Janelle Salanga
Northern California Reporter
The Central Valley is something that is incredibly personal to me. Having grown up, studied and worked in the valley, I’ve learned that there are stories in every corner of every city here: stories about intergenerational organizing, environmental (in)justice and the labor that feeds much of California, among others.
I see journalism as a tool for record-keeping and nuancing “stereotypical” or “sensational” narratives. I want to see media act less transactionally, meet people where they are and ground my reporting in a deep understanding of regional context. Through being in the valley, which lies at the core of Northern California, I’ve learned a little bit about that context — but I am always learning more, and your stories play a huge role in that.
As CapRadio’s Northern California reporter, I operate from an understanding of the breadth of perspectives here and the societal and structural inequities between the communities within the region. I’m particularly passionate about covering stories about groups of people that have been disempowered by current social structures.
If there’s something I should be covering about Northern California — whether a topic or a specific story — let me know! This region is one we share.
California Invests In Guaranteed Income: $35 Million Will Support Monthly Payments For Pregnant Women, Foster Youth
July 16, 2021
The $35 million pilot passed unanimously and will provide money for local programs to give out monthly payments — with no restrictions on spending — to pregnant women and foster youth aging out of the system.
Amid Sacramento’s Highest Temperatures, Water Needed For City’s Unhoused Population
July 16, 2021
Clean, cold drinking water is an essential need during Northern California’s heat waves. But for Sacramento’s unhoused population, getting it isn’t always an easy task, so community members step in.
California Could Make A $210 Million Investment In Asian And Pacific Islander Safety And Support. Here’s How.
July 8, 2021
State lawmakers are asking Gov. Gavin Newsom to agree to “historic” budget spending on everything from an Office of Racial Equity to more support for groups that help victims of hate incidents.
Fireworks Are Especially Dangerous During Drought. Here’s How To Use Them Safely.
July 2, 2021
With California facing a summer to rival 2020 — the hottest on record for several Northern California locations — fire marshals urge people to use fireworks safely during the holiday celebrations.
As California Drops COVID-19 Guidelines, Masking Still Important To Protect Unvaccinated, Experts Say
June 24, 2021
California’s masking guidelines allow fully vaccinated people to go maskless in several indoor settings. But there are still plenty of reasons that you — and the people around you — can benefit from wearing masks, according to public health experts.
'I Want Real Substantial Progress': Mixed Feelings In Sacramento As Juneteenth Becomes A Federal Holiday
June 18, 2021
Though Juneteenth is now a federal holiday, there’s more to it than celebrating. Also, Juneteenth events in the Sacramento, East Bay and San Joaquin regions.
‘Reopening’ In Sacramento: Excitement And Optimism, But Not Everyone Is Ready To Ditch Their Masks
June 15, 2021
From Sacramento and San Joaquin to Placer and Yolo counties, workers, customers and business owners celebrated the state’s easing of COVID guidelines — but not everyone was ready to take off their masks.
What Changes, What Stays The Same As California Reopens
June 15, 2021
A lot changes on June 15, when California officially reopens. Here's a look at the new rules for businesses and individuals, and what things are staying the same for now.
California Reopens June 15. Where Do You Need To Wear A Mask?
June 12, 2021
When California reopens June 15, you might not need a mask in public places, because masking guidance is changing. Here’s what that will look like for fully vaccinated and unvaccinated people.
Advocacy Groups Gather At Capitol To Protest Deportation Of Vietnamese Refugee
June 4, 2021
Lam Hong Le’s case is one example of the ways that undocumented immigrants in sanctuary state California continue to face double punishment — detention and deportation after serving time in prison.