FROM THE PUBLISHER: While the actual, astronomical middle of summer is August 7, the days surrounding it may still retain that hazy, lazy and magical quality Shakespeare celebrated in his lighthearted “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” I’ve lately been finding that some of my dreams for this region and state are leaving me, if not literally sleepless, at least mentally and emotionally tossing and turning.

Ranching has been a central part of California’s economy and its cultural traditions since pre-statehood. Comstock’s spoke to three Central Valley ranchers about what they have done to stay in ranching and why they continue to work in such a demanding industry.

Managing exempt employees can be a bit complicated, as you want to balance work demands without overwhelming or taking advantage of your employees. Let’s get into it.

Managing exempt employees can be a bit complicated, as you want to balance work demands without overwhelming or taking advantage of your employees. Let’s get into it.

From crafting with popsicle sticks in elementary school to working with small electronic devices in middle school, Kavya Khare clearly had DIY in her DNA. She is now the founder of The Make Box, a UC Davis and Bay Area-based startup that creates modular robotic kits, SnapBots, for young students to engage in STEM.

Deep inside the belly of Corti Brothers in East Sacramento, past the double doors marked “employees only,” past the walk-ins and shelves of goods and hustling employees, a piercing klaxon is sounding in the kitchen. Is it a fire alarm? Has a miscreant entered through a back door to burgle a jar of vintage marmalade? Much more dire: The cheese ravioli filling in the ravioli machine hopper is getting low.

Often described by its proximity to other places, Sacramento actually sees significant traffic each year from out-of-town visitors. Here’s what draws them — and how the city is hoping to attract more.

Some wineries across America, from the California coast to Maine, have expanded from traditional wine making into the distilling process, using their grapes to make high octane spirits. Here’s how Amador County winemaker Tom Jones keeps his spirits up as the wine industry trends down.

The Back Story: Sutter’s Fort, the 6-acre state park in Midtown Sacramento, is an underappreciated jewel in the crown of the region’s historic attractions.

The state’s unclaimed property law is supposed to reunite abandoned assets with their owners. But another aim has long since taken over, say experts and attorneys for victims. 

Recently developed amenities, including an amphitheater and a variety of restaurants, complement Fair Oaks Village’s small town vibe and unique access to the American River. Will it all come together as the buzzy tourist destination many locals desire?

When this writer needs a quick beach fix that’s close to Sacramento, Pacifica is his go-to pick.

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when the “California sound” first entered my consciousness, inspiring a 700-plus song playlist that’s been carefully curated over decades.