News Briefs

State healthcare bill approved

State legislation designed to boost the number of nurses and nurse's assistants in care facilities has passed both the state Assembly and the Senate and awaits signature by Gov. Gray Davis.

The bill will force nursing homes to keep a minimum care workers-to-patient ratio at all times and requires the state health department to enforce the ratios with more stringent inspection of facilities.

Nursing home industry representatives voiced concerns before the passage of the legislation--Assembly Bill 1075--that they would not be able to afford the increase in workers. They had called for bigger payments from the state MediCal system to nursing homes to soften the law's impact.

The final bill calls for an overhaul of the MediCal reimbursement system by 2004.

Local nursing assistants unions have hailed the bill as a step toward a better quality of life for workers and their patients.

October is month for dog adoption

The Humane Society of Santa Clara Valley has named October its official Adopt-A-Dog Month. According to Human Society officials, dogs are available in all breeds, sizes and ages. And according to a recent society statement, "All our dogs are equipped with one essential feature: unconditional love reserved for you and your family."

As one of the largest shelters on the West Coast, the Santa Clara facility cares for around 30,000 animals every year.

For more information, call the society's adoption line at 408.727.3383, ext 823.

Teen house open, looking for help

The Warner Hutton House Teen Center has re-opened for another year in service of area students in sixth through eighth grades. The house gives kids a place to study, play games, build crafts and hang out after school hours.

Every year the operating costs of the free afternoon program run around $45,000. The Saratoga Youth Commission, composed of 14 Saratoga teenagers appointed by the city, is charged with raising a third of that money.

To make a contribution or get involved, call Lauren Merriman at 868.1272.

Citizen alerts officials to Mountain Winery signs code violations

Commentary: World Trade Center

Local Home Sales and Property Listings

Obituary: Florence Worrell

Saratoga Sampler

Sports Briefs

Courtside Tennis Club wins state titles

High school football

High school cross country