When Silicon Valley blocks housing, the Central Valley pays the price
For decades, California’s coastal cities have blocked housing that’s affordable to working families. As those folks are forced to flee the coast in search of more affordable options, the Central Valley shoulders the burden of urban NIMBYism. It’s time our state legislators corrected this shirking of responsibility...
Merced County Sheriff’s Office Identifies 55-Year-Old Man Killed in Gustine Shooting
August 27, 2025 – Merced County Sheriff's Office officials report that on August 20th, 2025, Detectives responded to the 4600 block. of Hunt Road in Gustine for a Homicide investigation. The Merced County Coroner's Office has positively identified the victim in this incident as 55-year-old Gilberto Ramirez out of...
Boba Nation Welcomes New Franchisee in Modesto, California
The rapidly growing boba sensation is expanding through franchising, making its way through the western U.S., eyeing new markets in Thailand and India. , the quickly growing fast-casual sensation charming the masses with its menu of over 250 beverages and delicious desserts, has just announced its newest location...
Patterson High School launches cutting-edge Barbering and Cosmetology program
(FOX40.COM) — Patterson High School is cutting a new pathway for students by launching its first ever Barbering and Cosmetology program and unveiling a state-of-the-art building to go with it. This is the first and only program of its kind in Stanislaus County. The renovated facility used to be the old band room, but...
Stockton City Council will take on investigation into DEI fund diversions, not hire outside...
An investigation into a diversion of funds from Stockton’s diversity, equity and inclusion program transformed this week into an issue of whether the City Council can trust is own members to conduct a fair examination into the matter. On one hand, the city would save bundles of money by...
Chipotle Mexican Grill opens second Stockton restaurant with drive-thru pickup lane
Chipotle bowls, tacos and quesadillas are now being served at Chipotle Mexican Grill's newest Stockton location. The fast casual chain celebrated the grand opening of its newest Stockton location on Tuesday, Aug. 26, at 4450 Waterloo Road in Stockton . The new restaurant took over the former space of the joint KFC...
Fears of deportation are silencing crime victims in Stanislaus County
In the Spotlight is a Modesto Bee series that digs into the high-profile local issues that readers care most about. Story idea? Email [email protected] . Fears of immigration enforcement are discouraging victims from reporting crimes and seeking services in Stanislaus County. District Attorney Jeff Laugero said...
Modesto Business Owner Arrested, Accused of Swindling $42,600 from Customers
The Stanislaus County District Attorney's Office said George Santiago Jr., owner of 'The Garage Door Guy,' was arrested for allegedly taking about $42,600 from customers. Victims paid in full for garage door services that were not provided, as reported by the Stanislaus County District Attorney's Office. The District...
Helen Keller tribute bench to honor disabled stolen from Maya Angelou Branch Library grounds
An ivy green bench placed at a south Stockton library to honor the disabled community and disability activist Helen Keller has been missing for more than a week. Members of the San Joaquin Lions Club and advocates for the disabled community are asking for the public's help to bring back the special bench. “It’s sad....
The Crab Cake At This Homey Restaurant In California Is Out-Of-This-World Delicious
There’s a moment when you bite into the perfect crab cake – that magical second when the crispy exterior gives way to succulent, barely-bound crab meat that makes your taste buds do a standing ovation. That moment happens with remarkable consistency at Ernie’s Food & Spirits in Manteca,...
