The Merced FOCUS: Local news now in sharper focus
Launched by the Central Valley Journalism Collaborative, we’re a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization committed to providing reporting that serves the public good
The Merced FOCUS is officially open for business (well, kinda). We’re calling it a “soft launch” because we’re still getting things warmed up, but there’s already plenty to explore.
Launched by the Central Valley Journalism Collaborative, we’re a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that’s committed to providing news reporting that serves the public good. Our diverse team of CVJC journalists, deeply rooted in the San Joaquin Valley, will be your eyes and ears on the ground, covering crucial issues like local government, bilingual communities, education, and more.
This is just the beginning. Before we officially launch, we invite you to:
Visit our website at www.themercedfocus.org
Follow us on social media: Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Threads.
Share the news: Spread the word and encourage others to join The Merced FOCUS community.
Sign up for our The Merced FOCUS newsletter
Have a story tip? We're eager to hear it! Reach out via email at CVJC@CVLocalJournalism.org or DM us on social media.
What can you expect from The Merced FOCUS? Get ready for:
In-depth stories: We’ll dive deep into the issues that matter most to you, from how your tax dollars are spent to the latest happenings in our region.
Insightful analysis: We won’t just report the news, we’ll make sense of it through truth-telling journalism.
Engaging features: Look out for profiles, historical explorations, and slice-of-life stories that create a sense of community for Merced and the region.
We’re eager to hear your feedback and learn what stories you want us to cover. Our stories will be available without a paywall. Join us in ensuring that local journalism thrives in the Central Valley by subscribing to our newsletter and contributing to your local newsroom.
Catch up on our recent stories:
This Valley county’s in dire need of mental health professionals. A $5.2 million program’s helping fill the gaps
According to a recent report, the San Joaquin Valley had the highest percentage of adults who have experienced “serious psychological distress” by region across the state in the past year. READ THE FULL STORY
Merced County primary election ballots to be mailed this week. Here’s what to expect
Voting centers will begin opening at the end of the month. The last day to register to vote is Feb. 20. READ THE FULL STORY
Merced County’s top scholars use wit and wisdom to compete in academic decathlon. Here’s who won top prize
The competition tests students’ knowledge of math, science, social science, music, art, economics, literature, public speaking and interviews. READ THE FULL STORY
Planada residents look back, one year after a devastating flood. ‘I lost everything. I had to start from zero’
Although many of the memories Planada residents have from last year’s storm are of desperation, there are also stories of hope. READ THE FULL STORY
New community planned near UC Merced gets green light from city leaders. It’s expected to ‘transform’ the region
The project – which includes homes, retail and green space – is the next step to making Merced a true university town, leaders say. READ THE FULL STORY
This medical program seeks a million people to improve the health of diverse groups. How Valley residents can help
The federal “All of Us” program focuses on diversifying biomedical research through building community connections and sharing information. READ THE FULL STORY
Merced's streets are now dangerous 'speedways,' residents say. Here’s what the new police chief wants to do about it
The new police chief said he's concerned because six people have died in crashes in recent months. READ THE FULL STORY
A budget crunch at UC Merced has hit lecturers. ‘We’re eating into our savings’
Amid efforts to contain the budget gap, lecturers say they have seen less work and eliminated positions. READ THE FULL STORY
Merced County’s counting its homeless. Here’s how it compares to state, national trends
Local officials say while the homeless population has grown in the state and nationally, the numbers have gone down in Merced County. READ THE FULL STORY
Government meetings this week:
Los Banos City Council, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at Los Banos City Hall, 520 J St.
Congressman John Duarte Town Hall, 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, Merced Lao Family Community, Inc. 1748 Miles Court, Suite D.