Lodi Eye

LodiEye provides additional information on trending stories / topics published by local media and shared on local social media accounts. 

Residential Solar - Big Changes Coming
Utilities Don Bradford Utilities Don Bradford

Residential Solar - Big Changes Coming

Rooftop solar adoption in San Joaquin County will be influenced by federal trade policy, California’s net metering regulations and the One Big Beautiful Bill. The cost of solar instailations will increase signifcantly and homeowners will wait longer for a return on their investment.

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California Bourbon and Whiskey - Local, Sustainable and Unique!
Don Bradford Don Bradford

California Bourbon and Whiskey - Local, Sustainable and Unique!

California bourbon and whiskey stand out due to their innovative mash bills, climate-driven aging, and a focus on local agriculture: Many California distilleries use corn, barley, rye, and even unique grains like triticale, often grown locally. This creates distinctive flavor profiles that differ from traditional Kentucky bourbons. California’s varied climate—ranging from coastal fog to Delta humidity—impacts barrel aging, often accelerating maturation and imparting unique notes of vanilla, caramel, dried fruit, and baking spices.

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Fireworks Injuries - post July Fourth 2025
Public Safety Don Bradford Public Safety Don Bradford

Fireworks Injuries - post July Fourth 2025

Fireworks-related injuries in the U.S. surged significantly in 2024, with post-July Fourth 2025 data showing the trend continuing. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported an estimated 14,700 injuries and 11 deaths in 2024, a 52% increase in injuries and a 38% rise in fatalities compared to the previous year. Most injuries occurred around Independence Day, and both legal and illegal fireworks contributed to the toll

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Central Texas Flood - July 6
Natural Disasters Don Bradford Natural Disasters Don Bradford

Central Texas Flood - July 6

The Central Texas floods have caused unprecedented devastation, especially in the Hill Country and Kerr County, with dozens dead, many missing, and entire communities upended. Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing, involving a coordinated response from federal, state, and local agencies, as well as numerous nonprofits. The public can support relief efforts through verified funds and organizations, and those affected should use the official channels above for assistance and information.

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San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury - 2025
San Joaquin County Don Bradford San Joaquin County Don Bradford

San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury - 2025

The San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury is an independent investigative body composed of 19 citizens impaneled annually for a one-year term. Unlike a trial jury, the Civil Grand Jury does not decide guilt or innocence in criminal cases. Instead, its primary function is to examine and investigate the operations of local government agencies, including county departments, city governments, school districts, and special districts within San Joaquin County.

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Lodi City Manager Investigation - July Update
Lodi Don Bradford Lodi Don Bradford

Lodi City Manager Investigation - July Update

The investigation into Scott Carney's allegations is still in progress and has not been concluded as of July 2025. The Moss Adams report was released to the public in June. This report reviews the key public facts related to Scott Carney’s allegations and the Lodi City Government’s investigation, and then compares the Moss Adams report and recommendations to Scott Carney’s allegations.

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Fireworks 2025: A Dangerous Year
Public Safety Don Bradford Public Safety Don Bradford

Fireworks 2025: A Dangerous Year

Many of us are disappointed that this year’s Fireworks display was cancelled at Lodi Lake, but share in the grief of families who lost loved ones in the explosion in Esparto, CA on July 1. Based on last year’s numbers and initial reports for this year, illegal (not Safe and Sane) fireworks have resulted in injury or death to a record number of our fellow citizens. We all want a fun Fourth to celebrate our Independence Day — with some great memories and no scars or tragedies.

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Lodi’s Brewery Scene
Don Bradford Don Bradford

Lodi’s Brewery Scene

Lodi has become the San Joaquin Valley’s craft beer destination, boasting a diverse collection of breweries that offer unique experiences, blending exceptional beer with creative food options, live entertainment, and a distinctive local character.

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California LCFS, 2024 CARB amendments and Gas Prices
Fuel Don Bradford Fuel Don Bradford

California LCFS, 2024 CARB amendments and Gas Prices

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved amendments in 2024 that go into effect on July 1st 2025, along with an excise tax increase of 1.6 cents per gallon. This report examines the current CARB amendments in effect and the potential changes to the LCFS Credit Market that could impact gas prices.

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Pets and Fireworks
Pets Don Bradford Pets Don Bradford

Pets and Fireworks

Fireworks can be a terrifying experience for many pets, with studies showing that over 67% of dogs suffer from at least one form of noise aversion. The sudden loud noises, bright flashes, and unpredictable timing can trigger intense anxiety in dogs and cats alike. Fortunately, there are numerous effective strategies you can implement to help your furry friends stay calm and feel secure during fireworks displays.

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Fireworks in Lodi
Fireworks Don Bradford Fireworks Don Bradford

Fireworks in Lodi

Lodi Lake will host another fantastic Fourth of July Celebration starting with a Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast in the morning and a Fireworks Show starting at 9:30 pm. Gates open for Fireworks Show at 4:00pm More information at VisitLodi! If you’re planning a family or neighborhood Fourth of July celebration at home, please read the information below on the purchase and use of personal fireworks in Lodi.

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Lake Tahoe Boat Accident
Boating Don Bradford Boating Don Bradford

Lake Tahoe Boat Accident

On June 21, 2025, a 27-foot Chris-Craft powerboat carrying ten people capsized on Lake Tahoe’s southwest shore during a sudden and violent storm. The storm produced winds of 30–45 mph and waves reaching 8–10 feet—conditions described by veteran boaters as unprecedented for the lake. Eight people died, including DoorDash executive Joshua Pickles and several family members; two others were rescued and hospitalized

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Lodi and San Joaquin County - Lodi Access Center
Homeless Don Bradford Homeless Don Bradford

Lodi and San Joaquin County - Lodi Access Center

Lodi and San Joaquin County are moving forward with a comprehensive plan for the Lodi Access Center, a key initiative aimed at addressing homelessness through a partnership between the City of Lodi, San Joaquin County, and the County Health Care Services Agency. The project is designed to provide a comprehensive range of services, including healthcare, behavioral support, and housing assistance, with the goal of not only getting people off the streets but also addressing the underlying causes of homelessness.

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Lodi City Committees: History and Major Accomplishments
Lodi Don Bradford Lodi Don Bradford

Lodi City Committees: History and Major Accomplishments

Lodi has a rich tradition of civic engagement through various committees and commissions, each established to address specific community needs. Over the decades, these bodies have played crucial roles in shaping Lodi’s cultural, economic, environmental, and civic landscape. This report covers the history of Lodi City Committees and Commissions and highlights their major achievements.

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California Gas Prices linked to Brend Crude Price
Fuel Don Bradford Fuel Don Bradford

California Gas Prices linked to Brend Crude Price

California's gasoline and diesel prices are closely linked to global crude oil benchmarks, particularly Brent crude, due to the state's reliance on imported oil. The conflict between Israel and Iran could potentially close the Hormuz Strait — 25% of the world’s crude oil must transit there. Any restriction on oil shipments would raise the global price of crude oil, specifically Brent Crude.

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General Mills in Lodi
Lodi Don Bradford Lodi Don Bradford

General Mills in Lodi

General Mills opened its Lodi plant in 1946, eventually employing 950 people and becoming a cornerstone of Lodi’s industrial employers. The plant was closed in 2015 due to excess capacity and supply chain efficiency as General Mills faced declining sales and profitability, forcing it to consider cost-cutting options — Project Catalyst…

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The Valley Rail Project and Lodi
Lodi Don Bradford Lodi Don Bradford

The Valley Rail Project and Lodi

The Valley Rail project represents a transformative investment in passenger rail service that will significantly enhance transportation connectivity and options for Lodi residents. This comprehensive rail expansion program will introduce new passenger rail service to Lodi while improving regional connectivity to Sacramento, the San Joaquin Valley, and the San Francisco Bay Area.

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New Train Station in Lodi
Lodi Don Bradford Lodi Don Bradford

New Train Station in Lodi

Lodi will get a new train station as part of the ambitious Valley Rail project, which aims to significantly expand passenger rail service in the San Joaquin Valley and Sacramento region. The new station represents a significant investment in transportation infrastructure that will enhance connectivity for residents and visitors to Lodi from the Bay Area and Sacramento.

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Moss Adams Report - Recommendations
Lodi Don Bradford Lodi Don Bradford

Moss Adams Report - Recommendations

The implementation of Moss Adams' recommendations will fundamentally transform Lodi City Government's approach to transparency and accountability by establishing systematic oversight mechanisms, enhancing public access to information, and creating robust reporting systems that promote integrity and citizen trust.

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