County gets tough on illegal dumping -- The Desert Sun

Three years ago, Riverside County supervisors noticed a growing illegal trash problem and set up an enforcement team equipped with high-tech gadgets and undercover disguises to catch dumpers.

Officials say many Inland developers putting brakes on housing construction -- P-E and The Californian

Inland developers continue to plan for new housing, but Riverside County officials say many have put the brakes on construction of new communities amid the most significant housing-market nose dive to hit the Inland region in more than a decade.

Tribal leaders worry about 'wealthy Indian' image -- The Californian

Tribal leaders said Monday they were troubled by a growing public perception of American Indians as "casino-rich" special interests.

Truckers call state's new emissions strategy too costly -- P-E

A new strategy to make Southern California's diesel trucks more green could force independent truckers to shut down or leave the state, truckers and industry representatives said Monday.

Real estate industry closes ranks against fraud -- The Californian

As leaders of two Realtor associations prepare to launch a task force on fraud today, agents and others in the industry say recent publicity and the threat of prosecution have iced some shady real estate operations, while driving others underground.

Desert Hot Springs earns unwelcome attention -- P-E

New crime data released Monday showed Desert Hot Springs returning as the most crime-ridden Inland city with fewer than 100,000 residents, according to the FBI.

Speed forest thinning to ease fire threat, experts say -- P-E

The nation's worsening fire seasons are, in part, a consequence of global warming and are likely to get more severe unless forest managers step up tree removal efforts and prescribed fire programs, a group of scientists testified Monday before a congressional panel.

Myra Goldwater, Palm Springs Realtor, Republican, dies -- P-E

A longtime resident and Realtor in Palm Springs, Mrs. Goldwater became connected with the upper echelons of the Republican party through her marriage to Barry Goldwater's cousin, Gerald Goldwater, in 1940.

Former UCR chancellor Ivan Hinderaker dies at 91 -- P-E

Faculty members at UC Riverside remembered Ivan Hinderaker on Monday as a calm man and skilled negotiator who led the campus through tumultuous times.

Candidates offer their priorities -- The Desert Sun

Candidates for mayor and Palm Springs City Council shared their views about downtown during a forum Monday at the Palm Canyon Theatre.

Opinion: Shuffle primaries -- P-E

The current rush by states to be first in the primary line aims to maximize political influence, not ensure good choices, and the system needs to change.

Opinion: Shining schools -- P-E

Two local elementary schools offer a welcome message for California public education: Hard work backed by strong community support can overcome obstacles of poverty and language.