Friday, April 3, 2026

Bay Area Quake, Fillmore Bear Visit, and Easter Weekend Events

Friday, April 3, 2026

Good Morning! On this day in 1860, the first Pony Express riders left Sacramento and St. Joseph, Missouri, simultaneously, launching a fast cross-country mail service that connected California to the East in about 10 days.

Gray whales are showing up early in San Francisco Bay this season, where they share one of the country’s busiest waterways with heavy boat traffic. As we report below in Top Stories, their presence is raising safety concerns after a windsurfer collided with one this week.

Today’s sponsor, Fisher Investments, is offering a free guide to help you build a smarter retirement plan that accounts for inflation, rising costs, and long-term financial security.

Take The Flyover with you. Busy day? Listen to our daily 15-minute podcast while commuting, cooking, or walking the dog—your Flyover fix, anywhere.

Quake Jolts the Bay Area

A magnitude 4.6 earthquake struck near Boulder Creek in the Santa Cruz Mountains early Thursday, rattling residents across the Bay Area.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said the temblor hit at 1:41 a.m., and shaking was felt as far as Oakland, San Francisco, Berkeley, and Walnut Creek. Reports came in from dozens of communities stretching from Santa Cruz to Contra Costa County.

No major injuries or structural damage were reported. At a pharmacy in Boulder Creek near the epicenter, some items were knocked from shelves. There were no immediate reports of aftershocks, but USGS seismologist Robert de Groot said there's about a 40% chance of a magnitude 3.0 or larger quake within the next week.

"There are on the order of 50 earthquakes a day in California," de Groot said, noting quakes of this size are less common but serve as reminders that the state remains seismically active.

San Diego Ex-SEAL Accused in Yemen Plot

A lawsuit unsealed in federal court in San Diego accuses former Navy SEAL Isaac Gilmore, another U.S. military veteran, and the founder of a private military firm of carrying out an assassination attempt against a Yemeni lawmaker on behalf of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The civil complaint, filed by parliament member Anssaf Ali Mayo, names Gilmore and two others tied to Spear Operations Group, a private military contracting firm. The UAE allegedly paid Spear $1.5 million per month, plus bonuses for successful killings.

On Dec. 29, 2015, Spear operatives planted explosives at Mayo's office in the Yemeni city of Aden, the complaint says. Mayo fled minutes before the blast and has lived in exile since.

Gilmore and the firm's founder lived in San Diego and held planning meetings there, according to court documents. The UAE denies targeting political opponents.

Windsurfer Collides with Whale

Video captured a windsurfer colliding with a gray whale in San Francisco Bay, raising concerns about marine safety as six whales migrate through the busy waterway.

The Marine Mammal Center called the collision "certainly concerning" for both the windsurfer, who was not hurt, and the whale. Federal law requires a 100-yard distance from whales.

The bay is a confined space for the animals, with high-speed commuter ferries, container ships, and recreational boaters all sharing the water. Gray whales arrived early this year as they migrate north from Mexico.

Four gray whales have been found dead in the bay this year. The species has lost more than 50% of its overall population since 2016.

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Is your retirement plan prepared for the unexpected? It isn't just about saving enough—it's also about making sure your savings last. Over that time, the steady effects of inflation can significantly reduce your purchasing power, especially as costs for essentials like healthcare continue to rise. What seems like a comfortable nest egg today could fall short tomorrow without a forward-looking strategy.

A successful plan requires a clear objective that accounts for your goals, time horizon, and the impact of rising costs. Fisher Investments' free guide, The 15-Minute Retirement Plan, can help you define your goals, understand these challenges, and build a tailored strategy designed to support the retirement lifestyle you've worked for.

➤ Oakland: Police launched a 60-day operation with federal agencies targeting illegal gun sales and other firearm-related crimes through undercover work and targeted enforcement. (More)

➤ San Francisco: A 25-year-old man was charged with involuntary manslaughter after fatally shooting his girlfriend in the Sunset District. He told police he was "dry-firing" what he believed was an unloaded gun when it discharged, killing her as she showered. Bail was set at $300,000, with electronic monitoring required if released. (More)

➤ Sacramento County: The Franklin Bridge on Franklin Boulevard will reopen April 10 after an $11.3 million replacement project, serving as a detour when the nearby New Hope Road Bridge closes for construction. (See Details)

➤ Fresno: Six gubernatorial candidates debated water, regulation, and affordability Wednesday at a Fresno State forum hosted by Western Growers and other agriculture groups. Candidates from both parties said regulations are hurting farmers, especially in the Central Valley, and backed boosting water supply. Tom Steyer and Eric Swalwell skipped, drawing “chicken hearts” criticism from moderator Buddy Mendes. (See Details)

➤ Central Valley: Groundwater limits under California’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act are tightening, adding pressure on farmers already facing low surface water supplies. Experts say the rules, meant to ensure long-term sustainability, are harder to manage in dry years. (More)

➤ Santa Barbara: Elings Park has until May 1 to raise $200,000 and unlock a $1 million anonymous donation to upgrade its athletic fields. The fields date back to the 1980s and are widely used for sports and community events. (See Details)

➤ Los Angeles County: The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health cited the LA County Sheriff’s Department for “willful” serious safety violations in a July 2025 grenade explosion that killed three deputies at a training facility. Fines total more than $350,000, and the department is appealing. (More)

➤ Fillmore: A bear wandered through a Ventura County neighborhood before wildlife officials tranquilized it. The animal roamed yards and trash cans but caused no injuries. (More)

➤ San Diego: NASA’s Artemis mission drew local attention after its launch Wednesday, with the U.S. Navy set to help recover the Orion capsule when it splashes down off the coast at the end of the 10-day mission. The San Diego Air and Space Museum plans a watch party, with details pending. (More)

➤ UCLA faces Texas tonight in the Women's Final Four in Phoenix. The Longhorns handed the Bruins their only loss this season in an early November matchup. (More)

➤ The apparent winner of the Modesto Marathon was disqualified after a lead cyclist sent him the wrong way near the 13-mile mark, cutting about 1.5 miles off his race. (More)

➤ LA Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has entered rehab to "improve his overall behavior," his attorney said, and is expected back for offseason activities. (More)

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➤ A New Detox Tea Is Generating Buzz... See Why. What if your daily tea could do more than just warm you up? The Akemi Detox Tea is getting attention for its simple approach to supporting digestion, reducing bloating, and helping people feel lighter throughout the day. See what the buzz is about.

➤ San Bernardino County's fire department is testing sound wave technology to extinguish fires. The system uses low-frequency acoustic waves to disrupt combustion by vibrating oxygen molecules, potentially reducing water use in drought-prone areas. (See Details)

➤ Woodward Inc. in Santa Clarita, the city's largest manufacturer, is moving about 300 aerospace jobs to Rockford, Illinois, over the next 12 to 18 months. The relocation affects roughly 40% of the company's 730-person local workforce. (More)

➤ California residents will see credits on their gas bills this month as the state's cap-and-invest program returns funds to ratepayers. PG&E customers are expected to receive about a $46.26 bill credit automatically. (See Details)

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➤ Do you shop on Amazon? If so, you might be missing out on huge savings and a chance to earn extra cash on every purchase you make. These 16 different hacks could help you save money, earn cash, cancel unwanted subscriptions, and much more. (LEARN MORE)

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It’s essential to ensure your financial strategy can support the future you imagine. A major challenge many investors face is underestimating how long their retirement will actually last. At the same time, inflation can reduce the value of your money over time, making it harder to cover expenses like healthcare, which often rises faster than other costs.

This is why having a tailored investment strategy is so critical. A plan designed for your specific goals, time horizon, and cash flow needs can help you navigate these risks. The 15-Minute Retirement Plan from Fisher Investments walks you through these key considerations. It can help you define your objectives and understand the trade-offs needed to build a resilient retirement plan.

➤ Easter weekend brings egg hunts, festivals, and family activities across the Central Valley, with dozens of events scheduled through Sunday in communities throughout the region. (See List)

➤ A San Diego man invented the BurriTote, an insulated bag designed to keep burritos warm during transport. The product sold out its initial preorder run before the first batch was delivered. (Read Story)

➤ Several Bay Area state parks are finalists in a statewide poll open through April 11, highlighting hiking, camping, and more. Winners will be announced May 5. (See List)

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➤ A recent report warns that men in certain U.S. areas may be at higher risk of urinary issues linked to toxic mineral buildup, including enlarged or inflamed prostate. Thousands have already reported severe symptoms. New data suggests a geographic link—check the map now to see if your area could be affected.

What's your favorite Easter candy?

Yesterday's Results:

When’s the last time you went to a buffet?

It’s been a while: 29%
Buffets aren’t my thing: 25%
This week: 23%
This month: 23%

How long is the San Andreas Fault?

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Wildcats Weekend, Honor Flight, and Miller's Surplus Closure

Friday, April 3, 2026

Good Morning! On this day in 1967, Old Tucson Studios finished building sets for the Western TV series The High Chaparral, which aired from 1967 to 1971.

From egg hunts to a Chandler skate party and a Clarkdale train ride, here is what's happening across Arizona this Easter weekend. Test your holiday food knowledge in Trivia.

Tune into The Flyover Podcast for more on the woman found missing nearly 32 years after her disappearance as a teenager in Arizona, also one of today's Top Stories. Listen here.

Today’s sponsor, Fisher Investments, is offering a free guide to help you build a smarter retirement plan that accounts for inflation, rising costs, and long-term financial security.

Take The Flyover with you. Busy day? Listen to our daily 15-minute podcast while commuting, cooking, or walking the dog—your Flyover fix, anywhere.

Arizona Ends Chavez Holiday

Gov. Katie Hobbs signed a bill officially repealing Cesar Chavez Day, vowing to honor farmworkers in other ways.

The move follows reports that surfaced in mid-March that the late labor leader allegedly sexually abused young girls and United Farm Workers co-founder Dolores Huerta.

Last week, the Phoenix City Council unanimously voted to remove Chavez’s name from city facilities, parks, libraries, and streets and begin a citywide renaming process.

Other cities have already renamed the March 31 holiday, including San Luis, Tempe, and Tucson.

Final Four Buzz Builds

Arizona and Michigan enter the Final Four as the last No. 1 regional seeds ahead of their matchup Saturday in Indianapolis, Indiana, with early betting lines listing Michigan as a slight favorite.

In Tucson, businesses are gearing up for large viewing parties, adding seating and staff. Police plan a bigger presence and possible street closures near the University of Arizona campus and downtown.

The Wildcats and Wolverines have rolled through the NCAA men's basketball tournament in different ways, with Arizona leaning on its inside game and free throws and Michigan bringing defense, pace, and versatility.

Analysts expect one of the most evenly matched games of the tournament, with the frontcourt battle possibly deciding the outcome. The winner will play for the national title on Monday night.

Missing Girl Found Alive After 30+ Years

Authorities said privacy concerns are behind their decision to release limited details after a woman was found alive nearly 32 years after disappearing as a 13-year-old.

Christina Marie Plante vanished in May 1994 from what is now Star Valley near Payson after leaving home to walk to a nearby horse stable.

Despite extensive searches by law enforcement and volunteers, the case went cold and was entered into national missing persons databases.

The Gila County Sheriff's Office reopened the case using unspecified modern techniques, saying only that, “Out of respect for Christina's privacy and well-being, additional details will not be released at this time."

Flying together with our sponsor

Is your retirement plan prepared for the unexpected? It isn't just about saving enough—it's also about making sure your savings last. Over that time the steady effects of inflation can significantly reduce your purchasing power, especially as costs for essentials like healthcare continue to rise. What seems like a comfortable nest egg today could fall short tomorrow without a forward-looking strategy.

A successful plan requires a clear objective that accounts for your goals, time horizon and the impact of rising costs. Fisher Investments' free guide, The 15 Minute Retirement Plan, can help you define your goals, understand these challenges and build a tailored strategy designed to support the retirement lifestyle you've worked for.

➤ Grand Canyon: A federal appeals court upheld the creation of a national monument near Grand Canyon National Park, rejecting state and local challenges to a ruling that shields nearly 1 million acres from new mining. (Watch)

➤ Statewide: Queen Creek, Buckeye, Goodyear, and Maricopa were named to HGTV’s list of top up-and-coming cities, recognized for growth, affordability, and quality of life. (List)

➤ Phoenix: A federal judge sanctioned an attorney after AI-generated fake legal citations appeared in filings tied to a discrimination case involving the Phoenix Suns. (Watch)

➤ Marana: Students at Legacy Traditional School raised money through school events to send a 96-year-old Korean War veteran on an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. (Watch)

➤ Maricopa County: Election officials tested new early voting options in a mock election as Arizona prepares to expand in-person early ballot verification. (Watch)

➤ Kingman: Residents can submit pro and con arguments about a proposal to double the mayor’s term to four years, set to appear on the July 21 primary election ballot. The arguments will appear in a pre-election voter guide. (Details)

➤ Eastern Arizona College beat New Mexico Junior College 57-51 to win its first NJCAA Division I women’s basketball championship. (More)

➤ The Phoenix Suns showed strong interest in Michigan State’s Tom Izzo to be the team's head coach last offseason, with Izzo saying he “talked seriously” with Suns owner Mat Ishbia. (More)

➤ Arizona basketball commit Caleb Holt won co-MVP honors at the McDonald's All-American Game on Tuesday in Glendale. (More)

➤ Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur said parting ways with former quarterback Kyler Murray was "good for both." (More)

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➤ Godfather's Pizza returned to Arizona after nearly two decades, opening a new Queen Creek location aimed at tapping Midwest transplants familiar with the brand. (More)

➤ Tucson outdoor retailer Miller's Surplus will close after 75 years, with a liquidation sale underway. The store's owner, a World War II veteran, thanked the community for its support. (Watch)

➤ The Verde Valley is fueling Arizona's wine industry growth through new vineyards, expanded tasting rooms, increased production, and a steady rise in tourism. (Watch)

Flying together with our sponsor

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This is why having a tailored investment strategy is so critical. A plan designed for your specific goals, time horizon and cash flow needs can help you navigate these risks. The 15-Minute Retirement Plan from Fisher Investments walks you through these key considerations. It can help you define your objectives and understand the trade-offs needed to build a resilient retirement plan.

➤ Volunteer pilots with Above & Beyond USA gave dozens of disabled Arizona children flights out of Deer Valley Airport as part of an annual event. (Watch)

➤ The Patagonia school district reported improved attendance, higher test scores, and better teacher retention two years after switching to a four-day school week. (Watch)

➤ Tucson police arrested a suspect in the theft of two pythons from Desert Pet, charging her with organized retail theft and burglary as officers search for a second suspect. (Watch)

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