NORTHERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA

May 15 2026POLITICS

California's Money Surplus: How Tech is Filling State Coffers

California's latest budget update shows the state sitting on $16. 5 billion more than expected, thanks largely to the tech industry's AI gold rush. This extra cash means no immediate budget shortfalls, allowing the governor to keep funding favorite programs without cutting corners. While this might

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May 13 2026ENTERTAINMENT

New Plans for a Big Entertainment Zone Near Oklahoma City

Officials in Oklahoma and Norman have just launched building work for a huge entertainment area called the Rock Creek Entertainment District. This isn’t just another construction project—it’s a major step toward giving the area a fresh, lively boost. The plan isn’t just about building more stores or

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May 07 2026POLITICS

AI at the table: Next week's meeting could change tech talks

Officials from the US and China might add AI to the list of topics for their upcoming high-level meeting. The possible talks could happen during a summit planned for next week in Beijing. This isn't confirmed yet, but sources say both sides are looking at the idea seriously. The American team might

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May 05 2026BUSINESS

State Farm Faces Big Penalties Over LA Wildfire Claims

California regulators say State Farm mishandled claims from the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. The department is seeking up to $4 million in fines if the company is found guilty of willful violations. State Farm denies any wrongdoing and says it has already paid $5. 7 billion in wildfire claims

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Apr 30 2026WEATHER

California’s Summer: What to Expect When Weather Forecasts Can’t Be Sure

California’s summer weather for June to August looks set to lean warmer than usual, but don’t expect a clear trend in rain. The National Weather Service’s latest outlook calls it “equal chances” for precipitation, meaning anything—from dry patches to sudden downpours—could happen. The forecast relie

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Apr 29 2026POLITICS

California’s Billionaire Tax: A Bold Move or a Costly Mistake?

California is testing a new idea that might backfire. The state now has a “billionaire tax” on the ballot, pushed by union leaders who argue it will help fund public services. But the plan has already started a quiet exodus—not of the poor, but of some of the state’s wealthiest residents. Many had s

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Apr 27 2026POLITICS

Who Should Really Lead California’s Insurance Reforms?

California’s insurance commissioner race might not grab headlines like governor or senator, but it plays a huge role in keeping homes, businesses, and the economy stable. For years, insurance companies struggled with wildfires, rising costs, and outdated rules that made it hard to adjust rates fairl

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Apr 26 2026WEATHER

Storm Alert: What Northern Illinois Should Watch Monday

Northern Illinois isn’t out of the woods yet with severe weather on the way Monday afternoon and evening. While the worst threats—strong twisters and massive hail—are more likely south of the city, the Chicago area still faces risks like heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding. The National Weather S

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Apr 25 2026OPINION

Living Costs Push Californians Westward

California has become expensive. Many people move away because homes, groceries, gas and taxes cost more than the national average. A recent study shows that those who leave tend to end up richer and own homes sooner than those who stay. The research from the California Policy Lab points out that

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Apr 23 2026EDUCATION

Schools in California face stronger rules on handling abuse cases

California’s top lawyer has sent a clear warning to every public school in the state. Rob Bonta, the Attorney General, used a recent legal notice to remind districts that sexual harassment and assault among students are not just bad behavior—they are illegal. The message is simple: schools must act

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