention of a terrorist attack on London in 1605. See V for Vendetta for details... Oxford is awesome, so we thought we would cue you in on a little bit of fun we are having from across the pond...

  • Camp Wellstone coming to Stanford!

    3 Nov 2009 | 7:28 pm
    This weekend, Camp Wellstone is coming to campus! What is Camp Wellstone? According to wellstone.org, "Campus Camp Wellstone trains students nationwide on how to run energized, community building, winningcampaigns. We focus on campus and community organizing and young voter engagement." Last year at this time, around November 2008, Stanford was in the midst of a upswell of political engagement and activism, and the country was about to elect its new leader. One year later, there's still work to be done (as we follow the #VoteNoOn1 hash tag tonight), as thought leaders, activists and…

  • Prolific Author Joyce Carol Oates Offers Writing Advice in Colloquium

    3 Nov 2009 | 12:42 pm
    Following her reading last night, Joyce Carol Oates doled out writing (and life) advice as part of the more intimate colloquium this morning. Oates began with, ended with, and repeatedly emphasized throughout a quote by Bernard Malamud: "Write your heart out." She drew heavily upon her past experiences as a writer--one of the most prolific of the modern era--to provide advice and debunk common misconceptions held by young writers. Joyce Carol Oates on writing, from the colloquium: On happiness: "Happy people are great to have around--everyone wants to marry a cheerful person--but you don't…
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    A California Winery Blog

  • November SB Winery Wine Club Pick Up Party

    joanie
    30 Oct 2009 | 11:04 am
    Please join us for the 2009 November Santa Barbara Winery Wine Club Pick Up Party. This will be our third Pick Up Party after the success we have been having with these events since our first in May. Stop by the winery between 11:00am-2:00pm on Saturday November 14th, pick up your wine, sample the current [...]

  • Botrytis Cinirea

    Pierre
    28 Oct 2009 | 12:06 pm
    Botrytis cinirea is occurring, in a very small block of older Riesling vines, in our Lafond Vineyards. It will very likely produce less than 1500 375ml bottles. Botrytis cinirea can occur, under wet conditions, in other fruits, such as strawberries, where it is simply called rot and the fruit discarded. In grapes, usually after an initial [...]

  • Build Your Wine Know-How

    joanie
    26 Oct 2009 | 8:03 am
    If you ever find yourself as a consumer intimidated by wine, remind yourself that it is just a beverage to be enjoyed… The only way to learn more is to invest some time and energy into paying attention to what you are drinking, where it comes from, why you smell blackberries, why you smell vanilla, [...]

  • Harvest is almost over at Lafond Winery & Vineyards

    Pierre
    20 Oct 2009 | 4:43 pm
    We are getting near the end. All the whites have been picked and what is left of the reds, Syrah, will be picked next week. Winemaker, Bruce McGuire, goes through the field and marks off what is ripe and ready and what is not. This may mean going back into the same block and same row [...]

  • Zinfandel / Primitivo Article

    joanie
    19 Oct 2009 | 6:46 am
    Check out this article on Zinfandel and Primitivo, referring to the two grapes as “Identical Wine Vino Cousins…” Zinfandel wines denote California grown, yet DNA tests reveal that the variety is of European descent with “the same DNA as the Italian grape Primitivo.”   Also interesting in this article is the discussion of the uniqueness of Zinfandel [...]
 
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    foodies: a southern california food blog

  • Free chips from Togo’s

    mary
    5 Nov 2009 | 8:55 am
    Going to Togo’s for a sandwich? Kelli send me this coupon via email. It’s good for free chips at Togo’s and expires on 11/17/09. Yay!

  • Foodie Dinner at Suite and Tender / San Diego, CA

    mary
    5 Nov 2009 | 8:30 am
    Last week I was invited to be a part of an online food community dinner held at the Suite and Tender restaurant downtown in the Se hotel. I took my friend Liz with me to enjoy the treats of the night, having no idea what was in store for us that evening. We enjoyed a spectacular night filled with drinks and foods and got to meet a few other local San Diego food bloggers and writers. The evening started with cocktails and appetizers in their downstairs lounge (which has an incredibly large door that is almost a revolving door that you enter through). The lounge itself was modern and chic, with…

  • free birthday food – other locations

    mary
    29 Oct 2009 | 3:00 pm
    One of the last free items I got was this lovely cup of ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery: It’s a “Like It” creation – I got French Vanilla ice cream with a brownie mix it. It was pretty good. I’m not too big on Cold Stone Creamery myself. I prefer Baskin Robbins because they have my all-time favorite ice cream there (Chocolate and Peanut Butter). So, my birthday is over and done with now. Here’s what I didn’t use, simply because I ran out of time or couldn’t easily get to one of their locations: Arby’s – Free shake with purchase of…

  • Dinner at Suite and Tender

    mary
    29 Oct 2009 | 8:57 am
    I attended a wonderful dinner at Suite and Tender last night with some other local food bloggers and was treated to a stellar night of food and treats. I will be posting an extended blog about it soon + photos – let’s just say it was amazing!

  • free birthday food – the boathouse

    mary
    27 Oct 2009 | 10:52 pm
    The Boathouse is a bay side seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor on Harbor Island. Each month they have a special Birthday Night set aside to honor birthdays. Birthday go-ers receive a complimentary Prime Rib dinner – you only need to make a reservation, show your ID and make an additional purchase at the table (such as a drink, appetizer, or dessert). My boyfriend and I share October birthdays so we were totally excited to go to the Boathouse for our Prime Rib dinner. It’s a pretty simple meal – Prime Rib (I got mine done Medium), garlic mashed potatoes and au jus for…
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    California Employment Law Report

  • Arbitration Agreement Upheld Despite Employee's Argument It Was Not Mutual And Adhesive

    21 Oct 2009 | 8:47 am
    In Roman v. Superior Court, the Court of Appeals upheld an arbitration agreement where the employee challenged the agreement by arguing that the agreement was unenforceable because it only obligated the employee to arbitrate his claims. The court disagreed with plaintiff’s argument and explained that the mere inclusion of the words “I understand” or “I agree” does not destroy the mutuality of an arbitration agreement. Roman v. Superior Court, 172 Cal.App.4th 1462, 1473 (2009). The arbitration agreement at issue in the case provided: I hereby agree to submit to…

  • HR professionals note to employment lawyers: stop working off of fear

    25 Sep 2009 | 12:11 pm
    The HR blog Fistfull of Talent raises a concern I think a lot of HR professionals feel. See article “Hey Employment Law ‘Experts’, You’re Killing My Profession.” Kris Dunn expresses the all too common sentiment that employment lawyers are not advising their clients – but are rather scaring them into inaction. Kris uses the example of advice some lawyers are providing about whether or not companies should use social networking sites and Google to conduct background checks on job applicants. Taking the conservative approach, many lawyers, as Kris notes,…

  • 10 common California employment law mistakes by start-up companies

    15 Sep 2009 | 8:43 am
    Start-up companies are usually saving every penny and operating on small margins. Simply the cost of defending an employment lawsuit could bring the entire venture into jeopardy. Here is a list of ten common California employment law mistakes made by start-ups: Assuming everyone can be paid a salary, and not paying overtime for hours over 8 in one day or 40 in one week. For a company to not pay overtime, it has the burden of proof to establish that the employee meets an exemption to California’s overtime laws. The exemptions are based on the amount of pay the employee receives and the…

  • CA Supreme Court denies review in Starbucks tip pooling case

    11 Sep 2009 | 4:19 pm
    The California Supreme Court denied review of a lower appellate court decision in the class action of Chau v. Starbucks. The issue in the case is whether store managers, who as part of their duties also served customers, could share in the tips which were left for all servers. The trial court took the technical line that Labor Code section 351 prohibits any "agent" of the employer from sharing in tips. At the trial court level, plaintiffs won a $105 million award for restitution over the disputed tips for a four year period. However, on appeal, this award was reversed. In a…

  • Spokeo.com makes on-line social networking searches for job applicants easier and faster

    26 Aug 2009 | 4:21 pm
    Human resource professionals and hiring managers have developed a better way to gain insight into new hire’s backgrounds: information posted in social networking sites. About two years ago, I was often asked whether it was legal to google a job applicant, or to review his or her information posted on the Internet. While some lawyers took the conservative approach to this “new technology”, it has become common practice to search applicant’s backgrounds on the Internet (see this post about Court's ruling that MySpace postings are not private).  I’ve even made…
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    Mayor of Concord

  • Great Videos From Concord with the Old Cowell Smokestack

    DustyHawes64
    30 Oct 2009 | 3:22 pm
    I was catching up on my YouTubes and found some great videos from the demolition of the Cowell Smokestack. I saw some other pictures on Claycord back during the project but I was unaware we had videos also, so I wanted to share. It was a piece of Concord that many used as a landmark. Now it’s gone but we have some great videos of it being torn down. Please excuse the language on the first vid. Cell Phone Thief’s Mother Claims Ignorance Wells Fargo Game Of The Week – Vote Concord Share Stories on Facebook & Win Prizes Where to Get Car Repairs in Concord Neighbors Around…

  • Arnold Schwarzenegger Says F**k You to State Assembly

    DustyHawes64
    29 Oct 2009 | 9:17 am
    Wow. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger dropped a nasty, acrostic message in a letter he sent to California lawmakers. (via TechCrunch and SF Chronicle) This is a real-life, genuine letter from California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to the State Assembly, announcing his intention to veto a harmless bill that would’ve financed the Port of San Francisco. As you can see, it spells out “Fuck You.” And why, exactly, would this completely uncontroversial bill that passed both houses without much fanfare elicit such an odd response from the governor? Because it was…

  • Wells Fargo Game Of The Week – Vote Concord

    DustyHawes64
    27 Oct 2009 | 12:44 pm
    A friend on Facebook posted this and I was unaware we had a game up for the Wells Fargo Game of the Week. If you haven’t done so already, head over to KTVU and vote for Ygnacio Valley vs. Clayton Valley. We are currently ahead but that can change fast. Lets get up to 5000 votes and get the schools some extra cash courtesy of Wells Fargo. Over 50% of people polled support Eberhart and Whitmarsh Great Videos From Concord with the Old Cowell Smokestack Share Stories on Facebook & Win Prizes Where to Get Car Repairs in Concord Neighbors Around Newhall Park Issue Homeless Complaint…

  • Dana Estates News

    DustyHawes64
    17 Oct 2009 | 8:50 am
    I didn’t know that every neighborhood in Concord had their own newsletter. Well, maybe not every neighborhood does, but Dana Estates is special then. Oct. 28th there will be a General Meeting for the residence and a guest speaker Edi Birsan (He’s a local blog reader and suppporter) will be talking about the history of radiological activities at the Concord Naval Weapons Station and if we have anything to worry about. If you live in Dana Estates, they are looking for some help in the form of a new webmaster for DANAESTATES.ORG. As you can see from the current site, it could use a…

  • Loma Prieta Earthquake Anniversary of Disaster

    DustyHawes64
    17 Oct 2009 | 8:42 am
    Today is the 20th anniversary of the Loma Prieta Earthquake. I remember exactly what was going on before the Bay Area quake. I was just a young lad in high school. The school day was done, I was sitting in my living room flipping between the World Series and Silver Spoons. Ya, you know that show with Ricky Schroder. At 5:04, the sound shook me before the ground did. It was like a train was rolling right next to the house then the next thing I knew I was on the ground, the ground was rolling under me and the lamp fell over. Measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale, this was one of the most well…
 
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    California Travels

  • Old Sacramento

    Margaret and Tom
    3 Nov 2009 | 6:53 pm
    Drawbridge across the Sacramento River In Freeport After breakfast at Alma’s River Cafe, we drove to Sacramento.  The fog had lifted slightly.  At least we could see to the other side of the river.  It looks like the sun will win through and we will have a nice day. We took Highway 160 all the way into Sacramento and the road ran alongside the river for most of the journey.  It was a very scenic drive along the levee with water on one side and pear orchards and vineyards on the other.  At one point we passed a large heard of goats and they were all pressed up against the fence. At…

  • Alma’s River Cafe, Walnut Grove

    Margaret and Tom
    29 Oct 2009 | 7:18 pm
    Alma's River Cafe on a foggy Sacramento Delta morning After a wonderful night’s sleep, Tom was up at 6 to walk round Locke to take some early morning photos.  When he returned he mentioned he saw lots of bats flying back to their day time roosts in the attics of houses.  Unfortunately he didn’t manage to get any photos of them. One of the questions we had asked Deborah yesterday was where we could get breakfast  I had looked online and had found nothing.  She told us of Alma’s in Walnut Grove, which is only a mile away.  So that’s where we headed to at 8 am. …

  • Locke, California

    Margaret and Tom
    27 Oct 2009 | 6:26 am
    I have been planning this weekend for some time but at the last moment I thought it was not going to happen.  It is Tom’s birthday next week and, as Downtown Locke, California a surprise, I booked two nights in Locke at a vacation rental.  It is described as - ’A Delta Gem – Unique Loft – Historic Chinese Locke’.  Check out the website.  Doesn’t it sound idyllic? Also on the agenda was a meal at Giusti’s, Saturday in Sacramento and a canoe tour on Sunday.  Tom knew we were going somehwere in the Delta but did not know exactly where. Locke is a…

  • Irving Street Cafe, San Francisco

    Margaret and Tom
    23 Oct 2009 | 7:44 pm
    Our choice for breakfast was the Irving Street Cafe. Leaving The Spire in the Pesidio, we drove along Aguello Blvd, through the Gold Gate Park and Irving Street Cafe, San Francisco somehow found ourselves on Irving Street. Irving Street Cafe has a rather grand green awning over the sidewalk but the interior is far from grand. In fact it is dimly lit, tiny and basic. Not only that but it was packed. We did manage to find one empty table. There are just two tables in the window, six sets of tables and chairs along the wall and 9 stools at the counter. It was bustling and lively though and…

  • The Presidio, San Francisco

    Margaret and Tom
    13 Oct 2009 | 8:34 pm
    It’s not far from Crissy Field to the Presidio – just follow the signs for Main Post. (Click on the photos for larger versions) The Presidio in San Francisco, California Within no time at all we were in the main square of the Presidio.  In the middle is a large car park, which used to be the parade ground when the Presidio was at its zenith.  On one side of the parade ground is a row of handsome brick buildings which used to be the Montgomery Street Barracks.  The plan is to convert the parking lot into a green park and to refurbish the barracks into restaurants, galleries and…
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    California Photo Scout

  • How to photograph Buck Rock Lookout

    myphotoscout
    3 Nov 2009 | 8:55 am
    Buck Rock Fire Lookout Discover a secret place in between two of the most visited National Parks in California. In my capacity as Photo Scout, I get to take many detours. Not many are as rewarding as Buck Rock Fire Lookout. Sitting on top of an unbelievably steep granite spire, Buck Rock is as vertiginous as it is beautiful. Only a very limited number of people will make it to this beautiful place, despite its location in Sequoia National Forest, right between Sequoia and Kings Canyon Parks. With so little traffic and such high scenic value, Buck Rock Lookout was a pure delight to photograph.

  • Fall in Yosemite Valley

    myphotoscout
    27 Oct 2009 | 9:39 pm
    Aspen reflecting in the Merced River After a hot overcrowded summer, Yosemite Valley is showing off its colors for those of us who shun the main season and adjust travel plans by beauty rather than convenience. Painters have an infinite variety of color at their disposal; photographers have time at theirs. Golden glowing trees reflecting in the calm waters of the Merced River, color contrast and fallen leaves in the foreground bring vibrancy to your photographs that you can only get during the fall. The summer crowds have left and nature will start its recovering process. Fall through spring…

  • Carson Pass, Carson Canyon and Monitor Pass

    myphotoscout
    22 Oct 2009 | 8:00 am
    Three Aspen Discover better ways to cross the Sierra Nevada and take great shots along the way. Passes through the Sierra Nevada are, for most people, just transportation arteries, connecting their respective destinations. The same isn’t true for Tioga Pass, which happens to run through Yosemite National Park. It is as if some need the national park service to tell them where beauty awaits them. Marked pullouts are always more crowded than unmarked pullouts. Foreign visitors, unfamiliar with turnouts, pull out and wonder what they may discover. Many people have the herd mentality…

  • How to photograph June Lake Loop

    myphotoscout
    20 Oct 2009 | 9:02 am
    Creek near June Lake Take a scenic bypass from Highway 395 and discover a serene basin with four lakes, plenty of trails and many cool subjects for photography. June Lake Loop veers off Highway 395, taking you to a gorgeous valley full of natural wonder. During the winter months, this area is popular with skiers and during the summer, fishing and boating are the main outdoor activities. The lakes meadows and creeks, surrounded by mountains, are a great find for nature photographers. If you pass through this area, take the detour and spend some time here, you will not regret it. How to get…

  • Kings Canyon Grant Grove

    myphotoscout
    17 Oct 2009 | 4:49 pm
    Sequoias of North Grove Loop with Hiker Kings Canyon lures visitors with the largest living beings on the planet in pristine wilderness. Many trails in the park are mostly empty, despite the crowds rushing through Kings Canyon every day. Most tourists simply do not plan enough time to see the vast Sequoia and Kings Canyon Double Park, hurrying from sight to sight as the park map tells them. Fortunately, some of the best sights are not marked, leaving them empty and ready for your exploration. One of these nearly empty places, North Grove Loop, hides next to the most-visited place in the park,…
 
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    California Newswire

  • Narconon Drug Rehab of Georgia Graduate Featured on Local News

    National News Desk
    6 Nov 2009 | 9:13 am
    ATLANTA, Ga. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Recently a Narconon of Georgia graduate was featured in a local news show about his experience with prescription drug abuse. The special report focused on the growing problem of prescription drug addiction. In the report Andrew shared his near death experience and his belief that more should be done to prevent prescription drug abuse. “I woke up, blinked once and the next thing I knew I opened my eyes to my father on top of me giving me CPR. I saw tears streaming down his face and I asked ‘What’s going on?’” remarked…

  • Senior Care Business Owner in Brentwood, Tenn., Receives Prestigious Award

    National News Desk
    6 Nov 2009 | 5:05 am
    NASHVILLE, Tenn. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Robert Harter, owner of the Home Helpers and Direct Link in Brentwood, Tenn., was recently honored as the recipient of the 2009 Rookie of the Year Award for Home Helpers, the nation’s leading senior care franchise specializing in non-medical and personal care and companionship for seniors. Harter accepted the honor at the company’s annual national conference in Orlando, Fla., on October 14, 2009. The Home Helpers and Direct Link “Rookie of the Year Award” was established to recognize a new franchisee who has shown enormous…

  • Namtra Corporation Acquires eTaxPortal

    National News Desk
    5 Nov 2009 | 11:30 am
    RESTON, Va. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Namtra Business Solutions, a 2009 Deloitte 500 fastest growing company, today announced that its software division has completed the acquisition of eTaxPortal. eTaxPortal is a Web based tax process automation for today’s tax department. It provides a single gateway to commonly used tax tools. The key components of eTaxPortal includes eTax Fileroom – Embedded Tax Document Repository; eTaxWorkflow – Embedded Tax Project Management; eTaxCalendar – Tax and non-tax obligation management for unlimited entities; eTaxDataCollector…

  • Patented CAVTEC Technology Quantifies Competitive Advantage and Value

    National News Desk
    5 Nov 2009 | 10:52 am
    SYRACUSE, N.Y. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — CAVTEC (www.cavtectools.com) announces the formal launch of CAV, Competitive Advantage Valuation software for maximizing returns on intellectual property (IP). Field tested in over 100 projects since 1997, CAV has helped universities, businesses, and entrepreneurs develop effective IP strategies and negotiate successful agreements. As a result, in 2009 Technology Transfer Tactics (TTT) chose the CAV solution for its specialized valuation catalog (www.technologytransfertactics.com) and showcased CAV at the recent Licensing Executives Society (LES)…

  • Narconon Centers Educate Thousands during Red Ribbon Week

    National News Desk
    5 Nov 2009 | 9:27 am
    LOS ANGELES, Calif. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Narconon International’s management office in Los Angeles worked with its drug rehabilitation and education centers throughout the country in a combined effort to speak with thousands of students and other community members during Red Ribbon Week. The National Family Partnership’s (NFP) Red Ribbon Week is considered the nationwide observance of drug prevention activities and is held during the end of October each year, which began in 1988. Narconon staff and volunteer activities stretched the span of the country to participate in…
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    The Mighty Sparrow

  • Tomorrow is Family Day at Los Vaqueros Reservoir. Yay! Families!

    Patrick
    6 Nov 2009 | 3:18 pm
    Los Vaqueros Reservoir in mid-summer form. As the St. Helena Star reports, tomorrow is Family Fishing Day from 7 a.m. until noon. Since they succinctly describe the event in a way that I could not improve on, I’ll just paste it below. As the online paper reports… Prizes will be awarded for the top 10 best trout caught by kids and welcome bags given to all anglers under 16. Call (925) 371-2628 for reservations. One note on access to the lake - the north entrance on Vasco Road will be closed for repairs this weekend. Use the Marina or South entrances from the Brentwood side. Go to…

  • Site News: Check Out That New Logo

    Patrick
    6 Nov 2009 | 10:34 am
    That is right! How do you like us now- with our new, spiffy logo and all? Well, it’s now official: The Mighty Sparrow is all growns up, from a boy to a man, in one swift motion. Like a caterpillar to an eagle. Or, more appropriately, like a moth to a sparrow. Those can’t be right. Regardless, it’s time to celebrate! Because the Mighty Sparrow is 4 months and 160 posts old- an impressive feat in this crazy dog-eat-dog world of blogs and bloggers. We’ve covered national, state and local parks around California. We’ve covered Lassen Volcanic National Park, Redwood…

  • A Mighty Photo- November 6

    Patrick
    6 Nov 2009 | 9:45 am
    A father and son fish in Freshwater Lagoon in Redwood National Park. A father and son fish in Freshwater Lagoon in Redwood National Park.

  • My New Favorite Site: Mappery.com

    Patrick
    5 Nov 2009 | 12:55 pm
    I’ve wanted to shout it from the rooftops. I’ve wanted to stand on the Golden Gate Bridge’s famed walkway and tell every passerby. I’ve wanted to head up to the Redwoods to scream it at the Marbled Murrelets. Now I feel as if I can finally let it all out: I LOVE MAPS!!! Ahhhhhh. There we go. That feels a lot better. If you wondering ” Why now?” it’s because I now know that I have backers, a group that has provided me with the strength and confidence to come forward to tell the world about my love for accurate, detailed descriptions of places. I have…

  • A Mighty Photo- November 5

    Patrick
    5 Nov 2009 | 10:09 am
    A visitor to Big Basin Redwood State Park gets personal with a one of the old-growth giants on the Redwood Trail. A visitor to Big Basin Redwood State Park gets personal with a one of the old-growth giants on the Redwood Trail.
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