Local News

Our round-up of the week's news includes a preview of tomorrow's Obon Festival, the Monterey County crop report, an update on the western snowy plover's recovery, and more.

Researchers monitor western snowy plover populations to see how these tiny shorebirds are slowly making a recovery along the West Coast.

Scientists and volunteers along the entire West Coast recently completed the annual population count of western snowy plovers. And, the Monterey Peninsula Buddhist Temple is hosting their 77th annual Obon Festival this weekend.

Monterey County’s annual survey of women is underway. And, California's avocado industry is pushing policies to protect growers as part of future negotiations over North American trade.

Local Tibetan leader responds to self-immolation death of a human rights activist outside the United Nations last week. And, Monterey County’s annual crop report shows agriculture remained strong in 2025.

Blood banks are facing a shortage of type O, with supplies dropping to a two-year low. And, Republican lawmakers say a new tax hike on private health insurers will drive up costs for Californians.

The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission is currently removing all county emergency call boxes. And, a state senator wants to protect Altadena from real estate speculators while residents rebuild, but her bill also raises concerns.

The Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury makes housing recommendations, a new mural celebrates community in Seaside, employees protest at Dominican Hospital, and more.

Salinas is temporarily putting the brakes on new tobacco retailers while city leaders consider stricter rules to prevent children from accessing tobacco products. And, the Fourth of July holiday weekend begins tomorrow for many, and communities throughout the region are planning events.

Nurses and other staff at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz are protesting proposed layoffs. California State Parks is offering free downloads of their annual Historian Passport and new penalties for no-shows at California state parks are now in effect.