The bald eagle has officially been designated the national bird of the United States. It comes nearly 250 years after first being used as a symbol of the nation. The legislation, introduced by members of Minnesota’s Congressional delegation, also acknowledges the eagle’s deep spiritual significance to many Indigenous peoples. For Native Americans, the eagle is seen as a messenger to the Creator and a sacred intercessor. Locally, in Pomoan cosmology, it symbolizes a link between humans and the spiritual world and features prominently in traditional stories. The Mendocino Voice says there’s a nationwide program that legally distributes eagle feathers and parts exclusively to tribal members, although there’s a long waiting list.
The U.S. government has imposed a 17% tariff on most fresh Mexican tomatoes after failed negotiations. Supporters say the move will help revive the declining U.S. tomato industry, which has lost ground to Mexico and now supplies 70% of the U.S. market. Critics warn the tariff will raise prices for American consumers, including right here in Mendocino County. The Mendocino Voice says that’s because there are specific differences in production methods between Mexican and Florida-grown tomatoes.
California’s goal of running entirely on renewable energy is facing challenges, more recently due to recent federal budget changes. President Trump’s new budget law shortens the deadline for securing tax incentives for solar and wind projects to the end of 2027 instead of 2032. It also imposes restrictions on using components from countries like China. The changes could make projects more expensive for investors and potentially lead to delays or cancellations of eleven solar projects across the state and one wind project.
California is joining 24 other Democratic-led states and D.C. in suing the Trump administration over billions in frozen education grants. Attorney General Rob Bonta says nearly a billion dollars meant for California schools is being withheld without justification. The stalled funds were set to support after-school programs, teacher training, and other student services. Bonta says the freeze is causing disruption as districts finalize their budgets for the upcoming school year.
PG&E has launched the Match My Payment Program. The agency will dedicate $50 million to help low- to moderate-income customers pay off past-due energy bills and prevent service disconnections. Program details include dollar-for-dollar match on customer payments toward overdue balances with a maximum match of $1,000 per customer. The Mendocino Voice says customers may receive multiple matching payments throughout the year. So you know, eligibility is based on federal income guidelines and the program expires December 31.
The Trump Administration has filed a legal notice announcing its plans to appeal a judge’s order halting immigration raids in Southern California. The federal judge’s order on Friday applies to several counties, including Los Angeles and Ventura. The judge cited the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. The White House calls it a "gross overstep of judicial authority to be corrected on appeal."
