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SJB art exhibit celebrates iconic Route 66 A new art exhibit, “Painting Route 66: An Artist Road Trip,” will open in San Juan Bautista with a June 21 reception from 5-7pm. The exhibit will remain open to the public through Aug. 10. The exhibit and reception...

The agricultural stretch of California’s Central Coast along the Salinas Valley is often called the “Salad Bowl of the World,” and for good reason. It supplies more than 60% of the nation’s lettuce and substantial portions of strawberries, spinach and broccoli.  But beyond the fertile...

Author reflects on iconic moment, upcoming local performances Every August, I reminisce about my adventurous week at the legendary Woodstock Music & Art Fair, now 56 years ago. I think about the heat and humidity and the smell of patchouli oil, incense, cow manure and...

Celebrate Earth Day San Benito County’s Earth Day celebration will take place 11am-2pm April 19 in downtown Hollister. The event will include booths hosted by local clubs, businesses and organizations; games; art; performances and free recycling programs. More than 30 booths will offer environmental programs,...

Police arrested two Gilroy men this week who are accused of taking part in a gang-related assault in the city’s downtown more than a year ago.  In December 2023, three victims were violently attacked by a group of males in what investigators determined was a...

The Hollister Police Department is investigating a recent drive-by shooting that resulted in a 15-year-old boy suffering injuries.  On July 4, Hollister Police officers were dispatched to the 1000 block of San Benito Street following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers discovered a 15-year-old male...

Re: Hospital proceeds with negotiations, Free Lance, April 18, 2025 Instead of the Easter Bunny, we get the Big Bad Wolf and he is trying to blow the house down.  The Easter basket from the San Benito County Health Care District over-flowed with attractive colors,...

Representatives of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority, Caltrans and local public officials on May 23 marked the groundbreaking of the long-anticipated US 101/SR 25 Interchange Upgrade Project just south of Gilroy.  The project is designed to ease congestion, improve safety and better connect South...

When I heard legendary musician, writer, DJ, manager and producer Peter Asher was coming to Morgan Hill, I just knew I had to put out my music column and let the community know about this special one-time appearance.  Peter Asher may not be a household...

The San Benito County Chamber of Commerce and Foundation will honor local people, businesses and organizations Sept. 20 at their 104th annual Awards Dinner.  The purpose of the “Man and Woman of the Year” awards is to recognize residents of San Benito County who serve...