Sammy Caiola, Capital Public Radio

Amador is one of six California counties without a physical community college. It also struggles to recruit mental health providers. A small online learning program could offer a solution to both problems. 

Stockton is halfway through an 18-month program that provides $500 a month to 125 people from low-income ZIP codes. Proponents say the program is a step toward economic equality; opponents say it’s unrealistic and enabling.

A growing enclave of millennials is choosing van life as an alternative to a 9-to-5 job and a mortgage. These young professionals —artists, web developers, accountants—want the freedom to explore without the pressure of punching time cards and keeping busy social schedules.