Wayne Lee Thallander filled hearts and minds as a high school teacher, basketball coach and beloved friend. A talented photographer, he filled frames with inimitable panache, capturing vibrant sports action shots and the joy of social events. Wayne was a familiar figure on the sidelines of Central Valley sporting events, …

BY DEBRA J. MORRIS With Thanksgiving just around the corner, you’re probably thinking about picking up some delicious sweet potatoes, and there’s no better place to find the best than at your local farmers’ market. But did you know that yams and sweet potatoes are not the same thing? You’re …

BY DANIEL GLUSKOTER The 49ers suffered a painful unexpected loss to the Arizona Cardinals Sunday, falling 24–23 on a blistering hot afternoon at Levi’s Stadium. Handicapped by a first quarter injury to kicker Jake Moody which forced them to eschew most field-goal attempts, the Niners (2-3) lost a crucial game …

BY J.A. SCHWARTZ Following up yesterday’s AL Preview, here’s our evaluation of the National League’s postseason picture: National League West Champions:-Los Angeles Dodgers #1 seed Los Angeles clinched their third straight NL West title, assuring them a twelfth consecutive postseason berth, leading the majors in wins with 98 that will …

BY J.A. SCHWARTZ As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to turn in parts of the country, the crispness in the air suggests that the baseball postseason is about to commence. Last year’s champion, the Texas Rangers, led by manager Bruce Bochy, will not have the opportunity to …

BY DEBRA J. MORRIS Farmers markets are filling with all things fall – pumpkins for jack o’ lanterns, decorative gourds for your porch, hearty winter squash for fall cooking, and juicy pears and apples for scenting the house with fruit-filled baked goods. They’re also a center for fun fall activities like …

BY DANIEL GLUSKOTER Returning to Northern California two years after merely teasing his fans with a mini set opening for Howard Jones, Midge Ure took his rightful place in the spotlight with a stellar performance at Harlow‘s in Sacramento Wednesday night. Unrestrained, Ure delivered a pristine 95 minute set highlighted …

Carrie Dianne Lehman-Wilson passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 30th after a long battle with her health. She touched many lives with her kindness and compassion. Born in Walnut Creek California to Robert and Claire Lehman, Carrie was the youngest of 4 siblings (older brother bruce, and twin sisters Cathy …

BY DEBRA J. MORRIS It’s the time of year to sink your teeth into an ice-cold slice of watermelon on a sweltering summer day. At your local farmers market, you’ll discover a dazzling array of melons that promise to tickle the taste buds with sweet summer snacking. You’ll find only …

BY DANIEL GLUSKOTER Formed over 40 years ago in the garages of Southern California, seminal LA punk band X, one of the most influential bands of their era, brought their farewell tour to the Guild Theatre in Menlo Park for the first of their only two Bay Area appearances Monday …