Gifford Fire burns 104,590 acres with 21% containment
By KAREN VELIE Firefighters increased containment of the Gifford Fire to 21% with significant progress made in the south end of the fire burning in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. The blaze has scorched 104,590 acres. “Hot and dry conditions will continue across the area through early next...
Is the United States becoming more like Russia under Trump?
OPINION by ALLAN COOPER I and others here in the United States are looking into a future where the similarities between our country and Russia are becoming more and more resoundingly clear. The following are a dozen ways that the United States and Russia, under the present Trump administration, are beginning...
San Luis Obispo MMA fighter Steven Sainsbury to compete in Chico
By KAREN VELIE San Luis Obispo Mixed Martial Arts fighter Steven Sainsbury is competing in his sixth professional bout on Aug. 9 – Spirit Warrior in Chico. After four fighters dropped out at the last minute, Sainsbury agreed to fight in the Pure Combat promotion at the Mechoopda Indian Casino...
Newsom appoints Kenneth McDaniel SLO County Superior Court judge
By KAREN VELIE Governor Gavin Newsom announced Thursday the appointment of Commissioner Kenneth McDaniel to a judgeship in the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court. McDaniel has served as a commissioner at the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court since 2022. He was a sole practitioner at the Law Office...
SLO County law enforcement seized more than 600 pounds of fireworks
By KAREN VELIE Under San Luis Obispo County’s new firework ordinance, law enforcement seized more than 600 pounds of illegal fireworks from July 3 through July 6. SLO County sheriff deputies issued 24 notices of violation and seized more than 350 pounds of illegal fireworks. Law enforcement with Cal Fire...
Evacuations increase as Gifford Fire rages towards homes
By KAREN VELIE As the Gifford Fire rages through northern San Luis Obispo County, the number of people ordered to evacuate has exploded. The blaze has scorched nearly 100,000 acres with only 15% containment. On Thursday evening, residents in rural Santa Margarita watched as the flames pushed forward. Officials have...
San Luis Obispo police seek help identifying thief
By KAREN VELIE The San Luis Obispo Police Department announced Thursday it is seeking the public’s help identifying a thief who ripped off the Madonna Inn Boutique. On Aug. 4, the alleged thief was captured on security cameras taking merchandise from the shop. The suspect has brown hair, a brown...
