Grizzly Flats post office reopens following the Caldor Fire. Also, Sacramento County’s progress and challenges to add mental health clinicians at every school. Finally, the largest bilingual university fair in Northern California, “Steps to College.” Grizzly Flats Post Office Reopens Following Caldor Fire The 2021 Caldor Fire largely destroyed the community of Grizzly Flats, and rebuilding has been slow. But this week there is a landmark to celebrate. More than two years after the devastating wildfire, the town’s U.S. Post Office has reopened. And this milestone is about more than just mail. Grizzly Flats resident Eileen Strangfeld, Postmaster Alicia Leech, and Mark Almer from the Grizzly Flats Fire Safe Council join Insight with an update on the town’s restoration. Sac County’s Progress to Add Mental Health Clinicians to Schools CapRadio's Sacramento K-12 Education Reporter Srishti Prabha shares their reporting on the progress and challenges Sacramento County is facing in their push to add mental health clinicians in classrooms. In 2020, the Sacramento County Office of Education set a goal to have a clinician at every school - roughly 300 campuses - but progress has been slow. However there are bright spots. Srishti explains that schools like Ethel I Baker Elementary within Sac City Unified show promising potential.  You can also read Srishti’s reporting in The Sacramento Observer. Bilingual University Fair Navigating the next steps after high school can be daunting. Applications, money - and even a family’s status here in California - can all be factored into where students choose to go to college. Steps to College is the largest bilingual and binational university fair in Northern California. The one-day event in Sacramento provides students and their families with valuable information on the financial aid process, meet with college and university counselors, and learn about higher education options. Joining us with more on “Steps to College” are organizers, Dr. Miguel Molina, Academic Advisor for the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) at Sac State, and Tonatiuh Gonzalez, Consul General of Mexico in Sacramento.    

Sacramento County’s biennial Point-in-Time homelessness count. Also, the oldest Chinese restaurant in the state - and possibly the nation - is in Woodland. Finally, goodbye to CapRadio’s Mike Hagerty, who is retiring. Sac’s 2024 Point-in-Time Homelessness Count Sacramento County’s last Point-in-Time Count in 2022 reported a record 9,300 unhoused residents, and this was only a conservative snapshot of the number of people experiencing homelessness in the county on any given night. Last week, over 800 volunteers conducted the biennial count again. CapRadio Homelessness and Housing Affordability Reporter Chris Nichols joins Insight with a deeper look at what the recent PIT looked like, and the experiences and challenges being faced by some of the county’s most vulnerable residents. Oldest Chinese Restaurant is in Woodland The oldest Chinese restaurant in California - and possibly the nation - is tucked away in a Yolo County suburb. Jack Chin is a professor at UC Davis School of Law and shares his research into finding the oldest Chinese restaurants in the U.S., which led him to Chicago Café in Woodland. Amy Fong’s parents own the restaurant, and she shares its history spanning more than a century. And we’re also joined by Carla Meyer who is a Senior Editor at UC Davis School of Law, about the storytelling behind this discovery. CapRadio’s Mike Hagerty Retires Today, we celebrate the distinguished career of CapRadio anchor and reporter, Mike Hagerty. After decades in the news business, Mike has decided to enter retirement and spend more time with his family, including grandchildren who live on the East Coast. We’ll sit down with Mike and go down memory lane with him, and ask him to impart a few words of wisdom to current and future journalists.

Strong atmospheric river forecasted this week. Also, an empowerment center for human trafficking survivors opens in Sacramento. Finally, Will Rogers' great-granddaughter discusses “The Legacy of the Cherokee Kid.” Atmospheric River Arrives This Week After a few days of mild, spring-like weather, Northern California is poised to take a direct hit from an atmospheric river ramping up off the coast. Along with the rain, it is forecasted to be gusty and potentially dangerous wind - which has the potential to knock out power and cause property damage. Joining us today to walk us through the timing of the storms is National Weather Service Sacramento meteorologist, Jeffrey Wood. Empowerment Center for Human Trafficking Survivors (3SGF) works to create a world free from human trafficking. The nonprofit is set to open The Table in downtown Sacramento– an empowerment center for survivors of human trafficking and those at risk of exploitation. Ashlie Bryant is the President & CEO 3Strands Global Foundation. Kaitlyn DiCicco is Vice President Survivor Services. And Kristi Merrill is a Survivor Leader Advocate. They join Insight to discuss how The Table will provide services for survivors and at-risk youth - ranging from basic needs, to mental health support, career workshops, and childcare. Will Rogers Presentation at C.K. McClatchy High School A presentation this weekend in Land Park will focus on one of the Cherokee Nation’s most famous citizens. “Will Rogers: The Legacy of the Cherokee Kid,” will be presented by family representative and Will Rogers’ great-granddaughter Jennifer Rogers-Etcheverry at C.K. McClatchy High School on Saturday, Feb. 3 from 2-4 p.m. Jennifer and Mike Webb, Cultural Center Chair for Cherokees of Northern Central Valley, join Insight to talk about Will Rogers’ life and legacy, as well as how the presentation ties into the CNCV’s larger cultural education efforts - for both Cherokee and non-Cherokee people alike.

Sac International Airport is working towards nonstop international travel. Also, the Sacramento and Placer county district attorneys discuss new approaches in response to retail theft. Finally, youth hold a forum for Sacramento mayoral candidates. SMF’s Push for Nonstop International Travel is working on expanding its network of routes, with a major focus on international flights. Right now, the airport is looking to connect Sacramento with Europe, and Germany in particular. Stephen Clark, Deputy Director of Airport Commercial Development at SMF, joins Insight to provide a closer look at the new “Air Service Alliance'' initiative, what its benefits could be, and how it brings together the airport and local business community. Placer & Sacramento County DAs on Retail Theft Sacramento and Placer counties are responding to retail theft. State dollars aimed at dedicating more resources at organized crime appear to be working, despite an uptick in some retail crime. Placer County’s program includes a warning sign in retail shops alerting would-be thieves that they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. And Sacramento County recently created an organized retail theft unit. Joining us to discuss the new resources dedicated to curbing organized theft are Placer County District Attorney Morgan Gire and Sacramento District Attorney Thien Ho. Youth Participate in Sac Mayoral Candidate Forum It’s five weeks until the primary election, and a big local race is for Sacramento mayor. The candidates have been participating in community forums on a range of issues– like climate and homelessness. But over the weekend, the leading mayoral candidates took questions from some of the youngest residents. Monica Ruelas Mares is the Manager of Local Children's Policy and Coordinator of Sac Kids First and discusses hosting a mayoral forum at Hiram Johnson High School on Saturday. We’re also joined by June Lee, who is a senior at The Met– a public charter school within Sac City Unified– about why it was important to participate. The topics ranged from youth homelessness, youth mental health, youth violence, substance use, and views on the implementation of the Sacramento Children’s Fund– a multi-million dollar initiative to support children and youth.

The head of California’s High Speed Rail project joins us. Also, CalMatters shares how the massive transportation project could reshape the Central Valley. Finally, the Sacramento Public Library hosts the disability film festival “Superfest.”  What’s up with California’s High Speed Rail? California’s High Speed Rail project has been the source of public scrutiny for years thanks to budget-busting financial overruns, mismanagement and delays. Just a few weeks ago, the Biden administration pumped another $3 billion into the project, which won’t be ready for another several years, and that’s just Phase 1 from Bakersfield to Merced. Today on Insight, we take a deep dive into the high speed rail with CEO Brian Kelly. Plus, we are joined with CalMatters’ Commentary Editor, Yousef Baig with his reporting on how high-speed rail could help re-shape the future of the Central Valley. Disability Film Festival ‘Superfest’ at Sac Public Library It is the longest running disability festival in the world, and this weekend will be landing in Sacramento. Cara Latham, Supervisor of the Ella K McClatchy branch of the Sacramento Public Library, joins us about the 5th annual Sacramento Superfest happening Sunday, Jan. 28 from 3pm to 6pm. We’re also joined by Shaina Ghuraya, the co-director of Superfest, about the cutting-edge cinema that portrays disability through a diverse, complex and engaging lens that prioritizes access for disabled filmgoers of all kinds.

Gov. Newsom said he will veto a bill that would limit youth tackle football. Also, remembering the late Sacramento Councilmember Lauren Hammond. Finally, McGeorge School of Law is celebrating its centennial. Newsom Sacks Bill Limiting Youth Tackle Football CapRadio Healthcare Reporter Kate Wolffe updates a bill that would limit youth tackle football over concerns that it could lead to chronic brain injuries. The legislation was authored by Democratic Assemblymember Kevin McCarty, who is also a Sacramento mayoral candidate. It sparked passionate debate about safety and parental rights. But the bill has been stopped in its tracks. Gov. Newsom has said he would veto the legislation if it passed the State Legislature. Kate explains why McCarty has said he will not move forward with the bill.  Remembering Late Councilmember Lauren Hammond A pioneering Sacramento leader has passed away. Former City Councilmember Lauren Hammond, the first Black woman elected to the governing body, died last Thursday at the age of 68. State Sen. Angelique Ashby, current District 8 Councilmember Mai Vang, and former Sacramento Mayor Heather Fargo join Insight for a remembrance of Hammond, who was not only a trailblazing leader, but also an influential mentor. McGeorge Law School Celebrates 100 Years Sacramento’s McGeorge School of Law is celebrating its centennial this year.  The school, which started as a one-room night school in downtown Sacramento in 1924, has grown to become one of California’s premiere law schools. Joining us today on Insight is Michael Hunter Schwartz, dean of the McGeorge Law School, who was recently named as one of the country’s most influential people in legal education.

Cal State faculty union ends strike. Also, California launches a new homebuyer assistance program. Plus, analysis from the first CA Senate debate. Finally, a Mira Loma student is selected for the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search. Cal State Faculty Union Ends Strike Less than 24 hours after Cal State faculty began a weeklong strike across its 23 campuses, the California Faculty Association and California State University system reached a tentative agreement. EdSource Higher Education Reporter Ashley Smith returns to Insight to discuss the end of the historic systemwide strike for the CSU system.  CA Homebuying Assistance Program California ranks near the bottom of home ownership in America.  Now, the state is re-launching a program to make it easier for people to get a first-time homebuyer loan. The California Dream for All was so successful that it unintentionally left many of the people it was designed to help, unable to land an affordable loan. This Spring, the program will relaunch with a few tweaks to help get the money where it is meant to to go. Felicia Mello is a California Divide reporter for CalMatters and joins us with the new changes and how the updated rules might impact the chance of getting accepted into this coveted down payment assistance program. CalMatters is a nonpartisan, nonprofit, newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state. First Senate Debate Analysis POLITICO Senior Political Reporter Melanie Mason provides analysis after co-moderating the first debate for California Senate candidates that included Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff, Katie Porter and Barbara Lee and Republican Steve Garvey in Los Angeles Monday night. Mira Loma Student Selected in Prestigious Science Competition The Regeneron Science Talent Search is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious math and science competition, recognizing 300 high school students  around the world every year for their original research. This year’s STS cohort includes a local talent from Mira Loma High School, senior Hari Srikanth. He joins Insight to talk about his interest in research, and his project focused on helping people escape from a burning structure.

Cal State faculty go on strike across 23 campuses, including Sac State. Also, a new auto exhibit celebrates women in lowriding. Finally,  Sacramento-based Latin backpacking food company will start selling at REI stores. Cal State Faculty Strike Back to school means back to the picket line for thousands of faculty at all of California State University system’s 23 campuses, including Sacramento State. The planned, five-day strike is the first systemwide strike in CSU’s history as the union representing 29,000 professors, lecturers, and other staff demands a 12% pay increase including other benefits. CapRadio’s Mike Hagerty joins us with a live report on how the strike is impacting classes for students on the Sac State campus. We’re also joined by EdSource Higher Education Reporter Ashley Smith for more context on the back-and-forth negotiations with CSU. Museum Spotlights Women in Lowriding A new exhibit at the California Automobile Museum is highlighting the connection between women and lowriding culture, and just held its grand opening ceremony this weekend. Titled Rucas y Carruchas: Ladies in Lowriders, the display features a variety of custom cars, artwork and more, and runs until April 2024 . Exhibits manager ShaVolla Rodriguez and her daughter Nayeli Rodriguez talk about how this exhibit came about, their own connections to lowriding and car culture, and how Rucas y Carruchas celebrates this group of drivers, builders, designers and owners. Latin Backpacking Food If you’ve been backpacking, you can appreciate when the time comes to plop down with a hot meal on the trail. Dehydrated pouches have come a long way, and a Sacramento kitchen is putting its own spin on backpacking comfort food with a Latin twist. Martha Y Díaz is the founder of the Latin backpacking food company Itacate, which will start selling at REI stores.

The history of the Iowa caucuses and its role in setting the course for the general election. Also, a Folsom biotech company works on new treatments and cures for serious diseases. Finally, a new Sacramento nonprofit aims to help first-time homebuyers. Why Does the Iowa Caucus Still Matter? Former President Donald Trump is coming off a decisive win in Iowa, even causing two of his challengers to drop out.  Next week, voters in New Hampshire head to the polls where Trump may face a more challenging electorate. But both of these states are small in population, and far from reflect the diversity of the state. So why are they so important? Today on Insight, political strategist and former deputy chief of staff for Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rob Stutzman, joins us to dissect the role Iowa and New Hampshire play in setting the course for the general election in November.  We’ll also examine the history of the Iowa Caucasus and why the winner doesn’t always become the nominee. Folsom Biotech Company Works on Cancer Treatments and Cures A biotechnology research center in Sacramento County is working to speed up advancements for new treatments and cures for patients diagnosed with cancer and other serious conditions– in some instances, offering an alternative to chemotherapy, or even preventing a disease in the first place. Cate Spears is the CEO & Founder of CGT Global. Based in Folsom, the name stands for “Cell & Gene Therapies,” which works to expedite medical research and broaden patient access to life-changing therapies. Sacramento Nonprofit for First Time Homebuyers Becoming a homeowner opens the door to building generational wealth and providing a sense of security. But enduring high home values, interest rates, and a lack of housing stock can make it intimidating to take the first step. A new nonprofit called Sac Club 100 is helping first-time homebuyers navigate the challenges of the current market. Founder and real estate broker Keisha “Kee” Mathews talks about how the organization is making homeownership more inclusive and equitable, and also provides tips for first-time homebuyers. 

Rep. Josh Harder challenges ongoing PG&E rate hikes. Also, a Sac City high school is among the first in the state to be part of an EV technician pilot program. Finally, how the city of Sacramento’s Community Ambassadors Program works. Rep. Harder on PG&E Rate Hikes As PG&E customers get ready for the sticker shock of their January bill, they may be wondering if there will ever be an end in sight to rising utility rates, which the utility giant says is needed for safety upgrades. Today on Insight, we welcome Congressman Josh Harder to discuss what can be done on a federal level to stave off future rate hikes and if there is a legislative fix to the continuous increases in recent years. High School’s New EV Pilot Program California is planning for a greener transportation future, with all new cars sold from 2035 onward required to be zero-emission. Since the start of the new year, a groundbreaking pilot program at John F. Kennedy High School is preparing students for future careers as electric and hybrid vehicle technicians. CapRadio Education Reporter Srishti Prabha explains how this Sac City Unified school is among the first in the state to be part of this inaugural pilot program. We’re also joined by JB Polanco who is the automotive pathway instructor at Kennedy High. Sacramento’s Community Ambassadors Program Sacramento’s Community Ambassadors program will soon announce the members of its 2024-2025 cohort. Sacramento Community Engagement Manager Lynette Hall and community ambassador Juan Carlos Ruiz Guajardo provide a deeper look at how ambassadors build multicultural bridges between Sacramento’s many communities, and how the program helps spread important information, resources, and opportunities.

Supreme Court to hear a case that could change homeless encampment sweeps. Also, the PPIC discusses retail theft and robbery rates. Finally, Black American folk musician Jake Blount to perform at The Sofia. SCOTUS Homelessness Camping Case Last Friday, the Supreme Court agreed to hear a case that could change existing restrictions on criminalizing homelessness and sweeping encampments in western states - including California.  CalMatters Homelessness Reporter Marisa Kendall breaks down both the new case and current precedent, and what the high court’s ruling could mean for both cities and people who are unhoused across the state. CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that is a content sharing partner with public media stations across the state. PPIC on Retail Theft and Robbery Rates in California Since the pandemic, California’s crime rate has dominated news headlines– from a reported increase in violent crime, retail theft and robberies in many of the state’s largest counties. But when you look at the data, gauging that increase – or whether there is even an increase at all – largely depends on what year you use as a comparison. Overall, although violent crime has trended upward in recent years, it still remains drastically below the peak in the 1990s. And there is a similar caveat with retail thefts and robberies. Shoplifting, commercial burglaries and robberies in California have jumped since 2020. But when you narrow in on the 15 largest counties, some have actually experienced a drop during the same time period. So it’s complicated. Magnus Lofstrom is the Policy Director of Criminal Justice as well as a Senior Fellow at the PPIC, and joins us with more about the nuance within crime data. Black American Folk Musician Jake Blount at The Sofia is an Afrofuturist folk musician and ethnomusicology PhD student who is a scholar of Black American folk with a focus on the profound ways African Americans have shaped and defined roots music and Americana. Jake will be performing at The Sofia on Thursday, Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. You can watch his NPR “Tiny Desk” performance here.  

Winter storm update, as well as avalanche risks and terrain around Tahoe Basin. Also, how Gov. Newsom plans to close California’s $38 billion budget shortfall. Finally, Opera Modesto’s new production of Sherlock Holmes and Jack and the Beanstalk. Palisades Avalanche and Snow Update On Wednesday morning, an avalanche struck on the slope of Palisades Tahoe Resort. The avalanche occurred on the slopes under the KT-22 lift on its opening day, killing one skier, injuring another and catching two more in the slide. Brian Hickey is a longtime reporter and traffic anchor at KCRA, and also a lifelong backcountry adventurer in the Sierra. He joins Insight to discuss the avalanche risks and terrain around Tahoe. And Dr. Andrew Schwartz, Lead Scientist and Manager of UC Berkeley’s Central Sierra Snow Lab, provides an update on snowfall in the region after the recent spate of storms. California’s Budget Shortfall Outlook Gov. Gavin Newsom detailed how California plans to close a budget shortfall. Gov. Newsom’s Department of Finance projects a $38 billion deficit, which is far less than the $68 billion that was projected late last year by the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO). CapRadio State Politics Reporter Nicole Nixon walks us through the budget adjustments the governor’s office plans to make. We also have the perspective of Wayne Winegarden, a Senior Fellow for Business and Economics at the Pacific Research Institute -  which works to advance free-market solutions. Opera Modesto’s Upcoming Performances ’s latest production is a modern twist on two classic fairy tales.  This weekend, the opera presents the professional world premiere of “Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Fallen Giant,” an operatic mashup of “Jack and the Beanstalk and Sherlock Holmes.”  The production is slated for full-length two-act performances this weekend, then Opera Modesto will take the show on the road to five community theaters in three counties and over 4,000 students.  Joining us today are Opera Modesto General Director Roy Stevens, Composer Evan Meier, and Librettist E.M. Lewis to discuss the production and the outreach program to regional schools.

A new state law allows for a leave of absence following a reproductive loss. Also, Roseville welcomes the premier women’s soccer team Iron Rose FC. Plus, how to enjoy “Dry January” throughout Sacramento. New CA Law Offers Reproductive Loss Leave In California, employees are allowed to take leave due to a variety of circumstances. This year, a new state law adds another type of leave of absence for hopeful parents - allowing employees to take unpaid leave following a reproductive loss. An example of a type of loss is a miscarriage. But it also can mean much more - from a failed adoption, to surrogacy, an IVF transfer, as well as other fertility diagnoses. CapRadio Healthcare Reporter Kate Wolffe has more about this new California law. Women’s Soccer Expands to Roseville Women’s soccer is growing in popularity across the country, and in California. The city of Roseville was recently announced as the home of a new expansion team - Iron Rose FC - which will start playing in the Women’s Premier Soccer League later this year. Ahead of the team’s first open tryouts on Saturday, Jan. 13 at Mahany Park, Evin Nadaner, Chief Operating Officer of Roseville Youth Soccer Club and managing partner of Blue Ribbon Football Group, joins Insight to talk about how the semi-pro team got started, what its goals are, and how Iron Rose aims to help the next generation of players. ‘Dry January’ in Sacramento Whether it’s for health benefits or to save a little money after the holidays, a lot of people are taking the opportunity to quit drinking during January.  Called “Dry January,” it’s a time to put away the wine or whiskey and let the body reset and reboot. Sacramento Bee Food and Drink Reporter Benjy Egel joins the program with some ideas on how to stay social in Sacramento without the booze, and still have a great time in the city.

What to know as the “Super Tuesday” primary approaches. New workshops and programs are training people from underrepresented communities for a future in public office. Ten-year-old Sacramento hip hop princess “Boss Tootie.” ‘Super Tuesday’ Countdown California is likely to play a more impactful role in the 2024 election as our state’s primary has been moved up to Tuesday, March 5– also known as “Super Tuesday.” Ballots will be sent out next month and voting starts soon after, but there is concern over voter enthusiasm and participation. Joining us to discuss what we all need to know as the primary approaches are Kim Alexander, president of the California Voter Foundation, and Mindy Romero, founder and director of the Center for Inclusive Democracy. Getting Underrepresented Communities to Run for Office A number of new workshops and programs around the Sacramento region are working to train people from underrepresented and diverse communities for positions in public office. CapRadio’s Sacramento Government Reporter Kristin Lam sheds light on why three of these groups - Nueva Epoca, Stonewall Democrats of Greater Sacramento, and New Leaders Council Sacramento - were formed, and also introduces some of the program participants looking to shape civic policy in the future. Sacramento Hip Hop Princess ‘Boss Tootie’ A Sacramento father and daughter have teamed up in a creative way that is bringing joy to others. Boss Tootie is a 10-year-old “hip hop princess” as she likes to call herself. After watching her father Rinn Zee record songs, she decided to join the studio with her own voice and message. The fourth grader has created singles and music videos to entertain and inspire a young audience. And like many artists, she pulls from her own life. Boss Tootie is African American and Hmong. Her latest single embraces her Hmong roots, and last summer she performed at Juneteenth celebrations in Sacramento. Boss Tootie and her father Rinn Zee join Insight about how this all began.

COVID, RSV and flu cases have been on the rise. Also, a former UC Davis student charged with stabbing deaths is competent to stand trial. Finally, Donna Apidone’s book “Drive-Time Meditations” will be performed at Stories on Stage Davis. COVID, RSV & Flu Season A triple-whammy of respiratory infections has a lot of people sick with fever, cough, and just plain misery. RSV, COVID, and flu are surging in our state and around the country. While California ranks high, there are areas of the country that are much worse off. As schools go back into session and people head back to work, we asked Dr. Dean Blumberg, ?Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at UC Davis Health, to give us an update on the situation and what can be done to try and stay healthy through the rest of the winter season. Davis Stabbing Suspect Competent to Stand Trial Carlos Reales Dominguez, the 22-year-old former UC Davis student accused of fatally stabbing two people and injuring a third last year, was deemed competent to stand trial on Friday. The ruling comes five months after he was initially declared incompetent and sent to a state hospital for treatment. CapRadio Health Care Reporter Kate Wolffe joins Insight with a perspective from inside the courtroom, and shares her reporting on UC Davis launching a 24/7 mobile team called Health 34 to intervene with students before a crisis. The service is available to all students, faculty and staff free of charge and can be reached at (530) 754-3434. Also joining Insight is Michael Vitiello, Distinguished Professor at the McGeorge School of Law, who provides a breakdown of what competency means, the legal standards of the insanity defense, and how Dominguez’s future trial could play out. Donna Apidone at Stories on Stage Davis There is a unique space for literature in Yolo County. Stories on Stage Davis highlights the work of talented writers by pairing their work with actors who bring new life by performing literature. Stories on Stage Davis Founder Jeri Howitt joins Insight about the a new year of shows, which includes freelance writer and former CapRadio Morning Edition Host Donna Apidone’s newest book Drive-Time Meditations, which will be read in part by director, actress and theatre educator Janis Stevens on Saturday, Jan. 13.  

Drivers are finding it increasingly difficult to find affordable auto insurance in California. Also, college financial aid changes. Finally, how to recycle your Christmas tree, as well as an update on the state’s mandatory composting mandate. Difficulty Getting Auto Insurance in California Drivers are finding it increasingly difficult to find affordable car insurance in California, with many facing higher premiums and extended waiting periods. In response, California’s Insurance Commissioner has warned insurers that their practices could be in violation of state law, and is threatening enforcement. CalMatters economy reporter Levi Sumagaysay discusses the shifting auto insurance landscape, and also talks about the resources drivers can take advantage of to get insured. CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that is a content sharing partner with public media stations across the state. FAFSA & Cal Grant Financial Aid Changes The new and improved federal financial aid program for college, also known as FAFSA, is off to a rough start as tens of millions of high school seniors and their families try to navigate the newly revamped application process. In addition, several new changes to FAFSA will either make it easier or difficult to get college aid. Joining us to sift through all of the tweaks and changes are Melissa McClellan, Director of College Counseling at Christian Brothers High School, Jackie Nevarez, Coordinator for College and Career Experience at the Sacramento City Unified School District, and John Waldrep with the California Student Aid Commission. Christmas Tree Recycling For those counting the final days with a Christmas tree, there are ways you can recycle your Christmas tree for free. CapRadio Environment Reporter Manola Secaira explains how it differs from one city to the next, and she also provides an update a year after California’s composting mandate. Starting this year, California municipalities will have the option to fine residents who aren’t complying with the mandate. But for Sacramento-region officials, the priority has been educating residents and boosting participation in the mandatory program.

Conversation with Sacramento State President Luke Wood. Also, unpacking two new state laws about policing and a traffic speed camera pilot. Finally, Sacramento County needs volunteers for it’s homelessness point-in-time count. Sac State President Luke Wood From the day Sacramento State President Luke Wood arrived on campus, he was tasked with overcoming big obstacles that could jeopardize the success of the university– from ongoing negotiations and labor strikes for faculty and staff, as well as steering the campus auxiliary CapRadio off a financial cliff. Less than six months in, President Wood’s time has been filled with big tests– but not all are crises. President Wood joins us with the highlights and some big milestones to look forward to for the new year. New Laws: Police Stops and Traffic Cameras Continuing our breakdown of new legislation taking effect in 2024, CapRadio State Politics Reporter Nicole Nixon joins Insight to talk about two new laws related to policing and safety on California’s roadways. Assembly Bill 2773 requires law enforcement officers to tell drivers why they were stopped or pulled over, while Assembly Bill 645 establishes a new traffic speed camera pilot program in six cities across the state. Nicole also highlights new workplace and labor legislation that took effect in the new year. Sacramento’s 2024 Point-In-Time Count The last count of unsheltered homeless living in the Sacramento area showed an increase of 67% since the last report in 2019.  Known as the “point-in-time count,” volunteers fan across the county over two days, providing a conservative snapshot of who is unhoused. Lisa Bates, Chief Executive Officer of Sacramento Steps Forward, joins us with information on the latest PIT, the need for volunteers for the upcoming count in late January, and how that can translate into federal homelessness response dollars.

A new state law paves the way for salary increases for certain city councils - the first adjustment in four decades. Also, PG&E ratepayers experience another increase to their utility bills. Finally, realistic wellness tips for the new year. City Council Salary Caps A new year means new laws taking effect in California, including one that paves the way for salary increases for certain city councils - the first adjustment in four decades. CapRadio’s Sacramento Government Reporter Kristin Lam breaks down the provisions of the law, Senate Bill 329, and also provides an update on recent important developments within Sacramento’s governing body, including calls for the resignation of councilmember Sean Loloee after his federal indictment. PG&E Rate Hikes (Again) This month brings a new rate increase for PG&E customers, amounting to an average of $33 a month to utility bills. The utility giant says it needs the money to pay for undergrounding lines in wildfire-prone areas, among other safety improvements. However, PG&E is already requesting an additional rate hike, on top of the already-approved increase. Mark Toney is the Executive Director of TURN (The Utility Reform Network) and Meredith Fowlie is a Professor of Economics at UC Berkeley, and the Faculty Director at the Energy Institute at Haas. They join us to discuss why the utility giant is asking for more money again, and the impact it will have on customers. Realistic Wellness Tips for the New Year Jan. 1 is usually when a lot of us think about wellness. And health can mean a lot of things: from committing more time to fitness, prioritizing mental health, a work-life-balance, eating better, reducing stress, and taking up a new hobby or pastime. The list is varied, and often they relate to each other. We’re going to focus on incorporating healthy habits that can meet different lifestyles and abilities. Dr. Brandee Waite is the Director of UC Davis Health Sports Medicine and a Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Skyler Hanka is the Associate Director of Culinary Health at the UC Davis Office of Wellness Education.

Glenna Walters at her home during the summer 2022 in Rio Linda, Calif. Andrew Nixon/CapRadio We’re highlighting two CapRadio podcasts that launched this year: “Mid Pacific” which explores what it means to be Asian American and “This is What it Feels Like” which puts us in the shoes of everyday people. Mid Pacific CapRadio’s launched “Mid Pacific” this spring, which explores what it means to be Asian American and the feeling of being caught between two worlds. As host Sarah Mizes-Tan explains, through food, politics, mental health, music– and much more– we learn how loaded of a question it can be. Today, we’re going to revisit a conversation we had about family. Whether Asian American, or you have a story of immigration– or you’re a 10th generation Californian– the family that comes before us shapes how we walk through life. And in recent years, the dynamic of Asian American families is taking more of the spotlight in pop culture. The biggest example this year is the Oscar winning film “Everything, Everywhere, All at Once.” And this film resonates deeply with some CapRadio journalists. Back in May, I sat down with Mid Pacific host Sarah Mizes-Tan, as well as CapRadio reporters Janelle Salanga and Kristin Lam about the significance of the film.  This is What it Feels Like CapRadio’s new podcast “This is What it Feels Like” has a simple, open-ended premise: “In a world that feels more divided than ever, put yourself in the shoes of everyday people at the center of issues often overlooked or politicized by society. It’s not simple. It’s not black and white.” Host Terra Lopez explains the life experiences were wide ranging, and all first person narratives. The first season just wrapped this fall, and while all episodes were powerful, there was a fan favorite. It features a 106-year-old woman named Glenna who dismantles, and gives us, a deeper understanding about getting older. As Terra Lopez puts: Instead of focusing on what we lose as we age, Glenna’s focus is living simply and staying inspired– to the very last moment. Glenna passed away shortly after her 107th birthday, surrounded by family. 

Insight’s best conversations of the year. Today we listen back to the creatives behind the local art scene– from music, to children’s books, a new Grammys category with Sacramento roots, art for healing, and a bittersweet goodbye to Luna’s Cafe. The Creation District  Music is transformative and has the power to overcome many of life’s challenges. But for kids and young adults experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, finding opportunities to realize this potential can be few or virtually non-existent. But one organization in Sacramento has been providing a safe haven for them since 2015, cultivating an atmosphere where they can create, discover, and dream big. The Creation District offers a wide array of workshops and programs for Sacramento’s youth to help them build a brighter future for themselves and the community. Grace Loescher, Director of The Creation District, joined Insight in August to tell us more about this incubator for creation. Chasing A Spider Publishing  Finding children’s books that reflect our diverse community can be difficult, especially for children and families of color. A Sacramento husband and wife team, inspired by their daughter, decided it was time to make cultural books more accessible to all by publishing picture books for kids.  Award-winning author and publisher Samuel Narh joined Insight in December to talk about the need for diverse children’s books and what led him to start Chasing a Spider Publishing. Best African Music Performance Grammy is a Sacramento-based musician with a unique expertise as a steel drum musician from his Trinidadian roots. He is also a member of The Recording Academy, a.k.a. The Grammys. In June, Shawn Joined Insight about a huge milestone in music excellence. He helped author the new Best African Music Performance category, which will debut at the upcoming awards show. Shawn opened up about how this is a big step forward to recognize the contributions of musical traditions of Africa that have entertained people for generations. Monterey Jazz Festival The Monterey Jazz Festival  is coined as the “longest continuously running jazz festival in the world.” Each year the festival features several student bands, like the Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo, which was created in 2019 to feature top high school women jazz players from across the country. Only six students get in, and this year, two of them happen to be from Sacramento. In September, CapRadio's Excellence in Jazz host Avery Jeffry sat down with the two student musicians ahead of the 66th annual festival. Paloma Cobbs-Silva and Salome Ospina discussed their journey to Monterey. Both were involved in the “Teagarden Jazz Camp” with the Sacramento Jazz Education Foundation. Luna's Cafe has long cemented itself as an artistic center of Sacramento where live performances and art have graced the walls and stage since 1983. After 40 years, Luna’s Cafe owner Art Luna made the bittersweet decision to close its doors. In August, CapRadio’s Paul Conley took a look back to celebrate the end of a beloved chapter in Sacramento arts.

Insight’s best conversations of the year. We revisit interviews with two Sacramento-based Pulitzer-Prize winning editorial cartoonists– Jack Ohman and Darrin Bell. Jack Ohman  At 19 years old Jack Ohman became a nationally syndicated editorial cartoonist and, decades later, earned a Pulitzer Prize for the Sacramento Bee. For almost a decade, Jack’s cartoons at the SacBee evoked a wide range of thoughts and emotions from readers about the politicians or events shaping our lives. But earlier this year, the Sacramento Bee’s parent company “McClatchy” let go of Jack, along with other Pulitzer-Prize-winning editorial cartoonists saying it would no longer publish editorial cartoons. Insight sat down with Jack Ohman in July as he closed a chapter with the SacBee and opened up about his remarkable career, and point of view, that spans more than 40 years, and is far from over. Darrin Bell Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist Darrin Bell is turning to his youth for his new graphic memoir “The Talk.” Bell grew up in Los Angeles in the ‘80s and ‘90s to a white mother and Black father, and through vulnerable illustrations he shares personal experiences that shaped his understanding of race and racism throughout his life, culminating into fatherhood and whether he and his son are ready to have “the talk.” Bell joined Insight in September about his career as an editorial cartoonist with syndicated comic strips, and a passion for graphic novels.

CapRadio’s interim GM provides an end-of-year update on the public media station’s financial challenges. Plus, a winter classical music and wine tour around the world. Finally, some favorite new music from musical acts with local ties. Update on CapRadio Financial Challenges  CapRadio Interim General Manager Tom Karlo gives an end-of-year update on the financial challenges facing the NPR-member station, which is home to both news and music channels, and operates North State Public Radio in Chico. CapRadio is an auxiliary of Sac State, which holds the public media station’s license. Chico State holds the license to NSPR. This summer, CapRadio laid off 12% of its staff and canceled longtime music programs. An audit commissioned by the California State University system found numerous instances of financial mismanagement, largely tied to an ambitious yearslong move to a new downtown headquarters and creation of a live venue, which now has an uncertain future. CapRadio still operates on campus.  Following NPR’s protocol for reporting on itself, no CapRadio corporate official or news executive reviewed this story before it was broadcasted or posted publicly. Winter Wine & Classical Tour Around the World If you are planning on hosting or attending a holiday party in the coming weeks, we have the perfect pair to help you with your wine and music selections.  CapRadio Midday Classical Host, Jennifer Reason and wine expert, Rick Kushman joins us today with their picks to help make the holidays extra bright. Jennifer will also share with us a preview of her annual “December Around the World” music special that will air on CapRadio this month. Local(ish) Music Picks of 2023 Many of you already have your “Spotify Wrapped” playlists. But there are great musical acts, with local ties, that released new music this year(ish). We put a callout to CapRadio colleagues and asked which songs rose to the top for them in 2023. CapRadio Midday Host Andrew Garcia presents the picks. The selections are Rituals of Mine “Overcome,” Slow Pulp “Cramps,” Cosmic Roots “Weight Up,” Victoria Monet “On My Mama,” Mediocre Cafe “Coolpix Sled Jam.”

Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg reflects on 2023. Also, Cal OES delivers humanitarian aid to Israel and Gaza. Plus, how Palestinians across the Sacramento Valley are coping with war abroad. Finally, a snow season outlook in the central Sierra. Sacramento Mayor Year in Review Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg joins Insight to reflect on the year and look ahead to 2024– as his final year as mayor.  From homelessness to the post-COVID economy in Sacramento, we ask the mayor how he measures success, as well as what are his goals for this final year in office. We also ask him about who he thinks might be the best fit to replace him as mayor when his term ends, as well as what his plans are in the future and if they include a run for higher office. Cal OES Delivers Aid to Israel & Gaza The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) has been assisting civilians impacted by the war between Israel and Hamas. Cal OES Deputy Director of Crisis Communication Brian Ferguson discusses the shipment of nearly identical supplies of humanitarian aid that arrived to Israel and Gaza. The pallets of medical supplies include a field hospital, wound and IV kits, defibrillators, wheelchairs, personal protective equipment, and other emergency-response items. Palestinians in Sacramento Valley is the Executive Director of the civil rights organization CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations) in the Sacramento Valley. A Palestinian himself, Elkarra shares how the Palestinian community is coping and grappling with war abroad– many with loved ones in Gaza. Sierra Snow Outlook California saw near record-breaking snowfall from 2022-2023, with hundreds of inches accumulating in some areas. But how will the current snow season stack up? Dr. Andrew Schwartz, the Lead Scientist and Manager of UC Berkeley’s Central Sierra Snow Lab provides an update on current snowfalls and future predictions, and also discusses a new sensor network the lab is rolling out this winter.

Final environmental impact report for the Delta Conveyance Project. Also, Shriners partners with Sacramento-area high schools to empower women in orthopedic surgery. Finally, K-ZAP brings their music box selections released this year. Delta Conveyance (Tunnel) Project Climate change is challenging the way California captures and delivers water to drier parts of the state, like the South Bay and Southern California. For years, farmers, preservationists and environmentalists have fought over the proposed ‘Delta Tunnel’ project. Last week, the project cleared a major environmental hurdle which could re-energize plans to drill a single tunnel under the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and divert water to parts of the Bay Area, Central Coast and Southern California. Jay Lund is a water resource engineering expert with the PPIC and UC Davis and joins us to explain the latest on the ‘Delta Conveyance' proposal and how the new environmental impact report could affect water delivery in the future. Women in Orthopedic Surgery Women make up roughly half of all medical students, but that doesn’t trickle down to all specialties. Orthopedics rank at the bottom with just 7% female surgeons. We’ll go straight to the source to better understand why that’s the case. Dr. Michelle James is an Emeritus Chief of Orthopedic Surgery and a pediatric hand surgeon at Shriners Children’s Northern California, and Dr. Claire Manske is an orthopedic surgeon at Shriners Children’s Northern California. They join Insight to discuss an event this weekend with The Perry Initiative designed to encourage and empower young women to explore careers in orthopedic surgery and engineering. Participants across Sacramento-area schools will engage in mock surgical exercises, and attendees will hear lectures from local women surgeons and engineers about their experiences and journeys in these fields. New Music Box Set Selections When holiday shopping for the music-lovers in your life, one of the best gifts to get is a CD box set, packed full of unreleased tracks, remastered tunes, memorabilia and more. And 2023 saw no shortage of musical offerings. Dennis Newhall, co-founder and announcer of K-ZAP returns to Insight with a selection of box set collections released this year, from Bob Dylan and The Who, to Joni Mitchell and The Doors.

California’s projected $68 billion budget shortfall. Also, the how California Bountiful Foundation uplifts upcoming farmers and ranchers. Finally, Peter Petty’s “Hepcat’s Holla-Daze! Swinging Yuletide Revue” at the Crest Theatre. $68 Billion Budget Shortfall California's projected budget shortfall has gone from bad to worse.  The state now faces a $68 billion gap and the projections for the next couple of years are not much better.  CapRadio State Politics Reporter Nicole Nixon joins us with details on how the deficit doubled in size in a matter of months.  We’ll also learn why this budget gap is different from those the state experienced in the early to mid-2000s and examine a few different paths the state can take to avoid deep, across-the-board cuts. California Bountiful Society’s New Project for Farmers and Ranchers The USDA recently announced the investment of nearly $28 million to support programs that will teach new farmers and ranchers. One of the funding recipients is the California Farm Bureau’s nonprofit California Bountiful Foundation, which plans to offer an agricultural mentoring and education program to people who are veterans or socially disadvantaged. CFB Administrator Jim Houston and Michael O’Gorman, founder of the Farmer Veteran Coalition, join Insight to shed more light on the new project. Peter Petty ‘Hepcat’s Holla-Daze! Swinging Yuletide Revue’ We are well into holiday music this month. If you’re craving something different, the Crest Theatre this weekend may be just what you’re wanting to experience. Peter Petty’s upcoming event with a 12-piece orchestra has become a holiday tradition, inspired by the swing era, burlesque and traditional jazz, which make for a lively evening. Bandleader Peter Petty joins us ahead of his annual “Hepcat’s Holla-Daze! Swinging Yuletide Revue” at the Crest Theatre on Saturday Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m. And a heads up, the show is a full variety program with some adult language.

Sacramento study recommends ways to improve the city’s entertainment economy. Also, Sacramento Jewish leaders discuss how they are observing Hanukkah amid ongoing war. Finally, the author of “Poster Girl” and the story of WWII women welders. Improving Sacramento’s Entertainment Economy    Last year, Sacramento created a new position to build the city’s nighttime economy so that entertainment venues, restaurants, bars and other businesses can thrive after hours. Tina Lee-Vogt became the city’s first Nighttime Economy Manager in October 2022. In the year-plus since leading the new Office of Nighttime Economy, Tina has been canvassing downtown and midtown Sacramento listening to what’s needed, the city’s strengths, and the challenges to creating a vibrant entertainment economy. Tina returns to Insight with what she learned from a Sociable City Assessment and Music Economy Census conducted this year, as well as the changes that could happen in 2024.   How Sacramento is Observing Hanukkah Today marks two months since the attack on Israel by Hamas. Today is also the start of Hanukkah. Rabbi Mona Alfi, from Sacramento’s Congregation B’nai Israel and Rabbi Yossi Grossbaum, from the Chabad Jewish Community Center, join Insight to discuss how their congregations are celebrating the holiday while their hearts and minds are on the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. We will also understand what conversations are taking place within their communities during a rise in antisemitism. “Poster Girl” and the Story of WWII Women Welders During World War II millions of women took up jobs on production lines and in the defense industry to fulfill wartime orders for aircraft, munitions, and ships. These “Rosie the Riveters” and “Wendy the Welders” broke down barriers, and became symbols of inspiration and empowerment. On the 82nd anniversary of Pearl Harbor, we speak with historical novelist Shelley Blanton-Stroud about her newly-released book “Poster Girl,” which captures the experiences - and hardships - faced by these female patriots.

Sac State joins CSU campuses in a faculty one-day strike over stalled negotiations. Also, western Monarch butterflies are clustering along the California coast this winter. Finally, a Sacramento cover band performs the Beatles “Rubber Soul” album. Sac State Faculty to take part in CSU Strike Faculty at Sac State will walk off the job tomorrow in a planned, one-day strike.  The issue stems from a disagreement and stalled negotiations between CSU and faculty over proposed salary increases. Sac State is the fourth campus to be impacted by the strikes this week and we’ll discuss the impact to students, classes and staff with CapRadio Northern California reporter, Janelle Salanga, and EdSource’ higher education reporter, Ashley Smith. California’s Monarch Butterfly Migration Over the next several months, tens of thousands of monarch butterflies will migrate across the western United States to spend the winter along the California coast. This “overwintering” is crucial on the insect’s journey to breed, and comes at a time when the monarch runs the risk of going extinct. Isis Howard, an Endangered Species Conservation Biologist for the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation discusses this year’s migration, the best places to see the butterflies, and how we can help protect this brilliant species. Sac Band Performs Beatles ‘Rubber Soul’   Green Grass Snakes drummer Larry Schiavone and Juelie Roggli, with the Davis Odd Fellows, discuss their Thursday Live! performance on Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. The cover band will perform the Beatles 1965 album “Rubber Soul” in full. The show is free to the greater Sacramento area and all donations go to the musicians.  

Sac City Unified holds a hygiene donation drive for unhoused students and families. Also, girls flag football dominates high school sports across the state. Finally, CapRadio staff recommend the best Sacramento-themed gifts. Sac City Unified’s ‘Hygiene Drive’ for Unhoused Students The Sacramento City Unified School District is running a new kind of collection effort to help local unhoused students and families. The district is conducting a “hygiene drive” from now through Dec. 22, and is accepting donations of items like shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste, socks, diapers, pads, tampons and more. Ashley Powers Clark, Homeless Education Services Program Coordinator for SCUSD, joins Insight to shed more light on the initiative, and how these resources can be critical to those in need throughout the district. Donations can be dropped off at the Serna Center at 5735 47th Ave. in the blue bin by the front desk in the lobby between normal business hours. More information about the district’s Homeless Education Services is available by calling (916)643-2450 or emailing Homeless-services@scusd.edu. Girls Flag Football  Girls flag football. It’s the buzz on high school campuses all over California these days. The newly-sanctioned sport has become so popular so quickly, that coaches have more girls signing up than they have room for on their teams.  On Insight, we’ll revisit our conversation about the explosive growth of girls flag football with Will DeBoard, Assistant Commissioner with the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section, as well as Varsity Flag Football Coach, Melissa Triebwasser, of Sacramento’s St. Francis High School, and learn how the game is similar yet also very different from the boys version.  We’ll also find out why it means so much to the players and their coaches to be able to take the field in this historically male-dominated sport. SacramenKnow Local Gift Ideas  CapRadio SacramenKnow Newsletter editors Claire Morgan and Janelle Salanga asked staff for their go-to picks when it comes to local gifts. And CapRadio colleagues did not disappoint. Claire and Janelle share this year’s list for the best Sacramento-themed gifts. You can get the SacramenKnow Newsletter delivered to your inbox every Tuesday and Thursday. The twice-weekly newsletter lets you explore the region, get involved in your community and experience moments of joy.

Analysis of the Gov. Newsom-Gov. DeSantis debate. Also, Sacramento barbershops host free therapy sessions. Finally, the Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra’s “Home for the Holidays” performances. Gov. Newsom-DeSantis Debate Analysis Last week’s Newsom-DeSantis debate had its fair share of memorable moments and one-liners. Each side believed they made their case for the future of their party and the country. We are going to take a closer look, beyond the soundbites, at what the debate accomplished through a California lens, what it means for Governor Newsom and if California politics are the future direction of the United States. Two long-time Sacramento political veterans, Republican Rob Stutzman and Democrat Robin Swanson, join Insight to discuss the Newsom-DeSantis debate and how it will shape the upcoming race in 2024 and beyond. Barbershops Host Free Therapy Sessions  Sacramento barbershops are hosting free therapy sessions targeted towards Black men and reducing the stigma of mental health. The program is called “Cut to the Chase” and it's hosted by the Greater Sacramento Urban League. The events help foster a sense of community, support and understanding among attendees– ultimately empowering them to address their mental health needs. Greater Sacramento Urban League Chief Impact Officer Dr. Troy M. Williams and Senior Director of Partnerships Ronnie Cobb join Insight to discuss the program. Meetups are held in north and south Sacramento from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Tapers Barber Shop & Salon at 3310 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd on the first Thursday of the month, as well as at Five Starr Fades at 1332 Del Paso Blvd on the second Thursday of the month.  Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra  The holidays are fast approaching, and the Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra is getting ready to kick off the season with “merriment guaranteed.” Home for the Holidays is returning for its 28th year to the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium on Saturday, Dec. 9 at 3 p.m. Founder and Music Director Dr. Donald Kendrick and President Dr. Jim McCormick provides a preview of the performance’s sights and sounds, and also talk about the show’s local honoree - the late Suzanne Kenyon.

Sacramento County becomes the first community in California to use the “Blue Zones” model to create a dementia-friendly community. Also, why maternity wards are closing across the state. Finally, a ski resort opening forecast for the Tahoe area.  Sacramento County’s Alzheimer's Initiative California is home to the largest aging population. As we get older, the risk increases for debilitating health conditions– including for dementia and Alzheimer’s, which can rob a person’s cognition and quality of life. But there are countries with larger older populations than the U.S., and they offer some good insight when it comes to aging and wellness. Those that lead the pack– like Japan, Italy and Greece– are home to “blue zones” where people are both living longer and healthier. Sacramento County is taking notice, and has been selected as the first community in the state to adopt a “blue zone” model– with a specific focus on creating a dementia-friendly community. CapRadio Health Care Reporter Kate Wolffe got a better understanding of what this exactly means and joins us with her reporting.  Why Maternity Wards are Closing Across CA Over the past decade, dozens of hospitals across California have closed their maternity wards, according to new analysis by the non-profit newsroom CalMatters. The pace of these closures has accelerated in recent years, and it is leaving many communities with increased barriers to care, including long travel times for childbirth and prenatal appointments. And these findings align with roughly the same time period when pregnancy-related deaths in California reached a 10-year high. CalMatters health reporter Ana Ibarra explains the investigation which dives into the factors behind these closures.  CalMatters is a content sharing partner with public radio newsrooms across the state. Ski Resort Opening Forecast This time last year the Sierra was caked in snow, ski resorts were starting to open, and it was just the beginning of what turned out to be an epic winter. Now, as we get closer to the end of 2023 and upcoming holidays, those who enjoy the snow are waiting for that one big storm to kick-off the season in Tahoe. Joining us to talk ski and snow business are Davis Bedient with Donner Ski Ranch and Paul Raymore with Diamond Peak. We’ll learn what’s new at their ski resorts this year and how you can save some money this season– if you plan your snow days right.

Caltrans proposes toll express lanes on parts of I-80 and US 50 in Sacramento and Yolo counties. The nation’s first commercial direct air capture plant opens in Tracy. A Sacramento independent publisher of children’s books for a diverse audience. Caltrans Proposes Toll Lanes Across Yolo Causeway If you commute through Sacramento and Yolo counties, chances are you’ve experienced traffic come to a crawl on I-80 over the Yolo Causeway. Caltrans and the Yolo Transportation District have a plan to alleviate that gridlock with toll express lanes on portions of I-80 and HWY 50. The agency is seeking public comment on this $465 million project, with an upcoming date scheduled for Dec. 13 at the Mary L Stephens Davis Branch Library on 315 E. 14th St. in Davis from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dennis Keaton from Caltrans joins Insight to talk more about how the proposal plans to reduce delays and improve travel. Tracy’s First-in-the-Nation Direct Air Capture Facility A commercial direct air capture facility in Tracy is setting a national precedent in climate goals. It is the first in the United States that can extract carbon from the air, permanently store it and sell carbon removal credits to customers. CapRadio Environment Reporter Manola Secaira talks more about the science behind carbon sequestration and direct air capture, and how the new facility factors into California’s fight against climate change. Sacramento Children’s Book Publisher Finding children’s books that reflect our diverse community can be difficult, especially for children and families of color.  A Sacramento husband and wife team, inspired by their daughter, decided it was time to make cultural books more accessible to all by publishing picture books for kids.  Award-winning author and publisher Samuel Narh joins us to talk about the need for diverse children’s books and what led him to start Chasing a Spider Publishing.  

CPUC approves PG&E rate increases. California’s first and only Black-led conservation group acquires land in Placer County. Sutter Street Theatre’s “Holiday in the Hills.” PG&E Rate Increase PG&E customers will be paying close to $400 more per year for their service due to new rate hikes approved earlier this month by the California Public Utilities Commission. While the rate hikes were not a surprise, they come at a time where customers are dealing with massive cost of living increases. Mark Toney, Executive Director of TURN (The Utility Reform Network), joins us to discuss the impact of the increases especially on lower income, vulnerable Californians. Note:  PG&E’s press release regarding the rate increases can be found here. Black-led Conservation Group Acquires Placer County Land Accessing the outdoors can provide a variety of benefits, including improving one’s physical and mental well-being. But many people in highly-urban areas, especially people of color, can face barriers when trying to access these opportunities. Recently, California’s first - and only - Black-led conservation group acquired hundreds of acres of land in Placer County to provide more economic, environmental, and recreational equity.  Jade Stevens, President of the 40 Acre Conservation League talks about the organization’s history, and its plans for the new parcel. Sutter Street Theatre’s ‘Holiday in the Hills’ “Holiday in the Hills” returns to Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom. Director Mike Jimena and Artistic Director Connie Mockenhaupt discuss the research that went into this year’s family-friendly rendition. The play takes place in the late 1800’s and everyone you see onstage was an actual resident or visitor to Folsom at that time of year. “Holiday in the Hills” runs Dec. 2 to  Dec. 23 and is rated G.

POLITICO’S “California Playbook” joins us with the latest in state politics. Plus, the number of evictions in California remains high across large counties. Finally, NPR’s 2023 “Books We Love” selections. ‘California Playbook’ , co-author of POLITICO’s California Playbook, discusses the latest in state politics including California congressional retirements, how the Israel-Hamas war is creating divisions within the Democratic Party, as well as an upcoming debate this week between Gov. Gavin Newsom and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.   Evictions on the Rise The number of Californians facing eviction was relatively low during a statewide moratorium put in place during the pandemic. In the year after it ended, Calmatters found that cases soared and still remain high in large counties, despite a nearly decade-long trend of declining evictions. Calmatters reporter Jeanne Kuang joins Insight to discuss the reasons underlying the spike, what the situation looks like in the greater Sacramento region, and the implications for both landlords and tenants. NPR’s 2023 ‘Books We Love’ For those who enjoy a new book, there is help to relieve the choice paralysis while combing through a bookstore. For the past decade, NPR has curated its “Books We Love,” an interactive reading guide based on staff and critics’ selections of their top picks of the year. And the 2023 edition is now live. There are nearly 400 books to choose from, which can feel intimidating, but you can mix and match genre tags to find the right book. Andrew Limbong is NPR’s Arts Desk Reporter, and host of the “Book We Love” podcast, and talks about this year’s Books We Love selections.  

Elk Grove Food Bank is in need of turkey donations. Also, an organization helps Stockton youth experiencing homelessness. Finally, some Thanksgiving wine selections. Elk Grove Food Bank in Need of Donations The risk of hunger is a growing concern in the United States. According to the Sacramento Food Bank, which distributes essentials to more than 120 partner agencies across the county, food insecurity has risen dramatically in recent years– last year roughly 100,000 more people a month were in need of their food assistance services.  And as the holidays approach, many people are still looking for help. Dr. Suman Singha, board chair for Elk Grove Food Bank Services, joins Insight to talk about increasing levels of food insecurity, particularly among seniors, as well as the organization’s ongoing turkey drive, which runs through Friday, Nov. 17. Helping Stockton Homeless Youth An estimated 4.2 million youth and young adults experience homelessness in the United States each year. The causes range from housing instability to family conflict, and youth homelessness can have lasting impacts on the rest of a person’s life. However, one local organization is looking to draw attention and help young at-risk members in their community. Elizabeth Sanchez, Director of Community Engagement at the Stockton nonprofit PREVAIL, talks about the services her organization provides to homeless youth, as well as its Nov. 16 Light Up the Night Mixer event at Weberstown Mall to raise awareness. Thanksgiving Wine If your shopping list includes wine for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday or an upcoming party, wine expert and New York Times bestselling author Rick Kushman joins us Insight with some helpful ideas to wow your crowd. We’ll learn about what kind of glassware works best with certain wines, and where to find the perfect bottle here in the Sacramento area to satisfy your budget and curiosity.

Sacramento County hospitals are seeing the second-to-worst ER wait times in the state. Gov. Newsom streamlines the Sites Reservoir Project. New recipe cookbook celebrates Sacramento’s best restaurants. Sacramento County ER Wait Times Sacramento County has the second-worst emergency room wait times in California, averaging nearly an hour to get from an ambulance to a hospital bed. These delays are tying up first responders, and also putting patients’ health at risk. CapRadio’s Health Care Reporter Kate Wolffe joins Insight to shed more light on how these delays are affecting both medical workers and patients, and what steps are being taken to cut waiting times for critical care services. Gov. Streamlines Sites Reservoir Project Located just over an hour north of Sacramento, in Glenn and Colusa counties, the Sites Reservoir has long been eyed as a site for surface water storage. And now after roughly 70 years, the off-river storage basin west of the Sacramento Valley is being streamlined and moving forward. Jeffrey Mount, a senior fellow at the Public Policy Institute of California Water Policy Center, discusses what dent it will make in the water supply– and for whom– as well as the impact to the environment and native species that rely on the Sacramento River. Cookbook Celebrates Sacramento Restaurants We’ve had our fair share of conversations diving into the growing, and delicious, restaurant scene across the Capital Region. And now, there’s a cookbook rounding up some of the best dishes in our backyard. Sacramento Bee Food and Drink Reporter Benjy Egel discusses his new book “Sacramento Eats: Recipes from the Capital Region’s Favorite Restaurants” which collaborates with the best chefs across more than 60 local eateries.

 A human rights professor discusses Palestinians and the Israel-Hamas War. What is causing an ongoing veterinarian shortage across California animal shelters. Free state park passes at public libraries. Palestinians and the Israel-Hamas War Just over a month ago, on Oct. 7, Hamas militants launched attacks on Israel, killing civilians and taking hundreds of hostages. In retaliation, Israel has conducted extensive bombing campaigns and launched a ground invasion of the isolated Gaza Strip. Health officials in Gaza report that over 11,000 people have been killed so far, while Israeli authorities count over 1,200 dead. As the fighting continues, increasingly forceful attention has been called to the human rights challenges of the current conflict, from allegations of war crimes and ethnic cleansing, to concerns over antisemitism and Islamophobia here at home.  Keith David Watenpaugh, professor and director of Human Rights Studies at UC Davis, joins Insight for a deeper look at the human rights challenges of the current war.   Veterinarian Shortages at Animal Shelters There are more than 200 animal shelters across California and many are facing a growing dilemma– caring for more animals with less staff. Money doesn’t seem to be the main driver, but an ongoing veterinarian shortage that escalated during the pandemic. A study this year from the San Francisco SPCA and UC Davis shows that of the shelters that have budgeted positions for veterinarians and vet nurses, more than half of those positions remain vacant. Which means hundreds of thousands of shelter animals across the state do not have access to reliable veterinary care– with consequences that include overcrowding, higher instances of illness and euthanasia. Front Street Animal Shelter in the city of Sacramento is among the sites impacted. Dr. Victoria Smalley is Front Street’s only full-time veterinarian and joins us with a closer look at the challenges. And Dr. Kate Hurley is the director of the UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program, which partnered for the study, and joins us with a closer look at a veterinary shortage across the state, and how the community can help.   State Park Passes at Public Libraries Visiting a state park may not be in the cards for many lower income Californians. Entry fees coupled with the cost to get there, like gas, can add up quickly. CapRadio Politics Reporter Nicole Nixon joins us about a state park entry program that is free and only requires a library card to access. We’ll also learn about how Californians can get free access to gear that makes exploring the outdoors even more enjoyable.

POLITICO’s California Playbook shares the latest political current events in the state. State utility regulators to weigh proposed PG&E rate hikes. How to get a Christmas tree permit with the U.S. Forest Service. California Political Roundup The political pace is picking up as we close 2023 and quickly round the corner to the March primary. Which means the stakes are on an upward trajectory, with every political decision carrying more weight. Dustin Gardiner is co-author of POLITICO’s California Playbook and joins us with a dive into a new UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll that shows growing disapproval ratings for both President Biden and Gov. Newsom among California voters, the importance of the APEC Summit underway in San Francisco, and the trial of David DePape, charged with the assault and attempted kidnapping of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband Paul Pelosi at their home in Oct. of 2022. Potential PG&E Rate Hikes PG&E is asking for another double-digit rate hike and state regulators could approve the utility’s request later this week. It could cost customers hundreds of dollars more a year. PG&E argues it needs the additional money to improve wildfire safety, while consumer advocates say it’s too much, too soon, unfair and inequitable. Joining us to help us better understand why PG&E keeps raising its rates and turning to its customers with more hikes is Meredith Fowlie, Professor of Economics at UC Berkeley’s Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics. PG&E released a statement to Insight: “PG&E recognizes our responsibility to serve our customers safely and reliably, and we are aggressively focused on how to deliver work safely at a lower cost. We prioritize safety above all else. Undergrounding powerlines in the highest fire-risk areas will make our hometowns and California safer, improve electric reliability, and save customers billions of dollars in avoided annual tree trimming and overhead line maintenance costs. Investing in our system to make it more climate-resilient and decarbonized will make it safer and cleaner. We are working to keep customer cost increases at or below assumed inflation, between 2 and 4% a year. Actions we’ve taken to reduce costs include working with customer advocates on an alternative to commercial insurance saving customers up to $1.8 billion over the next four years, and accessing non-traditional funding sources like federal grants and loans to speed up safety work at a lower cost to customers.” Christmas Tree Permits It’s that time of year when people begin thinking about the winter holidays and the many associated traditions, including getting a Christmas tree. For those looking for an affordable and environmentally-beneficial way to partake in this tradition, the U.S. Forest Service is selling Christmas tree permits for people to harvest their tree in multiple national forests across the country, including several in California. Lisa Herron, Public Affairs Specialist with the USDA Forest Service’s Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit joins Insight to talk more about the permit program’s benefits.

City of Sacramento launches its annual community survey. CalMatters investigation reveals ongoing unemployment issues and fraud losses within California’s EDD. The Sacramento Observer celebrates with a 60th anniversary gala. Survey Asks ‘What Do You Like About Sacramento?’ What do you like about Sacramento? Is there something you’d like to see improved? Every year the City of Sacramento asks residents to participate in a survey about how they feel about the community. And this year’s opportunity to speak your mind has just launched.  Sacramento City Auditor Jorge Oseguera joins us to discuss the survey. We’ll learn how Sacramento city leaders use the information to guide policy decisions and allocate funds to areas that need attention, based on the feedback they receive. CalMatters EDD Investigation California is launching a massive overhaul of its unemployment and disability agency EDD, following one of the largest waves of fraud in US history, when suspected scammers reaped billions of dollars in unemployment aid during pandemic job losses. A new investigation from CalMatters Reporter Lauren Hepler reveals what caused the crash that touched 1 in 8 Californians, and the devastating consequences to real workers who went without unemployment benefits for weeks and months on end. CalMatters is a non-profit newsroom that is a content sharing partner with public media stations across the state. Sac Observer’s 60th Anniversary Gala   Larry Lee, President and Publisher of The Sacramento Observer, shares the history of becoming one of the leading African American newspapers in the country, ahead of the paper’s 60th Anniversary Gala Celebration. Sac Observer and CapRadio have a unique partnership with Report For America, a national service program that places journalists into local newsrooms to report on under-covered issues and communities.    This conversation first aired in July.

Five years after the Camp Fire, the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California history. The Davis “Science Cafe” holds its 100th event. Five Years After the ‘Camp Fire’ On Nov. 8, 2018 the Camp Fire ignited in Butte County and became the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California history. In the five years since, survivors in Paradise– and surrounding communities like Magalia, Pulga and Concow– have overcome hurdle after hurdle to rebuild. Jennah Baker helped senior residents escape from Sunshine Assisted Living that fateful day. Jennah was part of a documentary with Insight host Vicki Gonzalez while at KCRA, that followed four families in the year after the Camp Fire. Jennah joins Insight to share what home feels like now. Thousands of students, staff and teachers were impacted by the 2018 Camp Fire. Schools burned down or were seriously damaged, students and teachers fled, and the recovery process has been slow.  But out of the ashes comes hope for a revival of the area’s education system, with new buildings and facilities and a return to class. Paradise Unified School District Superintendent Tom Taylor joins us to discuss the journey back to school and what the future holds for the community. 100th Science Cafe On the second Wednesday of every month, the Davis Science Café provides a casual environment for scientists to talk about their research with the general public. On Nov. 8, the free series will be holding its 100th edition at the G Street WunderBar in Davis. Science Café host and founder Dr. Jared Shaw reflects on the history of the series. And guest presenter Dr. Crystal Rogers, Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology at UC Davis, provides a preview of this month’s event “Why Are Faces Different? Genes, the Environment, & Embryonic Development.”

Sacramento’s X Street Navigation Shelter progress and setbacks for those unhoused. What we know, and don’t know, about the El Niño winter forecast. Is this year’s wildfire season over? The 30th Annual “Run to Feed the Hungry.” Sacramento’s X Street Navigation Shelter It’s one of Sacramento’s busiest homeless shelters and while there has been some success in connecting people with housing options, there’s still room for improvement. CapRadio Homelessness and Housing Affordability Reporter Chris Nichols joins us for an update on the X Street shelter and the significant barriers that still keep people from finding a permanent, safe, place to live.  We will also learn about a new seasonal shelter that has opened in Elk Grove. El Niño Winter Forecast The forecast this winter is that El Niño is making a comeback, a weather pattern associated with wet weather and flooding. But it’s not that simple or predictable. According to the NOAA, El Nino dates back to the 1600s, when South American fishermen noticed periods of unusually warm water in the Pacific Ocean. Some 400 years later, there is still a great deal we don’t know. While some climate models are predicting a “super El Nino” this winter, it doesn’t mean we’ll feel that impact in Northern California. Dr. Paul Ullrich, Professor of Regional Climate Modeling at UC Davis, explains how big of a role El Niño plays in predicting wintertime precipitation in California. Is Wildfire Season Over? You might think this year’s wildfire season is a closed chapter. But history would caution otherwise. Tomorrow marks five years since the Camp Fire, the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California history. And in Southern California, the 2017 Thomas Fire is among one of the largest and most destructive in state history. They are sobering reminders that wildfires can defy seasons and be year round. Craig Clements, Professor and Director of the Wildfire Interdisciplinary Research Center at San Jose State University and joins us with a clearer picture of where things stand so far this year. 30th Annual ‘Run to Feed the Hungry’ is the largest Thanksgiving Day fun run in the country, and the largest annual fundraiser for the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. This year, the Sacramento tradition returns for its 30th year, and a goal of 30,000 participants. Blake Young, President and CEO of the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services gives a preview of the 30th annual run taking place on Nov. 23, and how it will support those in the Sacramento region facing hunger and food insecurity.

The Sacramento County jail isn’t meeting people’s constitutional rights. Here’s what is being done about it. UC Davis professor’s book “American Purgatory: Prison Imperialism and the Rise of Mass Incarceration.” The fall edition of the Sacramento French Film Festival returns.   Sacramento County Jail Conditions Sacramento County Jail has been under a legal agreement to improve health conditions since 2020. But progress has been so slow for those incarcerated, that the jail is at risk of a rare federal takeover and essentially losing control of its operations. CapRadio’s Healthcare Reporter Kate Wolffe explains how it got to this point, including a proposal for a possible $1 billion annex that has been questioned by lawyers and advocates.   Book on the Rise of Mass Incarceration A UC Davis professor whose focus is on systemic racism and inequality is taking a hard look at our country’s mass incarceration system, and a history that he says is inextricably linked to the expansion of American power around the globe. Dr. Benjamin Weber joins us about his new book “American Purgatory: Prison Imperialism and the Rise of Mass Incarceration.” Sacramento French Film Festival Oh là là! The fall edition of the Sacramento French Film Festival is underway and there are several films for everyone to enjoy.  Joining us with a preview of three new films is Cecile Downs, Executive & Artistic Director of the Sacramento French Film Festival. We’ll learn how you can watch the movies from the comfort of your own home, as well as interact with one of the movie directors.

Caltrans updates emergency repairs on I-80 in the Sierra. Governor Gavin Newsom returns from a weeklong trip to China. Hidden Brain host Shankar Vedantam launches new series “Healing 2.0”   Sierra I-80 Emergency Repairs Update The holidays are fast approaching and so is the bad weather.  CalTrans crews are working as fast as possible to get I-80 back in shape after last season’s brutal beating from the rain, snow and wind.  We’ll get an update from Caltrans’ Jeremy Linder on several hotspots identified for emergency repairs, the timeline for completion and how best to keep tabs on travel conditions, road work and traffic. Gov. Newsom’s Trip to China Gov. Gavin Newsom has returned from a weeklong trip brokering deeper ties and collaboration with China. Behind the international stage is a lot at stake– from climate, to tourism, tech, and education– China touches many arms of California’s economy. But a trip of this scale is far from simple, given U.S.-China relations are strained. It’s a trip that’s difficult to digest from overseas. Luckily, a handful of California journalists joined the governor along the way. San Francisco Chronicle Politics Reporter Sophia Bollag discusses what the governor’s trip to China accomplished, and where California fits in.  Hidden Brain host Shankar Vedantam He has long been host of the show Hidden Brain which takes listeners on an exploration of our inner world so we can get to know ourselves better, with less judgment and curiosity. Shankar Vedantam joins Insight about his latest project, a series called “Healing 2.0” with new episodes every Thursday, starting Nov. 2. The series explores how we can change our lives by taking a closer look at the stories we tell ourselves about our lives; discuss the nature of loss; and consider a mind-bending idea about whether we should try to do away with grief. And it will investigate whether it’s really true that “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” and end with a conversation about crafting better apologies. 

New state law requires venture capitalists disclose the race and gender of companies they fund. The people behind a reduction in violent crime within the city of Sacramento. “5000 Watts” electric art show in Oak Park this weekend.   New Law To Improve VC Investment In Women A new state law, recently signed by Governor Gavin Newsom and taking effect in 2025, has the power to shine sunlight and potentially change the way venture capitalists invest in California businesses.  Historically, venture capital firms have invested in Silicon Valley companies founded by men, but this new measure will require VC’s to disclose the race and gender of the founders of the companies they fund. Hanisha Harjani is a reporter with The Fuller Project and joins us on Insight with how the law holds investors accountable. Sacramento’s Office of Violence Prevention Sacramento Police have reported that violent crime is down in the city by roughly 18% overall, compared to the same time last year. And a lot of credit was given to the Office of Violence Prevention– particularly the person who leads the department. Dr. Nicole Clavo was appointed to lead the department three years ago, but has long and deep ties to Sacramento. Dr. Clavo also intimately understands the pain and toll of gun violence. Her teenage son J.J. Clavo was a student-athlete at Grant Union High School. He was murdered in 2015 before the school’s football game. Dr. Clavo joins Insight with Mervin Brookins, Founder of Brother 2 Brother Mentoring, to share what’s happening on the ground that’s contributing to a reduction in violent crime, as well as the challenges that still remain.  “5000 Watts” Electric Art Show This weekend, a free electric art show is returning to Sacramento’s Oak Park neighborhood, in a combination of creativity, arts, and technology. The event, 5000 Watts, is organized by a local nonprofit seeking to improve equity in STEAM education by providing programs to low-income and underrepresented students. Nicholas Haystings, Executive Director of the Square Root Academy, talks about how his organization’s work, as well as how 5000 Watts both supports the Academy and empowers the next generation of STEAM scholars.

Investigation into hospital bias for maternal care. UC Davis Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies is moving in a new direction. Broadway International Festival this weekend. Investigation into Hospital Bias in Maternal Care Black women are far more likely than other pregnant people to die during pregnancy. In 2019, California lawmakers passed a law requiring hospitals to provide training on unconscious bias and racial disparities around maternal deaths. Yet a new investigation by the California Department of Justice finds that few hospitals are complying, and serious disparities - especially for Black women - still persist. Kristen Hwang, Healthcare Reporter for CalMatters, talks about the investigation, as well as recommended steps aimed at reducing maternal mortality. Bulosan Center’s New Direction Five years ago, a first-of-its-kind grassroots research organization focused on the experiences of the Filipino American community was established at UC Davis - the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies. Now the center is embarking on a new, independent direction, while continuing its community-engaged work. Dr. Robyn Rodriguez, founder of the Bulosan Center, joins Insight to look back on the organization’s founding, mission, and impact on the local Filipino community. She also talks about its future as a priority of the Amado Khaya Initiative, named after her late son. Broadway International Festival Sacramento’s Broadway corridor is the pulse of Sacramento’s vibrant ethnic food, music and arts scene. This Saturday, the Broadway community is coming together to celebrate its diversity and culture at the annual Broadway International Festival. In addition to all of the fun festival offerings, this event also has a health and wellness component to it. Joining Insight is Zion Taddese, owner of the Ethiopian Queen Sheba restaurant and organizer of the festival. 

A Chico State professor launches study looking at AI’s impact on kids. A Sacramento dietician-nutritionist takes on the stigma around ultra-processed foods. Folsom Lake College puts on innovative showing of “20,000 Leagues Under the Seas.”   Chico State AI Study Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly commonplace, from image generators to virtual assistants. But concerns still remain around privacy, misinformation, and its impact on people in the long run. A new study launched at Chico State aims to analyze the current research around AI’s impact on children. Its lead investigator Dr. Abbas Attarwala, an Associate Professor of Computer Science, joins Insight to talk about the study, and how it can serve as a guide for future policy changes. Ultra-Processed Foods   is a Sacramento-based registered dietician-nutritionist, consultant, podcast host and author, who uses her experiences navigating the dietetic fields as a Black, queer dietitian to dismantle how both the public health and medical framing of “healthy eating” and “obesity” has contributed to disordered eating and self blame. Recently, Jessica has taken on the stigma surrounding "ultra processed foods"-- which can mean a lot more than what we think.     20,000 Leagues Under the Seas at Folsom Lake College A Broadway-caliber production of 20,000 Leagues Under the Seas is opening this week at Folsom Lake College.  Today on Insight, we speak with Director David Harris and actor Brennan Villados about what makes this production so special, including a much-anticipated  automated set.  We’ll also learn the innovative work the students get involved in and some of the unique programs Folsom Lake College offers.

City of Sacramento reports a nearly 19% drop in violent crime. How other countries have responded differently to mass shootings. Visit Sacramento launches a new Spanish-language podcast “Bienvenidos a Sacramento.”    City of Sacramento Reports Drop in Violent Crime Sacramento Police and city officials touted a roughly 18% reduction in violent crime so far in 2023. The city also announced $3.2 million in grants to community-based organizations working to interrupt violence in Sacramento. CapRadio Reporter Kate Wolffe dives into the early report. How Other Countries Reduce Mass Shootings An issue that can deeply divide us in the United States is gun control. While the U.S. is home to the largest number of mass shootings among developed countries in the world, and gun violence remains the number one cause of death for children, some argue that our constitutional right to a firearm continues to get in the way of meaningful and sensible gun control laws. Dr. Michael “Mick” North is the author of a book called, “Dunblane, Never Forget” after losing his 5-year-old daughter Sophie in a 1996 school shooting in Scotland, in which a gunman killed 16 students and their teacher before turning a gun on himself. Dr. North joins us Insight to talk about how he, and other parents who lost children, were able to change laws that resulted in a dramatic decline in gun-related deaths in the U.K. North also offers what he thinks can be done in the United States to bring the gun violence epidemic under control.  ‘Visit Sacramento’ Launches Spanish Podcast  Visit Sacramento debuted their new Spanish-language podcast, Bienvenidos a Sacramento, last month. A tribute to Hispanic Heritage Month, the new program showcases the stories and contributions of local Latino and Latina individuals and organizations in the community, from the all-female group Mariachi Bonitas to the Latino Center of Arts and Culture. Host Lilly Cortés Wyatt and Sonya Bradley, Chief of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Visit Sacramento join Insight to talk about how this new podcast was started, the “intentionality” behind their approach, and the growth of Spanish-speaking podcast listenership.

Non-profit Fenta Nah to host its first Fentanyl Awareness Fall Festival. CapRadio podcast “This is What it Feels Like” discussing losing a parent to suicide. ‘Fenta Nah’ Awareness Festival Fentanyl is an epidemic that continues to harm communities across the country. This weekend a new nonprofit, Fenta Nah, will be holding its inaugural Fentanyl Awareness Fall Festival on Oct. 28, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Camellia Grove Lawn at the Capitol Mall, offering a number of live-saving resources and information. Executive Director Tracy Robinson and Vice President and Director of Operations Shei’vonne Weber join Insight to talk about the festival, as well as how the loss of their daughter and sister Abresha Oates to fentanyl motivated them to support other families touched by this crisis. “This is What It Feels Like” Losing a Parent to Suicide Each week we’ve explored CapRadio’s new podcast “This is What it Feels Like” which shares the voices that are often overlooked or politicized by society. We’ve walked in the shoes of people who have navigated healthcare as a trans person, opened up about the harm of “catcalling culture,” given us an inspiring glimpse into what it’s like to be 106 years old, and listened to those who have gone through an abortion. These are firsthand, intimate, conversations that don’t typically happen, and they’re possible because of host Terra Lopez, an artist with deep ties to Sacramento. The final episode is one that is very personal to Terra– sharing what it’s like to lose a parent to suicide. Terra didn’t just share her own loss. She sat down with others who have also experienced that similar, but unique, pain. Mike Rafter is in the final episode. He and Terra joined Insight to talk about the importance of sharing a profoundly pivotal experience that often is attached to stigma.

Navigating news literacy online. Less than half of Sacramento County students meet college requirements. Sacramento Poetry Day is on Thursday.   News Literacy Project It can feel like we’re inundated with difficult and emotionally charged information when we go online. And it can be hard to discern fact from fiction and avoid confrontation– especially in the heat of the moment. John Silva is the Senior Director of Professional and Community Learning at the News Literacy Project, a nonpartisan education nonprofit to advance the practice of news literacy throughout American society, creating better informed, more engaged and more empowered individuals — and ultimately a stronger democracy. John joins Insight to provide some tools about what to trust, share and act on. Low College Readiness in Sacramento County Schools Less than half of students at Sacramento County’s six largest school districts meet the requirements to attend California’s public universities. That success gap is disproportionately affecting students of color. Srishti Prabha, CapRadio’s Education Reporter joins Insight to talk about the effects of cultural biases and misconceptions on college readiness, as well as how “college intervention programs” are trying to help these students achieve their higher education goals. Sacramento Poetry Day Sacramento Poetry Day is on Thursday, highlighted by poetry curriculum in local schools, a contest open to all ages and a gala to celebrate the art of spoken word. Joining us to talk about Sacramento Poetry Day are Sacramento Poet Laureate Andru Defeye and David "AndYes" Loret De Mola, an award winning, nationally ranked slam poet.

POLITICO California Playbook shares the latest political happenings in the state. Valley Vision conducts its annual poll on livability across six counties. Blues artist Katie Knipp returns to The Sofia.    Governor Gavin Newsom’s Trip to Israel and China Governor Gavin Newsom is in China today to promote action on climate change and strengthen economic ties.  On his way to China, Newsom made a brief stop in Israel to meet with people affected by the war with Hamas.  Co-author of POLITICO’s California Playbook, Lara Korte, joins us today to talk about Newsom’s unexpected visit to Israel and what it means for his national profile despite his insistence that he is not running for President.  Korte also digs into the reasons behind newly-installed Senator Laphonza Butler’s decision not to run for the seat when her term is up.  2023 Valley Vision Livability Poll This summer, over 3,000 people across the six counties in the Sacramento region answered questions about their quality of life as part of Valley Vision’s annual Livability Poll. The poll provides a snapshot of a variety of critical factors, and many residents shared positive views about the region’s assets. However, issues like climate change, a lack of affordable housing and disparities in accessing essential needs remain serious concerns for many. The full results will be released at the second annual Livability Summit, taking place Oct. 30 at 8 a.m. at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. Evan Schmidt, Chief Executive Officer of Valley Vision talks about the results of the latest poll, the upcoming summit, and some of its speakers. Blues Artist Katie Knipp at The Sofia   Katie Knipp is a three-time Top 10 Billboard Blues Albums artist and is bringing her big band back to the Sofia in Sacramento. Katie and drummer Neil Campisano join Insight ahead of their performance on Sat. Oct. 28 at 7pm.    Editor's note: CapRadio is a media sponsor of Valley Vision's livability summit.

Where California’s representatives stand in the fight for a new House Speaker. What it’s like to navigate an abortion. Sac State exhibit ‘The Seen Iranian Woman.’   California Congressional Update The House of Representative is still without a speaker as Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan, the Republican nominee, failed twice to capture enough votes and will not seek a third vote on Thursday. Meanwhile in the Senate, California Sen. Alex Padilla is helping to launch a new mental health caucus, a move rooted in his own personal experiences. Shira Stein, Washington correspondent for the San Francisco Chronicle joins Insight to talk about how California’s congressional delegation voted in the House, what other business is on the docket, and other updates from the U.S. capital. ‘This is What it Feels Like’ Abortion The personal experience of having an abortion often gets lost in the political world. And each decision to terminate a pregnancy is unique. There is a lot that goes into making that choice. We’re going to listen to Andi Wilson and Lorraine Allard, about how they navigated abortion firsthand. Andi and Lorraine are part of CapRadio’s new podcast “This is What it Feels Like” which shares the voices of people often overlooked or politicized by society. New episodes drop on Thursday.    Sacramento State Exhibit ‘The Seen Iranian Woman’ A year after the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, a new exhibit at Sac State highlights the journey of Iranian women through art, poetry, history and fashion. “The Seen Iranian Woman” opens next week and is curated by Sac State Professor of Fashion Merchandising & Management, Jaleh Naasz.  Naasz and Sahar Razavi, Director of the Iranian and Middle Eastern Studies Center, join Insight to talk about how Amini’s death inspired the exhibit, what it means to them as an Iranian-American and what they hope visitors will learn from the experience. Additional event info is available here.

Investigation into a little-known pollution rule that keeps the air dirty for millions of Americans. What roadkill can tell us about California's deer and mountain lion populations. Where to see fall colors across the Sierra Nevada.   Loophole Lets Air Regulators Wipe Pollution From Records The Clean Air Act is a more than 50-year-old federal law that allows the EPA to set standards to protect public health by regulating emissions of hazardous air pollutants. But an investigation by the California Newsroom found that a little-known provision forgives pollution caused by “natural” or “uncontrollable” events – like wildfires. And this “exceptional events rule” is being used more and more by local air regulators, alongside extreme weather events associated with climate change. Which means the air on paper might be cleaner than it actually is. And that has significant consequences to public health. Molly Peterson is an investigative reporter at the California Newsroom, a collaboration of public radio stations around the state and CalMatters, and joins Insight with more behind the findings, as well as solutions.  What Roadkill Can Tell Us About Native Species Roadkill. It’s an unfortunate sight on roads. But these fallen wild animals do have a great deal to tell us. CapRadio Environment Reporter Manola Secaira spoke to researchers at UC Davis about what they have learned from roadkill, why certain areas are more susceptible, as well as what the state of California is doing to better track and conserve native species.  Fall Colors Across Sierra Nevada With Fall in full swing, it’s time for nature lovers to go out and enjoy the changing colors of the leaves. From Lake Tahoe and Big Bear Lake, to Yosemite National Park, there are many places throughout California to take in the autumn beauty. But when is the best time to go, and how do you capture those scenes in a photo? Professional photographer Kial James joins Insight to talk about Fall foliage in the Northern California foothills, as well as tips for capturing good nature photography.

Event about making working California environments safer and more fair. Sacramento mayor candidates answer questions ahead of the March primary. Sacramento favorite Simon’s Bar & Cafe to close. What Is a Good Job Now? California workers enjoy some of the strongest legal protections in the country, but many still face workplace abuse or unfair labor practices. On Wednesday, Oct. 18 at 6 p.m. on the West Steps of the state Capitol, an in-person and livestreamed speaking event called “For Fairness in the Workplace” will highlight these challenges, as well as steps for potential change.  Presenter Joe Mathews, California columnist and Democracy editor at Zócalo Public Square and speaker Sara Fee, a former Amazon warehouse worker and organizer with the Warehouse Worker Resource Center in San Bernardino join Insight to talk about making working environments safer and more fair. Who is Running for Sacramento Mayor CapRadio Sacramento Government Reporter Kristin Lam shares her conversations with the candidates currently running for Sacramento mayor ahead of the March 2024 primary election. Four people have announced campaigns for mayor: Epidemiologist Flo Cofer, former City Council member Steve Hansen, state Assembly member Kevin McCarty, and former state lawmaker Dr. Richard Pan. They responded to questions on issues ranging from homelessness to music to the city government structure. Editor's notes: Steve Hansen joined CapRadio's governing board in 2021, after he left the city council. He resigned from the board late May 2023, prior to launching his mayoral campaign. In 2021, as a state senator, Dr. Richard Pan steered $1 million in state budget funding to CapRadio to help pay for construction of CapRadio's downtown studios. Assembly member McCarty placed $2 million in the 2022 state budget to help pay for construction of CapRadio's studios. Sacramento Restaurant Openings and Closures Sacramento’s restaurant and bar scene has come a long way over the years.  It has evolved from chain and corporate-owned restaurants to an oasis of diverse, award-winning restaurants. But just as the restaurant industry was seemingly reaching its fullest potential, the pandemic settled in, disrupting what might have been Sacramento’s food renaissance period. And restaurants are still trying to find their footing in an economy squeezed by inflation and a workforce that has yet to fully return to pre-pandemic levels, especially in the downtown area. And while some classic spots like Simon’s Bar & Cafe have announced they are going out of business, the news isn’t all bad. Several new spots are opening up. Sac Bee food and drink reporter, Benjy Egel, joins us with the latest comings and goings and gives an update on the Sacramento restaurant economy in the Capital City.

Which major bills Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law this year. New chancellor of the California State University system. Davis-based author writes a storybook to help families cope with the loss of a baby.   California New Laws Roundup Governor Newsom needed to sign or veto more than 1,000 legislative bills by Saturday night.  Some were controversial while others flew under the radar. CapRadio Politics reporter Nicole Nixon joins us with her assessment of the major bills, some of the ones that did not grab the headlines, and the reaction from those who had a lot riding on the governor’s signature.  New Cal State University Chancellor The California State University system has a new chancellor to lead the nation’s largest and most diverse four-year public university system. Chancellor Mildred Garcia assumed the position at the start of the month, and is the first-ever Latina to become CSU chancellor. Insight first spoke with Garcia back in July following the announcement of her appointment. We are revisiting the conversation, where she talked about her life experiences and how she plans to shape a stronger foundation across its 23 campuses.  Storybook Helps Families Cope with Infant Loss For those who decide to have children, it can be a difficult journey. Miscarriages, other pregnancy losses, infertility– as well as losing a newborn or infant– are real-life heartbreaks that have long been dealt with in private. And that can feel very lonely. But there has been a shift in talking about these challenges and hardships to raise awareness that this is common, and there is support. Jennifer Canvasser is among those helping people cope, after suffering the loss of her infant Micah. Jennifer is based in Davis and is the founder and executive director of the NEC Society, a non-profit dedicated to preventing and treating a neonatal intestinal disease. She is also the author of “Forever Our Little One,” a storybook for families to read together after the devastating loss of losing a baby.

How climate change impacts mental health, and a solution called ‘ecotherapy.’ Understanding the Israel-Palestine conflict. A 106-year-old dismantles aging stereotypes. How Climate Change Impacts Mental Health Among the list of things that give young people anxiety and stress, one might not think climate change would rank that high on the list, but it is. Students, school counselors and even the state are taking notice of what some call “climate distress” or “eco-anxiety” and the impact on mental health. Shreya Agrawal is a health reporting intern with CalMatters and joins us with some ways young people are dealing with this kind of stress on the grassroots level all the way to something called “ecotherapy.” Understanding the Israel-Palestine Conflict It’s been almost a week since brutal fighting broke out in Israel after attacks by Hamas, and retaliatory Israeli airstrikes devastated the blockaded Gaza Strip. The deadly events mark the latest phase of a conflict that stretches back decades. Sac State professors Harvey Stark and Sahar Razavi talk about the context and nuances that underlie the current situation, and how an upcoming roundtable hosted by Razavi and Stark aims to educate and support students here in Sacramento affected by these heartbreaking events. The roundtable will be held at Sac State on Tue. Oct. 17 from 5:30 - 7pm at the Union Ballroom.  106-year-old Dismantles Aging Stereotypes CapRadio’s new podcast “This is What it Feels Like” has a simple, open-ended premise: In a world that feels more divided than ever, put yourself in the shoes of everyday people at the center of issues often overlooked or politicized by society. It’s not simple. It’s not black and white. The newest episode features a 106-year-old woman named Glenna to dismantle and give a deeper understanding about aging. Joining Glenna in the podcast are granddaughters Cassie and Sarah. Glenna passed away shortly after her 107th birthday, surrounded by family. Cassie Zook joins Insight to discuss the power of intergenerational relationships, and how her grandmother shaped how she lives her life and her views on the aging process. 

Gov. Newsom vetoed, what would have been, a first-in-the-nation law banning caste discrimination. First murder sentencing for fentanyl in California takes place in Placer County. Faith J. McKinnie Gallery in Sacramento. Newsom Vetoes Caste Discrimination Bill , Politics Reporter for CalMatters, explains why Gov. Newsom vetoed, what would have been, a first-in-the-nation law banning caste discrimination in education, housing and the workplace. The bill, passed by the State Legislature, divided South Asian communities in California. First Fentanyl Murder Sentencing in California 15 years to life is the sentence handed down yesterday by a Placer County judge in a case that made history in California. A 22-year-old man is headed to state prison on second-degree murder charges after he was found responsible for the death of a Roseville girl who died from a fentanyl overdose. On Insight, we revisit a conversation with Placer County District Attorney Morgan Gire who walks us through how the evidence in the case led him and his team to file murder charges against the suspect and how this case has now set a precedent for fentanyl cases in California. Faith J. McKinnie Gallery Sacramento’s arts scene took a major hit during the pandemic.  Galleries closed and those that survived struggled to stay open.  Now, there continues to be more closures than art gallery openings and that is concerning to many in the community.  Today on Insight, a ray of hope as Faith J. McKinnie, an independent curator and gallerist,  opened a new location just a few weeks ago.  We’ll speak to McKinnie about what Sacramento needs to bring back its’ one-vibrant arts scene and how she hopes to inspire others through her gallery.

Some Sacramento County residents can apply to participate in the third round of guaranteed income. Nonprofit fosters creativity for unhoused youth in Sacramento. Second annual Oak Park Black Film Festival. Sacramento Guaranteed Income Program Opens New Applications , Manager of the Guaranteed Income Program at United Way California Capital Region, discusses the third round of applications for some Sacramento County residents that would give them $500 every month. Residents have until Oct. 31 to apply, and the United Way will start paying 130 eligible households on Jan. 1, 2024. For this round of the program, funding came from the county’s American Rescue Plan Act money along with a donation from the Sierra Health Foundation.  Fostering Creativity for Unhoused Youth The number of unhoused youth in Sacramento County has more than doubled according to the most recent count of those experiencing homelessness in our area.  Many of them are part of the LGBTQ+ community as well as being persons of color, and connecting them to services is the goal of Sacramento’s Creation District. CapRadio’s Education Reporter, Srishti Prabha joins us on Insight today to share how this unique space offers a series of services focused on supporting Sacramento’s increasing number of unhoused people under the age of 24. Oak Park Black Film Festival , CEO of  St. HOPE, discusses the 2nd annual Oak Park Black Film Festival happening at the historic Guild Theater in Oak Park from October 11-15. We’ll get a preview of the five-day festival, where African-American stories and history are told through cinema– including a special day celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip hop. 

A closer look at the bills Governor Newsom signed and vetoed over the weekend. UC Davis steps in to help refugee students from Artsakh protect their educational information. We discuss the inaugural Wellness Academy, a free virtual education series.   Politico’s California Playbook Governor Newsom signed and vetoed a stack of bills over the weekend.  We’ll take a closer look at what bills survived and which ones didn’t.  Plus, Kevin McCarthy, out as House Speaker.  Who will replace him and will California feel an impact without someone in the Speaker’s chair?  And, now that California has a new Senator, the big question surrounding Laphonza Butler is whether or not she will run for the seat in 2024.  We’ll discuss it all with Co-author of POLITICO’s California Playbook, Dustin Gardiner. UC Davis’ Backpack Program Over 100,000 refugees from the historic Armenian enclave of Artsakh have poured into the tiny South Caucasus country of Armenia following a mass exodus brought on by Azerbaijani aggression. UC Davis is stepping in to help refugee students from Artsakh protect their educational information as Azerbaijan executes a mass ethnic cleansing of the enclave.  UC Davis Professor and Director of Human Rights Studies, Keith David Watenpaugh joins us to discuss the humanitarian crisis and how Article 26 Backpack works. UC Davis Wellness Academy , Interim Dean of the UC Davis School of Medicine, and Dr. Scott Fishman, Executive Director of the Office of Wellness Education at UC Davis Health, discuss the inaugural Wellness Academy, a free virtual education series on wellness that is open to all, with lectures presented by esteemed UC Davis Faculty and experts in their field. Each virtual wellness lecture session will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m for four Saturdays in a row, beginning Oct. 14. 

Sacramento State President Luke Wood on CapRadio’s financial challenges. Navigating healthcare and gender-affirming care as a trans person. Heart of Gold Gravel Race in Nevada County this weekend. Sac State President Luke Wood on CapRadio Financial Challenges On Wednesday, 13 CapRadio board members resigned, following a devastating audit conducted by the California State University system. CapRadio is an auxiliary of Sacramento State, which holds the NPR-member station’s license. Sac State President Luke Wood discusses CapRadio’s financial mismanagement, Sac State’s oversight, as well as how the public radio station and university move forward.  Disclosure: Following NPR’s protocol for reporting on itself, no CapRadio corporate official or news executive reviewed this reporting before it was broadcasted or posted. You can follow ongoing coverage of financial issues at Capital Public Radio here. Navigating Healthcare as a Trans Person CapRadio’s new podcast This Is What It Feels Like puts listeners in the shoes of everyday people at the center of issues often overlooked or politicized by society. The first episode explores navigating healthcare as a trans person. On Insight, we explore gender affirming care. Liza Thantranon is regional Counsel for Health at Legal Services of Northern California, and has been working with Sacramento’s Gender Health Center as a community partner. Pediatric Endocrinologist Dr. Tandy Aye is the founder and medical director of the Stanford Pediatric and Adolescent Gender Clinic. Heart of Gold Gravel Race The Heart of Gold Race & Festival in Nevada City is a unique biking event that is more than just a race.  While competitors whip around a gravel course and festival goers enjoy the great food and drink, the winners of this annual event are local organizations focused on addressing youth mental wellness in Nevada County.  Joining us on Insight to talk about the event and the mental health needs of their community are race participant and Nevada County Supervisor, Hardy Bullock, and Jennifer Singer, Executive Director of Bright Futures for Youth.

Sac State ASI president calls on CapRadio Board of Directors to resign. Sacramento Kings Documentary “Game On: Fight for the Kings.” Sacramento Greek Festival celebrates 60 years.  Sacramento State ASI President Calls on CapRadio Board to Resign CapRadio’s financial troubles go beyond the public radio station. As an auxiliary of Sacramento State, any debt is ultimately the responsibility of the university. Sacramento State Associated Students Inc. President Nataly Andrade-Dominguez is a CapRadio board member. In a statement to the student-run State Hornet, she called on the officers of the CapRadio board to resign. Andrade-Dominguez joins Insight to discuss how they view the right way to move forward, for the campus’ more than 30,000 students. You can follow ongoing coverage of financial issues at Capital Public Radio here. Kings Documentary It's been 10 years since a single tweet from a food blogger in Seattle touched-off a series of events that led to the fight to keep the Kings in Sacramento. Sunday night, a documentary called “Game On: Fight for the Kings” will air on KCRA that looks back at the journey from the moment news broke that the team was for sale, all the way to the building of the arena.  Investigative producer Dave Manoucheri and Sports Anchor Michelle Dapper join us with new insights into the battle between Seattle and Sacramento for the Kings. Sacramento Greek Festival Opa! The Sacramento Greek Festival turns 60 this year. The weather is looking good and the volunteers are hard at work to make this weekend’s festivities the best yet. Joining us today are organizer Koula Gianulias and long-time volunteer Julie Mamalis who will share with us some of the new features at this year’s Greek Fest and how the annual event benefits local charities and youth programs.

Why home caretakers in Sacramento are calling on the county to raise their wages and extend health care benefits. A California bill wants to equalize opportunity in Silicon Valley. Stroke awareness event at Sacramento State.    Sacramento Home Care Workers Want Higher Pay from County CapRadio Health Care Reporter Kate Wolffe explains why caretakers for elderly and disabled people in Sacramento are calling on the county to raise their wages and extend health care benefits for more people. Bill Aims To Improve VC Investment In Women Of the hundreds of bills waiting to be signed or vetoed by Governor Newsom, one has the power to shine sunlight and potentially change the way venture capitalists invest in California businesses.  Historically, venture capital firms have invested in Silicon Valley companies founded by men, but this bill would require VC’s to disclose the race and gender of the founders of the companies they fund. Hanisha Harjani is a reporter with The Fuller Project and joins us on Insight with how this bill would hold investors accountable, who is vehemently opposed to it and why proponents argue it is long overdue. Stroke Awareness Event at Sacramento State Stroke is a leading cause of death in the U.S. But for those who survive this brain injury, there can be a long road to recovery– both physically and emotionally. Luckily there is support to regain one’s capabilities and identity. Flannery O'Neil is a stroke survivor and Executive Director of Stroke Onward. Debra Meyerson, Ph.D. is founder of Stroke Onward and author of the book “Identity Theft: Rediscovering Ourselves After Stroke.” And Deborah Gonzalez is a speech pathologist who runs a stroke support group in Sacramento. They join us ahead of an event at Sacramento State on Oct. 7 for stroke survivors, their care partners, and those who work in the medical field.

The late Sen. Diane Feinstein’s legacy and who Gov. Newsom has chosen to appoint to fill her seat. CapRadio interim general manager discusses CSU audit detailing financial mismanagement. Late Sen. Diane Feinstein’s Legacy and Who Fills Her Seat Just days after the passing of longtime California Senator Dianne Feinsten, Governor Newsom has made his pick to fill the vacant seat. Previously, he had said he would fill it with an African-American woman who was not going to run for the seat in 2024 and it appears he is fulfilling that promise. Joining us to discuss the choice is CalMatters’ Alexei Koseff with more on Laphonza Butler and how her appointment makes history and how it may impact the upcoming race for Feinstein’s Senate seat. CSU Audit Details Financial Mismanagement at CapRadio CapRadio is the focus of a devastating audit by the California State University system that lays out years-long financial mismanagement and uncertainty that the public radio station has the ability to pay for costly downtown projects. In response, Sacramento State — which holds CapRadio’s license — is stepping in with oversight and financial support. The audit comes four weeks after CapRadio laid off 12% of its staff, which includes North State Public Radio based in Chico, and led to the cancellation of four longtime music programs. As journalists, we are taking a hard look at our employer. Insight Host Vicki Gonzalez and CapRadio Reporter Chris Nichols sat down with interim General Manager Tom Karlo for a better understanding of what happened and where we go from here.  Disclosure: Following NPR’s protocol for reporting on itself, no CapRadio corporate official or news executive reviewed our reporting before it was posted publicly or broadcasted.  

Voters to decide on Proposition 1 mental health funding. Investigation looks into nursing homes across the state. CapRadio’s new podcast “This is What it Feels Like.” Voters to Decide on Mental Health Funding California’s decades-long struggle to find a solution to the mental health and homelessness crisis is taking a new turn. Governor Gavin Newsom is banking on a new, two-pronged approach to funding critical infrastructure to help people with serious and chronic mental health issues that can lead to or exacerbate homelessness. CalMatters Health reporter, Kristen Hwang joins us to examine the Governor’s proposal, Proposition 1, which California residents will vote on in the March primary. Investigation into California Nursing Homes Elly Yu, Investigative reporter at LAist, shares her investigation which found that across the state, people with serious mental illness are living in nursing homes that experts say weren’t meant to care for them. Some call it "warehousing" and say the practice might violate federal laws, with deadly consequences. Yu’s investigation was a partnership with  APM Research Lab, as well as The California Newsroom– which is a collaboration among public radio stations across the state.  CapRadio’s New Podcast ‘This is What it Feels Like’ Terra Lopez is the host of CapRadio's new podcast This Is What It Feels Like. In a world that feels more divided than ever, put yourself in the shoes of everyday people at the center of issues often overlooked or politicized by society. It’s not simple. It’s not black and white. This Is What It Feels Like. New episodes drop on Thursday. 

Republican presidential debate and state GOP convention this week in California. Gov. Bill to legalize some psychedelics awaits Gov. Newsom’s signature or veto. Exhibit explores Sacramento lowrider history and culture. California in Republican National Spotlight It’s a busy and potentially pivotal week for Republican candidates in California. Tonight, it’s the second Republican Presidential debate between the major candidates, minus frontrunner Donald Trump. Then, this weekend, California Republicans will gather for their annual convention in Anaheim. Los Angeles Times political reporter, Seema Mehta, joins us from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, site of tonight’s debate, with a look at who needs to perform well in California in order to take the state’s delegates as well as some of the important down-ballot races that could reshape the House of Representatives. Psychedelics Bill Awaits Gov. Newsom Signature Gov. Newsom is weighing hundreds of bills passed by the State Legislature. One bill would decriminalize some hallucinogenic drugs like psilocybin, which is found in magic mushrooms. From Oregon to Colorado and Washington D.C. laws surrounding the use of psychedelics have been loosened, decriminalized, or even legalized in a supervised setting. And more conservative states like Texas and Utah are exploring the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics for disorders from PTSD, depression, anxiety, as well as addiction. Newsom hasn’t indicated whether he will sign this bill into law, which comes with pushback from law enforcement groups. But California is already home to the first accredited university training therapists, doctors and nurses in the benefits of psychedelics, and how to use them safely. We are revisiting a conversation we had in January with Dr. Janis Phelps, Director of the Center for Psychedelic Therapy and Research at the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco, about the benefits of psychedelics in a supervised setting.   Sacramento Exhibit on Lowrider History Lowrider culture is full of life, art, music and love. But for decades it was targeted by local communities as a nuisance and dangerous. A new exhibit at the Sacramento History Museum explores the long history of lowrider and cruising culture in California along with the discrimination associated with it. “Boulevard Dreams” is the largest exhibit yet at the museum and Executive Director Delta Pick Mello and Francine Mata with the Sacramento Lowrider Commission join us to explain what visitors will experience and the message behind the exhibit.

Why those greatest at risk may not get the new COVID vaccine. New book “Autobiography of a Sea Creature: Healing the Trauma of Infant Surgery.” Sacramento Theatre Company’s “Peter and the Starcatcher.” New COVID Vaccine Lacks Outreach This month, the FDA approved a new COVID vaccine. And this latest vaccine is one the FDA hopes will be updated annually, just like the flu shot. The problem is that those getting vaccinated have waned. According to the CDC, while roughly 70% of those 5 years and older in the U.S. completed the original vaccine, that dropped to 17% for the bivalent shot in 2022. And there is concern that a majority of people will skip this latest COVID vaccine, especially those who need it the most. Science journalist Amy Maxmen shares her reporting on the new COVID vaccine, and why those at greatest risk may not get it. Autobiography on Healing from Infant Surgery Up until 1986, it was believed infants weren’t developed enough to feel or remember pain, and it was common practice to perform neonatal surgery without anesthesia. But the medical community was gravely wrong, and reversed course in 1987. Although unable to speak at the time, or consciously remember, there is growing awareness that trauma within the body can have a profound impact on your life. Wendy Williams has lived that journey and discusses her new book “Autobiography of a Sea Creature: Healing the Trauma of Infant Surgery.”  Sacramento Theatre Company ‘Peter and the Starcatcher’ The Sacramento Theatre Company is opening its season with a youth production of "Peter and the Starcatcher." This production is the precursor to Peter Pan and Captain Hook and is performed by students from 4th grade through high school. Joining Insight are 11th grade actor Asher Wilson, Director William Schmidt and Miranda Lawson, Education Manager at the Sacramento Theatre Company.

Farm to Fork Festival is being held this weekend at Capitol Mall. “The Beatles Guitar Project Rock Orchestra” performs at the Crest Theater on Sunday. Sacramento students will perform at the Monterey Jazz Festival this weekend.   Farm to Fork Festival Street Fair The final and biggest event of Sacramento’s Farm-to-Fork Festival is happening this weekend with the annual street fair on Capitol Mall. It features an impressive line-up of chefs, food demonstrations and concerts as well as some new features. Mike Testa, President and CEO of Visit Sacramento joins us to fill us in on all of the details along with Co-owners of the Sugar Sweetery, Justine and Candice Cabanilla, who will share their Farm-to-Fork journey from their perspective as minority, women and LGBTQ business owners. “The Beatles Guitar Project Rock Orchestra” It could go down as one of the coolest musical collaborations in Sacramento.  It’s called “The Beatles Guitar Project Rock Orchestra” ... a mix of rock orchestra, set to some of the Beatles’ most iconic hits and it’s all happening this Saturday at the Crest Theater. Aside from the music, the performance benefits music education right here in Sacramento. CapRadio’s midday classical host, Jennifer Reason, is one of the performers in Saturday’s extravaganza and she will be joined on Insight by  Benjamin McClara, music director of the “The Beatles Guitar Project Rock Orchestra.”   Sacramento Musicians at Monterey Jazz Festival The 66th Monterey Jazz Festival is this weekend. Each year the festival also features several student bands, like the Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo, which was created in 2019 to feature top high school women jazz players from across the country. Only six students get in, and this year two of them happen to be from Sacramento. CapRadio's Excellence in Jazz host Avery Jeffry recently sat down with the two students, Paloma Cobbs-Silva and Salome Ospina, to discuss their journey to Monterey. In Sacramento, you can hear Paloma Cobbs-Silva on October 20th at Twin Lotus Thai and Salome Ospina in the upcoming season of the Camellia Symphony. Both students were involved in the “Teagarden Jazz Camp” with the Sacramento Jazz Education Foundation.

The Sacramento County DA sues the city over homelessness enforcement. “Single Mom Strong” helps women navigate the ups and downs of single parenting. Nonprofit “Women’s Empowerment” celebrates its graduating class of women and children lifted out of homelessness. Sacramento County Sues City Over Homeless Response Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho explains why his office is suing the city of Sacramento over its enforcement of homelessness. In response, city officials called Ho’s lawsuit “a distraction” from the work needed to solve homelessness and vowed to defend their record in court. CapRadio also reached out to Mayor Darrell Steinberg. He is out of the country touring prison reform on behalf of the governor. ‘Single Mom Strong’  is an organization helping women in Sacramento County navigate the ups and downs of single parenting.  From preschool and childcare to job training and socials, Single Moms Strong has been serving the community since 2016.  Now, the nonprofit organization has launched several new and free services to help single moms in Sacramento.  Founding Executive Director, Tara Taylor and client, Megan Giglini, join us to talk about the unique challenges single moms face and how the new services can help. Women’s Empowerment Transformation Gala , Executive Director of Women’s Empowerment, a nonprofit focused on providing women experiencing homelessness the skills necessary to get a job, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and regain a home for themselves and their children. They are having their annual Transformation Gala on Thursday, Sept. 21, and are looking for people to sponsor the cost of the ticket for this year’s graduates.

Tuition will increase next year across Cal State campuses. The rise of girls’ flag football at high schools. Celebrating the journeys of centenarians — anyone over 100 years old — in the Sacramento region. CSU tuition increase Starting next year, it will cost more to attend a Cal State university. CSU Trustees approved a 6% tuition increase each year, over the next five years. By the time it’s Fall 2028, that amounts to a nearly $2,000 increase in tuition, and came with opposition from students and faculty across the state. There are 23 Cal State campuses, and on its homepage it prides itself as “the nation's most diverse four-year university – ethnically, economically and academically” adding that “students graduate with less (or no) debt.” CapRadio Reporter Janelle Salanga explains the upcoming tuition increase and how the Cal State system got to this point. Girls' flag football Girls' flag football.  It’s the buzz on high school campuses all over California these days.  The newly-sanctioned sport has become so popular so quickly, that coaches have more girls signing up than they have room for on their teams.  On Insight, we’ll explore the explosive growth of girls flag football with Will DeBoard, Assistant Commissioner with the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section and Varsity Flag Football Coach, Melissa Triebwasser, of Sacramento’s St. Francis High School and learn how the game is similar yet also very different from the boys version.  We’ll also find out why it means so much to the players and their coaches to be able to take the field in this historically male-dominated sport. Celebrating Carmichael's centenarians The fountain of youth may be found in Carmichael.  The Eskaton Village is throwing a big celebration this week in honor of the more than 50 centenarians that live across its various communities.  But you don’t need to live there to celebrate. Nicole Zamora, Director of Fund Development at Eskaton, and centenarian Marian Stonesifer joins us to talk about this Friday’s event, plus get some real-life advice on how to live a long and healthy life.

As the California legislative session ends, which bills have a pathway to be signed into law? The Gorman Museum of Native American Art major expansion. Stockton Symphony kicks off the upcoming season with new leadership. California Legislative Session Recap Roughly 2,600 bills were introduced at the State Capitol this year. Over the months, they have filtered their way through amendments and committees, in pursuit of being passed and heading to the governor’s desk to be signed into law. The finish line has come and passed. CapRadio Politics Reporter Nicole Nixon joins us with a recap of the legislative session, which ended on Thursday, sharing some of the most notable bills passed by the legislature and their likelihood of being signed by Gov. Newsom.  Gorman Museum of Native American Art UC Davis’ Gorman Museum of Native American Art is expanding, big time. This week, the museum opens in its new location on campus, with new exhibits and features. The new gallery is four times the size of the former site and is still one of only a small handful of museums focused on contemporary Native American art. Museum director and professor in the Department of Native American Studies, Hulleah Tsinhnahjinnie, and curator Veronica Passalacqua for a virtual tour of the new and improved museum and we’ll learn more about some of the artwork inside and outside the new venue. Stockton Symphony’s New Chapter  The Stockton Symphony is entering its 97th season, the third-oldest continuously operating professional orchestra in California. And the 2023-2024 season is starting a new chapter. Earlier this year, the symphony’s CEO Philip West unexpectedly passed away. In the months since, West’s contribution was honored in performances. And this season begins with new leadership. Music Director and Conductor Peter Jaffe joins Insight to introduce the new CEO Scott Watkins, as well as provide a preview of their season opener which kicks off Saturday Sept. 23. 

Tapping into the Northern California real estate market. Investigation into the rise of medical deaths at Sacramento County Jail. Music movement boosts the local jazz scene. Northern California Housing Market Thinking of buying or selling a home? With interest rates sky-high these days, you might be thinking twice. But the numbers tell a very different story, especially here in the Sacramento area. While the market has slowed considerably, homes are selling and buyers are buying and it is very different from years past. Real estate expert and appraiser Ryan Lundquist joins us for a look at the market in the greater Sacramento area including what’s selling, what’s not and where. Sacramento Jail Deaths Investigation An investigation found that medical-related deaths among people incarcerated in Sacramento County have been on the rise in recent years, a total of 25 from the start of 2021. And all but one have been at the main downtown jail. But unlike homicides and suicides, medical deaths typically lack any independent oversight. Sacramento Bee reporter Theresa Clift joins Insight to share her reporting which examines the six recent deaths that have happened so far this year, including the toll it has on loved ones who are dissatisfied with answers about the circumstances leading up to their death.  Jazzing Up Local Music Scene Live jazz and music of all kinds has become harder to find and enjoy in Sacramento.  Now, the Mayor wants to revive Sacramento’s music scene and turn it into the music capital of the West, but some venues are already leading the charge.  Today on Insight, journalist Cathy Cassinos shares her report on Sacramento’s jazz scene and how some businesses are making space for live music by turning their venues into live performance destinations.  Plus, local musician and entrepreneur, Joseph Gilman discusses why he felt compelled to add live music to his restaurant’s offerings.

POLITICO hosts an evening with Gov. Gavin Newsom. A Del Paso Heights nonprofit seeks to reverse the growing fentanyl crisis. How this year’s “Big Melt” has been a game-changer for the Feather River. Conversation with Gov. Newsom Gov. Gavin Newsom has become one of the loudest and spirited voices for the Democratic Party. And on a national stage, Newsom has seared his ideological and political differences with Republican governors. But a one-on-one sit down about issues facing Californians is difficult to come by. At the California Museum, Newsom took part in an interview about all things politics in the Golden State. POLITICO California Bureau Chief Christopher Cadelago discusses his live conversation with Gov. Newsom in Sacramento.   Del Paso Heights Nonprofit Seeks to Reverse Growing Fentanyl Crisis As the number of fentanyl-related overdoses skyrockets in Sacramento County, staff and volunteers who perform outreach with the unhoused community are digging deeper to get to the root of the drug epidemic. CapRadio’s Health Care reporter, Kate Wolffe, joins us on Insight today to talk about some simple, yet powerful questions they are asking to shed light on what may have led to their drug use and get them the mental health help they need. Feather River’s Big Melt’ California’s Feather River may not be one of the more well-known, but its importance to the overall health of the state is immeasurable.  This past rain and snow season proved to be a game-changer for just about everything the river impacts, including recreation, farming, hydroelectric production and the state’s salmon population. Joining us on Insight are San Francisco Chronicle Natural Resources reporter, Kurtis Alexander and Photographer and Multimedia Producer, Carlos Avila Gonzalez, who recently reported on how this year’s “Big Melt” has been a game-changer for the Feather River.  You can read and experience their reporting here.

Sacramento turns to 'micro apartments' to ease the affordable housing crunch. Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist Darrin Bell’s graphic memoir “The Talk.” California Capital Airshow at Mather Airport.   Micro Apartments in Sacramento Finding an affordable apartment in California can be financially painful. The average statewide rent for a studio apartment is around $1,800 a month, according to Zillow. In Sacramento, the average rent for a studio runs roughly $1,400 a month. But even smaller units are taking shape around the state capital. Micro apartments have become more common in large cities like San Francisco. But they are also popping up in Sacramento, as a more affordable tool to curb a housing shortage that is driving up rent. CapRadio Reporter Chris Nichols covers housing affordability and got a look at micro apartments, as well as the challenges this type of housing is running up against.  Pulitzer Prize Winning Cartoonist Darrin Bell’s Graphic Memoir Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist Darrin Bell is turning to his youth for his new graphic memoir “The Talk.” Bell grew up in Los Angeles in the ‘80s and ‘90s to a white mother and Black father, and through vulnerable illustrations he shares personal experiences that shaped his understanding of race and racism throughout his life, culminating into fatherhood and whether he and his son are ready to have “the talk.” Bell joins Insight ahead of his event at Crocker Art Museum on Thursday, Sept. 14 at 6 p.m.    California Capital Airshow  The California Capital Airshow roars into Mather Airport next weekend with some of the world’s most incredible aircraft and pilots.  Angela Terry, Director of Operations for the Airshow, joins us to talk about some of the returning attractions in the air and on the ground.  We will also learn about what’s new at the airshow, including an area called “The Hangar Chalet” as well as a free kick-off event that is open to all.

Vitalant officially expands blood donor eligibility to men who have sex with men. Rocklin is among school districts that approve a controversial gender ‘outing’ policy of students. The best El Dorado County road trips.    More Gay, Bisexual Men are Eligible to Donate Blood Dr. Chris Gresens, Senior Chief Medical Officer for Vitalant, discusses officially expanding blood donor eligibility to men who have sex with men (MSM) for the first time in nearly 40 years, following the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) updated guidelines. The FDA’s old guidance required gay and bisexual men to wait three months following their last sexual contact with another man. With the new FDA guidance, all potential donors are now screened using a series of questions that assess individual risk of HIV, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. School Districts Approve Controversial Gender ‘Outing’ Policy School board meetings have now become the public battleground over parental rights versus a child’s right to privacy at public schools. Two school boards in recent weeks, including Rocklin, have passed controversial policies that would require teachers to identify transgender and gender non-conforming students to their parents. Now, the state of California is firing back with legal action. Diana Lambert, Senior Reporter at EdSource, joins Insight to discuss the districts’ policy moves and why Attorney General Rob Bonta is vowing to fight in court. Ebony Harper is the founder of California TRANScends and Anoosh Jorjorian is the director of Yolo Rainbow Families with the Davis Phoenix Coalition. Both work with LGBTQ+ youth in the Sacramento area and join Insight to discuss the impact the policies can have on trans and gender non-conforming students on campus and at home. El Dorado County Road Trips Budget-friendly road trips might be something to consider if you’ve taken a peek at airline and hotel prices lately. Just a short drive away, El Dorado County delivers some of the most scenic (and Instagram-worthy) sights in our area. Jody Franklin is the Executive Director of Tourism at the El Dorado County Visitors Authority and joins Insight for some of the iconic locations for a beautiful drive that won’t break the bank.

Sac City Unified back-to-school changes for schools, students and staff. The Mother Lode launches an ADU program from homes. Sac Charter High starts dual enrollment to earn college credits. Sac City Unified Back-to-School Changes School is back in session in Sacramento. More than 40,000 students, teachers and administrators have returned to Sacramento City Unified School District. But this year comes with changes in priorities, personnel and even pay. CapRadio Sacramento Education reporter, Srishti Prabha, joins Insight today for an update on teacher contract negotiations, the search for a new superintendent and changes to a few school names.   Mother Lode ADU Program Ben Goger, Mariposa County Housing and Community Development Specialist, discusses a new effort to curb the housing crisis. Mother Lode ADU is a new partnership between the counties of Amador, Calveras, Mariposa, and Nevada to make it easier for residents to add accessory dwelling units to their properties in an effort to curb the housing crisis.  New High School Dual Enrollment Program Laura Davis, College Coordinator at Sacramento Charter High, and student Edie Park, discuss a new dual enrollment program called the Panther Pipeline where Sac High juniors and seniors can take Sacramento City College classes and earn college credits while in high school. St. HOPE Public Schools, which runs Sac High, says the program is supported through state grant funding and it is one of two high schools in the city that offers high school students a chance to earn college credits. 

Using high-tech tools to combat garbage and invasive species at Lake Tahoe. A new book looks at what the victims' rights movement has gotten right and wrong. A run to raise funds for foster youth is taking place Saturday at Land Park.  Robots to Keep Lake Tahoe Blue The fight to Keep Tahoe blue is turning to technology. Robots, the size of golf carts, are being deployed to rid the beaches of plastics, garbage and debris, while the skimmers are sucking harmful chemicals and invasive plants from sensitive areas like the Tahoe Keys. Amy Alonzo is the Environment Reporter for the Nevada Independent and joins us to discuss the use of these high-tech tools, how effective they are, where they’re being used, along with the push to keep them funded for the future. Author of 'The Victims' Rights Movement: What It Gets Right, What It Gets Wrong' The Victims’ Rights Movement began more than 50 years ago, and in that time, has been credited with more resources and justice for victims. But a new book is challenging us to look at the pitfalls of the movement, and to reframe our definition of success so that it includes preventing violent behavior in the first place. Mike Vitiello, Distinguished Professor of Law at University of the Pacific’s McGeorge School of Law, discusses his new book “The Victims' Rights Movement: What It Gets Right, What It Gets Wrong.” Fundraiser to Help Foster Families and Youth  There are tens of thousands of children in need of foster care across California. And connecting these children with foster parents takes a network of will and support. Foster Hope Sacramento has been around for more than 30 years, recruiting and helping those who wish to become foster parents. And this weekend is a great opportunity to get outside and support them. Jennifer Walker, Family Approval Specialist with FosterHope Sacramento, discusses the non-profit’s work and its “Run to Foster Hope” fundraiser taking place Saturday, Sept. 9 at William Land Park to support programs that help stabilize and support children and youth in crisis.

Research to protect California wine grapes from wildfire smoke. Sacramento business incubation program CLTRE Club. CapRadio lays off staff, cancels music programs amid financial issues. Fighting Smoke Tainted Wine As wildfire smoke becomes the norm in California, winemakers are having to deal with the impact the smoke has on their product.  Now, researchers at UC Davis are experimenting with ways to help protect wine grapes from the smell and taste of smoke, putting the state’s multi-billion dollar industry at risk. CapRadio’s Environment Reporter, Manola Secaira, joins Insight for the latest advances in technology to fight against smoke-tainted wine and the effort to keep the costs down. Plus, we’ll get a virtual taste-test of what smoke-tainted wine really tastes like. Sacramento Business Incubator CLTRE Club Small businesses are core to the local economy. But it’s not for the faint of heart. Getting a business off the ground and becoming successful can be tough to do alone, especially when taking on the added overhead of a storefront. A new nonprofit wants to make those hurdles less daunting for local entrepreneurs. Roshaun Davis, co-owner and founder of Unseen Heroes, discusses launching a sister non-profit CLTRE Club in midtown Sacramento, which is a business incubation pilot program and community space in partnership with the Capitol Area Development Authority (CADA).  CapRadio, NSPR Layoffs and Music Program Cancellations Last week, CapRadio laid off 12% of its staff and canceled four music shows due to ongoing financial issues. The layoffs span music, news hosts, digital and include North State Public Radio based in Chico, which CapRadio operates. The Saturday program cuts are “Mick Martin’s Blues Party,” “K-ZAP,” “At the Opera,” and “Hey, Listen!” In August, Tom Karlo was appointed interim general manager of CapRadio. Karlo retired from KPBS in San Diego after 47 years with the public media station. He joins Insight to explain the financial challenges that led to these cuts. Following NPR’s protocol for reporting on itself, no CapRadio corporate official or news executive reviewed this segment before broadcast. 

Mental health advocates for California’s youth are hopeful that Governor Newsom may be signaling a change  in how he wants money spent. A new construction project is about to get started to rehabilitate the historic Broadway corridor in Sacramento. Mental health reform The state of California raises about $4 billion annually to serve the state’s needs to fund mental health services.  But how that money is spent is part of a series of sweeping changes proposed by Governor Newsom which advocates for youth services have flagged.  They say the Governor’s plans are too restrictive.  Now, POLITICO is reporting that the Governor is signaling a change in his position which is giving hope to those who serve California’s younger population.  Today we will speak to the California Alliance of Child and Family Services about the proposed changes. Sacramento's Broadway corridor facelift Sacramento’s Broadway corridor is slated to undergo a major renovation to help improve traffic, access to local businesses, safety for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as give the area a long-overdue facelift. Project Senior Civil Engineer Philip Vulliet joins Insight to explain the impact of the $15-million, 2-mile-long project, on nearby residents, businesses and traffic– as well as the timeline for the upgrade. We’ll also learn how the design of the project is supposed to benefit bicycle and vehicle traffic by cutting the existing four lanes down to two. Interim Schedule Update for August: The Insight team is taking a moment this month to catch their breath. Join host Vicki Gonzalez for live shows each Monday through Thursday from 9-9:30am, or listen anytime here on our website or the Insight podcast feed. Here & Now starts half an hour earlier at 9:30am.

A study explains why California has a housing crisis despite building more homes in recent years. A podcast called “tbh” created by, for and about teens launches a new season. California is building more, so why do we have a housing crisis? As the state of California continues to lose residents to other parts of the country, the rate of building new homes for people to live is on the rise. Yet we always hear that we have a housing crisis and need to do more to build now and build faster. New housing analysis by the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) shows that California may not have a shortage of homes after all. PPIC Senior Fellow, Hans Johnson, joins Insight to discuss the data of California’s population shift and how that’s impacted the housing market and availability of new homes. Podcast ‘tbh’ created by, for and about teens We have a lot of options to stay informed. But most topics have a common thread. They come from the perspective of adults. A podcast from KALW is created by, about, and for teenagers. Carolina Cuadros is a producer for the podcast “tbh” and joins Insight about the new season that launches today. From the impact of ChatGPT at school to finding empowerment with climate change, and suffering loss from the fentanyl crisis, these youth are giving us a glimpse of how their lives are being shaped by the moments of today. 

The Sacramento County District Attorney is threatening legal action against the city over its response to homeless encampments. How Sac State is researching poor air quality and health in Sacramento underserved neighborhoods.  Sacramento County DA Sacramento, like much of the state, is grappling with a record number of people experiencing homelessness. It’s a crisis with a range of deep-rooted causes, and an individual toll that is very personal and unique. That creates a frustrating dynamic where solutions can conflict with each other, with local leaders at times at odds over the best way to solve a moral, public health and safety issue. And that disagreement is unfolding in Sacramento. Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho is threatening legal action over the city’s homelessness response. And Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg is pushing back. CapRadio Reporter Kate Wolffe explains the dispute between the county and city over enforcement of homeless encampments on public property. Poor air quality research Four underserved Sacramento-area neighborhoods are the focus of a Sac State project that is researching the link between poor air quality and health issues. While the Environmental Studenties students gain real-world experience, the county and residents will get valuable information about where and how to find solutions. Sac State Professor Wayne Linklater joins us with a look at the neighborhoods being studied and some of the key information student-researchers hope to learn.

Former Sacramento journalist describes the destruction and impact of the wildfires on his native Maui. California is sending resources to Maui to help with the wildfire aftermath. Maui wildfires Maui native and former Sacramento TV journalist, Jonathan Masaki Shiroma, joins us to talk about the devastation that has taken place in Hawaii.  Shiroma explains a personal loss his family suffered in the fires that enveloped Maui last week and will share with us some of his favorite memories of Maui, including what some of the most immediate challenges will be in the aftermath of the fires. CalOES sending resources to Maui California is stepping up and sending help to Hawaii.  The California Office of Emergency Services has deployed a team to help with finding missing people as last week’s fire has already killed over 90 people, with many more still unaccounted for.  Public Information Officer with CalOES, Brian Ferguson, joins us with an update on the state’s efforts. Interim Schedule Update for August: The Insight team is taking a moment this month to catch their breath. Join host Vicki Gonzalez for live shows each Monday through Thursday from 9-9:30am, or listen anytime here on our website or the Insight podcast feed. Here & Now starts half an hour earlier at 9:30am.

An investigation tracks the evolution of California’s decades-long opioid epidemic, leading to fentanyl. Insight’s “Concert Connect” highlights upcoming live music across Northern California.  Tracking California's opioid epidemic Opioid deaths in California have seen a massive spike in recent years, up over 120% in the years between 2019 and 2021. Fentanyl is mostly to blame.  The cheap, intensely addictive and super-potenent drug can kill a person with as little as 2 milligrams, or smaller than the tip of a pencil. CalMatters health reporter, Ana Ibarra, has released a comprehensive investigation into fentanyl and its impact on California, from which communities are being impacted the most to how much the state is spending on getting it off the streets.  Insight's "Concert Connect" CapRadio Hosts Nick Brunner and Andrew Garcia join us for another edition of Insight’s “Concert Connect” talking about upcoming live shows in Northern California. This week features Plum Anderson at Bottom of the Hill in San Francisco on Sun. Aug. 20, Jess Williamson at The Starlet Room at Harlow's on Tue. Aug. 29, Dengue Fever at Harlow's on Wed. Sept. 20, and Buckethead at Ace of Spades on Wed. Sept. 27 If you want more modern music discovery, check out “Hey, Listen!” on Saturdays from 3-5p and 8-10p on CapRadio.

Updated 9:38 a.m., Aug. 9, 2023 Why a former UC Davis student charged in deadly stabbings will head to a state hospital instead of a criminal trial. How California’s cattle industry is evolving with climate change. UC Davis student heads to state hospital , Distinguished Professor at McGeorge School of Law, explains why a former UC Davis student is incompetent to stand trial in deadly stabbings that took place in the college town. Carlos Reales Dominguez, 21, is charged with fatally stabbing 50-year-old David Breaux on April 27 and 20-year-old Karim Abou Najm on April 29, as well as critically injuring 64-year-old Kimberlee Guillory on May 1. Last week, a mental competency trial ended with Dominguez being ordered to a state hospital for treatment, and once rehabilitated he will return to Yolo County Superior Court for the criminal trial. Cattle industry and climate change Gas from livestock are the biggest producers of methane, the leading cause of dangerous greenhouse gasses. And while it’s a worldwide problem, cattle ranchers and dairy producers in California are working to evolve with the help of technology to be part of the solution. Joining Insight is Cody Nicholson Stratton, Chairperson of the California Cattle Council, to talk about how the industry has changed over the years and the challenges it still faces. We’ll also learn why the council is launching an educational campaign that paints the cattle industry as a positive resource in the fight against drought, wildfires and extreme climate change. Interim Schedule Update for August: The Insight team is taking a moment this month to catch their breath. Join host Vicki Gonzalez for live shows each Monday through Thursday from 9-9:30am, or listen anytime here on our website or the Insight podcast feed. Here & Now starts half an hour earlier at 9:30am. Correction: A previous version of this article misidentified the California Cattle Council. This has since been corrected.

The city of Sacramento passed a plan for new sanctioned homeless campgrounds. A Tahoe bear and her cubs have been captured for rehabilitation after being linked to many home break-ins. Sacramento homeless campground plan After a slow rollout of Sacramento’s voter-approved Measure O, city council members narrowly passed a plan that would give the city manager sole authority on where to open shelters for sanctioned homeless campgrounds. CapRadio’s Homelessness and Housing Affordability Reporter Chris Nichols explains what the city manager’s plan involves, along with several other steps the city council took to alleviate the city’s deepening homelessness crisis. Tahoe bear and cubs Jordan Traverso, Deputy Director of Communications, Education and Outreach for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, discusses the recent capture and rehabilitation of a female bear known as 64F and her cubs responsible for at least 21 DNA-confirmed home break-ins and extensive property damage in the South Lake Tahoe area since 2022. We’re also joined by Toogee Sielsch, an expert on South Lake Tahoe's urbanized black bear population, about what residents and locals should know about the growing black bear density across the Tahoe Basin. Interim Schedule Update for August: The Insight team is taking a moment this month to catch their breath. Join host Vicki Gonzalez for live shows each Monday through Thursday from 9-9:30am, or listen anytime here on our website or the Insight podcast feed. Here & Now starts half an hour earlier at 9:30am.

Updated Aug. 3, 2023 Placer County’s District Attorney becomes the first in California to secure a murder conviction against a Fentanyl dealer. Sacramento native Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” box office smash. Luna’s Cafe closes after 40 years of spotlighting local artists. First murder conviction for fentanyl dealer Placer County District Attorney Morgan Gire joins us in securing what is believed to be the first murder conviction against a fentanyl dealer in the state. We’ll also discuss how other prosecutors in Northern California have followed his lead, and how this is all unfolding as lawmakers continue to debate how to best address the fentanyl crisis across California. Greta Gerwig's Barbie The Barbie movie is smashing box office records in the United States and around the world and the director is none other than Sacramento’s very own Greta Gerwig. Filmmaker, movie critic and TV host, Mark S. Allen joined Insight to talk about Gerwig’s rise to fame, how she got involved with the Barbie movie and her love for her hometown of Sacramento.  Remembering Luna's Cafe Luna’s Cafe has long cemented itself as an artistic center of Sacramento where live performances and art have graced the walls and stage since 1983. After 40 years, Luna’s Cafe owner Art Luna made the bittersweet decision to close its doors. We’ll take a look back and celebrate the end of a beloved chapter in Sacramento arts with a piece produced by CapRadio’s Paul Conley.