Police chief lauds approved upgrades to parks
Police Chief David Westrick lauded upcoming park improvements as “awesome” and envisioned a possible turnaround for Park Hill in particular with a new playground structure on the way, more cleanup work and increased patrols.
Official broaches ‘potential discrimination’ on ambulance care
The behavioral health director warned county supervisors Tuesday about lacking ambulance coverage for non-acute medical issues that are potentially life threatening. He indicated his agency has plans to fund the shortfalls that are often causing patients to be turned away.
Scouts named most patriotic youth group in parade
This year, the San Benito County Veterans of Foreign Wars awarded the San Benito District Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts with a first place ribbon for being the most “Patriotic Youth Organization” in the Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11, according to an announcement.
Sheriff warns supervisors of ‘dismal staffing’
Sheriff Darren Thompson spoke candidly to supervisors Tuesday about a severe staffing shortage in his department and warned officials about the dangers of having two deputies on patrol at any given time.
Middle school students take on shelter-building adventure
Tucked against the trunk of a substantial redwood tree, naturally camouflaged and constructed from tree branches, bits of bark, leaves, tree needles—the same forest “litter” that covers the surrounding area—a small hobbit-sized shelter is visible. This snug enclosure is just large enough for one, or maybe two, of the middle school students who constructed it, and is one of several forest shelters recently built by Mount Madonna School (MMS) sixth, seventh and eighth graders.
Citizens provide valuable help to scientists
Last month's column summarized the results of Audubon's seven-year study on the effect of climate change and habitat loss on birds. The report was written by well-known scientists, but these highly regarded scientists could not have compiled all the data on bird locations and movements by themselves—such a task would be overwhelming. Where did Audubon's scientists get the data needed to complete this study?
County extends tree-cutting ban by 10 months, 15 days
County supervisors Tuesday agreed to extend a moratorium against cutting mature trees here for another 10 months and 15 days, but they instructed staff officials to prepare a permanent tree ordinance with a goal of approval within six months.
Aromas-San Juan trustee resigns for ‘personal reasons’
Trustee Jose Flores of the Aromas-San Juan Unified School District board has resigned for “personal reasons,” Superintendent Ruben Zepeda confirmed.
Alejo proposes to ban ‘Redskins’ as school mascot in Calif.
Assemblyman Luis Alejo has proposed a bill aiming to ban the use of "Redskins" as a mascot in California public schools.
