Local News

California is launching a campaign to fight nicotine use among young people. And, unseasonably warm temperatures are posing risks for California’s farmworkers as the heat arrives earlier than usual this year.

Santa Cruz County will now be able to test for more contaminants as part of an expanded free well water testing program. And, the inaugural Santa Cruz Vegan Chef Challenge kicks off today.

A philosopher discusses why people tend to honor individuals rather than movements, and whether the fallout from the César Chávez allegations could bring about change.

Central Coast residents and public officials respond to the sexual assault allegations against César Chávez. And, a look at the challenges facing farmworkers today and how the legacy of the United Farm Workers shows up more than 60 years after its founding.

Pacific Grove nurtures an expanding music and bar scene where people mix across generations.

Small towns in the Santa Cruz Mountains host No Kings protests alongside the region's larger cities. Felton, Scott's Valley and Boulder Creek all hosted their own events.

A town known for its sleepy reputation now has a growing nightlife scene, advocates say support is still available for immigrant domestic abuse survivors and PVUSD seeks help amid financial struggles.

Monterey County uses cameras to issue fines to people who dump trash illegally and encourages residents to take advantage of free waste disposal programs. Salinas Valley Recycles offers a free tire disposal service starting this weekend. Plus, Santa Cruz County wants resident input about how to plan for sea level rise.

A new bill from state Republican lawmakers would make menstrual products free for farmworkers. And, California counties are asking the state for billions of dollars to protect safety net programs.

Advocates say immigrant survivors of domestic and sexual violence are scared to seek help amid increasing immigration enforcement. But help remains available.