Budget Deadline Missed, Again
Most Californians didn't seem to notice, but the state Legislature this week failed to meet a constitutional deadline. Lawmakers were supposed to have passed a new state budget by June 15. It's become a symbolic deadline since the Legislature has blown it 26 times in the last 30 years. What happens next?
The Fight Over Methyl Iodide - Part II
Last week we reported on a controversial pesticide the Schwarzenegger administration plans to approve called methyl iodide. The chemical is used to sterilize soil before planting. Strawberry growers say it's key to sustaining their industry. But scientists who advised the state worry that it's too toxic to be used safely. Experts gathered at a hearing this week warned that the chemical will endanger farmworkers and people living near strawberry fields.
The Girl of the Golden West
California has played the backdrop for many Westerns. But long before the movies, the Gold Rush inspired Italian composer Giacomo Puccini to write an opera: "Girl of the Golden West." Set in the Sierra Foothills, it's about love and redemption among gold miners. The San Francisco Opera is celebrating the work's 100th anniversary with a special production.
Accordion Apprentice
You may not know it, but June is National Accordion Awareness Month. Long the butt of jokes, the squeeze box is now enjoying a renaissance. In fact, it's the official instrument of the city of San Francisco. We present the story of an unlikely pair of accordion enthusiasts.