San Jose police watchdog battles for broader authority on use-of-force investigations
San Jose’s independent police auditor is advocating for the authority to review every police use-of-force incident, including those that do not result in injury. This expanded oversight model, already in place at the county level, has sparked debate and resistance from the city’s police department and councilmembers, who cite budget and staffing concerns. In 2024, San Jose police reported 400 incidents involving the use of force, of which 13 led to great bodily injury.
San Jose police watchdog battles for broader authority on use-of-force investigations
San Jose’s independent police auditor is advocating for the authority to review every police use-of-force incident, including those that do not result in injury. This expanded oversight model, already in place at the county level, has sparked debate and resistance from the city’s police department and councilmembers, who cite budget and staffing concerns. In 2024, San Jose police reported 400 incidents involving the use of force, of which 13 led to great bodily injury.
San Marcos to Start Paid Parking at City Park July 1
Starting July 1, 2025, the City of San Marcos will implement paid parking for non-residents at City Park, located at 170 Charles Austin Drive. This move comes as part of a broader initiative to maintain and support local park resources as community usage continues to grow, especially during weekends and holidays. Non-residents visiting City Park will need to pay for parking either at on-site kiosks (cash or card) or
San Marcos to Start Paid Parking at City Park July 1
Starting July 1, 2025, the City of San Marcos will implement paid parking for non-residents at City Park, located at 170 Charles Austin Drive. This move comes as part of a broader initiative to maintain and support local park resources as community usage continues to grow, especially during weekends and holidays. Non-residents visiting City Park will need to pay for parking either at on-site kiosks (cash or card) or
Leadership shake-up in Cupertino as city manager steps down with major severance deal
Cupertino is preparing for a major leadership transition after the city council approved a settlement with its city manager, marking the end of her tenure and setting the stage for a new appointment. In a closed session vote held on June 3, the council voted 4-1 to settle with Pamela Wu, who had been placed on paid administrative leave in May. The agreement grants Wu a severance package totaling $311,098.53 along with a limited continuation of benefits. According to the terms of t
Leadership shake-up in Cupertino as city manager steps down with major severance deal
Cupertino is preparing for a major leadership transition after the city council approved a settlement with its city manager, marking the end of her tenure and setting the stage for a new appointment. In a closed session vote held on June 3, the council voted 4-1 to settle with Pamela Wu, who had been placed on paid administrative leave in May. The agreement grants Wu a severance package totaling $311,098.53 along with a limited continuation of benefits. According to the terms of t
Jersey City and Newark rank among worst U.S. cities for summer staycations
A newly released national ranking assessing the best cities for summer staycations has placed Jersey City and Newark among the lowest in the country. Out of 182 U.S. cities evaluated, Jersey City landed at 168th and Newark followed closely behind at 171st, highlighting a lack of appealing local options for recreation, entertainment, and relaxation during the warmer months. The study examined a wide range of indicators that influence the quality of a staycation. These included acce
Jersey City and Newark rank among worst U.S. cities for summer staycations
A newly released national ranking assessing the best cities for summer staycations has placed Jersey City and Newark among the lowest in the country. Out of 182 U.S. cities evaluated, Jersey City landed at 168th and Newark followed closely behind at 171st, highlighting a lack of appealing local options for recreation, entertainment, and relaxation during the warmer months. The study examined a wide range of indicators that influence the quality of a staycation. These included acce
San Francisco Protests Erupt Over Mayor Lurie's Proposed Budget Cuts
Anger and concern swept across San Francisco on Wednesday as more than 1,500 residents gathered outside City Hall to protest the proposed budget cuts in Mayor Daniel Lurie’s new financial plan. As the city grapples with a deficit running into the hundreds of millions, the mayor’s proposal has sparked widespread frustration among workers and community advocates who fear losing essential services and their jobs. The protest was held just before the city’s budget committee conv
San Francisco Protests Erupt Over Mayor Lurie's Proposed Budget Cuts
Anger and concern swept across San Francisco on Wednesday as more than 1,500 residents gathered outside City Hall to protest the proposed budget cuts in Mayor Daniel Lurie’s new financial plan. As the city grapples with a deficit running into the hundreds of millions, the mayor’s proposal has sparked widespread frustration among workers and community advocates who fear losing essential services and their jobs. The protest was held just before the city’s budget committee conv
Santa Clara considers paid parking to fix long-term budget deficit
Santa Clara city officials are evaluating the possibility of introducing paid parking at several city-owned locations, including the historic Franklin Square and the Santa Clara Convention Center. This potential change is part of a broader strategy to stabilize the city's finances as future budget projections reveal growing deficits. Although Santa Clara’s proposed 2025-26 fiscal plan currently projects a $9.3 million surplus, forecasts over the subsequent five years ind
Santa Clara considers paid parking to fix long-term budget deficit
Santa Clara city officials are evaluating the possibility of introducing paid parking at several city-owned locations, including the historic Franklin Square and the Santa Clara Convention Center. This potential change is part of a broader strategy to stabilize the city's finances as future budget projections reveal growing deficits. Although Santa Clara’s proposed 2025-26 fiscal plan currently projects a $9.3 million surplus, forecasts over the subsequent five years ind
Livermore Residents Happy With Life, Less With Govt
The majority of Livermore residents are satisfied with their quality of life, according to the results of the 2025 National Community Survey. The survey, conducted by the National Research Center at Polco, randomly selected 3,000 households in Livermore, with 374 responding. The results were carefully weighted to ensure diversity across age, gender, race, ethnicity, housing status, and geography. According to the findings, 95% of residents expressed satisfaction with living in Liver
Livermore Residents Happy With Life, Less With Govt
The majority of Livermore residents are satisfied with their quality of life, according to the results of the 2025 National Community Survey. The survey, conducted by the National Research Center at Polco, randomly selected 3,000 households in Livermore, with 374 responding. The results were carefully weighted to ensure diversity across age, gender, race, ethnicity, housing status, and geography. According to the findings, 95% of residents expressed satisfaction with living in Liver
Top Things to Do in Columbus This Weekend From Golf to Festivals and Zoo Fun
As summer unofficially kicks off, central Ohio is buzzing with vibrant events and family-friendly activities. From world-class golf to community festivals and interactive zoo experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy throughout Columbus this weekend. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a fan of local culture, or simply looking to make memories with your family, this lineup of events will not disappoint. The Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club c
Top Things to Do in Columbus This Weekend From Golf to Festivals and Zoo Fun
As summer unofficially kicks off, central Ohio is buzzing with vibrant events and family-friendly activities. From world-class golf to community festivals and interactive zoo experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy throughout Columbus this weekend. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a fan of local culture, or simply looking to make memories with your family, this lineup of events will not disappoint. The Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club c
Austin Keeps Barton Springs Open Late for Night Swims
Austin’s beloved Barton Springs Pool will keep its late-night hours, allowing residents and visitors to continue enjoying evening swims and the famously quirky full moon howling events. A recent proposal to end nightly access at 9 p.m., eliminating the 9 to 10 p.m. free swim hour, has been withdrawn following public concern and a reassessment by city officials. Over the weekend, a sign at Barton Springs indicated that new operating hours would begin June 1, closing the pool ni
Austin Keeps Barton Springs Open Late for Night Swims
Austin’s beloved Barton Springs Pool will keep its late-night hours, allowing residents and visitors to continue enjoying evening swims and the famously quirky full moon howling events. A recent proposal to end nightly access at 9 p.m., eliminating the 9 to 10 p.m. free swim hour, has been withdrawn following public concern and a reassessment by city officials. Over the weekend, a sign at Barton Springs indicated that new operating hours would begin June 1, closing the pool ni
Dublin Plans Iconic 22-Foot Shamrock Sculpture Downtown
Dublin, California, may soon welcome a major public art installation that could redefine its downtown skyline and cultural identity. The Dublin City Council is reviewing a proposal for a 22-foot stainless steel kinetic sculpture called Crossing Paths, which would be installed at the busy intersection of Dublin Boulevard and Village Parkway. Designed by Ride Art Studio, the sculpture is envisioned as a dynamic and symbolic representation of Dublin’s evolution as a cultural and g
Dublin Plans Iconic 22-Foot Shamrock Sculpture Downtown
Dublin, California, may soon welcome a major public art installation that could redefine its downtown skyline and cultural identity. The Dublin City Council is reviewing a proposal for a 22-foot stainless steel kinetic sculpture called Crossing Paths, which would be installed at the busy intersection of Dublin Boulevard and Village Parkway. Designed by Ride Art Studio, the sculpture is envisioned as a dynamic and symbolic representation of Dublin’s evolution as a cultural and g
DOJ investigates Chicago over race-based hiring comments by Mayor Brandon Johnson
Less than a day after Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson highlighted the number of Black officials in his administration, the United States Department of Justice announced the launch of a civil rights investigation into the city’s hiring practices. The investigation seeks to determine whether the city has engaged in a pattern or practice of race-based discrimination, following statements made by the mayor during a church event on the city’s South Side. Speaking at a communi
DOJ investigates Chicago over race-based hiring comments by Mayor Brandon Johnson
Less than a day after Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson highlighted the number of Black officials in his administration, the United States Department of Justice announced the launch of a civil rights investigation into the city’s hiring practices. The investigation seeks to determine whether the city has engaged in a pattern or practice of race-based discrimination, following statements made by the mayor during a church event on the city’s South Side. Speaking at a communi
San Francisco Bay to Breakers race blends fun, fitness, and tradition since 1912
San Francisco’s beloved Bay to Breakers race once again brought color, laughter, and energy to the streets, continuing a tradition that has endured since 1912. The annual event, known as much for its wild costumes and festive atmosphere as for its athleticism, transformed the city into a moving celebration of community spirit and lighthearted fun. Participants gathered early in downtown San Francisco at the starting point near Main and Folsom, ready to make their way across the city in
San Francisco Bay to Breakers race blends fun, fitness, and tradition since 1912
San Francisco’s beloved Bay to Breakers race once again brought color, laughter, and energy to the streets, continuing a tradition that has endured since 1912. The annual event, known as much for its wild costumes and festive atmosphere as for its athleticism, transformed the city into a moving celebration of community spirit and lighthearted fun. Participants gathered early in downtown San Francisco at the starting point near Main and Folsom, ready to make their way across the city in
Pleasanton Launches FlashVote Survey Tool for Residents
The City of Pleasanton has officially launched FlashVote, an online community survey tool designed to gather quick, confidential feedback from residents on important local topics. The initiative aims to make it easier for citizens to contribute to city decisions, shaping policies that align with public needs. FlashVote allows Pleasanton residents to participate in brief surveys that typically take just one minute to complete. Each survey remains open for 48 hours and can be answered
Pleasanton Launches FlashVote Survey Tool for Residents
The City of Pleasanton has officially launched FlashVote, an online community survey tool designed to gather quick, confidential feedback from residents on important local topics. The initiative aims to make it easier for citizens to contribute to city decisions, shaping policies that align with public needs. FlashVote allows Pleasanton residents to participate in brief surveys that typically take just one minute to complete. Each survey remains open for 48 hours and can be answered
Lionel Messi arrives in San Jose as Inter Miami faces Earthquakes in landmark MLS game
San Jose, California – Anticipation reached fever pitch in the Bay Area this week as global football icon Lionel Messi touched down ahead of Inter Miami’s clash with the San Jose Earthquakes. The midweek Major League Soccer matchup has become one of the most talked-about games in the Earthquakes' history, largely due to Messi’s massive worldwide popularity and the rarity of his appearance on the West Coast. As Inter Miami arrived in San Jose, dozens of fan
Lionel Messi arrives in San Jose as Inter Miami faces Earthquakes in landmark MLS game
San Jose, California – Anticipation reached fever pitch in the Bay Area this week as global football icon Lionel Messi touched down ahead of Inter Miami’s clash with the San Jose Earthquakes. The midweek Major League Soccer matchup has become one of the most talked-about games in the Earthquakes' history, largely due to Messi’s massive worldwide popularity and the rarity of his appearance on the West Coast. As Inter Miami arrived in San Jose, dozens of fan
Real ID Deadline Nears as TSA Confirms Extra Steps but No Flight Bans
The federal government is finally preparing to enforce the Real ID Act after nearly 20 years of postponements and shifting deadlines. Starting May 7, travelers who do not yet have a Real ID will still be permitted to board domestic flights, but they should expect additional steps and delays at airport security. Officials clarified this position in response to widespread confusion, especially given the assumption that lack of a Real ID would automatically mean being barred from flying.
Real ID Deadline Nears as TSA Confirms Extra Steps but No Flight Bans
The federal government is finally preparing to enforce the Real ID Act after nearly 20 years of postponements and shifting deadlines. Starting May 7, travelers who do not yet have a Real ID will still be permitted to board domestic flights, but they should expect additional steps and delays at airport security. Officials clarified this position in response to widespread confusion, especially given the assumption that lack of a Real ID would automatically mean being barred from flying.
Phase two of major housing project in Bay Area town moves closer to approval
After years of planning, revisions, and community debates, the second phase of the North 40 development project in Los Gatos is finally gaining momentum. The proposal, spearheaded by developers Grosvenor and Eden Housing, would bring 450 new housing units and more than 15,000 square feet of retail space to a prime 15.6-acre site located along Los Gatos Boulevard and Burton Road. At the heart of the project is a focus on affordability and accessibility, two issues that have long been points of
Phase two of major housing project in Bay Area town moves closer to approval
After years of planning, revisions, and community debates, the second phase of the North 40 development project in Los Gatos is finally gaining momentum. The proposal, spearheaded by developers Grosvenor and Eden Housing, would bring 450 new housing units and more than 15,000 square feet of retail space to a prime 15.6-acre site located along Los Gatos Boulevard and Burton Road. At the heart of the project is a focus on affordability and accessibility, two issues that have long been points of
Six-figure salary now considered low income in Bay Area counties
In an eye-opening revelation that underscores the worsening cost-of-living crisis in California, new data shows that individuals earning over $100,000 annually in four Bay Area counties are now classified as "low income." According to a recent report from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, single residents in Marin, San Mateo, San Francisco, and Santa Clara counties fall into this category despite salaries that would be considered high in most parts of the
Six-figure salary now considered low income in Bay Area counties
In an eye-opening revelation that underscores the worsening cost-of-living crisis in California, new data shows that individuals earning over $100,000 annually in four Bay Area counties are now classified as "low income." According to a recent report from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, single residents in Marin, San Mateo, San Francisco, and Santa Clara counties fall into this category despite salaries that would be considered high in most parts of the
AI-powered app aims to spot ALS symptoms before it’s too late
A new artificial intelligence-powered app developed in the Bay Area is offering a glimmer of hope for people at risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, more commonly known as ALS. The app, called EverythingALS, is the brainchild of Indu Navar, a former tech executive who channeled personal loss into innovation after losing her husband, Peter, to the disease. With ALS notoriously difficult to detect early, this tool could change the trajectory for thousands of patients and their families by offeri
AI-powered app aims to spot ALS symptoms before it’s too late
A new artificial intelligence-powered app developed in the Bay Area is offering a glimmer of hope for people at risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, more commonly known as ALS. The app, called EverythingALS, is the brainchild of Indu Navar, a former tech executive who channeled personal loss into innovation after losing her husband, Peter, to the disease. With ALS notoriously difficult to detect early, this tool could change the trajectory for thousands of patients and their families by offeri
Filipino American Communities Unite After Vancouver Tragedy to Celebrate Culture and Strengthen Safety
The devastating attack at a Filipino festival in Vancouver, which tragically claimed the lives of 11 people, including a 5-year-old girl, has deeply shaken Filipino American communities across the Bay Area. Despite the pain and fear stirred by the violence, Filipino American leaders and organizations are responding with resilience, cultural celebration, and a renewed commitment to safeguarding their communities. In San Francisco’s SOMA Pilipinas Cultural Heritage District, the
Filipino American Communities Unite After Vancouver Tragedy to Celebrate Culture and Strengthen Safety
The devastating attack at a Filipino festival in Vancouver, which tragically claimed the lives of 11 people, including a 5-year-old girl, has deeply shaken Filipino American communities across the Bay Area. Despite the pain and fear stirred by the violence, Filipino American leaders and organizations are responding with resilience, cultural celebration, and a renewed commitment to safeguarding their communities. In San Francisco’s SOMA Pilipinas Cultural Heritage District, the
East Orange educators rally for raises after layoffs and stalled deal
Teachers in East Orange, New Jersey are stepping up their demands for fair pay and contractual agreements, with a wave of demonstrations taking place ahead of a critical school board meeting. On Monday night, dozens of educators gathered outside the Board of Education building, calling attention to ongoing delays in contract negotiations and unresolved salary concerns. The protest follows significant staff layoffs that occurred in December, leaving many teachers disillusioned and financially str
East Orange educators rally for raises after layoffs and stalled deal
Teachers in East Orange, New Jersey are stepping up their demands for fair pay and contractual agreements, with a wave of demonstrations taking place ahead of a critical school board meeting. On Monday night, dozens of educators gathered outside the Board of Education building, calling attention to ongoing delays in contract negotiations and unresolved salary concerns. The protest follows significant staff layoffs that occurred in December, leaving many teachers disillusioned and financially str









