If green technology is the future, then the city of Riverbank is already one step ahead.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture today reported that the preliminary 2012 report shows nearly 4.4 million tons of wine grapes were crushed, 13 percent more than the 3.87 million tons the previous year and 1 percent higher than the previous high in 2005.

Home sales and prices in San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties both posted gains in December, the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) reported.

Traffic in parts of Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties will be disrupted over the next couple of weeks because of road work performed by the California Department of Transportation.

Stanislaus County agriculture last year brought in a gross income of nearly $3.1 billion, the highest in the county’s history.

Locally sourced milk, a commitment to environmental sustainability, and a passion for creating quality products have helped several Central Valley cheese makers succeed in winning culinary respect and loyal customers. 

Library patrons in Stanislaus County can now borrow eBooks through the 3M Cloud Library.

Food lovers can enjoy wine, cheese and hors d’oeuvres at the 10th annual Tastes of the Valley Wine and Cheese event at The Stanislaus County Fairgrounds on Oct. 4.

Lobby hours will change for the City of Modesto and Stanislaus County beginning Monday, Oct. 1. 

The City of Ceres is accepting nominations for its Ceres Citizen of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award.