BLOG
What a Week
What I missed: Former wrestling coach LaFever dies, Sunflower Hill in Lafayette, California Signature Wine Awards and more
“Here is what caught my eye as I went through my inbox of nearly 1,200 fresh messages from my vacation (plus those lingering from before and after).”
Teeth wisdom: Pleasanton author releases ninth edition of ‘dental bible’ pocket guide
One of the Tri-Valley’s most accomplished authors might not be a household name on pop culture bookshelves, but two generations of dental assistants and hygienists couldn’t get through college and career the same without her work.
Musings, reflections and reactions about Tri-Valley community news (plus the occasional scoop) from editorial director Jeremy Walsh. Published every Thursday, What A Week covers cities, schools, special districts, counties, crime, courts, local and regional politics, nonprofits, A&E and the people who make it all happen in Pleasanton, Livermore, San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Blackhawk, Sunol and Dublin.
Have a drink with me: Judging PCO’s Tri-Valley Craft Cocktail Competition
“Eighteen top local mixologists put their skills to the test for hundreds of thirsty attendees and four judges, including yours truly, during the annual Craft Cocktail Competition fundraiser for Pacific Chamber Orchestra.”
Rep reckoning: Reflections as national scandal hits Tri-Valley with Swalwell sex abuse allegations
“I tend to think the words someone uses along the way are a signal about their true character … Maybe the writing was always on the wall that Eric Swalwell would be the author of his own political downfall.”
A trip to the theater: Concerts, plays, comedy and dinosaurs for Bankhead this spring
“The excitement is building at the Bankhead Theater for its milestone 20th season arriving in August. Not to be missed in these forward-looking announcements is a crowded catalog for the heart of spring to put a bow on 2025-26 for LVA and its resident theater companies.”
Get the Express daily newsletter and stay updated on the latest local news.
On ‘Conversations’: Catching up with host Mel McKay and TV30 after my appearance on show
“Sharing our story is especially important now that we are a nonprofit journalism foundation. And I had a great opportunity to do just that with this month’s episode of ‘Conversations’ with Mel McKay on Tri-Valley Community Television, the local access station.”
Open hearts change lives: Nonprofit for food, shelter in Tri-Valley looks to build on big 2025
Coming off a 30th anniversary year in which its staff, volunteers and supporters accomplished incredible, inspirational results and milestones, Open Heart Kitchen is motivated to keep the momentum going throughout 2026.
New judges appointed in Alameda, Contra Costa counties
“One addition to the Alameda County Superior Court and three new judges in Contra Costa County, plus a former local prosecutor assigned to the bench in San Francisco. Those were among the 25 judicial appointments and nominations announced by Gov. Gavin Newsom up and down the state so far this year.”
Women’s Hall of Fame: Livermore news publisher, Valkyries GM, county undersheriff and more
“The 2026 class of the Alameda County Women’s Hall of Fame reads like a Who’s Who catalog. The lone Tri-Valley resident on the list? Well, hers is a name I know well in the local news business…”
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.