Opinion

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...

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...

Rani Douglas knew she had found something special the moment she walked to the top of the 10-acre property that would become Gabilan Ridge Winery. It was April, the hills were green, the oak trees were towering and the panoramic views of the Cienega...

Re: “challenged ballots,” Free Lance, June 19.  I am confused. The extraordinary number of candidates running for governor was daunting but not confusing. The number of women running in most races was heartwarming but not confusing. The length of the ballot was challenging but not...

The federal government’s plans to build a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in unincorporated Gilroy could bring a range of social, economic, legal and community impacts to South County and the broader Central Coast region with very few positive impacts. The proposed facility...

The gang (of ex-politicians) that couldn’t shoot straight behind the recall of County Supervisor Ignacio Velazquez is at it again. They are going after Supervisor Kollin Kosmicki.  Their first attempt failed because they didn’t or couldn’t read the simple rules governing recall petitions. Based on...

Sadly, the Scam Recall attempt of Supervisor Ignacio Velazquez never should have been on the ballot. But here we are several weeks from Election Day when District 5 voters must resoundingly reject this outrageous question.  Here are five reasons why this is a massive scam:  1....

Sometimes it’s important to step back and connect the dots. I don’t know Laura Garcilazo personally. But after receiving her campaign mailer for the auditor-controller election and seeing some of the sensationalistic headlines being used, I started to look more closely at the circumstances surrounding...

Well, as per usual, the frontrunners for the California Governor’s race includes the typical list of those individuals with lofty political aspirations, whose ultimate objective is seeking even higher office—such hubris. But there is one individual who emerges from the pack and clearly demonstrates the...

April is recognized as World Autism Month, and I write this as both a mother and an advocate. Like many parents, my early experiences with autism were overwhelming and, at times, isolating.  In our community, support can feel limited. Many autistic children are often defined by...