Your trusted source for local Visalia, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
California is taking a bold stance against censorship by officially banning book bans in schools, coinciding with Banned Books Week. This initiative, led by Governor Gavin Newsom, aims to protect literary works that address diverse contributions, including those from Latino American and LGBTQ+ communities.
Unemployment claims in California have increased, with new jobless claims rising to 38,181 for the week ending September 14, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. This uptick contrasts with a decrease in national unemployment claims, which fell to 219,000. The article provides a snapshot of the changing job market, highlighting regional disparities in claims.
A South Valley woman, Emily Meneses, is hospitalized with a traumatic brain injury after crashing her electric scooter in Sacramento. Her family is raising funds to help with medical expenses as they support her recovery journey.
Suicide Prevention Month highlights the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues and suicide. Local organizations like Balance Treatment Center are actively working to provide hope and resources for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts. By fostering open conversations, they aim to make those affected feel less isolated and more supported.
A black bear named "Junior" has taken up residence in the crawl space of the home of Bob and Susan Nesler, a retired animator who worked on Yogi Bear. While Junior has been a benign tenant, efforts are underway by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to encourage him to leave. This unusual encounter highlights the interaction between wildlife and local residents in Sierra Madre, California.
A recent study has revealed that California ranks as the 10th loneliest state in the U.S., highlighting a significant loneliness epidemic affecting many residents. Contributing factors include infrequent communication with loved ones and a lack of emotional support. This research underscores the growing public health concern regarding social isolation across the nation.
The ongoing sex crimes trial of James Van Norton, a former teacher at Porterville Military Academy, involves serious allegations of sexual misconduct against a 14-year-old girl. The courtroom proceedings have included testimonies from detectives, a forensic scientist, and Van Norton's ex-wife, who detailed conversations about the alleged crimes.
Community Services Employment Training (CSET) has opened a new, larger facility in downtown Tulare, enhancing its ability to offer more services to the community. The new Tulare Family Resource Center & Employment Connection Affiliate features multiple meeting rooms and additional youth programs, positioning it as a comprehensive resource for families in need.
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed the Phone-Free School Act, which mandates California public schools to implement policies limiting cellphone use by July 1, 2026. The legislation aims to improve students' mental health and academic performance by reducing distractions caused by smartphones.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a new law aimed at reducing social media addiction among minors. The law prohibits social media platforms from providing addictive feeds to minors without parental consent and restricts notifications during school hours and late at night.