Merced Sun-Star

1 day ago | mercedsunstar.com | Howard Yune

Gabriel James Chavez has argued he was protecting himself and his family when he killed a man during a violent, chaotic brawl at a Lake Berryessa park. Gabriel James ChavezGabriel James ChavezNapa County prosecutors disagree - and are seeking to block Chavez' attempt to throw out the murder charge he faces for the shooting death of Andres Fabian Sandoval Garcia a year ago.

3 days ago | mercedsunstar.com | Erica Gerald Mason

Fergie ( Stacy Ann Ferguson) commanded attention at a special screening of the new Netflix series Too Much. The pop superstar stepped out in a striking ensemble, showcasing her signature blend of glamor and edgy style, immediately drawing praise from fans. The Grammy-winning artist, often dubbed "The Dutchess," brought the sparkle for her red carpet return.

4 days ago | mercedsunstar.com | Lila Seidman

An Irvine animal trainer and his girlfriend were arrested Thursday night after police connected the couple to the death of at least 10 dogs - with nine believed to have perished on a single day. Kwong "Tony " Chun Sit, 53, of Irvine, was arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty and destruction of evidence, according to the Irvine Police Department. Sit 's girlfriend, Tingfeng Liu, 23, of Vista, was arrested on suspicion of the same charges.

6 days ago | mercedsunstar.com | Anthony Galaviz

Clovis East wide receiver Donyell Booker Jr. said playing in the 71st City/County All-Star football game was everything he had hoped for. Prior to Friday's game at Koligian Stadium, Booker said getting to know new teammates was fun. "Meeting new people every day," he said. "Just getting a bond with people I've never seen before. It's different personalities.

1 week ago | mercedsunstar.com | Sarah Doyle

At Brooks Note's tasting room in downtown Petaluma, the wine is an obvious draw: Elegant Pinot Noirs, Rhône blends, lively whites - and the occasional Blaufrankisch - are delicious, balanced and fairly priced. But like many wineries in Sonoma County, the tasting room has seen decreased foot traffic in the last year - fallout from a wine industry struggling to attract consumers.