Cal State is recasting its Basic Needs Initiative into proactive, campus‑wide hubs that connect food, housing and mental‑health supports to keep students enrolled. Early data show big increases in pantry use and new centers on several campuses.

Placer County earned a state Fire Risk Reduction Community listing that could translate into insurance discounts. Officials say residents should download the certificate and check with carriers.

A near-$40,000 estate gift to Sacramento’s DAV post touched off a legal fight with national leaders over who controls bequests. The dispute highlights how national rules and big reserves can clash with small local posts.

Twenty thousand teddy bears covered the west steps of the California Capitol as a traveling installation to spotlight Ukrainian children taken during the war. Organizers used the display to push lawmakers for action.

Placer County closed Lake Forest beaches after large teen gatherings left trash, fueled underage drinking and snarled neighborhood streets during the holiday weekend.

A flag-bearing skydiver appeared to make a hard landing at the Folsom Pro Rodeo; video shows the jumper dip near the grandstands and the extent of injuries is unclear. Local stations are verifying footage and the jumper's condition.

A viral Nextdoor post showing a supposed mountain lion in Lemon Hill was debunked as an AI‑edited image, officials say. The episode highlights how manipulated footage can spread fast.

Marysville High will no longer use its 'Indians' mascot as California's expanded ban on Native American-themed school names took effect July 1, 2026.

The Greater Sacramento Urban League asked a court to enforce a $300,000 settlement with Black Star Universal after alleging the fund failed to return an investment. New filings and prior court records outline the dispute.

A June grand jury follow‑up says Sacramento improved family placements and welcome homes — but warns that data gaps, phone access and licensing shortfalls still endanger teens. The county has 90 days to respond.

A former assistant chief of psychiatry at Kaiser South Sacramento has sued the health system, alleging racist language, patient mistreatment and retaliation after she reported concerns.

The Sacramento News & Review’s website is being transferred to The Sacramento Observer, with publisher Larry Lee overseeing the digital operation and founders staying involved initially.

Sac Metro Fire opened the long‑awaited Zinfandel training academy in Rancho Cordova, giving recruits a permanent campus with classrooms, outdoor training buildings and a memorial statue. The inaugural class of 19 starts this summer.