Editorials

2019

Livermore stands ready for vaping fight

It's a shame Livermore has to go up against Big Tobacco, with its deep pockets and dedicated spin doctors, in the city's effort to protect children.

September 11, 2019 | No comments yet
Editorial -- 9/11: Never forget

New York City is more than 2,500 miles from Pleasanton, but it didn't seem that far away on Sept. 11, 2001. Just about everyone lost something that day. The feeling of safety, belief in the invincibility of the U.S. and trust in others

September 5, 2019 | No comments yet
Labor Day origin a far cry from a fun day off

Ah, Labor Day. A three-day weekend full of barbecues and fun in the sun. The unofficial end of summer. But few people reflect on, or even know, the origin of the holiday ...

August 29, 2019 | No comments yet
Livermore downtown referendum raises serious questions

Don't sign a petition before doing your research, knowing the consequences
Aggressive signature-gatherers are everywhere, and the most recent campaign is to get Livermore voters to sign a referendum petition to, according to one signature-gatherer, "get a bigger park downtown." But there's more to the story.

August 20, 2019 | 17 comments
Pleasanton ready for 125th Anniversary Celebration

The 125th Anniversary Celebration will begin at 3 p.m. next Friday. Live music, family-friendly entertainment, a cornhole tournament with city staff and other fun activities will take place at Lions Wayside and Delucchi parks.

July 25, 2019 | No comments yet
Another successful County Fair in Pleasanton

We said a fond farewell to the 2019 Alameda County Fair earlier this month, with the 107th year seeing a spike in attendance, new cultural events and increased consumption of classic fair food.

July 18, 2019 | 6 comments
Nomination period starts for 2019 Tri-Valley Heroes

Awards honor residents who 'make a better world'
We are now accepting nominations online for the 2019 Tri-Valley Heroes awards in eight categories, open to all who live or work in the Tri-Valley communities

July 2, 2019 | No comments yet
Keep, or start, the tradition of visiting our county fair

As we prepare for the final eight days of the 2019 Alameda County Fair, we should reflect on what the fair brings to Pleasanton and the Tri-Valley.

June 27, 2019 | No comments yet
Crucial time for downtowns across Tri-Valley

A downtown has an important and unique role in a community's economic and social development. Downtowns are historically the epicenter -- the heart -- of a community and the hub of commercial, cultural and civic activities.

June 20, 2019 | No comments yet
District-based elections do not make sense here

Many municipalities in the Tri-Valley are being forced to adopt district-based elections or risk being sued, which could result in costs of millions of dollars from a likely unwinnable case.

May 26, 2019 | 8 comments
Pleasanton Weekly wins statewide journalism prize for online Coverage of Local Government

CNPA honors coverage of Ben Curry's death; awards also go to 'Around Pleasanton' columns, PUSD enrollment reporting, Chabad Center series
The Pleasanton Weekly took home seven awards, including first place for online Coverage of Local Government, for stories throughout 2018 when the California News Publishers Association handed out its annual California Journalism Awards last Saturday in Long Beach.

May 6, 2019 | No comments yet
Remember Ben Curry

Vigil to honor memory of teen who drowned in school pool; gov't agencies continue to deny public records requests
Accountability speaks of integrity, honesty and transparency, which is sorely lacking in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District and Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office in this case.

May 2, 2019 | No comments yet
Vote Yes on Measure E, Dublin Unified's parcel tax renewal

We recommend Yes on Dublin's Measure E. The annual tax of just $96 provides vital funding for Dublin students and school programs -- guaranteed revenue for DUSD that will be locally controlled over the next nine years, a time when federal and state education funding priorities could well change.

April 24, 2019 | 1 comment
Tri-Valley wisely teams up on housing legislation; state should listen

This banding together approach is unique to the Tri-Valley; we applaud our local councils for being pre-emptive, collaborative and creative in planning to combat this legislation that will give Sacramento control over land-use, with little or no input from the people we elected to represent our local interests.

April 11, 2019 | 9 comments
Amador Valley High School deserves stability

We encourage our school district leaders to have a frank, public discussion with Amador students, parents and community members how about stability and transparency will be addressed.

March 14, 2019 | 3 comments
Thanks to our 2018 Holiday Fund donors

Weekly distributes $68,416 to Tri-Valley nonprofits from annual fundraising drive
Thank you to the 256 donors to the Pleasanton Weekly's 2018 Holiday Fund. Your generous contributions allowed us to present at total of $68,416 to 15 deserving nonprofit beneficiaries last week at a luncheon hosted by the Rotary Club of Pleasanton.

February 28, 2019 | No comments yet
Share your thoughts on city priorities

Pleasanton city officials are working to draft their recommended list of city priorities for the next two years, and now is the time to offer your input to city leaders during this important planning process.

February 7, 2019 | 21 comments
Time to watch what's happening at Chabot-Las Positas

The leadership future of the Chabot-Las Positas Community College District has approached a critical juncture. As these conversations pick up again, we will be watching closely. We suggest you do too.

January 31, 2019 | No comments yet
Holiday Fund needs your help as 2018 campaign nears end

Even though the campaign will end next Tuesday, there's still time to contribute to the Pleasanton Weekly's 2018 Holiday Fund.

January 10, 2019 | No comments yet
Charities see funding shortfall, look for help from Holiday Fund

Fifteen local nonprofits will benefit from this year's Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund -- up three from a year ago. Yet contributions are falling behind.

December 23, 2018 | No comments yet
School district, sheriff's office stonewalling unacceptable

The Tri-Valley community continues to mourn the death of Ben Curry, who drowned during PE class at San Ramon Valley High School in Danville on May 8. Curry's family and friends -- and the entire community -- are demanding answers they are owed.

November 28, 2018 | 5 comments
With holiday buying season upon us, be sure to 'Shop Small' in Pleasanton

Quality of life in a community like Pleasanton is closely tied to the local economy, which goes hand in hand with the health of the small businesses in our community.

November 22, 2018 | No comments yet
New chamber alliance will benefit entire region

The Tri-Valley is unique in that the five communities that comprise the region actually work together. Where oftentimes cities compete with their neighbors for resources and designations, Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon and Danville partner to tackle issues that affect the region.

November 15, 2018 | No comments yet
Pleasanton Weekly endorsements recap

Here again are the Pleasanton Weekly editorial board's election recommendations:

November 1, 2018 | No comments yet
Re-elect Baker for Assembly, Swalwell for Congress

Also: Vote for newcomer La for County Assessor, incumbent Wieskamp for East Bay Parks board
We reached our endorsement decisions for regional representative seats after meeting with the candidates or questioning them during a public forum.

October 17, 2018 | 105 comments
Vote Narum, Streng for Pleasanton City Council

Mayor Thorne, unopposed on ballot, also has our support for re-election
We think Narum and Streng are the right community leaders to guide the City of Planned Progress through the next four years.

October 10, 2018 | 64 comments
Tri-Valley municipal election recommendations

Endorsements for Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon, Danville councils, plus No on Measure U
This is a vital local election season throughout the Tri-Valley. Accordingly, the Pleasanton Weekly editorial board is offering the following recommendations for the Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon and Danville council races as well as Livermore's health care cost initiative, Measure U.

October 4, 2018 | 3 comments
Celebrate, Tri-Valley is fastest-growing job market in Bay Area

Labor Day is a celebration of the men and women who contribute to the strength and prosperity of the country through work.

August 30, 2018 | No comments yet
Where were all the Pleasanton candidates?

Pleasanton mayor, school board incumbents go unchallenged
We waited with bated breath for the candidacy filing deadline to see how many candidates would file to run for Pleasanton mayor, city council and school board, and who the challengers would be. We were a bit disappointed with the outcome

August 23, 2018 | 4 comments
Your friend, not enemy

Unprecedented attacks on the media hit the very protectors of our democracy
In an effort to focus public attention on the dangers of the President Donald Trump's attacks, we join in an unprecedented coordinated expression of concern by newspapers across the country.

August 16, 2018 | 83 comments
Revisiting JDEDZ now is city's best option, given circumstances

Costco remains committed to bringing new store to Pleasanton despite delay
The City Council reversing its decision from last year to approve the Johnson Drive Economic Development Zone would be a smart move.

August 12, 2018 | 26 comments
Campaign will fund much-needed stroke care program

Every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke, and every four minutes someone dies of a stroke, according to a 2017 report by the American Heart Association.

August 2, 2018 | No comments yet
Looking back on another fun-filled Alameda County Fair

We bid adieu earlier this month to the 2018 Alameda County Fair, another successful installment of Pleasanton's annual summertime showcase.

July 26, 2018 | No comments yet
Documents reveal little about Harvest Park principal resignation

When Robin Munsell announced in May she was resigning her position as principal of Harvest Park Middle School after just under two years, the obvious question was why. And Munsell wasn't saying. So the Weekly asked PUSD for all public records pertaining to her exit.

July 19, 2018 | 36 comments
Nominate 2018 Tri-Valley Heroes

This October we will name the seventh group of Tri-Valley Heroes, and it is a good opportunity to revisit why our staff launched this awards program in 2012.

July 23, 2018 | No comments yet
'Zero tolerance' for daycare's noise comes to Pleasanton

The Trump administration's zero-tolerance for anyone crossing the border illegally has also become policy for a Jewish religious center's use of its backyard for outdoor activities in Pleasanton.

July 5, 2018 | 15 comments
New coalition unites Pleasanton, four other cities

The Pleasanton City Council voted unanimously last week to endorse a new Tri-Valley coalition that binds it even more closely with neighboring Danville, Dublin, Livermore and San Ramon.

July 1, 2018 | 2 comments
Palmer, Gambs, Sanwong for Zone 7 Board of Directors

After sitting down with four of the candidates and reviewing the records of all five, it is clear to us that the best leaders to serve Zone 7 for the next four years are three-term incumbent Sarah Palmer, retired Zone 7 engineer Dennis Gambs and Pleasanton resident Olivia Sanwong.

May 3, 2018 | 2 comments
Vote in Readers' Choice 2018

Contest raises awareness, importance of local businesses
It's time once again to vote for your favorite spots to eat, drink, shop and play in Pleasanton. We have hundreds of Pleasanton places and businesses listed in dozens of categories on the online ballot

April 19, 2018 | No comments yet
Full BART to Livermore is the best option

Make no mistake: This spring marks the most critical juncture for the BART to Livermore project, and the potential of bringing a BART rail extension to Isabel Avenue is very much up in the air. So make your voices heard.

March 22, 2018 | 24 comments
Telling the difference between news stories and opinions

Comments regarding last week's 'Pleasanton Preps' column indicates some confusion among readers
The Weekly's "Pleasanton Preps" columnist, Dennis Miller, wrote last week about a situation in which a set of parents did an investigation of Amador Valley High School girls varsity basketball coach Al Chavira, which led to his being placed on leave. Other team parents felt the "dirt" dug up was benign and requested the coach's reinstatement.

March 15, 2018 | 4 comments
Don't tune out; turn out for the June 5 primary

Congress, State Assembly, Governor, county seats, Zone 7 among races
According to the Public Policy Institute of California, voter turnout in the June primaries hit an all-time low in non-presidential primary year of 2014. Lack of interest and time constraints were the top two reasons given by registered voters who said they do not always vote.

February 22, 2018 | 11 comments
Editorial - Black History Month: Knowledge is imperative to creating inclusive society

Black History Month, which celebrates achievements and contributions of African-Americans in our nation's history, is commemorated around the country every February since President Gerald Ford made it official in 1976.

February 15, 2018 | No comments yet
A bright day for Sunflower Hill

Proposed housing community for special-needs adults is win-win for everyone
The Sunflower Hill at Irby Ranch residential community for adults with special needs just got one step closer to becoming a reality.

February 8, 2018 | No comments yet
Kudos to City Manager Nelson Fialho

Longtime city leader recognized for 25 years in public service
Nelson Fialho, Pleasanton's city manager since 2004 -- and, at the time, was California's youngest municipal executive -- was honored last week by the City Council, and for good reason: He was just recognized by the International City/County Management Association for having served in local government for 25 years.

January 25, 2018 | 7 comments
Make this the week you help schools through Holiday Fund

Annual donation campaign benefiting PPIE, other nonprofits runs until Jan. 12
With students heading back to school next week after a two-week holiday break, it's a good time to remember to give to the Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund, which will benefit Pleasanton schools.

January 4, 2018 | No comments yet
The value of community journalism

When Investigation Discovery (ID) television network wanted to do a documentary-style program about the 2008 murder of Pleasanton couple Ernest Scherer Jr. and Charlene Abendroth, they contacted the local newspaper.

December 28, 2017 | 9 comments
In this season of giving, joy and peace

It's holiday time in a bah humbug sort of year. Reasons for distress run the gamut -- from terrorism, violence and nuclear weapons to disrespect, distrust, divisiveness and discrimination to inequality and injustice. When there is equal outrage over a football player who takes a knee and someone who takes a life with impunity, something is wrong.

December 24, 2017 | No comments yet
Give to the 2017 Holiday Fund

12 local nonprofits benefit from your contributions this holiday season
This banner hanging across Main Street in front of the Museum on Main says it all. With Christmas fast approaching, it's also time to give to the Pleasanton Weekly's 2017 Holiday Fund.

December 14, 2017 | No comments yet
Steinle verdict -- Let's channel our frustration

Mexican man's acquittal on shooting charges leaves Pleasanton stunned
The acquittal last week of the person charged with killing Kate Steinle left many in Kate's hometown of Pleasanton feeling betrayed by the justice system and outraged.

December 7, 2017 | 47 comments
Don’t sign that petition until you research

Another ballot measure to stop Costco could cost taxpayers $250,000
If 4,374 signatures are collected, Pleasanton could be headed for a second citywide vote in less than a year concerning building of a Costco. This will further delay the project and cost Pleasanton taxpayers an estimated $250,000 for something that has, basically, been voted on: A Costco on Johnson Drive and the start of a thriving economic zone.

November 25, 2017 | 76 comments
'Shop small' -- Keep jobs, dollars and decisions local

Tomorrow marks Small Business Saturday, so visit those shops around town
Quality of life in a community is tied to the local economy, which is tied to the health of the small businesses in that community.

November 24, 2017 | No comments yet
What we need is more gun control

Gun ownership is a right in this country. A few recent incidents close to home prompt us to remind gun owners about the responsibility that comes with this right.

November 2, 2017 | 44 comments
Survey shows we like Pleasanton

Here's more good news for Pleasanton as the city heads into another prosperous and productive new year. A new quality-of-life survey shows that those of us who live here, work here and go to Pleasanton schools are euphoric over our community, its resources, climate, location in the Bay Area and the economy.

October 26, 2017 | No comments yet
Express lanes are not a silver bullet for I-680, but should help

With more potential users of the far-left lane and more drivers maneuvering toward that lane, there seems a real possibility of some level of traffic flow improvement, but not nearly to the extent realized with I-580.

October 5, 2017 | 16 comments
Process works -- let's move forward and move on

Economic Vitality Committee set for (second) meeting on JDEDZ proposal
Given direction by the council on a few policy questions, city staff can move forward on a process that will take us through the end of the year and really get the project moving.

September 28, 2017 | 6 comments
Council should endorse JDEDZ roadwork financing deal with Costco

Special council meeting on agreement set for Monday evening
It's the right deal at the right time. The Pleasanton City Council should give its final endorsement to the Johnson Drive Economic Development Zone roadwork financing agreement with Costco on Monday night.

September 14, 2017 | 10 comments
Seeking Tri-Valley's everyday heroes

Nominations in eight award categories due Sept. 18
A hero is not defined by money or celebrity but by commitment to bettering the world and being a blessing to others.

September 3, 2017 | No comments yet
Stop commemorating the Confederacy

In support of Sen. Glazer's call for removing symbols from public spaces
In the wake of the hate-fueled white supremacist protest in Charlottesville, Va., our local State Sen. Steve Glazer (D-Orinda) is renewing Senate Joint Resolution 15, which he originally presented last year calling on the U.S. Congress and the president to remove symbols honoring Confederate political and military leaders from federal public buildings and parks.

August 24, 2017 | 19 comments
New year, new start, new optimism for PUSD

Monday marked the first day of Pleasanton school district's school year with new leadership, new bond money to fund needed facilities work, new principals and a new sense of optimism.

August 17, 2017 | 1 comment
Tacos, anyone?

We're encouraged to hear that Nelly's taco truck owner Nelly Ramirez and representatives of Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery are working on a possible agreement that will allow both businesses to continue to thrive.

July 27, 2017 | 2 comments
Fair attracts nearly half-a-million to Pleasanton

Races, concerts, carnival rides, contests and corn dogs among biggest draws
Despite an opening week with record-high temperatures, the Alameda County Fair closed out its extended 20-day run July 9 with total attendance of 463,783, a five-year high though still short of the record-setting 534,577 who squeezed through the gates in 2012.

July 20, 2017 | 1 comment
Wireless facility bill will circumvent local control

Thank you, Sen. Steve Glazer (D-Orinda), for being the lone No vote on Senate Bill 649, which, in essence, usurps local government control of public right-of-ways and restricts their ability to collect rent for putting cell towers on public property.

July 6, 2017 | 9 comments
County fair, a Pleasanton tradition

Spotlight shines on Pleasanton fairgrounds for 20-day run
The Alameda County Fair opens Friday for an extended 20-day run. That's good news for the hundreds of thousands of fair-goers and horse-racing fans expected to be here this year and for Pleasanton businesses and nonprofits and even city taxpayers who benefit from this annual event.

June 15, 2017 | 2 comments
Voters want a Costco, so let's move forward

City still negotiating with developers on cost-sharing for infrastructure improvements; council hearing no earlier than July
We are at a critical juncture with regard to the future of the Johnson Drive Economic Development Zone (EDZ) on Pleasanton's northwest side.

June 1, 2017 | 49 comments
PUSD should reveal superintendent finalist before appointment

Earlier public vetting of top candidate would promote transparency, rebuild trust
The school board was expected to select its top choice for the new superintendent this week -- PUSD's fifth leader since June 2015 -- after private interviews last week and closed-session discussions Monday and Tuesday. A visit to the candidate's current district and successful contract negotiations were still to come.

May 25, 2017 | 47 comments
Cheers for new Valley Trails housing, park plans

Project heads to City Council for approval Tuesday night
Members of the Pleasanton Planning Commission spent the first few minutes of their meeting earlier this month voicing approval of a multimillion-dollar 36-home development planned in the Valley Trails community, before then carrying on for the next four hours over plans by the developer to also build a public restroom in the neighboring Valley Trails Community Park free-of-charge.

April 27, 2017 | 9 comments
Journalism - the next generation

Journalism is imperative to a healthy democracy, and it is important to groom the next generation of journalists.

April 13, 2017 | 3 comments
PUSD must shine a little light, start rebuilding trust

Residents deserve to know more about why superintendent Rubino was fired
Ironically, Sunshine Week 2017 ended in Pleasanton last Friday with the school district seemingly doing its utmost to keep the public in the dark about the sudden and unexplained Jan. 6 firing of Rick Rubino, its superintendent of just over six months.

March 23, 2017 | 53 comments
For he's a jolly good fellow ...

And we wouldn't be the same without him
Oftentimes the people who work behind the scenes at these nonprofits do so without fanfare. So it is with the man who has worked behind the scenes of the Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund for 16 campaigns -- until last week, when he was finally and formally thanked for being the driving force behind the Fund and behind the Pleasanton Weekly.

March 2, 2017 | 4 comments
Working together to keep the Tri-Valley on track

Pleasanton's thriving source of revenue does have a price, though, and drivers on Interstates 580 or 680 during rush hour can attest to that. More business and more employees equal more traffic.

February 24, 2017 | 6 comments
Now is the time to share your thoughts on downtown planning

This is the time for the large and diverse stakeholder group -- the residents who feel a strong connection and ownership of our downtown -- to make their desires known. Not in six months or a year. Not when recommendations are going to the City Council.

February 16, 2017 | 5 comments
Having county fairgrounds here is good for Pleasanton

2016 Alameda County Fair wins top industry awards
We are fortunate to have the Alameda County Fairgrounds right here in Pleasanton. There is something happening almost every week, from festivals and haunted houses, to Goodguys car shows and Scottish Games. These events bring in visitors from all over the state and country, not to mention the money these visitors spend while here.

February 9, 2017 | No comments yet
Pressing for answers, media comes under attack

The news media is under attack, on a national and local level. The Trump administration declared war on the press less than 48 hours after the inauguration, and the Pleasanton Weekly was also attacked last week, but in a more subtle manner

January 27, 2017 | 53 comments
From troubled to trainwreck for Pleasanton school district

The Pleasanton school board had an opportunity to build back the trust of the public and prove to voters they made a good choice retaining two incumbents in the recent election.

January 13, 2017 | 102 comments
Hats off to citizen (turned) journalist

Local news coverage is imperative to the health of a community. When the number of journalists locally and nationally was dwindling, San Ramon resident Rosalind "Roz" Rogoff saw this dearth of local news coverage and did something many couldn't -- or wouldn't.

January 6, 2017 | 3 comments
Here we go again with PUSD

Continued administrator instability undermines trust of school board
The new year will bring challenges, uncertainty and opportunity.

December 30, 2016 | 5 comments
Don't let humbug trump holiday happiness

Saturday marks Christmas Eve for Christians and the start of Hanukkah for Jews. The concurrence of these two major holidays celebrated by two of the world's major religions has happened only four times in the last 100 years.

December 23, 2016 | No comments yet
Correction to 'Costco and the Mayor' editorial

A July 29 editorial, "Costco and the Mayor" concerning Pleasanton Mayor Jerry Thorne's voluntary recusal on City Council actions involving Costco and Johnson Drive referenced "a task force he appointed."

November 1, 2016 | 47 comments
Yes on Prop 54 to lift the veil of secrecy

Among the myriad propositions on the Nov. 8 ballot is one we feel we should weigh in on.

September 23, 2016 | 2 comments
Vote to re-elect Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley on June 7

Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley, first elected to the county board in 2000 and now also representing Pleasanton, is vying for reelection on June 7 against challenger Bryan Parker, a former Port of Oakland commissioner and former Oakland mayoral candidate.

May 24, 2016 | 2 comments
Vote Yes on Measure K

Measure K on the June 7 ballot for Pleasanton voters affirms the action of the City Council last January in approving the latest developer's plan for 43 upscale homes on the 194-acre Lund Ranch II site in the southeast corner of the city.

May 23, 2016 | 57 comments
Figuers, Ramirez Holmes and Thiel for Zone 7 board

In the Zone 7 Water Agency Board of Directors election, we endorse incumbents Sandy Figuers and Angela Ramirez Holmes and challenger Eric Thiel.

May 20, 2016 | 9 comments
Vote for Glazer for State Senate, Baker for Assembly

State Senator Steve Glazer, a Democrat, and Assemblywoman Catharine Baker, a Republican, are seeking nomination in the June 7 primary for re-election in the General Election on Nov. 8.

May 13, 2016 | 18 comments
Pleasanton now part of waste-to-energy coalition

City becomes 21st member of coalition
By signing on to the Bay Area Biosolids to Energy Coalition, the Pleasanton City Council is joining 20 other coalition members seeking to create a local sustainable solution to biosolids management.

November 8, 2015 | No comments yet
City taking holistic approach to downtown parking problem

Drive into downtown Pleasanton most Thursday and Friday nights or on Saturday and search for a parking space. Often it means parking a block away from your destination.

October 15, 2015 | 30 comments
Pleasanton Police Department's unwarranted silence unacceptable

It has been almost three months since 19-year-old San Jose resident John Deming Jr. was shot and killed by Pleasanton Police Officer Daniel Kunkel outside an auto dealership in Pleasanton.

October 2, 2015 | 17 comments
Run-down 1912 house stalls new home development

Old house is not developer 's problem, and shouldn't be
What on earth were the members of the Pleasanton Planning Commission thinking when they voted 4-0 to reject a bid by longtime local builder Ponderosa Homes to tear down the remnants of a run-down trailer park on (Old) Stanley Boulevard and replace it with 12 moderately-sized new homes?

July 22, 2013 | 27 comments
Fiscally prudent council stays

Election leaves in place experienced council to handle challenges ahead
The re-election Tuesday of Mayor Jennifer Hosterman and council members Cheryl Cook-Kallio and Jerry Thorne leaves in place all five members of Pleasanton's governing board who have now been serving together for four years and will continue for two more.

November 5, 2010 | 7 comments

2018

Pleasanton Weekly wins statewide journalism prize for online Coverage of Local Government

CNPA honors coverage of Ben Curry's death; awards also go to 'Around Pleasanton' columns, PUSD enrollment reporting, Chabad Center series
The Pleasanton Weekly took home seven awards, including first place for online Coverage of Local Government, for stories throughout 2018 when the California News Publishers Association handed out its annual California Journalism Awards last Saturday in Long Beach.

May 6, 2019 | No comments yet
Remember Ben Curry

Vigil to honor memory of teen who drowned in school pool; gov't agencies continue to deny public records requests
Accountability speaks of integrity, honesty and transparency, which is sorely lacking in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District and Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office in this case.

May 2, 2019 | No comments yet
Vote Yes on Measure E, Dublin Unified's parcel tax renewal

We recommend Yes on Dublin's Measure E. The annual tax of just $96 provides vital funding for Dublin students and school programs -- guaranteed revenue for DUSD that will be locally controlled over the next nine years, a time when federal and state education funding priorities could well change.

April 24, 2019 | 1 comment
Tri-Valley wisely teams up on housing legislation; state should listen

This banding together approach is unique to the Tri-Valley; we applaud our local councils for being pre-emptive, collaborative and creative in planning to combat this legislation that will give Sacramento control over land-use, with little or no input from the people we elected to represent our local interests.

April 11, 2019 | 9 comments
Amador Valley High School deserves stability

We encourage our school district leaders to have a frank, public discussion with Amador students, parents and community members how about stability and transparency will be addressed.

March 14, 2019 | 3 comments
Thanks to our 2018 Holiday Fund donors

Weekly distributes $68,416 to Tri-Valley nonprofits from annual fundraising drive
Thank you to the 256 donors to the Pleasanton Weekly's 2018 Holiday Fund. Your generous contributions allowed us to present at total of $68,416 to 15 deserving nonprofit beneficiaries last week at a luncheon hosted by the Rotary Club of Pleasanton.

February 28, 2019 | No comments yet
Share your thoughts on city priorities

Pleasanton city officials are working to draft their recommended list of city priorities for the next two years, and now is the time to offer your input to city leaders during this important planning process.

February 7, 2019 | 21 comments
Time to watch what's happening at Chabot-Las Positas

The leadership future of the Chabot-Las Positas Community College District has approached a critical juncture. As these conversations pick up again, we will be watching closely. We suggest you do too.

January 31, 2019 | No comments yet
Holiday Fund needs your help as 2018 campaign nears end

Even though the campaign will end next Tuesday, there's still time to contribute to the Pleasanton Weekly's 2018 Holiday Fund.

January 10, 2019 | No comments yet
Charities see funding shortfall, look for help from Holiday Fund

Fifteen local nonprofits will benefit from this year's Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund -- up three from a year ago. Yet contributions are falling behind.

December 23, 2018 | No comments yet
School district, sheriff's office stonewalling unacceptable

The Tri-Valley community continues to mourn the death of Ben Curry, who drowned during PE class at San Ramon Valley High School in Danville on May 8. Curry's family and friends -- and the entire community -- are demanding answers they are owed.

November 28, 2018 | 5 comments
With holiday buying season upon us, be sure to 'Shop Small' in Pleasanton

Quality of life in a community like Pleasanton is closely tied to the local economy, which goes hand in hand with the health of the small businesses in our community.

November 22, 2018 | No comments yet
New chamber alliance will benefit entire region

The Tri-Valley is unique in that the five communities that comprise the region actually work together. Where oftentimes cities compete with their neighbors for resources and designations, Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon and Danville partner to tackle issues that affect the region.

November 15, 2018 | No comments yet
Pleasanton Weekly endorsements recap

Here again are the Pleasanton Weekly editorial board's election recommendations:

November 1, 2018 | No comments yet
Re-elect Baker for Assembly, Swalwell for Congress

Also: Vote for newcomer La for County Assessor, incumbent Wieskamp for East Bay Parks board
We reached our endorsement decisions for regional representative seats after meeting with the candidates or questioning them during a public forum.

October 17, 2018 | 105 comments
Vote Narum, Streng for Pleasanton City Council

Mayor Thorne, unopposed on ballot, also has our support for re-election
We think Narum and Streng are the right community leaders to guide the City of Planned Progress through the next four years.

October 10, 2018 | 64 comments
Tri-Valley municipal election recommendations

Endorsements for Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon, Danville councils, plus No on Measure U
This is a vital local election season throughout the Tri-Valley. Accordingly, the Pleasanton Weekly editorial board is offering the following recommendations for the Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon and Danville council races as well as Livermore's health care cost initiative, Measure U.

October 4, 2018 | 3 comments
Celebrate, Tri-Valley is fastest-growing job market in Bay Area

Labor Day is a celebration of the men and women who contribute to the strength and prosperity of the country through work.

August 30, 2018 | No comments yet
Where were all the Pleasanton candidates?

Pleasanton mayor, school board incumbents go unchallenged
We waited with bated breath for the candidacy filing deadline to see how many candidates would file to run for Pleasanton mayor, city council and school board, and who the challengers would be. We were a bit disappointed with the outcome

August 23, 2018 | 4 comments
Your friend, not enemy

Unprecedented attacks on the media hit the very protectors of our democracy
In an effort to focus public attention on the dangers of the President Donald Trump's attacks, we join in an unprecedented coordinated expression of concern by newspapers across the country.

August 16, 2018 | 83 comments
Revisiting JDEDZ now is city's best option, given circumstances

Costco remains committed to bringing new store to Pleasanton despite delay
The City Council reversing its decision from last year to approve the Johnson Drive Economic Development Zone would be a smart move.

August 12, 2018 | 26 comments
Campaign will fund much-needed stroke care program

Every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke, and every four minutes someone dies of a stroke, according to a 2017 report by the American Heart Association.

August 2, 2018 | No comments yet
Looking back on another fun-filled Alameda County Fair

We bid adieu earlier this month to the 2018 Alameda County Fair, another successful installment of Pleasanton's annual summertime showcase.

July 26, 2018 | No comments yet
Documents reveal little about Harvest Park principal resignation

When Robin Munsell announced in May she was resigning her position as principal of Harvest Park Middle School after just under two years, the obvious question was why. And Munsell wasn't saying. So the Weekly asked PUSD for all public records pertaining to her exit.

July 19, 2018 | 36 comments
Nominate 2018 Tri-Valley Heroes

This October we will name the seventh group of Tri-Valley Heroes, and it is a good opportunity to revisit why our staff launched this awards program in 2012.

July 23, 2018 | No comments yet
'Zero tolerance' for daycare's noise comes to Pleasanton

The Trump administration's zero-tolerance for anyone crossing the border illegally has also become policy for a Jewish religious center's use of its backyard for outdoor activities in Pleasanton.

July 5, 2018 | 15 comments
New coalition unites Pleasanton, four other cities

The Pleasanton City Council voted unanimously last week to endorse a new Tri-Valley coalition that binds it even more closely with neighboring Danville, Dublin, Livermore and San Ramon.

July 1, 2018 | 2 comments
Palmer, Gambs, Sanwong for Zone 7 Board of Directors

After sitting down with four of the candidates and reviewing the records of all five, it is clear to us that the best leaders to serve Zone 7 for the next four years are three-term incumbent Sarah Palmer, retired Zone 7 engineer Dennis Gambs and Pleasanton resident Olivia Sanwong.

May 3, 2018 | 2 comments
Vote in Readers' Choice 2018

Contest raises awareness, importance of local businesses
It's time once again to vote for your favorite spots to eat, drink, shop and play in Pleasanton. We have hundreds of Pleasanton places and businesses listed in dozens of categories on the online ballot

April 19, 2018 | No comments yet
Full BART to Livermore is the best option

Make no mistake: This spring marks the most critical juncture for the BART to Livermore project, and the potential of bringing a BART rail extension to Isabel Avenue is very much up in the air. So make your voices heard.

March 22, 2018 | 24 comments
Telling the difference between news stories and opinions

Comments regarding last week's 'Pleasanton Preps' column indicates some confusion among readers
The Weekly's "Pleasanton Preps" columnist, Dennis Miller, wrote last week about a situation in which a set of parents did an investigation of Amador Valley High School girls varsity basketball coach Al Chavira, which led to his being placed on leave. Other team parents felt the "dirt" dug up was benign and requested the coach's reinstatement.

March 15, 2018 | 4 comments
Don't tune out; turn out for the June 5 primary

Congress, State Assembly, Governor, county seats, Zone 7 among races
According to the Public Policy Institute of California, voter turnout in the June primaries hit an all-time low in non-presidential primary year of 2014. Lack of interest and time constraints were the top two reasons given by registered voters who said they do not always vote.

February 22, 2018 | 11 comments
Editorial - Black History Month: Knowledge is imperative to creating inclusive society

Black History Month, which celebrates achievements and contributions of African-Americans in our nation's history, is commemorated around the country every February since President Gerald Ford made it official in 1976.

February 15, 2018 | No comments yet
A bright day for Sunflower Hill

Proposed housing community for special-needs adults is win-win for everyone
The Sunflower Hill at Irby Ranch residential community for adults with special needs just got one step closer to becoming a reality.

February 8, 2018 | No comments yet
Kudos to City Manager Nelson Fialho

Longtime city leader recognized for 25 years in public service
Nelson Fialho, Pleasanton's city manager since 2004 -- and, at the time, was California's youngest municipal executive -- was honored last week by the City Council, and for good reason: He was just recognized by the International City/County Management Association for having served in local government for 25 years.

January 25, 2018 | 7 comments
Make this the week you help schools through Holiday Fund

Annual donation campaign benefiting PPIE, other nonprofits runs until Jan. 12
With students heading back to school next week after a two-week holiday break, it's a good time to remember to give to the Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund, which will benefit Pleasanton schools.

January 4, 2018 | No comments yet
The value of community journalism

When Investigation Discovery (ID) television network wanted to do a documentary-style program about the 2008 murder of Pleasanton couple Ernest Scherer Jr. and Charlene Abendroth, they contacted the local newspaper.

December 28, 2017 | 9 comments
In this season of giving, joy and peace

It's holiday time in a bah humbug sort of year. Reasons for distress run the gamut -- from terrorism, violence and nuclear weapons to disrespect, distrust, divisiveness and discrimination to inequality and injustice. When there is equal outrage over a football player who takes a knee and someone who takes a life with impunity, something is wrong.

December 24, 2017 | No comments yet
Give to the 2017 Holiday Fund

12 local nonprofits benefit from your contributions this holiday season
This banner hanging across Main Street in front of the Museum on Main says it all. With Christmas fast approaching, it's also time to give to the Pleasanton Weekly's 2017 Holiday Fund.

December 14, 2017 | No comments yet
Steinle verdict -- Let's channel our frustration

Mexican man's acquittal on shooting charges leaves Pleasanton stunned
The acquittal last week of the person charged with killing Kate Steinle left many in Kate's hometown of Pleasanton feeling betrayed by the justice system and outraged.

December 7, 2017 | 47 comments
Don’t sign that petition until you research

Another ballot measure to stop Costco could cost taxpayers $250,000
If 4,374 signatures are collected, Pleasanton could be headed for a second citywide vote in less than a year concerning building of a Costco. This will further delay the project and cost Pleasanton taxpayers an estimated $250,000 for something that has, basically, been voted on: A Costco on Johnson Drive and the start of a thriving economic zone.

November 25, 2017 | 76 comments
'Shop small' -- Keep jobs, dollars and decisions local

Tomorrow marks Small Business Saturday, so visit those shops around town
Quality of life in a community is tied to the local economy, which is tied to the health of the small businesses in that community.

November 24, 2017 | No comments yet
What we need is more gun control

Gun ownership is a right in this country. A few recent incidents close to home prompt us to remind gun owners about the responsibility that comes with this right.

November 2, 2017 | 44 comments
Survey shows we like Pleasanton

Here's more good news for Pleasanton as the city heads into another prosperous and productive new year. A new quality-of-life survey shows that those of us who live here, work here and go to Pleasanton schools are euphoric over our community, its resources, climate, location in the Bay Area and the economy.

October 26, 2017 | No comments yet
Express lanes are not a silver bullet for I-680, but should help

With more potential users of the far-left lane and more drivers maneuvering toward that lane, there seems a real possibility of some level of traffic flow improvement, but not nearly to the extent realized with I-580.

October 5, 2017 | 16 comments
Process works -- let's move forward and move on

Economic Vitality Committee set for (second) meeting on JDEDZ proposal
Given direction by the council on a few policy questions, city staff can move forward on a process that will take us through the end of the year and really get the project moving.

September 28, 2017 | 6 comments
Council should endorse JDEDZ roadwork financing deal with Costco

Special council meeting on agreement set for Monday evening
It's the right deal at the right time. The Pleasanton City Council should give its final endorsement to the Johnson Drive Economic Development Zone roadwork financing agreement with Costco on Monday night.

September 14, 2017 | 10 comments
Seeking Tri-Valley's everyday heroes

Nominations in eight award categories due Sept. 18
A hero is not defined by money or celebrity but by commitment to bettering the world and being a blessing to others.

September 3, 2017 | No comments yet
Stop commemorating the Confederacy

In support of Sen. Glazer's call for removing symbols from public spaces
In the wake of the hate-fueled white supremacist protest in Charlottesville, Va., our local State Sen. Steve Glazer (D-Orinda) is renewing Senate Joint Resolution 15, which he originally presented last year calling on the U.S. Congress and the president to remove symbols honoring Confederate political and military leaders from federal public buildings and parks.

August 24, 2017 | 19 comments
New year, new start, new optimism for PUSD

Monday marked the first day of Pleasanton school district's school year with new leadership, new bond money to fund needed facilities work, new principals and a new sense of optimism.

August 17, 2017 | 1 comment
Tacos, anyone?

We're encouraged to hear that Nelly's taco truck owner Nelly Ramirez and representatives of Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery are working on a possible agreement that will allow both businesses to continue to thrive.

July 27, 2017 | 2 comments
Fair attracts nearly half-a-million to Pleasanton

Races, concerts, carnival rides, contests and corn dogs among biggest draws
Despite an opening week with record-high temperatures, the Alameda County Fair closed out its extended 20-day run July 9 with total attendance of 463,783, a five-year high though still short of the record-setting 534,577 who squeezed through the gates in 2012.

July 20, 2017 | 1 comment
Wireless facility bill will circumvent local control

Thank you, Sen. Steve Glazer (D-Orinda), for being the lone No vote on Senate Bill 649, which, in essence, usurps local government control of public right-of-ways and restricts their ability to collect rent for putting cell towers on public property.

July 6, 2017 | 9 comments
County fair, a Pleasanton tradition

Spotlight shines on Pleasanton fairgrounds for 20-day run
The Alameda County Fair opens Friday for an extended 20-day run. That's good news for the hundreds of thousands of fair-goers and horse-racing fans expected to be here this year and for Pleasanton businesses and nonprofits and even city taxpayers who benefit from this annual event.

June 15, 2017 | 2 comments
Voters want a Costco, so let's move forward

City still negotiating with developers on cost-sharing for infrastructure improvements; council hearing no earlier than July
We are at a critical juncture with regard to the future of the Johnson Drive Economic Development Zone (EDZ) on Pleasanton's northwest side.

June 1, 2017 | 49 comments
PUSD should reveal superintendent finalist before appointment

Earlier public vetting of top candidate would promote transparency, rebuild trust
The school board was expected to select its top choice for the new superintendent this week -- PUSD's fifth leader since June 2015 -- after private interviews last week and closed-session discussions Monday and Tuesday. A visit to the candidate's current district and successful contract negotiations were still to come.

May 25, 2017 | 47 comments
Cheers for new Valley Trails housing, park plans

Project heads to City Council for approval Tuesday night
Members of the Pleasanton Planning Commission spent the first few minutes of their meeting earlier this month voicing approval of a multimillion-dollar 36-home development planned in the Valley Trails community, before then carrying on for the next four hours over plans by the developer to also build a public restroom in the neighboring Valley Trails Community Park free-of-charge.

April 27, 2017 | 9 comments
Journalism - the next generation

Journalism is imperative to a healthy democracy, and it is important to groom the next generation of journalists.

April 13, 2017 | 3 comments
PUSD must shine a little light, start rebuilding trust

Residents deserve to know more about why superintendent Rubino was fired
Ironically, Sunshine Week 2017 ended in Pleasanton last Friday with the school district seemingly doing its utmost to keep the public in the dark about the sudden and unexplained Jan. 6 firing of Rick Rubino, its superintendent of just over six months.

March 23, 2017 | 53 comments
For he's a jolly good fellow ...

And we wouldn't be the same without him
Oftentimes the people who work behind the scenes at these nonprofits do so without fanfare. So it is with the man who has worked behind the scenes of the Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund for 16 campaigns -- until last week, when he was finally and formally thanked for being the driving force behind the Fund and behind the Pleasanton Weekly.

March 2, 2017 | 4 comments
Working together to keep the Tri-Valley on track

Pleasanton's thriving source of revenue does have a price, though, and drivers on Interstates 580 or 680 during rush hour can attest to that. More business and more employees equal more traffic.

February 24, 2017 | 6 comments
Now is the time to share your thoughts on downtown planning

This is the time for the large and diverse stakeholder group -- the residents who feel a strong connection and ownership of our downtown -- to make their desires known. Not in six months or a year. Not when recommendations are going to the City Council.

February 16, 2017 | 5 comments
Having county fairgrounds here is good for Pleasanton

2016 Alameda County Fair wins top industry awards
We are fortunate to have the Alameda County Fairgrounds right here in Pleasanton. There is something happening almost every week, from festivals and haunted houses, to Goodguys car shows and Scottish Games. These events bring in visitors from all over the state and country, not to mention the money these visitors spend while here.

February 9, 2017 | No comments yet
Pressing for answers, media comes under attack

The news media is under attack, on a national and local level. The Trump administration declared war on the press less than 48 hours after the inauguration, and the Pleasanton Weekly was also attacked last week, but in a more subtle manner

January 27, 2017 | 53 comments
From troubled to trainwreck for Pleasanton school district

The Pleasanton school board had an opportunity to build back the trust of the public and prove to voters they made a good choice retaining two incumbents in the recent election.

January 13, 2017 | 102 comments
Hats off to citizen (turned) journalist

Local news coverage is imperative to the health of a community. When the number of journalists locally and nationally was dwindling, San Ramon resident Rosalind "Roz" Rogoff saw this dearth of local news coverage and did something many couldn't -- or wouldn't.

January 6, 2017 | 3 comments
Here we go again with PUSD

Continued administrator instability undermines trust of school board
The new year will bring challenges, uncertainty and opportunity.

December 30, 2016 | 5 comments
Don't let humbug trump holiday happiness

Saturday marks Christmas Eve for Christians and the start of Hanukkah for Jews. The concurrence of these two major holidays celebrated by two of the world's major religions has happened only four times in the last 100 years.

December 23, 2016 | No comments yet
Correction to 'Costco and the Mayor' editorial

A July 29 editorial, "Costco and the Mayor" concerning Pleasanton Mayor Jerry Thorne's voluntary recusal on City Council actions involving Costco and Johnson Drive referenced "a task force he appointed."

November 1, 2016 | 47 comments
Yes on Prop 54 to lift the veil of secrecy

Among the myriad propositions on the Nov. 8 ballot is one we feel we should weigh in on.

September 23, 2016 | 2 comments
Vote to re-elect Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley on June 7

Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley, first elected to the county board in 2000 and now also representing Pleasanton, is vying for reelection on June 7 against challenger Bryan Parker, a former Port of Oakland commissioner and former Oakland mayoral candidate.

May 24, 2016 | 2 comments
Vote Yes on Measure K

Measure K on the June 7 ballot for Pleasanton voters affirms the action of the City Council last January in approving the latest developer's plan for 43 upscale homes on the 194-acre Lund Ranch II site in the southeast corner of the city.

May 23, 2016 | 57 comments
Figuers, Ramirez Holmes and Thiel for Zone 7 board

In the Zone 7 Water Agency Board of Directors election, we endorse incumbents Sandy Figuers and Angela Ramirez Holmes and challenger Eric Thiel.

May 20, 2016 | 9 comments
Vote for Glazer for State Senate, Baker for Assembly

State Senator Steve Glazer, a Democrat, and Assemblywoman Catharine Baker, a Republican, are seeking nomination in the June 7 primary for re-election in the General Election on Nov. 8.

May 13, 2016 | 18 comments
Pleasanton now part of waste-to-energy coalition

City becomes 21st member of coalition
By signing on to the Bay Area Biosolids to Energy Coalition, the Pleasanton City Council is joining 20 other coalition members seeking to create a local sustainable solution to biosolids management.

November 8, 2015 | No comments yet
City taking holistic approach to downtown parking problem

Drive into downtown Pleasanton most Thursday and Friday nights or on Saturday and search for a parking space. Often it means parking a block away from your destination.

October 15, 2015 | 30 comments
Pleasanton Police Department's unwarranted silence unacceptable

It has been almost three months since 19-year-old San Jose resident John Deming Jr. was shot and killed by Pleasanton Police Officer Daniel Kunkel outside an auto dealership in Pleasanton.

October 2, 2015 | 17 comments
Run-down 1912 house stalls new home development

Old house is not developer 's problem, and shouldn't be
What on earth were the members of the Pleasanton Planning Commission thinking when they voted 4-0 to reject a bid by longtime local builder Ponderosa Homes to tear down the remnants of a run-down trailer park on (Old) Stanley Boulevard and replace it with 12 moderately-sized new homes?

July 22, 2013 | 27 comments
Fiscally prudent council stays

Election leaves in place experienced council to handle challenges ahead
The re-election Tuesday of Mayor Jennifer Hosterman and council members Cheryl Cook-Kallio and Jerry Thorne leaves in place all five members of Pleasanton's governing board who have now been serving together for four years and will continue for two more.

November 5, 2010 | 7 comments

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