California will regain access to $147 million in federal funding for after-school and summer programs after the federal government agreed to restore previously withheld grants. However, the funding is contingent on schools complying with Civil Rights laws and the U.S. Constitution. The delay in funding had forced schools and nonprofits like the YMCA to lay off staff and cancel programs.Heather Williams, director of policy and outreach for the California AfterSchool Network says it’s a big relief. The White House clarified in an email that the grants can only be used if recipients do not violate civil rights protections.
Unmarked gas lines were struck during pavement grinding on Main Street, part of a major infrastructure project to replace old water and sewer pipes, causing work delays and disruptions to businesses and residents. Ukiah city officials say that PG&E had not marked the lines and was unaware of them, adding it is likely they were installed before modern mapping systems. The Mendocino Voice says PG&E is now working with the city to avoid further shutdowns or evacuations as the project proceeds.
The 19th annual Elk Volunteer Fire Department’s Summer BBQ is happening Saturday in Elk. They’re offering tri-tip, margaritas, and dancing to raise funds for the local fire department. Proceeds will help maintain equipment, purchase safety gear, and support training. The EVFD, which was founded in 1956, responded to over 100 emergencies in 2024. The Mendocino Voice says officials suggest donations of $30 for adults and $15 for kids ages 7-12 and you can donate at the door. Kids under 12 are free.
The California FAIR Plan is dealing with a major increase in property insurance demand. The insurer of last resort has seen it go up by 42 percent to 650 billion dollars in the first nine months of the year. It’s being driven by rising wildfire risks and lack of other providers as many are leaving or have already left the state. There’s more than 610 thousand active policies, which is a 31 percent jump since September and premiums have gone up by 33 percent.
California now shares the highest unemployment rate in the country with Nevada at almost five and a half percent. That’s above the national average of just over four percent. Michael Bernick, a former head of California’s labor department, says things like hiring costs, tariff uncertainties, immigration, and AI may be influencing the job market. And, despite some job growth in private education and health services, California lost 61 hundred jobs overall in June.
The U.S. median age has risen over the past 5 years and is now at just over 39 years old, according to Census Bureau estimates. 329 out of 387 metro areas saw increases in median age, while 47, mostly in the South, including Florida, saw it go down. In 2024, 86% of the population lived in metro areas, with many experiencing aging trends. Lake County News says Florida and Arizona, known for attracting retirees, have some of the highest median ages.
