Community

The 2026-27 San Benito County Civil Grand Jury was selected and sworn in June 30, marking the start of a one-year term dedicated to investigating local government operations and promoting public accountability. The Superior Court of California, San Benito County announced that the incoming grand...

A Gilroy free-ride-and drive event could be renamed to “What’s Under Your Hood” because popping the hood of an electric vehicle reveals absolutely nothing. This hood is empty: no cylinders, no pistons, no filters, no parts with no need for an oil change.  Thank you...

Downtown Hollister was transformed into a buzzing motorcycle rally July 3 and 4 for the annual Independence Day Biker Rally. With the aroma of grilled foods wafting through the streets, hordes of visitors flocked to a closed off section of San Benito Street for...

This Saturday, America will mark a milestone: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It is a moment worthy of celebration, reflection and, perhaps more importantly, conversation. Reaching 250 years is not a small achievement. Our nation’s history is filled with...

The energy and enthusiasm were palpable at R.O. Hardin Elementary School for summer school on a recent morning.  It was a typical day for the 85 students overseen by teachers, including classified staff members and partners with the San Benito Arts Council and Youth Alliance....

San Benito County Sheriff’s deputies arrested two people after responding to reports of a suspicious vehicle along the riverbed.  Deputies responded about 8:30am June 26 to the area of Riverview Way. Someone called to report a vehicle was driving slowly in a residential area of...

When people think about economic development, they often picture business recruitment, job creation and new industries. But one of the most important foundations of a healthy economy is housing. Without attainable homes that workers, families and seniors can afford, businesses struggle to attract talent, hospitals...

Great Heller cartoon this week (June 26 edition of the Free Lance) depicting a normal couple categorizing a TV display! Elon Musk becomes a trillionaire! The couple’s jaded looks lament the real issue: one person powerfully controls an unimaginable amount of dollars while most...

Election results certified by the San Benito County Registrar of Voters’ office on June 26 confirm that Supervisor Ignacio Velazquez has been recalled from office.  On the District 5 recall measure on the June 2 ballot, 1,312 people voted “yes” to recall Velazquez. A total...

Victims of the 2019 Gilroy Garlic Festival shooting and their families have less than one month remaining to apply for financial reimbursement from the California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB).  The deadline to apply for compensation is July 28—seven years after the tragedy in Gilroy that...