California’s heat protections for indoor workers do not apply to correctional facilities. That means staff and incarcerated people are left sweltering when temperatures soar. On today’s episode, we speak to Erin Rode, a freelance journalist for Capital & Main, who tells us about the unique challenge these facilities face in getting protections. Plus, the latest news headlines: Opponents of Measure S in Fresno County launch campaign; and Republicans question spending tied to high-speed rail project. Today’s episode is hosted by Soreath Hok and produced by Jonathan Linden.

One of the most-talked about measures on the California ballot this November is Prop. 40, a one-time tax on billionaires. We speak to the California Budget & Policy Center to break down what’s in the proposal – and the opposing measures. Plus, the latest news headlines: High diesel prices could lead to a truck driver strike; and measles vaccination rates are falling in the Central Valley. Today’s episode is hosted by Soreath Hok and produced by Jonathan Linden.

West Nile virus cases are surging in California. Health experts say there’s not one clear reason, though a wet winter, warm spring and changing immunity in wild birds are partly to blame. KVPR’s Samantha Rangel rides along with mosquito abatement officials as they fight to control the spread. Plus, the latest news headlines: Gov. Newsom declares emergency ahead of El Nino; and two pilots die fighting fire near Yosemite National Park. Today’s episode is hosted by Soreath Hok and produced by Jonathan Linden.

The owner of the Fresno Bee, McClatchy Media, recently laid off seven reporters and one editor. That’s about 40% of the San Joaquin Valley newsroom. Across the country, McClatchy Media laid off at least 90 journalists. Today, we break down the significance of these layoffs by speaking with two former executive editors at the Fresno Bee, Joe Kieta and Jim Boren. Today’s episode is hosted by Soreath Hok and produced by Jonathan Linden.

California has long allowed many groups of immigrants, including those without legal status, access to Medicaid. But policy changes at the state and federal level have led to lingering confusion among the immigrant community. Today, we speak about the mixed messages and fallout with Public Health Watch reporter Salina Arredondo. Plus, the latest news headlines: Fresno proclaims Native American Day with celebration; Kern health officials conduct food vendor sweeps. Today’s episode is hosted by Soreath Hok and Kerry Klein and produced by Jonathan Linden.

Parents in Visalia and Bakersfield are pushing for surveillance cameras to be placed inside special-education classrooms. Reports of alleged child abuse set the effort in motion. But is that possible under California law? We speak to Edsource reporter Emma Gallegos about how parents are trying to make changes. Plus, the latest news headlines: Fresno celebrates Native American Day; and California passes new wildfire smoke regulations. Today’s episode is hosted by Soreath Hok and produced by Jonathan Linden.

Drive through the San Joaquin Valley, and you’ll stumble upon at least four massive billboards from the mid-20th century advertising the soda brand 7UP. Where did they come from – and why are they here? KVPR’s Rachel Livinal reports on the quest by a few historians to learn the origins of these mysterious signs. Plus, the latest news headlines: Diocese of Fresno faces retirement plan crisis; and a Kings County judge faces a criminal charge. Today’s episode is hosted by Soreath Hok and produced by Jonathan Linden and Kerry Klein.

Childcare costs are soaring across California. In cities like Fresno, it can take a deep toll on low-income families. Fresno city leaders recently created the Commission on Family Affordability and Childcare Access to tackle the crisis. We speak to Fresno City Councilmember Tyler Maxwell, who says it’s one of the biggest issues concerning his constituents. Plus, the latest news headlines: Fresno Pacific University receives massive donation; and reaction to the closure of Maya Cinemas in Fresno. Today’s episode is hosted by Soreath Hok and produced by Jonathan Linden.

It’s been over 50 years since the death of singer and songwriter Jim Croce. His son, A.J., is helping keep his legacy alive. Later this month, he’ll bring his “Croce Plays Croce” tour to the Warnors Theatre in Fresno. A.J. sits down with Central Valley Daily to share his musical background and what makes his father's music special. Today’s episode is produced and hosted by Jonathan Linden.

A new bill moving through the state legislature could impact the fight for consumer privacy rights in the future. SB 690 is trying to curb frivolous lawsuits that target small businesses. But privacy advocates are questioning why Big Tech companies are some of the bill’s most staunch supporters. We speak to CalMatters reporter Katherine Ortiz. Plus, the latest news headlines: Seven journalists are laid off at The Fresno Bee; and a UC Merced tour highlights campus’ green energy. Today’s episode is hosted by Soreath Hok and produced by Jonathan Linden