Xiong presents another review of tenant protections at Merced City Council meeting
Two months after the Merced City Council approved the creation of a Repeat Housing Code Violators program, Councilman Fue Xiong on Monday night brought to the table a discussion about ways to further expand local tenant protections — "and not necessarily rely on the state to provide it."
Xiong — a staunch advocate of renters' rights…
Outpouring of love, unity follows loss of Roger Wood
A community giant is no longer with us.
Roger Wood — an Atwater native son with a legacy as a businessman, civic leader, and radio show host who…
Merced leaders push for answers, high-level support in High…
Merced city leaders tasked with clearing out a logjam on vital information regarding the future of High Speed Rail in Merced were expecting to meet…
City leaders agree to put 1-cent tax measure on ballot
The Merced City Council voted 6-1 on Monday night to place a 1-cent general sales tax measure on the November election ballot in an effort to help "maintain the city's financial stability and preserve general services residents have identified as priorities — including fire and emergency response, public safety, street and pothole repair,…
Marking A Harrowing Anniversary In Chowchilla
Our Central Valley
By STEVE NEWVINE
A 50th anniversary was marked last week in Chowchilla. It was not a festive occasion but rather more of…
Nancy Barton Holmes, community advocate, tennis coach
After a long, vibrant and fulfilling life, Nancy Barton Holmes (born Nancy Keith Barton) passed peacefully on her 83rd birthday, surrounded by family.…
Shirley Kirby, family matriarch, dedicated civic leader
May 15, 1922 – June 8, 2026
Shirley Kirby peacefully turned toward the heavens and was called home on the evening of Monday, June 8, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Shirley was born on May 15, 1922. Throughout her remarkable 104 years, she exemplified strength, kindness and an unwavering devotion to her family. She leaves behind…
Merced moves to coalesce public stance on High-Speed Rail…
By JONATHAN WHITAKER
Merced city leaders and administrative staff have begun working on a public outreach effort to communicate what's happening…
Boy’s death in Atwater sparks outcry for safer streets…
By GABRIELLE ANDRADE
More than 50 community members packed into the Atwater City Council meeting on Monday night to rally for increased traffic…
Atwater leaders name Novetzke as new police chief
Atwater leaders on Tuesday agreed to hire William Novetzke as the city's next chief of police.
Novetzke — currently a lieutenant in the Atwater Police Department — has been serving the city since 2005.
He will replace Chief Richard McEachin, who is retiring at the end of August after a 22-year law enforcement career.
“I am…