‘Other Desert Cities’: An interesting, delicate theme
When Pulitzer Prize finalist playwright Jon Robin Baitz put pen to paper (or fingers to PC) to write “Other Desert Cities,” he was either in split personality mode or solving a Rubik’s cube puzzle – or both. His play is about dysfunctional family members with fragile backgrounds. Some have a secret that could break the delicate hold that - at times - keeps the family together.
Choir programs alive and well at schools
As school bells again ring and kids with backpacks make their way across campus, beautiful singing waifs through the air at Gilroy's high schools. Thanks to two newly hired, energetic and enthusiastic music specialists, the choral program that retired teacher Phil Robb spent 30 years building into one of the best in Northern California is alive and well and will continue to be one of our city's great assets.
Plans progressing for mural in Fourth Street tunnel
Council members approved a resolution Tuesday that allows the Hollister Downtown Association to use $5,000 – passed through the city from the Council of San Benito County Governments – for renovations to the tunnel under Fourth Street leading to the new courthouse.
Boy Scouts group requests city reimbursement for stolen flags
A local Boy Scouts organizer on Tuesday asked the Hollister council to reimburse the group $906 for 35 American flags stolen during the city’s motorcycle rally.
Mountain lion sighting spurs another closure of park
Brigantino Park on Hollister's west side has been closed once again due to a mountain lion sighting there.
It’s hot and dry out there – for animals too
This has been a difficult summer for wildlife and the folks who care for them. Northern California is once again in the midst of a record-setting drought. The Santa Clara Valley Water District reports that Santa Clara County's reservoirs are at less than three-fourths of their average August capacity. As early as April, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported that our temperatures in the coming months were expected to be above normal and our rainfall considerably below normal. That prediction has been accurate; despite some cool days this summer, we are in the midst of one of the driest, warmest seasons on record.
Adopt Daphine
Daphine is a 5-year-old long haired calico who is sweet, loves to purr and is good with other cats. She is available for adoption at the San Martin Animal Shelter. Interested? Call (408) 686-3900.
Accident in San Benito County ignites grass fire
Authorities responded to a vehicle collision that ignited some roadside vegetation in northern San Benito County.
The accident occurred about noon Tuesday between an unknown make and model vehicle and a big-rig truck, near the intersection of Highway 156 and U.S. 101, according to CalFire Battalion Chief Brandon Leitzke. Details on the cause of the accident, extent of injuries, if any, and damage resulting from the accident were not immediately available.
CalFire sent two fire engines and a bulldozer to help extinguish the fire and clean up the accident, Leitzke said. The California Highway Patrol also responded to the accident.
More details on this incident will be posted as they are available.
Farr opposes military action in Syria
Congressman Sam Farr, who represents San Benito County, has announced his opposition to military action in Syria.
Police find missing Hollister teen; person of interest escapes
Authorities have found the missing 14-year-old girl from Hollister in Lodi, but police did not apprehend a man suspected of being with her.
