News & Notes

last updated: July 25, 2008 04:17:44 AM

Schools get boost for building projects

Several area school building projects received a boost this week when the State Allocation Board approved $234 million for the construction, modernization and repair of school facilities around the state. Page B-2

Modesto man shot in head, is critical

A Modesto man is in critical condition after being shot in the head during an early morning fight in the 3000 block of Carver Road, near West Rumble Road. Authorities described the shooter as a man in his late teens or early 20s, about 5 feet 9 inches tall with a slim build. Page B-3

State part-time jobs on chopping block

For state government retirees, a part-time state job means extra spending money, enough to take an extra trip or dine out more often. For their younger counterparts, it could be a chance to get enough experience to land a full-time job and launch a career. Both those groups face an abrupt end to their state service next week. Page B-5

Tips will be offered to keep kids safe

Verizon Wireless will hold a child safety day with the Modesto police and fire departments at its Modesto Circuit City store today. Company experts will demonstrate their chaperone service -- a way for parents to monitor the location of their child's phone through their own handset or online, as well as to set up geographical fences that alert the parent when the child has left the predetermined area. Police and fire officials will be providing identification kits for children, and firefighters will teach "stop, drop and roll" techniques and conduct tours of their fire apparatus. It's from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the store, 3401 Dale Road.

Ceres postmaster to be sworn in today

Lee Hoskins will be sworn in as the new Ceres postmaster in a 3 p.m. ceremony today at the post office at 2801 Mitchell Road. Hoskins, 46, began his career as a clerk at the Merced post office in 1986. Six years later, he was promoted to supervisor, and in 2002 became the Sonora postmaster. He also has served as the officer in charge at the Waterford, Turlock, Modesto and Lodi post offices.

Yesteryears

75 YEARS AGO: When Hank Vierth of Modesto threw his line into the ocean, it had a live sardine weighing less than an ounce attached to the end. When he reeled the line in, he had a sea bass weighing 320 pounds attached to the end. Vierth caught his prize on a fishing trip off Catalina Island.

50 YEARS AGO: After a week of site preparation, the first dirt was moved in excavation for the new courts building at 11th and H streets in downtown Modesto. The three-story building was scheduled to be completed in 20 months.

-- Karen Aiello

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