The pilot, Carl Gruber,of Bethel Island, Calif., is now in custody. Authorities searched the plane last Saturday at the Boulder Municipal Airport.

Editor: I would like to address the Letter to the Editor submitted by Jonathan Silver.

John Sierra, who teaches earth and environmental sciences, is one of 39 educators from California who were chosen from hundreds of applicants nationally to participate in the NSTA's New Science Teacher Academy, an online form of professional development.

To cruise or not to cruise, that is the question. The most dramatic video ever shown of a cruise ship disaster certainly is in the thoughts of those who go on cruises.

Editor: I am responding to Kevin Romick's request for input as requested in the Jan.

Concerns are growing that an invasive water weed that has long frustrated Delta boaters and swimmers could return in force this year after an aggressive state effort to control it.

The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District board this week urged residents to weigh in on a controversial Grand Jury report calling far East County fire service "adequate" and recommending further study and public discussion before a new tax is sought.

Laurie Munoz would wake up and hide in the bed of her dad's pickup truck, stowing away for the chance to farm their Oakley almond orchard.

A grand jury report stating that fire protection in far East County is "adequate" - despite last year's closure of two stations - is drawing criticism from local fire officials and residents.