A gang-related shooting left a man with a leg wound early Monday morning, but police are scrambling for additional information about the crime because he is unwilling to say who shot him, according to police. | Full Story

It's a common refrain in many parts of California: Farmers say their crops are running anywhere from 10 days to two weeks behind a typical schedule. A mild summer on the heels of a cool, wet spring has pushed back crop development in many parts of the state. That may or may not turn out to be a serious problem, depending on weather in September and October. Early rains could cause damage if crops don't ripen in time. | Full Story

They're known as "specialty" crops, and a newly released study shows they're a special boost for the state's economy. The "California Grown" program analyzed the economic impact of 15 specialty crops and reported this week that their production generates nearly | Full Story

Cotton plants are still maturing later than average. Many fields were planted late because of the cool, damp spring weather. Farmers expect lower production as a result, and are treating fields for insects that could further affect the crop. However, farm advisors say a few farmers who were able to plant on schedule have good looking fields and may have average or above average yields this fall. Warmer weather is helping the cotton to grow, but concern remains about possible early rains at harvest time. | Full Story

Her appearance was a bit of a surprise to everyone but Funny Girl, her mother. | Full Story

California nursery businesses were hit hard by the recession, drought, the decline in homebuilding and reduced water deliveries to businesses and homeowners. The California Association of Nurseries and Garden Centers said in a new report that farm-gate revenues declined nearly 18 percent last year. The revenue decline also resulted in a loss of more than 25,000 jobs. California leads the nation in the value of nursery and floral crop production. | Full Story

California's cotton crop is a little late in developing, according to a federal government report. However, 95 percent of the crop is reported in good or excellent condition. About 30 percent of the crop is setting bolls this week, compared to 36 percent last year at this time. | Full Story

Walnut farmers have prepared for the predicted heat applying white material to reflect light and heat from trees. The nuts are in danger of sunburn even at this early stage of development. But, grower concerns are lessened by the forecast for cool nighttime temperatures. Lows in the 50s and 60s give the trees and nuts a chance to cool down and reduce potential damage. Harvest will begin in September. | Full Story

Discovery of six guava fruit flies in Garden Grove, Orange and Santa Ana has caused the California Department of Food and Agriculture to begin an eradication program in a 10 square mile area of Orange County. Small blotches of a pheromone and pesticide are applied high on trees and utility poles to attract and kill male flies. No agricultural quarantine is being imposed at this time, but residents are urged not to move backyard fruit from their property. The pest can destroy many backyard and farm raised fruits. | Full Story

Farmers and ranchers are working with members of Congress to develop estate tax reform that will allow families to continue farming when the farm passes from one generation to the next. Without Congressional action the tax resumes in 2011 at the much higher 1999 rate. In some cases families can be forced to sell parts of their farms to pay estate taxes. Farm Bureau and other groups ask that farmland not be included in estate value if it remains in the farming business. | Full Story

Robots may soon be harvesting fruit in California citrus orchards. A San Diego firm has already developed two prototypes. One with cameras mounted on multiple arms takes pictures of the fruit. This scout robot makes a map and a plan for picking, which is transmitted to the picking robot. Both robots could be ready for use within the next five years. One advantage is the robots could work both day and night. The Citrus Research Board has been working with the company developing the robots. | Full Story

Turkey production in the Golden State declined about 3 percent in 2008. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says California farmers produced 435 million pounds of turkeys in 2008, compared to 450 million in 2007. The value of production was up about 19 percent, at an average 58 cents per pound. Farmers here do not produce enough to meet demand, so turkeys are imported from other states. | Full Story

(ARA) - When it comes to your home's exterior, color is currency. With millions of homes across the country currently on the market, smart homeowners are differentiating their houses and wowing potential buyers with color - from the roof all the way Updated: Mar. 28, 2008 1:03 AM | Full Story

(ARA) - Whether you have one bathroom or three, the addition of a bathroom to a home offers both value and convenience. The good news is a bathroom addition doesn't have to break the bank. A do-it-yourselfer with moderate experience can complete some Updated: Mar. 28, 2008 1:03 AM | Full Story

Surveys show a diminished snowpack Updated: Mar. 28, 2008 1:03 AM | Full Story