It’s a bill that’s easy to make fun of. In the midst of a budget crisis, California lawmakers are considering legislation that strips the official state rock, serpentine, of its title. For one woman, there’s a serious health issue involved.

State Senate Democrats have unveiled their budget plan to dig California out of its $19 billion hole. Their idea is to shift more responsibility to local governments, but fund it, in part with a tax on oil produced in California.

A star-studded celebration of the Boston Pops — past, present, and future — this special anniversary tribute features some of the greatest moments from the Boston Pops’ 125-year history, telling the orchestra’s story — its transformation from summertime entertainment for Bostonians to the national icon and beloved institution of today.

In Iraq, the pullout of U.S. troops is picking up pace. By Sept. 1, the number of U.S. forces in Iraq will be pared to about 50,000 troops, part of a massive drawdown to continue in 2011 under an agreement negotiated with Baghdad.

Some policy experts say Californians are already getting some benefits from the federal health care reform package signed into law this year. More features will kick in this fall.

Cuttlefish are some of the strangest animals on the planet. These shape-shifting creatures can hypnotize their prey, impersonate the opposite sex and even kill with lightning fast speed. More accomplished masters of disguise than any chameleon, they have a remarkable ability to change their skin color — even their shape — to blend into most any background. NOVA gets up close and personal with these bizarre and amazing animals.

This first authorized film poetically documents Pete Seeger’s unique experience and contributions. The man who introduced America to its own folk heritage, he deeply believes in the power of song and is convinced that individuals can make a difference. He made a whole generation passionate about playing the guitar and picking the banjo, and got them singing together and using music as a force for social change.

There has been a military presence in the region even before our city got its name "San Diego." First the Spanish Crown would send soldiers and sailors into the harbor dating back to 1542. Then the Mexican Army would take control of the region after Mexico gains its independence from Spain. Through the years, the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and the Coast Guard would command a presence in the region in order to protect San Diego's harbor.

A bumper sticker that targets aggressive panhandlers has pitted a head shop against a local blogger in Ocean Beach.

A 5-year-old Rolando boy drowned on Father's Day in a neighbor's swimming pool, police said.

What does it take to cook dinner for 2,500 sailors on an aircraft carrier? We'll look at the history of cooking in the Navy over the past 200 years and dish out recipes for classic military meals.

Del Mar native Annie Weisman has set her new play in her beachside hometown. "Surf Report" is full of recognizable Southern California characters who behave in ways that are funny, surprising, and compelling. We talk with Weisman about her play.

Has the pervasiveness of cell phones has eliminated the need for many public pay phones in San Diego? We'll find out who uses payphones and where payphones are required by law.

Why is the City of Calexico facing a substantial budget deficit? What was the Imperial County's voter turnout in the recent primary election? And, how are residents dealing with the numerous earthquakes the Valley has experienced over the last month? We speak to the editor of the Imperial Valley Press.

After months of requests from reporters, a California university has agreed to allow members of the media to attend a fundraiser next week featuring Sarah Palin.

California social services officials are urging providers of in-home care for the disabled to re-enroll in the state's program or risk not getting paid for their work.

Protecting ourselves from the rays of the sun seems like a good idea. But there are some real questions about how much protection we really get from sunscreen. And one skin cancer specialist says we may be sacrificing some important protection by rejecting the golden rays.

Representatives from the local dance, theater, music and art scenes will put their collective heads together Monday over San Diego's waterfront.

California's stem cell institute will meet in San Diego this week. The board members are expected to approve up to $30 million in grants to study how stem cell therapies can overcome immune resistance.