By Faughn Education 0 Comments

UC Merced Named the 14th Best College in the Nation by Wall Street Journal

Following recognition as a Top 25 university by U.S. News & World Report, UC Merced has once again earned national acclaim, this time from the Wall Street Journal. In its 2026 report of the Best Colleges in the U.S., the highly respected media outlet has named UC Merced the 14th best college in the nation.

Among public institutions, UC Merced ranked third nationwide – right after UC Berkeley and UC Davis – and placed fifth among all California universities, public and private. The university was also recognized for its leadership in expanding opportunity, earning the No. 3 spot nationally in social mobility.

“This recognition from the Wall Street Journal underscores the incredible momentum at UC Merced,” said Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz. “To be ranked among the very best colleges in the country and recognized for our social mobility efforts speaks to the talent of our students, the dedication of our faculty and staff and the transformative impact of our mission.”

According to the WSJ’s website, the rankings – developed in partnership with College Pulse and Statista – evaluate colleges on factors that matter most to students and families, including student outcomes, learning environment and diversity. Like U.S. News, the methodology used by the WSJ rewards student experience and academic excellence more equitably.

UC Merced received high marks across all student outcome categories, especially for “Salary Impact” and “Graduation Rate Impact.” The university also performed well in the “Diversity” category, which looks at not only the ethnic makeup of students and faculty but also the inclusion of students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and students with disabilities.

Social mobility remains an area in which UC Merced excels. According to the report, universities that do well in this category enroll a high proportion of students “coming from lower-income families, while maintaining high graduation rates and having a positive impact on graduate salaries and minimizing the costs of attending the college.”

“What sets UC Merced apart is not just the quality of education we provide, but the opportunities we create for students who have historically been left out of higher education,” Muñoz said. “These rankings affirm that we are delivering on our promise of opening doors, supporting student success and preparing graduates to make an impact on the world.”

https://news.ucmerced.edu/news/2025/uc-merced-named-14th-best-college-nation-wall-street-journal

By Faughn Logistics • New Developments 0 Comments

Tulare County greenlights rezoning of 718 acres near Goshen for industry, future development

The Tulare County Board of Supervisors has approved a plan to rezone 718 acres of farmland northwest of Goshen to accommodate both industry and additional uses in the future. The board approved the initiation of a general plan amendment on July 22, which would allow development of the area once all environmental studies are complete. The new zoning designation would be considered “mixed use.” The developer proposed building an industrial park on 190 acres west of Highway 99. The project was submitted to the county by developer Panattoni Development of Sacramento in collaboration with real estate firm Colliers International.

The project was submitted to the county at their Project Review Committee meeting in June. The site plan shows five large buildings of various sizes that add up to 3.85 million square feet along Highway 99. Development of the 718-acre plan would require cooperation with the City of Visalia, which supplies sewer service to Goshen, and approval from CalWater, which supplies water to the community.

Another notable part of the plan includes rezoning 137 acres at the northwest corner of Highways 99 and 198, also currently in agriculture. County Economic Development Manager Michael Washam said there’s no specific plan to develop this acreage, but he has seen interest in the past. The site enjoys the highest pass-by traffic count in the region.

In addition to these industrial and commercial potential projects, Goshen is slated for more housing projects due to available land there, including this initiative to open more, but depending on sewer capacity from the City of Visalia. San Joaquin Valley Homes and Self Help Enterprises are currently busy with projects in Goshen. It remains to be seen how Visalia will respond to these large-scale projects near the city limits. Recently, the City of Visalia initiated its 900-acre expansion plan for industrial and other commercial development near the airport.

https://thebusinessjournal.com/tulare-county-greenlights-rezoning-of-718-acres-near-goshen-for-industry-future-development/

By Faughn Quality of Life • Tourism 0 Comments

Fresno gets $100 million grant to revamp downtown area

A huge boost to Fresno’s downtown revitalization is expected to turn plans into projects. Fresno was granted $100 million in funding, the largest amount the city has ever received from the state. The money is dedicated to downtown Fresno improvements and construction costs. The projects include new street lights, water and sewage lines, improving sidewalks, and two new parking garages. Mayor Jerry Dyer says the goal is to bring more businesses, housing, and residents to downtown Fresno.

“We are doing everything we can to accelerate housing downtown,” he said. “The goal was to get to 10,000 people living downtown, and in order for that to occur, there are a lot of things that need to happen with the infrastructure. The water main, sewer mains, parking structures, all those things that will make it much more inviting for people to develop in the downtown area.”

Construction for the first parking garage is set to start in December. Work on the second structure is planned for February. Another $100 million from the state is expected next year. Those funds are earmarked for an inter-mobile transportation hub, green spaces and other amenities.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/fresno-gets-100-million-grant-to-revamp-downtown-area/ar-AA1OdPWM?ocid=BingNewsSerp

By Faughn Top Stories • Tourism • Workforce 0 Comments

The Stage is Set: Hard Rock Casino Tejon to open Nov. 13, 2025

The $600 million destination in partnership with the Tejon Indian Tribe will bring world-class gaming, dining and entertainment to California’s Central Valley

Hard Rock International, in partnership with the Tejon Indian Tribe, today announced that Hard Rock Casino Tejon will officially open Nov. 13, 2025.  The entertainment destination is located less than 15 miles south of Bakersfield on Tejon Indian Tribal land, will be the first of its kind in Kern County and a landmark development for the region. The all-new entertainment facility is owned by the Tejon Indian Tribe and will be managed by Hard Rock International.

Nestled at the base of the historic Grapevine Mountain Pass at the southernmost tip of the San Joaquin Valley, the new property is poised to serve both Southern California and Central Valley markets. The destination will be the second closest full casino experience to Los Angeles with an easy highway drive. The opening represents not only a world-class hospitality and entertainment experience but also a transformational cultural and economic moment for the Tejon Indian Tribe and the broader Kern County community.

The privately funded project has already generated thousands of construction jobs and 1,000 permanent roles upon opening. Hard Rock Casino Tejon has also committed to infrastructure improvements in the surrounding area at no cost to taxpayers and will provide long-term investment in community services, education and economic development initiatives for the Tejon Indian Tribe.

“Today marks a historic moment for the Tejon Indian Tribe and the entire Kern County community. The opening of Hard Rock Casino Tejon is not only a celebration of our Tribe’s heritage and resilience but also a bold step forward in creating opportunity and prosperity for future generations. This project will bring thousands of jobs, fuel economic growth, and serve as a gathering place where culture, entertainment, and community come together. We are proud to share this milestone with our friends, neighbors, and partners who helped make this vision a reality,” stated Octavio Escobedo, III Chairman of the Tejon Tribe.

“We are incredibly proud to bring our iconic brand to Kern County and are thankful for our partnership with the Tejon Indian Tribe,” said Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming. “Hard Rock Casino Tejon will set a new standard for entertainment in the region, blending our world-class hospitality with the tribe’s inspiring vision for cultural and economic growth.”

Chris Kelley, president of Hard Rock Casino Tejon, added: “It is an honor to lead this incredible project as we prepare to welcome guests in Mid-November. Hard Rock Casino Tejon will combine the energy, flavor and excitement that our brand is known for with a uniquely local spirit that reflects the strength and heritage of the Tejon Indian Tribe. We look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.”

When the doors open, guests will experience a 150,000-square-foot gaming floor featuring more than 2,000 slot machines, more than 50 live table games including blackjack, Ultimate Texas Hold ’em and Three Card Poker, and exclusive VIP rooms for blackjack and baccarat. The property will also showcase an extensive collection of authentic music memorabilia, telling the stories of iconic artists and infusing the property with Hard Rock’s legendary energy.

Dining and nightlife will feature the world-renowned Hard Rock Cafe, Deep Cut Steaks | Seafood and YOUYU, alongside a Marketplace Food Hall with diverse options including artisanal coffee and pastries, street tacos, Southern comfort favorites and wood-fired Italian classics. The property will also include a Rock Shop offering exclusive Hard Rock merchandise.

Guests can enroll in Unity by Hard Rock, the global loyalty program that rewards gaming, dining, shopping and travel at participating Hard Rock locations worldwide. Unity members will enjoy exclusive opening promotions, custom rewards and VIP perks, including access to the Plum Lounge for Unity X members.

The Nov. 13, 2025, opening marks Hard Rock International’s latest expansion in California and underscores its commitment to delivering unforgettable guest experiences that celebrate music, culture and community.

About Tejon Indian Tribe
Tejon Indian Tribe is Kern County’s only federally recognized Indian tribe. Led by Chairman Octavio Escobedo, III, the tribe currently consists of 1,500 tribal citizens and is growing.  A vast majority of tribe citizens reside in Kern County, and many are life-long residents of Bakersfield. The Tejon Tribe’s Administrative Offices are located at 4941 David Road south of Bakersfield. Since re-establishing its federally recognized status in 2012, the tribe has focused on strengthening and empowering its citizens through better health care, education, quality housing, and economic development.

About Hard Rock
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in nearly 80 countries spanning more than 300 locations including owned, licensed or managed hotels, casinos, Rock Shops, live performance venues and cafes. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia with more than 88,000 pieces displayed at locations around the globe. The Unity by Hard Rock global loyalty program rewards members for doing the things they love across participating properties. In addition, Hard Rock Digital spotlights the sports betting and iGaming experience with products remixed in the spirit of Hard Rock for players worldwide.

https://casino.hardrock.com/tejon/newsroom/2025/10/the-stage-is-set-hard-rock-casino-tejon-to-open-nov-13-2025

By Faughn New Developments • Quality of Life • Tourism 0 Comments

Neighborhood market, Jamba Juice and fuel station break ground at Tesoro Viejo

A new neighborhood market, Jamba Juice and a 76-branded fuel station are officially under construction in Madera. The project, which was detailed in The Business Journal last year, is located near the southeast corner of State Route 41 and Avenue 15, and is scheduled to open next spring. It will include a convenience market, a car wash and Jamba Juice. It was developed in partnership with Yosemite Travel Center.

“We look forward to bringing a high-quality construction project that goes along with the high standards set by the Tesoro Viejo development,” said Peter Singh, developer and owner of Yosemite Travel Center, in a news release. “We plan to serve the needs of the residents at Tesoro as well as tourists headed out to Yosemite National Park.”

The fuel station will have six pumps with 12 fueling positions and will offer gasoline, diesel and ethanol (E85) fuel. It was originally supposed to include 12 Tesla charging stations; however, those plans were scrapped. The neighborhood market will focus on healthy grab-and-go foods, produce and snacks. Jamba Juice will bring its traditional menu of smoothies, bowls and juices.

“We’re pleased to welcome Yosemite Travel Center and this new development to Tesoro Viejo,” said Brent McCaffrey, President of Tesoro Viejo Development. “This new center will bring a range of conveniences to the community that will serve the needs of the area. Our residents and neighbors will enjoy having the market with a variety of fresh produce, healthy grab-and-go options, and more. Not to mention, Jamba Juice with its plant-based smoothies and delicious bowls. These are all wonderful additions to the community.”

The 1,600-acre Tesoro Viejo master-planned community in southeastern Madera County will include up to 5,190 homes, schools, parks, trails and a walkable town center. It was named the 2023 Community of the Year by the National Association of Home Builders.

https://thebusinessjournal.com/neighborhood-market-jamba-juice-and-fuel-station-break-ground-at-tesoro-viejo/?mc_cid=5a3d0b245b&mc_eid=c4726fd3b7

By Faughn Tourism 0 Comments

Moon Festival brings taste of culture to visitors

For the second year, Hanford’s Moon Festival returned to the Carnegie Museum of Kings County on Saturday afternoon. Entertainment included the Cal Poly Lion Dance Team and the Fresno Gumyo Taiko Drummers, along with an Origami demonstration hosted by local expert Raymond Thomas. Other attractions included henna painting, Moon Cakes, and food trucks.

https://hanfordsentinel.com/news/local/moon-festival-brings-taste-of-culture-to-visitors/article_52df7079-6821-43c5-9033-765ea8d4f596.html