Texting Tax? OMG!; Cloned Redwoods; Tampon Recall: Top CA Stories

CALIFORNIA – It was another busy news week across California. Missed the headlines on Patch? Whether you're looking for breaking or bizarre news, or sweet or silly features, we've rounded up some of the most share-worthy stories from the past week.

Take a look back at the top 10 news stories across the state over the past week. (Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!)

1. OMG! California Proposes Taxing Text Messages

Phone calls might come back in style.

2. Kotex Tampon Recall In CA: Products Unravel In Body

Kimberly-Clark is voluntarily recalling its U by Kotex Sleek Tampons, regular absorbency, after some products unraveled inside the body.

3. California Fires: Senator Wants Public Utility To Replace PG&E

Senator Jerry Hill is fast losing patience with years of major, fiery explosions like the Camp Fire and blames PG&E for maintenance neglect.

4. Actress Paid $9.5 Million After Dismissal From 'Bull' On CBS

Eliza Dushku alleged she was dismissed from the series after she complained about being harassed on set.

• Also see: Cybill Shepherd Claims Les Moonves Sexually Harassed Her Too

5. Woman Fatally Crushed In RivCo Fast Food Drive-Thru

A woman was crushed to death by her own car in the drive-thru of a local McDonald's restaurant, police report.

6. Puppy Found Severely Beaten, Stuffed In Trash Bag

Chloe, a 9-month-old Maltipoo-Terrier mix, was found tied up in a trash bag with rotting food in a dumpster in downtown Long Beach.

7. Injured Helping A Stranger, CA Man Now Fights For His Legs

During a torrential rainstorm, the EMT student didn't hesitate to help someone in need — an act which could cost him dearly.

8. Fountain Valley Couple Lose 250 Pounds Together

What does it take to make a decision that will change the rest of your life? Just ask Michael Bare and his wife, Lorna.

9. Unreal California Image Wins Nat Geo Photo Contest Grand Prize

From thousands of submissions, a surreal image of waste in the California desert, won the 2018 National Geographic Photo Contest.

10. 75 Cloned Redwood Trees To Be Planted In San Francisco

Organizers said each redwood tree can remove up to 250 tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere over its lifespan.

FOR THE WEEKEND:

• Wreaths Across America; Night Bloom; Emerald Cup: NorCal Weekend
• Festival Of Lights; Jurassic Quest; The Nutcracker: SoCal Weekend

Photo of redwood trees at Big Basin Redwoods State Park by Bea Karnes, Patch