Local News

In this week's news roundup, KAZU reporter Katie Brown talked to folks in Big Sur pitching in to keep the fires contained and crews comfortable.

Rescuers have tried to save common murres found on land. And, residents have settled into a Santa Cruz affordable housing development dedicated to veterans and people formerly unhoused.

NPR reporter Allison Aubrey has written "Your Turn: How to Create a Midlife You Love," which came out this week. She speaks with KAZU's Amy Mayer.

The Plaskett Fire is nearly 80% contained. A nearby resort has offered free showers to fire crews since the blaze began. And, the US Justice Department is investigating Men’s Central Jail in Los Angeles.

The Timber and Plaskett fires in Big Sur together have now burned more than 55,000 acres. And, lawmakers have sent two bills to the governor that aim to improve the recovery process after a wildfire.

Containment of the Plaskett Fire has reached 61% amid worsening air quality conditions in some places. And, a bill the governor’s desk would force government agencies to share information about emergency calls made from immigration detention centers.

Big Sur’s picturesque coastline attracts millions of visitors a year, but much of it has been off limits since late August to support firefighting operations. While some norther evacuations were lifted yesterday following progress with containing the Timber Fire, some folks never left.

New technology could change how produce is grown and harvested. Plus, Californians will vote on a one-time, 5% billionaire tax this November.

The Plaskett fire in Big Sur continues to grow, and the Trump administration plans to rescind a rule that protects roadless areas.

Nurses at Watsonville Community Hospital are protesting the closure of the NICU unit, and state legislators pass bills aimed at regulating the construction of new data centers.