Central Valley Daily

Aug. 8: Horses Aren’t Just Pretty To Look At. Why These Riders Take Part In ‘Horse Reining.’

A group of horse riders from Clovis is competing in this year’s “Run For A Million” competition in Las Vegas. We speak with some of the competitors about how they hope to fare at what is known as the “richest event in the history of horse reining.” Plus, the latest news headlines: The Fresno teachers union calls for open meeting on former official’s six-figure severance; and the two Valley colleges where you can get a return on your investment, according to a new study.

Aug. 7: Our Teens Are Seeking Companionship From Artificial Intelligence. Is It Safe?

Their teenage years are a time when many adolescents need support, but should artificial intelligence be filling that void? New research from Common Sense Media reveals nearly 3 in 4 teenagers have used so-called AI companions. So, is it safe? Supreet Mann, who holds a doctorate in communications, leads research at Common Sense Media and breaks down the findings from a new study. Plus, the latest news headlines: The way major wildfires may be contributing to mortality long after they’re extinguished; and a Bakersfield refinery is allowed to reorganize under bankruptcy protection.

Aug. 6: Solar Energy Is Slipping in California. Does The State Have Itself To Blame?

When the California Public Utilities Commission voted to slash the amount rooftop solar subsidies residents received, the industry started to decline. Environmentalists and consumer advocates quickly pushed back. Mother Jones reporter Henry Carnell breaks down the fight within the solar industry, and how California’s policies — and governor — could be impacting the industry. Plus, the latest news headlines: Fresno supervisors go after unapproved holiday celebrations by county staff; and Fresno State’s new strategy to fund athletics.

Aug. 5: We Now Know What Caused A Mass Bee Die Off This Year

Farmers scrambled earlier this year to find enough bees to pollinate their crops. But beekeepers were searching too. That’s because a historic bee die off was shaking the industry. Professor Elina Niño, an apiculture expert who runs a bee lab at UC Davis, joins us to break down new research that sheds light on what was behind it. Plus, the latest news headlines: Yosemite National Park workers say they weren’t paid for weeks; and a Valley hospital sees a sharp spike in facial injuries among young athletes.

Aug. 4: California’s High Speed Rail Chief Says Project Needs ‘National Commitment’ To Succeed

The California High Speed Rail is a controversial topic, The federal government has slashed funding over its lack of progress. But the CEO of the High Speed Rail Authority, Ian Choudri, says the rail can be a point of national pride if its given the chance to get done. Choudri visited the KVPR studios to give us an update on the project.