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I’m Carol. It’s New Year’s Day 2026. New year, same Sacramento swagger… just better boundaries and cuter intentions. Welcome to Day One. [NEWS] Hundreds of new California laws take effect with the new year, touching housing, health, technology, and everyday life. Minimum wage climbs to $16.90 an hour in 2026, and single-use plastic carryout bags are now banned — shoppers will need to bring their own or pay ten cents for paper. Renters gain new protections too. By 2026, landlords must provide working refrigerators and stoves, unless tenants agree to supply their own. Car buyers also get a first-in-the-nation safeguard — a three-day right to cancel vehicle purchases or leases under $50,000. Health-related laws expand IVF insurance coverage, require folic acid in corn masa flour to help reduce birth defects, and will soon mandate allergen warnings on restaurant menus. And as AI use grows, new rules will require chatbots to clearly identify themselves as artificial intelligence and report self-harm concerns — drawing firmer lines between technology and human care. New year, new rules — and a lot of them. [CITY WATCH] Sacramento County Regional Parks is planting something new. The county has officially opened its first-ever community garden at Gibson Ranch Regional Park, and plot reservations are now open. The garden sits inside the 355-acre park and includes 48 large plots, plus 12 accessible raised beds to be built as space is reserved. Gardening is fully organic, with water access and shared community areas designed for year-round use. County residents get priority registration, with remaining plots available to non-residents if space allows. Officials say the goal is simple — connecting neighbors to healthy food, open land, and each other. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just getting started, this is a new way to put roots down in the community. More details and registration: https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/sacramento-county-regional-parks-opens-first-community-garden-at.html#gsc.tab=0 [WEATHER] New Year’s Day starts wet across the region. Rain is expected throughout the day, with a high near 56 degrees. Winds stay light and variable, turning southeast around 6 miles per hour by morning. Rain chances sit at 100 percent, with a quarter to a half inch possible. [EVENTS] If you’re easing into the New Year and craving something grounding, Capitol Park Tours is hosting a First Day Hike: Bird Talk and Walk at California State Capitol Park. It runs 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. on January 1st, starting at 13th and Capitol. You’ll kick things off with a short bird talk, then enjoy a leisurely walk spotting resident and migratory birds. No experience needed — just bring a hat, binoculars if you have them, and a little curiosity. All ages welcome. Registration is recommended. Paid parking available. Event details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-day-hike-bird-talk-and-walk-tickets-1976976676458?aff=oddtdtcreator
[NEWS] A large gas leak in Orangevale yesterday was contained and rendered safe, and evacuated residents have since returned home. Deputies confirmed an adult woman was found deceased inside a home on the 7800 block of Mountain Avenue, where the leak is believed to have originated. The Coroner has been notified, and the investigation remains ongoing. In a separate incident, Sacramento police responded to reports of a potentially armed suspect barricaded inside a residence in the 1100 block of Jean Avenue, prompting a large police response that included SWAT officers and crisis negotiators. After several hours, officers conducted a thorough search and determined the suspect was not inside the home. [CITY WATCH] In observance of New Year’s Day, most federal, state, city, and Sacramento County offices will be closed Thursday, January 1. Garbage service and all emergency services will continue without interruption. Most offices return to normal business hours on Friday, January 2. [WEATHER] Clouds hold through much of the day, with rain moving in after 4 p.m. Highs near 50 degrees with calm winds. Rain chances sit around 80 percent, with up to a quarter inch possible. Tonight, rain becomes more widespread. Lows dip to about 48, with overnight rainfall totals between a quarter and a half inch. Plan accordingly — and give yourself a little extra time on the roads. 🌧️ [EVENTS] Still deciding how to ring in 2026? Downtown Sac has you covered — from champagne-soaked parties to outdoor celebrations and family-friendly fun. Ticketed highlights include Dive Bar’s Sea of Diamonds, featuring mermaids, glamour, and underwater fantasy… Trophy Club bringing the bubbles and the countdown… and Casa Lola, welcoming the New Year with live mariachi, confetti, and a champagne toast at midnight. Looking for open-air energy? There’s the Sacramento New Year’s Eve Bar Crawl, rooftop vibes at MIX Downtown, plus river cruises — including Sights & Sips and Rock the Yacht — offering unbeatable views and a floating countdown on the Sacramento River. For families, Countdown on the Cobblestones lights up Old Sac with music and fireworks… while Noon Year’s Eve at the Sacramento History Museum lets kids ring in 2026 early with crafts, a balloon drop, and all the sparkle — minus the bedtime meltdown. For tickets, reservations, and parking — head to DowntownSac.org. Sacramento… be safe and enjoy your New Year’s celebration . ✨🥂
The Sacramento Brief Tuesday, December 30, 2025 NEWS An assault reported in November has now become a homicide. Sacramento police say the man injured in a November 1st assault on K Street has died from his injuries. The suspect, 25-year-old Sean Payton of Sacramento, has remained in custody and now faces homicide-related charges. Homicide detectives have taken over the case. The California Highway Patrol is investigating a deadly vehicle versus scooter collision in North Sacramento. Investigators say just after 8:30 a.m. Monday, a driver traveling northbound on Watt Avenue over the American River Bridge struck a scooter traveling the wrong way in the same lanes. The man riding the scooter, in his 30s, was pronounced dead at the scene. DUI is not believed to be a factor. WEATHER Dense fog through mid-morning, with patchy frost before 9 a.m. Partly sunny later today with a cool high near 50 degrees. Light, variable winds. EVENTS Potter the Otter: A Healthy Adventure — A hands-on, interactive exhibit designed for children five and under, focusing on healthy eating, hydration, and physical activity.Today: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sacramento Children’s Museum 2701 Prospect Park Drive, Rancho Cordova Included with regular admission https://sackids.org/visit/ Co-Parenting Classes — Learn communication tools, patience, and strategies to keep kids at the center of co-parenting conversations.Tonight: Tuesday at 5 p.m. Center For Fathers & Families $15 per session; discounts available for 10 or more classes 920 Del Paso Boulevard, Sacramento https://www.cffsacramento.org/copy-of-who-we- That’s your Sacramento Brief — clear, current, and right on time.
The Sacramento Brief Monday, December 29, 2025 Hosted by Carol 📰 NEWS One person was killed and three others injured in a South Sacramento crash Saturday morning. CHP says a driver ran a red light at 47th Avenue and Franklin Boulevard. Alcohol is believed to be a factor, and the driver was not wearing a seatbelt. Overnight, Sacramento police investigated a burglary at a tattoo parlor near 27th and X Street. Officers found the door open and a security camera torn off. The investigation is active. 🏛️ CITY WATCH The Sacramento County Clerk-Recorder office on American River Drive is closed after storm damage disrupted water service. Anyone with pre-scheduled appointments or weddings should check in before heading over. Sacramento County is offering free holiday tree recycling throughout early January.Live trees must be free of lights, tinsel, nails, and stands. Drop-offs available January 3–4 at Kiefer Landfill and North Area Recovery Station, with additional locations through January 10. Flocked trees are not accepted for recycling and should go in the garbage cart. Residents with curbside organics service can cut up live trees and place them in the green cart—lid must close. Please don’t leave trees on curbs or roadsides. 🌫️ WEATHER Dense fog through mid-morning, with pockets of frost before 9 a.m. Partly sunny later, high near 48°, with light winds. Tonight: patchy fog after 11 p.m., partly cloudy, low around 38°. 🎨 EVENTS Art Class: Collage & BookmakingMonday, December 29 | 3–5 p.m. Creative Chameleon Arts | 4320 Arden Way Learn accordion bookmaking and collage storytelling All materials included | All ages welcome | Free parking Tickets & info: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/art-class-collage-bookmaking-tickets-1976415136878?aff=oddtdtcreator 🎧 Now streaming on Google Home Just ask your Google Assistant to play The Sacramento Brief and get caught up in seconds.
— it’s Friday, December 26, 2025. Let’s get you caught up. The California Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal hit-and-run that killed a pedestrian Wednesday morning near Waterman and Florin Road. Authorities say the victim was found in a roadside ditch after being struck by a vehicle. If you’re walking near roadways, stay alert and assume drivers may not see you — defensive walking matters. A Sacramento County Sheriff’s deputy was killed early Christmas Eve in a solo vehicle crash while heading to work. Deputy James Caravallo, a 19-year veteran, was on his way to the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center. The Sheriff’s Office is asking the community to keep his family and colleagues in their thoughts. WEATHER Mostly cloudy today with rain developing after 2 p.m., a high near 55, and breezy south-southeast winds gusting up to 28 mph. Rain tapers off tonight before 10, with lows around 46. CITY WATCH Today marks the first day of Kwanzaa, beginning with Umoja — the principle of unity focused on family and community. Links to Kwanzaa events happening across the city are in today’s show notes. https://www.eventbrite.com/d/ca–sacramento/kwanzaa/ EVENTS While Kwanzaa celebrations honor tradition and togetherness, Sacramento’s nightlife is keeping the holiday energy going. Tonight, the Electric Workshop hosts a North Pole–themed rave at Tiger Restaurant & Lounge from 9 p.m. into the early morning hours. And the party continues Saturday night with Snow Day, the all-white winter party starting at 9 p.m., featuring R&B, hip-hop, and Top 100 hits. Guests are encouraged to wear all white, and the first 500 RSVPs get in free. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/snow-day-white-attire-party-at-tiger-tickets-1976951154120?aff=erelpanelorg
🎄 The Sacramento Brief — Christmas Day 2025 Host: Carol Date: December 25, 2025 Overview A special Christmas Day edition of The Sacramento Brief, taking a pause from crime coverage to honor community, quiet grace, and the many ways people experience the holiday. Opening Reflection A softer landing for Christmas Day — no crime crawl, no chaos recap Acknowledgment that Christmas looks different for everyone Gratitude for Sacramento’s quiet acts of care and resilience Volunteers, neighbors, and frontline workers continuing to show up A brief, personal aside honoring one special person celebrating more than one milestone today — quietly and intentionally CITY WATCH — Christmas Day Most federal, state, city, and Sacramento County offices are closed Many grocery stores, retail locations, and restaurants operating on limited hours SacRT running a Sunday/holiday schedule with reduced bus and light rail service What’s open today: CVS and Walgreens — open, hours vary Save Mart — open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Denny’s — open 24/7 IHOP, McDonald’s, Jack in the Box, Wendy’s, Burger King, Carl’s Jr., Applebee’s, Arby’s, Dunkin’ — open at select locations Chipotle — open, closing at 3 p.m. Hours vary by location; check ahead before heading out WEATHER Showers and thunderstorms before 3 p.m. Showers and possible thunderstorm between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Rain continuing after 4 p.m. High near 56° Breezy south winds 21–23 mph, gusts up to 37 mph 90% chance of precipitation Drivers advised to slow down and allow extra travel time EVENTS — Light & Optional Old Sacramento Waterfront — open for strolling and river views Seasonal light displays — select neighborhoods and drive-through displays remain lit tonight At-home options count — a quiet, low-key holiday is still a meaningful one Host: Carol Message: Be gentle with yourself, Sacramento. Regular coverage resumes tomorrow. Happy Birthday to another special person, you know who you are.
Retail Theft Arrests The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office arrested three suspects after a theft at the Ulta at Howe ‘Bout Arden. Deputies say designer perfumes were stolen, with losses exceeding $950. The suspects’ vehicle was located during a traffic stop, and all three were arrested. They were booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail. Investigators say the theft qualifies as a felony due to the dollar amount. FBI Search for Missing Children The Federal Bureau of Investigation is offering up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest of Camron Lee. Authorities are also seeking the safe recovery of his two children, Mateo and Athena. The children have not been seen since July 2024. Anyone with information is urged to come forward to help bring the children home. CITY WATCH Sacramento is seeking volunteers for the 2026 Point-in-Time Homeless Count, led by Sacramento Steps Forward. The count takes place January 26–27, from 5 to 11 p.m. Data collected helps guide local policy, services, and federal funding. No experience required; training is provided. Link in show notes. Sacramento County Department of Health Services confirms the first flu-related death of the season involving a child. Health officials urge vaccination and precautions, following guidance from the California Department of Public Health. Most Sacramento County offices will be closed Christmas Day, December 25. Emergency services and garbage collection continue; normal operations resume Friday. WEATHER Rain and thunderstorms likely, with showers continuing after 2 p.m. High near 59 degrees. South winds 11–17 mph, with gusts up to 29 mph. Chance of precipitation: 80%, with up to a half inch possible. EVENTS Stand-Up Competition: Laughs Unlimited hosts a local stand-up competition spotlighting Sacramento comedians. Hosted by Josh Means with a surprise guest finale. Two-item minimum. Check-in 30 minutes early. Info: 916-446-8128. Theatre of Lights: The holiday classic returns to Old Sacramento Waterfront, produced by the Downtown Sacramento Partnership and sponsored by the Sacramento Kings. Performances continue through Christmas Eve. Wednesday Night Trivia: 7–9 p.m. at Mas Taco Bar on R Street. Hosted by Tommy G. No cover, with half-off all tequilas.
I’m Carol. It’s Tuesday, December 23, 2025. Let’s get to it. NEWS Tragedy in Roseville, where police have arrested two suspects in a child abuse case that left a 7-year-old girl dead and a 5-year-old injured. According to the Roseville Police Department, officers were called to a home on Oahu Court around 7:30 a.m. Monday. Detectives later determined the case to be a homicide involving child abuse. Two suspects are in custody facing charges including murder and felony child abuse. Two other children were found unharmed. CITY WATCH Sacramento County Public Health is expanding its free car seat safety program with a $137,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety. In partnership with Dignity Health Mercy San Juan Medical Center, the program provides no-cost car seats, safety checks, and hands-on education, with a focus on underserved and refugee communities. Proper car seats can reduce crash deaths by up to 71% for infants. Last year, 400 car seats were distributed countywide. Appointments are available now: 916-864-5779 🔗 https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/free-car-seat-program-protects-children-.html#gsc.tab=0 WEATHER Rain likely after 4 p.m., with areas of dense fog before 11 a.m. High near 60, south-southeast winds 7–15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. Chance of rain 80%, with light accumulation expected. 🔗 https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?textField1=38.52&textField2=-121.44 EVENTS Quick reminder: Theatre of Lights is still running through Christmas Eve at the Old Sacramento Waterfront. The free, immersive holiday show retells ’Twas the Night Before Christmas in a Sacramento-style production, presented by the Downtown Sacramento Partnership and sponsored by the Sacramento Kings. Shows tonight and tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. Looking ahead to Christmas Day, Vines Cafe at Hyatt Regency Sacramento is hosting a festive Christmas Brunch from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Menu highlights include ham Benedict, challah French toast, made-to-order omelets, pastries, and smoked salmon. $40 adults | $20 kids | $21 bottomless mimosas. Reservations recommended. 🔗 https://www.hyatt.com/content/dam/hotel/propertysites/assets/regency/sacra/documents/en_us/dining/vines/Vines_Christmas_Menu_2025.pdf
I’m Carol — it’s Monday, December 22, 2025. Let’s get you caught up. NEWS A suspect believed to be connected to a shooting yesterday has been safely detained after a barricaded standoff in South Sacramento. The incident occurred at a home on the 8300 block of Fieldpoppy Circle, where SWAT, K-9, crisis negotiators, and a drone team responded. The suspect is being transported to jail. Authorities say his identity and booking photo will be released after processing. Deputies were also active countywide as part of a retail theft enforcement operation. The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office says its Organized Retail Crime Task Force made multiple arrests over three days, including 17 on Day Three at major shopping centers. Officials say the goal is reducing repeat retail theft that impacts businesses and shoppers. Some cases now qualify as felonies under Proposition 36. Enforcement continues through the holiday season. Investigators are asking for help in a deadly hit-and-run. A 25-year-old woman was killed Saturday night while crossing Bruceville Road just south of Di Lusso Drive. Authorities say she was struck by a southbound vehicle near the center of the roadway just after 8 p.m. and died at the scene. The suspect vehicle is described as a dark-colored SUV. The driver fled, and the investigation is ongoing. WEATHER Showers today with a high near 58. South-southeast winds 6 to 8 mph. Rain chances at 90%, with up to a half inch possible. CITY WATCH Weather Respite https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/county-activates-weather-respite-beginning-december-11.html#gsc.tab=0 EVENTS Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour — a guided waterfront stroll featuring local tastings and Gold Rush history. https://sactownbites.com/product/historic-old-sacramento-walking-food-tour/ Monday Night Putters Spring League at Tipsy Putt DOCO — partner mini-golf, creative challenges, and prizes. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/monday-night-putters-sacramento-fall-season-tickets-1271629009599 Prayer in Motion: Pilates & Praise — Mondays at 7 p.m. in Carmichael, blending movement, worship music, and reflection. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/prayer-in-motion-pilates-praise-mondays-tickets-1778886199509
Show Notes NEWS Man arrested for Sexual Assault against a 13-year-old. https://x.com/sacsheriff/status/2001808878091280680?s=46&t=PhCR2qG_2J0JHQypV0KFew CITY WATCH Winter solstice (Dec 21) marks the longest night of the year; Sacramento County urges community support during cold, wet weather. Donations accepted through Jan 5 at Warren E. Thornton Youth Center. High-need items: blankets, unopened hygiene items, winter clothing, socks, hats, gloves, dog food. Men’s clothing especially needed. Separate food and clothing drive runs through Jan 1, 2026 at 700 Franklin Blvd., Suite 200, coordinated with Another Choice Another Chance. Adult Protective Services successfully stabilized a Sacramento County senior after more than a year of coordinated care. He moved into assisted living in Feb 2025 and is now safe and thriving. More info: https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles.html#gsc.tab=0 WEATHER 85% chance of rain today Steadiest rain this afternoon High: 57° EVENTS American River Group WalkFri 8:00 a.m. | Rossmoor Bar River Access 3–4 miles, flat, dogs welcome | Meets M/W/F https://www.meetup.com/these-boots-are-made-for-walking-hiking-skiing-and-more/events/312223668/ Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op Tour & LunchFri 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op Guided shopping + salad lunch | Limited space https://www.meetup.com/sacvegansociety-org/events/312316924/ Ugly Sweater Dart ShootSat 12:00 p.m. | Bike Dog Brewing East Sac $15 entry | Random teams | Prizes https://svda.org/upcoming-event/ugly-sweater-shoot/ Candlelight: Christmas Carols on StringsSat 8:45–10:00 p.m. | First United Methodist Church Tickets from $31 https://eventvesta.com/events/119871/t/tickets Gingerbread House Decorating PartySun 4:00–6:00 p.m. | The Frederic Rooftop Gingerbread kit, treats, rooftop views https://www.instagram.com/lavishbakingacademy