News/Blog

June 03, 2025

Morgan Hill’s Public Art Survey

By Brittney Sherman

In an age of rapid urbanization and digital interaction, public art serves as a vital humanizing force that reflects community identity, fosters inclusion, and sparks connection. Far more than decoration, it tells stories, preserves culture, and offers shared experiences accessible to all. Whether through murals, music, theater, film, or culinary arts, creative expression enriches public life and strengthens civic pride. Supporting public art is not a luxury but an investment in the soul of our communities—one that brings color, imagination, and deeper understanding to our shared spaces.

Complete the Survey HERE!

Read more HERE!

May 29, 2025

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Morgan Hill’s Butterfield Fire Station

By Brittney Sherman

The City of Morgan Hill invites the community to the grand opening of the new Butterfield Fire Station on Saturday, June 7, at 9:00 a.m. at 17285 Butterfield Blvd. The event will begin with remarks from Mayor Mark Turner and Fire Chief Marcus Hernandez, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This all-electric, solar-powered facility was supported by a $500,000 grant from Silicon Valley Clean Energy. Attendees can enjoy station tours, meet the fire department team, learn about the building’s sustainable design, watch induction cooking demos, and participate in kids’ activities. Pet adoptions will also be available, and free coffee and breakfast tacos will be offered while supplies last. Parking is available at the nearby VTA lot at 17295 Butterfield Blvd.

May 27, 2025

Gilroy Garlic Festival tickets go on sale May 31

By Brittney Sherman

The Gilroy Garlic Festival is making its long-awaited return this summer after a five-year hiatus. Set for July 25–27, the 46th festival will take place at Gilroy Gardens’ South County Grove, thanks to a new agreement between the theme park and the Garlic Festival Association. Tickets go on sale at 12 p.m. on May 31 through the association’s website. Gilroy Gardens Board Chair Dan Harney expressed support for the partnership, noting the shared commitment to celebrating and strengthening the local community. This marks the festival’s first return since 2019.

May 23, 2025

Inaugural Corks, Kegs & ‘Que Country Fest features Shane Dwight

By Brittney Sherman

The Wineries of Santa Clara Valley will host the first-ever Corks, Kegs & ‘Que Country Fest from 5–9 PM on May 31 at Thorson’s Arena in Morgan Hill.

This outdoor celebration features live music by hometown country artist Shane Dwight, tastings of local wine, beer, cider, and whiskey, a barbecue feast, mechanical bull riding, line dancing, and more.

Additional highlights include a vendor marketplace, wine trolley tours, a cigar lounge, and photo ops with Bay Area Panthers Coach Rob Keefe and championship players.

Read more HERE!

May 21, 2025

Tariffs Will Cost Each Household Nearly $5,000 a Year!

By Brittney Sherman

A report from Yale’s Budget Lab estimates that Trump-era tariffs and foreign retaliation could cost U.S. households up to $4,900, driven by a 3% increase in prices. The average effective tariff rate has reached 28%, the highest since 1901, even if consumers shift to domestic goods. Critics warn of rising inflation, despite claims that tariffs support U.S. manufacturing.

Read more HERE!

May 19, 2025

In a vise of slowing demand and rising costs, small businesses are signaling trouble ahead

By Brittney Sherman

Christopher Altman, who runs Trees Company in Oakland, typically enjoys steady business year-round thanks to California’s temperate climate. But starting in mid-March, demand for his tree trimming services collapsed — a downturn he attributes to growing economic uncertainty driven by the Trump administration’s escalating trade war. Altman, now relying on savings and credit to cover payroll, says he’s seen his once-regular flow of job requests shrink to just a couple per week.

His experience illustrates the ripple effects of the administration’s tariff strategy, which is straining both household and business spending. As companies grapple with higher costs from new import taxes and consumers grow cautious about the economic outlook, service-sector businesses like Altman’s are feeling the squeeze. Economists warn that the most severe trade penalties have yet to hit, as Trump’s administration holds off on implementing sweeping tariffs until at least July — pending negotiations with up to 90 countries. Without successful deals, the resulting broad tariffs could further raise supply chain costs and deepen the slowdown already starting to show on Main Street.