
Insight With Vicki Gonzalez
Capital Public Radio
Award-winning journalist Vicki Gonzalez hosts daily interviews with community leaders, advocates, experts, artists and more to provide background and understanding on breaking news, big events, politics and culture in the Sacramento region and beyond.
Location:
Sacramento, CA
Genres:
Talk Show Replays
Networks:
Capital Public Radio
Description:
Award-winning journalist Vicki Gonzalez hosts daily interviews with community leaders, advocates, experts, artists and more to provide background and understanding on breaking news, big events, politics and culture in the Sacramento region and beyond.
Twitter:
@CapRadioNews
Language:
English
Contact:
7055 Folsom Boulevard Sacramento, CA 95826-2625 9162788944
Email:
webmaster@capradio.org
Episodes
Improvements to Folsom Blvd in East Sac | CapRadio’s Series on Menopause | Monthly ‘Arts Talk’
6/5/2025
The city of Sacramento discusses safety improvements to Folsom Blvd in East Sac. Also, CapRadio Megan Myscofski’s series on menopause. Finally, Insight’s monthly “Arts Talk” shares events throughout the month.
Improvements to Folsom Blvd in East Sac
<? The city of Sacramento is planning safety improvements along Folsom Blvd in East Sacramento. The roughly one-mile stretch is heavily trafficked, and has been criticized for not being bike and pedestrian friendly. In 2022, a mother crossing the street to pick up her daughter from Phoebe Hearst Elementary was struck and killed during a crash at the intersection. Following her death, then-Assemblymember Kevin McCarty announced $5 million in state funding to go towards safety improvements between 48th and 65th streets. CapRadio Communities Reporter Gerardo Zavala recently attended a community meeting about the Folsom Boulevard Safety Improvements Project and shares the conversations that took place.
CapRadio’s Series on Menopause
<? Half the population will go through menopause. Still, many who’ve been through it say they didn’t know much about it, even after visiting a doctor. CapRadio’s Megan Myscofski joins Insight about her series on efforts to change that. The first part of the series focuses on the California legislature wanting doctors to get more educated about menopause symptoms and treatment, which is part of a national trend in menopause-related legislation. This story is supported by USC Annenberg Center for Health Journalism’s 2025 California Health Equity Fellowship.
If you have a story to share about your own experience with menopause symptom treatment, please get in touch. You can fill out a quick survey or email megan.myscofski@capradio.org
Monthly ‘Arts Talk’
<? The City of Sacramento is offering stipends for artists living within its city limits. What does having a regularly monthly income mean for artists and how does it benefit the city? We’ll learn more about the Creative Growth Arts Program in this month’s Arts Talk. Arts advocate Veronica Rodriguez is back with more news from the region’s art scene and tips on things to see and do this month. You can send tips and ideas to insight@capradio.org
Events this month:
June 6: First Fridays Oak Park
June 6: Casa de Espanol Espíritus de los Andes
June 7: Blue Line Gallery Paint a Mural with Stan Padilla
June 7: Maidu Museum & Historic Site Heritage Trail
Through the month: Dancing on Edge
Duration:00:50:13
FAIR Plan Lawsuits | How the Insurance Crisis is Impacting Foster Care | Beale Air & Space Expo
6/4/2025
Lawsuits are accusing property insurers of forcing homeowners onto the state’s FAIR Plan. Also, how California’s insurance crisis is impacting foster care in the Central Valley. Finally, the Beale Air & Space Expo this weekend.
FAIR Plan Lawsuits
<? The January wildfires that devastated parts of Los Angeles County destroyed thousands of homes and buildings, and losses are estimated in the billions of dollars. This damage has also strained the state’s FAIR Plan - the insurer of last resort - which says it cannot cover all the claims. Its member insurers have now been filing applications to surcharge policyholders across California to help cover the costs of the wildfires. Los Angeles Times reporter Laurence Darmiento joins Insight to talk about these surcharges, as well as a pair of lawsuits alleging that insurers colluded to force homeowners on the FAIR Plan to profit from higher premiums and reduce liabilities.
How the Insurance Crisis is Impacting Foster Care
<? The insurance crisis isn’t just affecting homeowners, it’s also affecting thousands of foster kids across the state. Last year, the largest insurer of nonprofit foster care agencies in California announced that it was leaving the market and would no longer renew policies. Marijke Rowland is the Senior Health Equity Reporter with The Intersection, a project of the Central Valley Journalism Collaborative. She joins us today along with John Daniel Kelly, Senior Editor of The Imprint, to explain why advocates and non-profit agencies that serve foster families are raising alarms.
Beale Air & Space Expo
<? This weekend the public is invited to check out Beale Air Force Base in Yuba County for its annual Air & Space Expo. It’s happening June 7 & 8 and standard tickets are free to the public. Charlene Spade is the Chief of Media Operations for the 9th Reconnaissance Wing. She along with Master Sergeant Gil Hernandez join us with the festivities that are planned over the weekend.
Duration:00:49:54
Medi-Cal $2K Asset Limit Proposal | Wine Industry Challenges | Sacramento Artist Ryan Seng’s Debut Book
6/3/2025
Gov. Newsom proposes setting a Medi-Cal asset limit of $2,000 for eligibility. Also, California wine produces its smallest harvest in 20 years. Finally, Sacramento artist Ryan Seng’s debut book “Love it All, F**k it All.”
Medi-Cal $2K Asset Limit Proposal
<? To close a projected $12 billion budget shortfall, Gov. Gavin Newsom has proposed sweeping changes to Medi-Cal - which offers public health insurance to roughly a third of Californians who are on limited income. One proposal is to set an asset limit for eligibility. People over 65 or with disabilities who have more than $2,000 in individual assets - including savings accounts, cash on hand, life insurance and property other than a home and a car - could lose their coverage. CalMatters Health Reporter Kristen Hwang breaks down the rising costs of Medi-Cal over the years, and the concerns from those at risk of losing coverage if this passes.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.
Wine Industry Challenges
<? California’s wine industry is facing a downturn as changing tastes, an aging consumer base and some people’s choice to avoid alcohol have led to a slump in harvests, sales, and wine tourism. According to the state’s latest Grape Crush Report, California’s 2024 harvest was the smallest in 20 years. Insight’s resident wine expert Rick Kushman talks about the main drivers behind this slump, which regions are hardest hit, and what this means for those who still want to enjoy quality time in wine country.
Sacramento Artist Ryan Seng’s Debut Book
<? If you’ve spent any time in Sacramento’s bar scene, there’s a good chance you’ve come across the work of Ryan Seng. Whether in a craft cocktail he created or through his art that adorns the walls of many establishments in the city, Seng is a creative force across the region. He’s channeled that energy into a new endeavor - urban fantasy noir book author. His debut novel Love it All, F**k it All was just released and he’s throwing a book release party Thu. June 13 at The Citizen Hotel’s Scandal Bar.
Duration:00:50:16
Delta Conveyance Project Pushback | CA Democratic Convention | Sacramento Bacon Fest
6/2/2025
Democratic State Sen. Christopher Cabaldon discusses the Delta Conveyance Project. Also, the California Democratic Convention took place this weekend in Anaheim. Finally, the 14th annual Sacramento Bacon Fest.
Delta Conveyance Project Pushback
<? Redirecting water from the Delta has been passionately debated and discussed for decades in California. The latest iteration proposed by Gov. Gavin Newsom is the Delta Conveyance Project, a single tunnel along the Sacramento River stretching just south of Clarksburg in the town of Hood to a reservoir near Livermore. Throughout Gov. Newsom’s two terms he has worked to streamline the project, and recently used the May budget revision to fast-track this new addition to the State Water Project, which quickly sparked backlash among opponents - including a bipartisan group of state lawmakers who represent the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. Joining Insight is State Senator and former mayor of West Sacramento Christopher Cabaldon (D-Yolo) whose district includes the Sacramento Delta.
CA Democratic Convention
<? The California Democratic Convention took place this weekend in Anaheim, as the Democratic Party aims to adjust its messaging and image after significant losses in the 2024 election. The convention featured big-name speakers including Sen. Cory Booker and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, but was also marked by the absence of Gov. Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris, who is still weighing a potential run for governor. Blake Jones is co-author of POLITICO’s California Playbook and joins Insight to explain what this year’s convention means for state Democrats going forward.
Sacramento Bacon Fest
<? Sacramento is a food town. Surrounded by prime ag land, the region offers up a wealth of locally grown and raised ingredients from produce to pork. And it’s pork that will be on the menu everywhere this week as the 14th annual Sacramento Bacon Fest returns to the region. Brian Guido is the Founder of Bacon Fest and he’s here to preview the festivities along with freelance food and culture writer Becky Grunewald, who is serving as a judge; and Chef Dennis Sydnor, who is participating in this year’s main battle for the Guido Cup on Sunday at Mulvaney’s B&L.
Duration:00:49:50
How Tariffs are Impacting CA Ports | Sacramento’s Afghan Community Amid Trump Admin | Bear Yuba Land Trust Hike Challenge
5/29/2025
How tariffs and a trade war are impacting California ports. Also, the Trump Administration ends Temporary Protected Status for Afghans. Finally, the Celebration of Trails Month kicks off in Nevada and Yuba counties.
How Tariffs are Impacting CA Ports
<? California is home to the busiest ports in the country - a crucial piece to the exchange of goods with other countries, notably exports and imports between the Golden State and China. But President Trump’s volatile tariff policy is having an outsized effect on California jobs, as well as revenue on and off the ports. CalMatters Economy Reporter Levi Sumagaysay shares her reporting on where things stand now.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.
Sacramento’s Afghan Community Amid Trump Admin
<? Sacramento is home to one of the largest communities of Afghan refugees in the country. Following the 2021 U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan after a 20-year war, thousands of Afghans in the U.S. were given Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in response to the country falling under Taliban rule. That protected status is coming to an end. The Trump Administration announced it is terminating TPS for Afghanistan, effective July 14. Opening Doors CEO Jessie Mabry and board member Khoban Kochai, who emigrated from Afghanistan in the 1980s, talk about how this decision is creating fear and uncertainty among Sacramento’s Afghan community.
Bear Yuba Land Trust Hike Challenge
<? If you’ve ever considered exploring the many trails that wind through Nevada and Yuba counties, June is the perfect month to do it. The Bear Yuba Land Trust is hosting its month-long Celebration of Trails with a series of hiking challenges, artist-led walk and talks, and even a nature-inspired dance performance. Annette Muller is the Communications Director for the Bear Yuba Land Trust and is here today to preview all the different things happening this month.
Duration:00:49:26
Triple Digit River Safety | Remembering Journalist Stan Atkinson | Solano County Butterfly Festival
5/28/2025
River safety ahead of the first triple digits of the season. Also, remembering legendary local journalist Stan Atkinson. Finally, the Bay Area Butterfly Festival in Vallejo.
Triple Digit River Safety
<? Triple digit heat is forecast across large swaths of Northern California Friday and Saturday, and for many that may mean a trip to one of our rivers or lakes. But those waterways can be deceiving, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer. Today, we’re going to talk with Safe Kids Coordinator Jennifer Rubin and Sac State Aquatic Center Director Brian Dulgar about water safety.
Remembering Journalist Stan Atkinson
<? Stan Atkinson was a founding face of Sacramento news. He was known as the reporter who went where the story was. A Sacramento Bee profile called him The man who owned Sacramento. He joined a fledgling KCRA in 1957 - at the beginning of the TV station’s broadcasting history. And he retired from KOVR (now CBS13) in 1999. Both are bookends to an extraordinary career that shaped generations of journalists - including Lester Holt. His family announced that Stan passed away this weekend at 92 years old - survived by his wife, four children, 14 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. We are going to spend some time learning about a man who defined local news, but was also much more - an Army veteran who dedicated decades of community service raising millions of dollars for Sacramento charities and organizations. Joining Insight is one of his sons, Mike Atkinson. We are also joined by former Insight Host Beth Ruyak who worked with Stan at KCRA and credits him as a pivotal force in her career.
Solano County Butterfly Festival
<? This weekend a celebration of monarch butterflies will be held in Solano County, seeking to inspire and encourage visitors to help their populations recover from drastic declines. The second annual Bay Area Butterfly Festival will take place on Sunday, June 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along the Mare Island Promenade in Vallejo, and features presentations, workshops, demonstrations and more. Sarah McKibbin is a Habitat Restoration Project Manager with the Solano Resources Conservation District and joins us to talk about how the festival aims to empower people of all ages, with a goal of turning Vallejo into an ecotourism destination.
POLITICO’s California Playbook | Public Cutoff During Capitol Testimonies | Sacramento Book Festival
5/27/2025
POLITICO’s California Playbook joins with the latest on state politics. Also, the challenges of the general public to weigh in on legislation. The Sacramento Book Festival is back for its second year.
POLITICO’s California Playbook
<? Several votes in Congress could have significant impacts on California. The GOP-controlled House voted last week to pass a budget bill, which could remove Medicaid coverage for millions of Californians. The Senate also voted to block the state’s landmark zero-emission vehicle mandate. And on the state level, lawmakers voted last week to kill or gut hundreds of bills as they aim to close a $12 billion budget deficit. Dustin Gardiner is the co-author of POLITICO’s California Playbook and joins Insight with the latest on state politics.
Public Cutoff During Capitol Testimonies
<? California lawmakers have introduced more than 2,000 bills so far this year and many are going through jam-packed committee hearings. During these hearings, paid lobbyists, activist organizations and the general public are allowed to testify in support or against a bill. But securing time is not guaranteed, and on many occasions regular people who travel long distances to testify get cut off after a few seconds. CalMatters Digital Democracy Reporter Ryan Sabalow and CapRadio Politics Reporter Laura Fitzgerald join us with their reporting on the challenges of the general public to weigh in on legislation.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.
Sacramento Book Festival
<? The Sacramento Book Festival is back for its second year. Scheduled for Saturday, May 31 at the Shepard Garden & Arts Center in McKinley Park, literary lovers of all genres can enjoy readings and writer panels, a scavenger hunt and raffle, and participate in a book drive for the Mustard Seed School. Author J. Scott Coatsworth is the event’s lead organizer and he’s joined by fellow writers Catriona McPherson and James Rollins to preview the festival.
Sacramento’s City Budget Shortfall | Old North Sac Documentary ‘Beyond the Alleyways’ | The Philharmonik’s World Tour
5/22/2025
The city of Sacramento is facing a projected $62 million shortfall. Also an Old North Sacramento documentary screening for “Beyond the Alleyways: The Dixieanne Story.” Finally, 2024 “Tiny Desk” winner The Philharmonik’s world tour.
Sacramento’s City Budget Shortfall
<? The city of Sacramento is facing a projected $62 million budget deficit, and is considering the first layoffs in more than a decade. The City Council is expected to vote on the final budget on June 10. Tony Rodriguez is a California Local News Fellow for CapRadio and joins us with the proposed cuts the city is weighing. He also shares his reporting on the mayor and city council being eligible for pay raises amid the budget crisis.
Old North Sac Documentary ‘Beyond the Alleyways’
<? Old North Sacramento has a rich history of ranching, commerce and transportation, but the neighborhood has also faced decades of disinvestment after becoming part of Sacramento in 1964. However, in 2022 the city received over $4 million in grant funding to transform five historic alleyways in the Dixieanne neighborhood into green, art-filled community spaces. Tonight, the city will host a free screening at The Rink Studios in North Sacramento of a new documentary capturing that transformation Beyond the Alleyways: The Dixieanne Story, as well as a panel discussion with some of the individuals involved in the work. Moderator Isaac Gonzalez and panelist Esther Tracy join Insight to talk about the project, and what it means for the local community.
The Philharmonik’s World Tour
<? Last year’s Tiny Desk Concert winner is about to embark on a world tour. Christian Gates, known professionally as The Philharmonik, has been making music in Sacramento since 2016 and gained international attention by winning NPR’s 2024 Tiny Desk Contest. He’ll be performing an open rehearsal of the show he’s taking on tour this Friday at the Torch Club in Sacramento.
Sacramento NWS Cuts 24/7 Warnings | Jacam Manricks ‘1959: The Revolution of Jazz’ | Inaugural Capital City Jazz Festival
5/21/2025
Sacramento and Kings County NWS offices will no longer offer 24/7 extreme weather warnings. Also, saxophonist Jacam Manricks performs “1959: The Revolution of Jazz.” Finally, the first annual Capital City Jazz Festival in Old Sacramento.
Sacramento NWS Cuts 24/7 Warnings
<? The National Weather Service provides a range of valuable information, from daily weather forecasts, to warnings of potential disasters like floods and wildfires. But recently, two local NWS offices in Sacramento and Kings County will no longer operate 24/7 after encountering severe staffing shortages. San Francisco Chronicle Newsroom Meteorologist Anthony Edwards and Science Reporter Jack Lee join Insight to talk about why these services are being reduced, and what the potential risks might be.
Jacam Manricks ‘1959: The Revolution of Jazz’
<? 1959 produced some of the best selling jazz albums of all time. Sacramento saxophonist Jacam Manricks will be exploring five iconic albums recorded that fruitful year this Friday at The Sofia at 7pm. He discussed 1959: The Revolution of Jazz with Capradio Music Director Gary Vercelli.
Inaugural Capital City Jazz Festival
<? Saxophonist Jeff Ryan is headlining the inaugural Capital City Jazz Festival, a free one-day event happening this Saturday, May 24 at Old Sacramento State Historic Park. The festival is being organized by The APEX Group, in collaboration with Sacramento District 4. We’ll get a preview of the event from Ryan and talk with Councilmember Phil Pluckebaum about why he wanted live jazz to return to his district.
Battle over Prop 35 Funding in May Revise | Covered CA Released Sensitive Health Data | Sacramento County Fair
5/20/2025
A battle over Prop 35 Medi-Cal funding in the governor’s May budget revision. Also, a CalMatters investigation finds that Covered CA released private health data to LinkedIn and Google. Finally, the Sacramento County Fair.
Battle over Prop 35 Funding in May Revise
<? Gov. Gavin Newsom’s May Revision to the upcoming state budget has sparked backlash among some healthcare allies. To close the projected $12 billion shortfall, Gov. Newsom proposed cuts to Planned Parenthood and Medi-Cal - which offers health insurance to limited income residents. Specifically, Newsom would like to shift funding from Prop 35 to the general fund - which promised to give a long-awaited pay bump to Medi-Cal providers via an already existing tax on health care plans. POLITICO California Health Care Reporter Rachel Bluth joins us with her reporting and the legal battle that may ensue.
Covered CA Released Sensitive Health Data
<? Millions of people use Covered California, the state’s health insurance marketplace, to shop for plans under the Affordable Care Act. But a recent investigation uncovered that the website had been sending sensitive user information - such as if someone was blind, pregnant, transgender or a possible victim of domestic abuse - to LinkedIn through specific site trackers. The discovery also triggered a class-action lawsuit against LinkedIn and Google, alleging they improperly received confidential data. Investigative Reporter Colin Lecher and Journalism Engineer Tomas Apodaca from The Markup and CalMatters talk about how that data was shared, and what people should know to keep their information secure.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.
Sacramento County Fair
<? For many 4H students, the county fair is the culmination of months of hard work raising and caring for various farm animals, and it’s a chance to hang out with friends and show off their livestock skills. Fair season kicks off this weekend at the Sacramento County Fair, which runs Thursday through Monday at Cal Expo. Sacramento County Fair CEO Matt Cranford joins us, along with two Elk Grove High School agricultural students, to preview the upcoming event.
What’s Next After the May Revise | California’s State of Tourism | 40 Years of the Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus
5/19/2025
Following the governor’s May revision and a projected deficit of $12 billion, state lawmakers have a month to pass a balanced budget. Also, challenges facing California’s tourism industry. Finally, the Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus.
What’s Next After the May Revise
<? It’s crunch time at the state Capitol. State lawmakers have about a month to come up with a balanced budget, and close a projected $12 billion shortfall. Last week, Gov. Newsom released his May Revision, which laid out how his office would prioritize spending and cuts. But ultimately legislators get a sound budget on paper and present it to the governor for his signature, ahead of a June 15 deadline - or else they don’t get paid. CapRadio Politics Reporters Laura Fitzgerald and Megan Myscofski join us with more on where lawmakers align with the governor, and what big unknowns still remain.
California’s State of Tourism
<? California touts itself as the #1 tourist destination in the country. And 2024 was record-breaking. But this year, less people are visiting the Golden State. The biggest decline is international travel, including big drops from Canadians, as politics sour once stable relationships. Ryan Becker is the Senior Vice President of Communications and Strategy at Visit California and joins us with their travel forecast for 2025, as well as some tips for locals to enjoy their home state.
40 Years of the Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus
<? The Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus has been entertaining audiences and providing a community for LGBTQ+ performers for 40 years. They’re about to celebrate this anniversary year with a series of concerts running through June. This first takes place this Sunday, May 25 at Southside Park. Artistic Director Alex Heetland and Board Secretary and Singer Andrew Gibout tell us what to expect from the chorus this summer.
Birthright Citizenship Oral Arguments | POLITICO on May Revise | ‘In a Nutshell: It's a Beautiful Day’ Storytelling Series
5/15/2025
The Supreme Court hears oral arguments related to the birthright citizenship dispute. Also, POLITICO breaks down the governor’s May Revision and budget shortfall. Finally, the monthly storytelling series “In a Nutshell.”
Birthright Citizenship Oral Arguments
<? The Supreme Court heard oral arguments this morning related to the legal dispute over birthright citizenship. The case stems from President Trump’s executive order challenging the interpretation of the 14th Amendment and eliminates automatic citizenship for people born to noncitizens or temporary residents. The order was quickly challenged and blocked by federal district judges. But the case before the Supreme Court isn’t about citizenship, rather whether lower courts have the authority to issue nationwide injunctions to block presidential orders. Leslie Gielow Jacobs is an Anthony Kennedy Professor at McGeorge School of Law and Kevin R. Johnson is a Mabie-Apallas Professor of Public Interest Law and Chicana/o Studies at UC Davis. They join us to break down today’s oral arguments, which could reshape the system of checks and balances between the executive and judicial branches.
POLITICO on May Revise
<? POLITICO’s California Budget and Education Reporter Eric He joins Insight to break down the major elements of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s May Revision, as well as the changes that could emerge as lawmakers work to hammer out a projected $12 billion budget shortfall before the June 15 deadline.
‘In a Nutshell: It's a Beautiful Day’ Storytelling Series
<? All good stories happen on a beautiful day, right? On Fri. May 23, four storytellers take the stage at The Sofia to tell tales about picture-perfect days that hold bigger and stranger meanings under the surface. Host Keith Lowell Jensen and comedians Karin Babbitt and DNA talk about the stories they plan to tell at this month’s In a Nutshell showcase titled It's A Beautiful Day.
California Budget & Policy Center | Pacific Research Institute | Symposium on Impacts of USAID Cuts
5/14/2025
The California Budget & Policy Center and the Pacific Research Institute offer their perspectives on the state budget shortfall and governor’s May Revision. Also, UC Davis hosts a symposium on the impacts of USAID cuts to globally focused research.
California Budget & Policy Center
<? Gov. Gavin Newsom released his May Revision of the upcoming state budget on Wednesday, which includes difficult decisions as the state is facing a projected $12 billion budget shortfall. That means stiffer competition for funding, as lawmakers work to pass a balanced budget by June 15, or forego their pay. Chris Hoene is the Executive Director of the California Budget & Policy Center, which is a nonpartisan, research and analysis nonprofit. He joins us with a response to the governor’s fiscal priorities and proposed cuts.
Pacific Research Institute
<? For a response to the May Revise, we are also joined by Wayne Winegarden, a Senior Fellow of Business and Economics at the Pacific Research Institute, a California-based free-market think tank. He joins Insight with his perspective on the state’s fiscal priorities and budget challenges.
Symposium on Impacts of USAID Cuts
<? It has been several months since the Trump Administration gutted the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), cutting funding and terminating projects around the world. Keith David Watenpaugh is the Director of Human Rights Studies and Christine Stewart is the Director of the Institute for Global Nutrition at UC Davis. They join Insight to talk about how cuts to the 60-year-old agency are impacting work done at the university, and also preview the upcoming symposium At the Crossroads: Honoring Global Impacts Amidst Funding Challenges on Mon. May 19 from 3-6 p.m.
Previewing the May Revise | Sac State Budget Vote | Indigenous Basket Weaving
5/13/2025
Gov. Gavin Newsom to release his May revision to the state budget. How Sac State’s budget deficit is impacting educators and students. Finally, restoring indigenous basket weaving at Dos Rios State Park.
Previewing the May Revise
<? Governor Gavin Newsom is set to release his May revision to the 2025-2026 budget tomorrow and significant changes are expected from the original proposal he released in January. CalMatters Capitol Reporter Alexei Koseff joins us with a preview of what to expect and why California's fiscal picture has taken a turn for the worse.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.
Sac State Budget Vote
<? Sacramento State’s $37 million budget deficit is leading to some significant cuts at the university, including class reductions and layoffs. As students vote on a new fee that could help relieve some of the financial strain, Sac State communication studies professor Andrea Terry and English lecturer Carolyn Pickrel join us to discuss what’s at stake for students, educators and the university.
Note: CapRadio's broadcast licenses are owned by Sac State. The university also oversees our finances and approves our expenses. It does not oversee our news production or programming.
Indigenous Basket Weaving
<? California’s park system highlights the state’s public jewels. And last year another one was added to the list - Dos Rios, the first new state park in a decade. These spaces also serve as cultural zones for indigenous people and tribes to gather materials and revitalize traditional practices, like basket weaving. Austin Stevenot is the Director of Tribal Engagement for River Partners, a conservation nonprofit that partners with state restoration projects. He joins us to discuss how the intersection of ecosystems and culture led to the creation of the California Indian Basketweavers’ Association (CIBA).
Front Street Animal Shelter Audit | AmeriCorps Cuts and Early Childhood Programs | ‘Finally Home’ Military Children’s Book
5/12/2025
A new audit looks at conditions at the Front Street Animal Shelter. How federal AmeriCorps cuts are affecting early childhood programs across California. Finally, a new children’s book called “Finally Home” pays tribute to deploying military families.
Front Street Animal Shelter Audit
<? For decades, Sacramento’s Front Street Animal Shelter has helped lost and stray animals across Sacramento, and helped pet owners with resources including adoptions, vaccinations, microchipping, and spay and neuter clinics. But a recent audit from the Sacramento City Auditor, as well as a needs assessment released last year, identified multiple issues at the aging facility including overcrowding, staffing shortages, and delayed services. Front Street Animal Care Services Manager Phillip Zimmerman joins Insight to talk about the audit’s findings, and the changes the shelter is making to improve care and transparency.
AmeriCorps Cuts and Early Childhood Programs
<? When the Trump administration gutted the AmeriCorps program last month, thousands of volunteers lost their positions working in schools, helping with disaster relief or clearing trails in parks around the nation. The cuts have also had a ripple effect on First 5 California early childhood programs. First 5 programs operate in all 58 counties in California and serve more than one million children and families each year. Avo Makdessian is the Executive Director of First 5 Association of California and Janay Eustice is the President and CEO for the Child Abuse Prevention Center (CAPC). They join us today to highlight how these cuts are affecting kids.
‘Finally Home’ Military Children’s Book
<? Having one of your parents leave for long periods of time is a common experience for military kids. Whether it's for a deployment or a temporary duty assignment, men and women of the armed forces go where they are told, when they are told and their families don’t always get to accompany them. A new children’s book is paying tribute to those military families. “Finally Home” was written by Sacramento author Cortney Cino and she’s here today to tell us more about it.
State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant | Needs Assessment for Wildfire Victims | Broadway Sacramento’s ‘Parade’
5/8/2025
State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant talks about preparing for wildfire season. A new report looks at the needs of wildfire victims. Finally, Broadway Sacramento’s new musical “Parade” explores antisemitism and racism in the South.
State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant
<? California is entering peak wildfire season, which is growing longer and more unpredictable, as evidenced by the devastating January wildfires across the Los Angeles area. State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant joins Insight to talk about new fire hazard maps, which place millions of Californians in areas labeled “high risk” or “very high risk,” and how CAL FIRE is preparing for another year of battling fires across the state.
Needs Assessment for Wildfire Victims
<? In the wake of larger and more damaging wildfires, survivors are left with significant lasting impacts as they work to rebuild their communities after the disaster. A new study looks at the responses of victims of 2017 Northern California wildfires, including the Tubbs Fire, and what they say they need to recover in the short and long term. Dr. Kathryn Conlon, associate professor at the UC Davis Department of Public Health Services breaks down the findings, from physical goods and mental health, to information and more.
Broadway Sacramento’s ‘Parade’
<? A Tony-Award winning musical that dramatizes the 1913 trial of a Jewish-American man in Georgia is currently running in Sacramento. Parade explores how antisemitism and racism intersected in the South during the early 20th Century. Directed by Michael Arden, Parade runs through Sunday, May 11th at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in downtown Sacramento. Actor Max Chernin - who plays the lead role of Leo Frank - joins us from his dressing room to talk about why the musical resonates today.
Teen Sex Solicitation Bill | Decarcerate Sacramento | Music in the Mountains
5/7/2025
A teen sex solicitation bill that has sparked criticism from Republicans and divides among Democrats. Also, a conversation with the organization Decarcerate Sacramento. Finally, Music in the Mountains at the Mondavi Center.
Teen Sex Solicitation Bill
<? A bill introduced in the state legislature by Sacramento Democratic Assembly member Maggy Krell aims to increase penalties for loitering to solicit minors for sex. But a provision specifically aimed at soliciting 16- and 17-year olds has divided state Democrats, and given Republicans a political opportunity to criticize their opponents. CapRadio Politics Reporter Laura Fitzgerald joins Insight to break down the controversy surrounding AB 379.
Decarcerate Sacramento
<? Sacramento County’s jail system has been under scrutiny for years, especially after a federal consent decree mandated improvements to conditions inside. One community coalition, Decarcerate Sacramento, has been pushing back against jail expansion and advocating for alternatives that focus on care, not incarceration. Decarcerate Sacramento Advocacy Director Liz Blum-Gutierrez and organizer Kari Hamilton join us to discuss their work, the county’s obligations under the Mays Consent Decree, and public safety.
Music in the Mountains
<? Conductor Ryan Murray talks about Music in the Mountains' upcoming Mother's Day concert at the Mondavi Center. It will be a significant community collaboration between the Auburn Symphony, Sac State choirs and the Music in the Mountains chorus for a production of Gustav Mahler's Symphony No. 2 Resurrection.
The Mondavi Center is a financial supporter of CapRadio.
Police Not Responding to Mental Health Calls | Wine True Crime Podcast ‘Blood Vines’ | Chornobyl Photography Exhibit
5/6/2025
Why a growing number of California law enforcement agencies are not responding to nonviolent mental health calls. Also, the Central Valley wine true crime podcast “Blood Vines.” Finally, a Chornobyl photography exhibit in Sacramento.
Police Not Responding to Mental Health Calls
<? At the start of the year, Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper announced a change in response - his department would no longer respond to mental health crisis calls unless a crime had occurred, was in progress, or someone was deemed to be in imminent danger. On Insight, Sheriff Cooper explained that law enforcement officers are not trained mental health professionals and there have been bad outcomes in the past. This is part of a larger shift among law enforcement agencies worried about their own liability. Lee Romney is an independent journalist and joins us to discuss her latest piece, which was published in CalMatters, looking at the early impact of this change in response.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media newsrooms across the state.
Wine True Crime Podcast ‘Blood Vines’
<? Over 30 years ago, one of the biggest wine scams in U.S. history rocked the Central Valley. The scandal centered around fraud, White Zinfandel, and the murder of a key witness. Investigative reporter Chris Walker is the host of the new podcast Blood Vines and joins us with how this case led to the downfall of a California wine dynasty and reshaped the industry forever.
Chornobyl Photography Exhibit
<? Therese Iknoian had a once-in-a-lifetime chance to capture images of a region abandoned after a nuclear accident. In January 2020, the Grass Valley-based photographer traveled to the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone in Northern Ukraine (or "Chernobyl" in the Russian-derived spelling) to bear witness to how nature was slowly reclaiming this area. Her work is on display this month at Viewpoint Gallery in Sacramento. The show opens Wed. May 7, with artist receptions on May 10 and May 18.
Sacramento Zoo Scraps Elk Grove Plans | PBS Alzheimer’s Documentary | Play ‘Nosotros la Gente’
5/5/2025
Sacramento Zoo scraps plans to move to Elk Grove. Also, a new PBS documentary about Alzheimer’s follows a local family. Finally, the play “Nosotros la Gente” at the B Street Theatre.
Sacramento Zoo Scraps Elk Grove Plans
<? Almost a year ago, the Elk Grove City Council approved the Sacramento Zoo’s relocation from its current location in Land Park. But last week, the Sacramento Zoological Society and Elk Grove officials announced the relocation would no longer happen. Sacramento Zoological Society Board President Elizabeth Stallard joins Insight to talk about how the move - which has been in the works since 2021 - fell apart, and what comes next. Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen was going to join, but canceled due to a scheduling conflict.
PBS Alzheimer’s Documentary
<? There is nothing easy about living with a neurodegenerative disease. A new documentary airing tonight on PBS shares an intimate look into the lives of those living with Alzheimer’s and the people who care for them. We’ll meet one of those caregivers today on Insight. Carlos Olivas III moved back to his hometown of Sacramento to care for his father when he began experiencing Alzheimer’s symptoms and he became an advocate for caregivers at the California State Capitol. He’s joined by film producer David Alvarado to explain why it's so important to share stories like these.
Play ‘Nosotros la Gente’
<? In a perfect world, we would live each day exactly how we want it - with no expectations, outside pressures, or collateral damage. However, life can be far from that ideal. Our choices are bound to have an impact on those we care about. A new play is inviting us into a family that is confronting these conflicting desires, set during WWII in the Coachella Valley. Nosotros la Gente (We the People) is more than just fiction, but based on true stories from the playwright’s own family. Jerry Montoya is a Playwright and Executive Producer at The Sofia, Home of the B Street Theatre. He joins us along with artistic director Lyndsay Burch to discuss Nosotros la Gente which runs through May 18.
Era After Roe v. Wade | Parkinson’s ‘Moving Day’ | Children’s Book ‘Sloane Understands’ | Arts Events in May
5/1/2025
A new book looks at fetal personhood as the new battle over reproductive rights. Also, Parkinson’s “Moving Day” walk at Sutter’s Fort. Plus, the children’s book “Sloane Understands.” Finally, our monthly Arts Talk calendar of events for May.
Era After Roe v. Wade
<? What’s next for the battle over abortion? Mary Ziegler is a Martin Luther King Professor of Law at UC Davis and leading expert on U.S. abortion history. She joins Insight to discuss her new book Personhood: The New Civil War over Reproduction which looks at the decades-long movement to secure recognition of fetuses and embryos as persons under the U.S.
Parkinson’s ‘Moving Day’
<? Parkinson’s Disease is one of the most common neuro-degenerative disorders in the country. But many people may not be aware of what its symptoms look like - or how to care for a loved one who’s been diagnosed. Jeff Bell is a former radio host at KFBK and a Parkinson’s advocate who was diagnosed in 2023. He joins Insight to talk about his journey ahead of the Parkinson’s Foundation’s annual Moving Day walk on May 3 at Sutter’s Fort Historic State Park from 9 am to 12 pm.
Children’s Book ‘Sloane Understands’
<? In a world as busy as ours - with information coming at us from every direction - it can be hard to hear your own thoughts over all the noise. A new children’s book aims to help. Sloane Understands teaches children how to connect with their inner voice. Laini Golden is the author and Lena Fuentes is the illustrator. They join us to talk about the power of introspection in our lives. You can hear them read from “Sloane Understands” Saturday, May 3 at Fairytale Town in Sacramento.
Arts Events in May
<? May is truly the kickoff to summer time events and festivals in the Sacramento region. For this month’s Arts Talk, Veronica Rodriguez highlights some of the area’s hidden gems - colleges and universities.
Manetti Shrem Museum of Art at UC Davis offers arts program every Saturday and Sunday through June 22 from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Carol and Gerry Parker Art Studio
The Sierra College Natural History Museum hosts Dinosaur Day Sunday, May 4.
The Shingle Spring Band of Miwok Indians presents The Momti Market at the Sacramento History Museum in Old Sac from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3.
9th annual Sacramento Asian Pacific Film Festival is scheduled Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3 at the Sophia in Sacramento.
Descrubra – (Discover) – a free family festival inspired by Collidoscope: de la Torre Brothers Retro-Perspective, starts at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 3.
The International Kids Festival is scheduled for May 24 at William A. Carroll Amphitheatre.
Sacramento State Public Art Map