LOS ANGELES - David Ritchie can safely drink a glass of orange juice. It may not sound like much, but it has been quite a while since the Palmdale man could enjoy such a simple pleasure.

But thanks to state-of-the-art robotic surgery, Ritchie's chronic severe heartburn no longer prevents him from enjoying oranges, lemonade and other acidic treats.  Complete story with photo.

PALMDALE - Teacher Holly Brehmer of Palmdale sat under a tree at Marie Kerr Park in Palmdale on Sunday and read a book while her two sons raced around the skate park. Her plans for the rest of the Labor Day weekend are equally low-key: have a barbecue with family and friends today and enjoy the final holiday of the summer before she and her sons, Allan, 10, and Shane, 5, head back to school.  Complete story.

LANCASTER - Talks over privatizing Eastside Union School District's transportation services stalled again two weeks ago after just one meeting with a state-appointed mediator. Now negotiations will be certified for fact-finding by the mediator sent by the Public Employees Relations Board.   Complete story.

ADELANTO - With postseason implications a non-factor, the High Desert Mavericks came out on a hazy evening with only pride at stake.

Luckily for the 3,055 in attendance at Mavericks Stadium on Sunday, the Mavs went out with a bang.  Complete story.