$100,000 CSUN Gift: Cal State Northridge has...

$100,000 CSUN Gift: Cal State Northridge has received a $100,000 grant from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation to further the work of Project Community, a program aimed at fostering smooth relations among groups on the diverse campus. The foundation’s gift of $90,000 launched the program two years ago; officials said the new donation, with $188,000 in university funds, will expand the efforts.

* LOCKED IN: Stung by the quick exits of his two predecessors, Cal State Northridge officials placed an early-departure penalty clause in the contract of football coach Ron Ponciano, above. C9

* SOKA RESOLUTION: A final California Coastal Commission vote is expected today in Soka University’s eight-year battle to expand its campus in the Santa Monica Mountains. B1

* LOCAL FLAVOR: Restaurant critic Max Jacobson lists the Valley’s top 10 dishes. Above, Octavio Becerra, chef and general manager of Pinot Bistro, displays his honored creation. Calendar Weekend, Page 38

* EARLY DAYS: Michael D. McCarty will spin tales based on the adventures of African American pioneers, at the Autry Museum of Western Heritage. Calendar Weekend, Page 42