Insight With Vicki Gonzalez

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).

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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

An investigation into state worker vacation payouts. Also, this week marks 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War and Operation Babylift. Finally, landscape artist Jennifer Peart’s upcoming show and workshops. State Worker Vacation Payouts <? Some California state workers have spent decades banking unused vacation time. And when they retire, those hours can turn into six-figure or even seven-figure payouts. A new Los Angeles Times investigation shows how these saved days off may cost the state billions. Investigative reporter Melody Gutierrez joins us to discuss those massive payouts, and why fixing the issue poses a significant challenge. Vietnam War’s ‘Operation Babylift’ <? Half a century ago, the Vietnam War came to an end after North Vietnamese forces captured the South Vietnamese capital of Saigon. In the final stages of the war, thousands of Vietnamese children were evacuated as part of Operation Babylift and adopted by families abroad. Huyen Friedlander was one of the final evacuees, adopted by a family in Sacramento. She eventually reconnected with her birth parents - a Vietnamese woman and an American soldier - and is helping other adoptees help locate their birth families. Huyen joins Insight on the heels of her latest trip to Vietnam. Artist Jennifer Peart <? Artist Jennifer Peart is known for landscape paintings that draw inspiration from both the natural world and science fiction. Her upcoming show State of Change: Visions of California will be at the Jane Gallery in Sacramento from May 3 to 31. A Second Saturday reception will be held on May 10 from 5pm - 8pm and an Artist Talk on May 24 from 2pm - 4pm. Jennifer also has upcoming water coloring workshops at Casino Mine Ranch in Plymouth on May 25 and a free event at Fair Oaks Library on June 28.

In an hour-long special, the California Newsroom and the Texas Standard team up to examine how the Trump administration is changing life in two of the nation’s largest states. To mark President Trump’s 100 days in office, the California Newsroom and the Texas Standard teamed up to examine how life is changing in two of the nation’s largest states - California and Texas - through the lens of politics, immigration, tariffs, agriculture, and education. The hour-long special is called 100 Days, 2 Americas and is hosted by CapRadio Insight Host Vicki Gonzalez alongside David Brown based in Austin. It includes reporting from Angela Korcherga of KTEP in El Paso, Michael Marks of the Texas Standard, Levi Sumagaysay and Carolyn Jones of CalMatters in Sacramento, Stella Chávez of the Texas Newsroom, Gustavo Solis of KPBS in San Diego, Tyche Hendricks of KQED in San Francisco, and Jessica Greenwell of KVCR in Riverside, Calif.

A conversation with Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty. Also, a food assistance program for farmworkers in Yolo County. Finally, the Sacramento Choral Society’s closing show celebrating Broadway duo Lerner and Loewe. Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty <? The city of Sacramento is navigating challenges on both the local and federal level. Officials are working to close a significant budget deficit, address the ongoing homelessness and housing affordability crises, as well as respond to the Trump Administration’s threats over federal funding and immigration. Mayor Kevin McCarty joins Insight to talk about how his first months in office have been. Yolo Food Bank ‘Cultivo’ Program for Farmworkers <? Yolo County is prime for farming. Located along the Sacramento River Delta in the Central Valley, it’s probably no surprise that agriculture is its leading industry. But the Yolo Food Bank found that while farmworkers are responsible for providing food to the community, they too often struggle to feed their own families. In response, they launched a program specifically created to meet this unique need. Cultivo - meaning “crop” in Spanish - launched a year ago and delivered food to more than 1,000 agricultural households. This year, they are expanding to more than double that number. Karen Baker is the Executive Director of the Yolo Food Bank and Lucas Frerichs is the Yolo County District 2 Supervisor. They join us with a check-in on how the Cultivo program is growing. Sacramento Choral Society <? Broadway’s golden age will come to life this weekend as the Sacramento Choral Society and Orchestra presents its final show of the season which is a tribute to Lerner & Loewe’s legendary musicals. Songs from Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe - the songwriting duo behind Broadway classics such as My Fair Lady, Camelot, Brigadoon, and Paint Your Wagon - will be performed Saturday, May 3 at 3 p.m. at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in Sacramento. Donald Kendrick is the founding Conductor of the Sacramento Choral Society and Orchestra and he’s joined by Soprano Ingebritt Ziegler and Tenor Patrick McGiff to preview this weekend’s show.

California city leaders call for more state funding to address priority issues. California cancels its commercial salmon season for a third year in a row. Finally, previewing this month’s “In a Nutshell” storytelling show. League of California Cities Conference <? City officials from across California rallied at the State Capitol yesterday calling for increased state funding to address local priorities ranging from affordable housing and homelessness, to implementing Proposition 36. Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen and Sacramento City Councilmember Caity Maple were among the speakers at yesterday’s event, which was organized by the League of California Cities. They join Insight to talk about what their communities need, and the action they hope to see from state officials. CA’s Commercial Salmon Season Cancelled <? California’s salmon are an iconic species which historically thrived in watersheds across the state. But centuries of damage to rivers and spawning areas have led to significant declines in salmon populations. Last week, California officials announced the state’s commercial salmon fishing season would be cancelled for an unprecedented third year in a row as the numbers of fish remain low. CalMatters environmental reporter Alastair Bland talks about why this cancellation was enacted, what it says about the state of salmon populations in California, and the communities and industries that rely on them. CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state. In a Nutshell: Double-Edged Sword <? What happens when a blessing becomes a curse? Think unlimited sweets. A litter of puppies. Fame. All might seem like a good idea if given the chance, but at what price? “Double-Edged Sword” is the theme of this month’s storytelling showcase, In a Nutshell at The Sofia in Sacramento on April 26. Two of this month’s featured storytellers, Regina Stoops and Marga Gomez, join host Keith Lowell Jensen to preview this month’s show.

The Trump Administration shuts down AmeriCorps volunteer agency. Also, the new executive director of the Latino Center of Art & Culture. Finally, Fantastic Negrito to perform in Sacramento. Trump Cuts to AmeriCorps <? Since 1993, AmeriCorps has offered thousands of young adults the opportunity to help their communities through public service and volunteerism. However, last week the Trump administration placed most of the agency’s staff on administrative leave as it looks to slash the federal workforce. Thousands of volunteers with AmeriCorps’ National Civilian Community Corps were also released from their projects and sent home. Griff Ryan-Roberts is a former AmeriCorps volunteer and staff member. He joins Insight to talk about the mission of AmeriCorps, and how the agency’s sudden shuttering could impact members and communities across the country. Latino Center of Art & Culture <? Many people are probably familiar with the Latino Center of Art and Culture through their annual events such as “El Panteón de Sacramento” and “El Dia del Nino,” happening this weekend. Dedicated to fostering the artistic, economic and cultural development of the region's Latino (and Latinx) community, the Center has a new executive director. Bridgett Rangel-Rexford joins us to talk about her vision for the future. Fantastic Negrito <? He is a three-time GRAMMY award winning artist. But before that was NPR’s first-ever Tiny Desk Contest winner. Xavier Dphrepaulezz - better known as Fantastic Negrito - is on tour with a new album. He joins us ahead of his show at Goldfield Trading Post in Sacramento on Fri. April 25 at 7pm.

The Yuba-Sutter Mobile Crisis team responds to nonviolent mental or behavioral health calls. Also, the book “How to Play with Your Cat.” Finally, Sacramento-based museums collectively put a callout for more volunteers. Yuba-Sutter Mobile Crisis Response <? Nearly three years ago, the 988 Lifeline launched nationwide, a three-digit hotline that connects people to suicide and crisis counselors across the country- including more than a dozen call centers in California. This alternative to 911 is part of a larger shift of moving away from a one size fits all approach in responding to an emergency - especially in instances where law enforcement or other first responders may not be the best fit. During this time, counties across the state have been launching mobile crisis teams to respond to nonviolent mental or behavioral health calls. Drew Sutherland is the Clinical Director for Yuba-Sutter Mobile Crisis Response which is one of the newest to launch. ‘Best Of’ How to Play with Your Cat <? Roughly one in three U.S. households own a cat. But these popular pets are often misunderstood and that can create health and behavior problems. A cat behavior consultant in Sacramento has spent her career researching felines and poured what she learned into a fun, comprehensive guide.Today on Insight, we’re revisiting our conversation with Dr. Mikel Maria Delgado, an animal behavior scientist, about her book Play with your Cat! which is described as a fun, comprehensive guide to the key to feline happiness. Museum Callout for Volunteers <? We are lucky to have many museums within our reach. And they are joining forces to ask for your help. The coalition Sacramento Area Museums is putting a callout for the need for volunteers. Delta Pick Mello is the Executive Director of Sacramento History Museum. Christi Skibbins is the Director of Team Development for SMUD Museum of Science & Technology. And Jessica Cushenberry is the Public Programs Manager with the California Museum. They join Insight to discuss their individual needs, as well as the benefits that volunteering provides beyond community service.

Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis talks about trade, tariffs and running for governor. How international tariffs are raising concerns among farmers in the Central Valley. Finally, recapping the Sacramento Kings’ tumultuous 2024-25 season. Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis <? As consumers brace for potential price increases due to the Trump administration’s tariffs, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s team is trying to protect California-made products from retaliatory action by other countries. The governor and Attorney General Rob Bonta have filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s tariffs, and also called on trading partners to exempt state goods. Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis joins Insight to talk about her role in negotiating these trade deals and what they could mean for California. Kounalakis also talks about her ongoing campaign for California governor in 2026. Tariff Impacts on Central Valley Farmers <? Farmers in the Central Valley could be hit hard by retaliatory tariffs imposed by China, Canada and other countries on goods including almonds, oranges and wine. Los Angeles Times Reporter Ian James explains why farmers in the Central Valley are concerned about the potential impacts of international retaliation. Recapping the Sacramento Kings’ Season <? The Sacramento Kings’ 2024-25 season came to a disappointing end last Wednesday with a home play-in loss to the Dallas Mavericks. The elimination caps off a tumultuous year which saw the Kings fire former coach Mike Brown less than halfway through the season, trade away star player De’Aaron Fox and part ways with General Manager Monte McNair a day after Wednesday’s elimination. ABC10 Sports Reporter Matt George, who hosts the Locked on Kings podcast, talks about how this season unfolded and how the Kings might retool under new GM Scott Perry.

A string of burglaries and vandalism at small businesses in Sacramento. Also, a new book looks at the return migration of Mexican migrants leaving the U.S. Finally, Sacramento Public Library’s events celebrating children and lucha libre. Small Business Break-Ins <? In recent weeks, there have been a string of break-ins targeting small businesses in Sacramento. Several eateries in neighborhoods spanning downtown, Land Park, Curtis Park and Tahoe Park have posted on social media, sharing video of their storefront windows being smashed. Craig Takehara is the Chef and Owner of Binchoyaki Izakaya Dining, which has been broken into and vandalized twice in the span of two weeks. He joins us for a conversation about the challenges facing small businesses. Return Migration to Mexico <? At a time when immigration and the threat of mass deportations have been dominating news headlines, a new book is looking into the number of Mexican migrants who have chosen to leave the United States and go back to Mexico, finding that this wave of return migration has hit a level not seen in at least 50 years. Erin Hamilton is a Professor of Sociology at UC Davis and one of the authors of The Returned: Former U.S. Migrants’ Lives in Mexico City which found that between 2010 and 2020, more people entered Mexico from the U.S. than entered the U.S. from Mexico. Sacramento Public Library’s ‘Lucha Libro’ <? This month the Sacramento Public Library is celebrating Día de los Niños - Day of the Kids - with a focus on Mexican culture and lucha libre wrestling. The library’s “Lucha Libro In the Stacks” series combines bilingual storytelling, mask-making and live wrestling, and will culminate with a wrestling show on April 26 at Belle Cooledge Library. Early Learning Specialist Nate Halsan and Bilingual Services Specialist Víctor Jiménez Olvera talk about how “Lucha Libro” got started, and the benefits this programming provides to children and adults alike.

Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez rally in Folsom. Also, a state bill to streamline murals in public spaces. Finally, a UC Davis study looks at protecting old-growth forests from wildfires. Bernie, AOC Rally in Folsom <? They are two of the most recognizable names in the Democratic Party. Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez launched a Fighting Oligarchy tour, with its latest stop in Sacramento County. The rally drew a crowd of thousands at Folsom Lake College, as well as counter protests. The goal of this tour is to push back against the Trump Administration, as Democrats recalibrate after decisive losses. CapRadio Politics Reporter Laura Fitzgerald joins us with how last night’s event from progressives fits within the larger strategy of the Democratic Party. CA Mural Bill <? From one city to the next, murals are celebrated for brightening up drab alleys or blighted buildings. Behind these beloved pieces are muralists who thoughtfully dedicate their skill to create community art. But this profession falls under a grey area when it comes to licensing, and that can bog down bringing these murals to life. A bill is making its way through the state Capitol with the goal to streamline the process. Jaya King is an artist and muralist based in Sacramento, Julie Baker is the CEO of California for the Arts and Donald Gensler is the Art in Public Places Manager for the City of Sacramento. They join Insight to explain how Senate Bill 456 would benefit murals in public places. Old-Growth Forests and Wildfires <? Old-growth forests were once prevalent across California’s landscape and play significant environmental roles - from storing carbon, to providing a variety of habitats, and filtering water. But centuries of human activity have caused many old-growth forests to disappear, and left the few remaining ones vulnerable to catastrophic wildfires. A new study from UC Davis looks at how to protect these old trees by combining prescribed fire with forest thinning. Hugh Safford is a vegetation and fire ecologist at UC Davis. He breaks down this new research, as well as how the idea of environmental conservation needs to change - and include human activity.

Federal funding impacts to research for rare diseases. Also, the podcast “This is What it Feels Like” launches season two. Finally, the Women’s Theatre Collective’s new musical “The Hello Girls.” Rare Disease Federal Funding Cuts <? Since taking office, President Donald Trump’s administration has worked to reshape health policy. These changes include cutting thousands of employees at federal health agencies, as well as efforts to freeze or slash funding for medical research and other health programs. These changes could impact millions of Americans, particularly those living with rare disease diagnoses. Melanie Flood is the founder and CEO of the nonprofit Mellie J Foundation, which works to support people living with rare diseases. She joins Insight to talk about what these federal cuts mean for both medical research and treatments, and the potential impact on the lives of patients. ‘This is What it Feels Like’ Season 2 <? Two years ago, CapRadio launched a podcast asking to put yourself in the shoes of everyday people at the center of issues often overlooked or politicized by society. This Is What It Feels Like shared stories about being catcalled, losing a parent to suicide, and thriving at the age of 106. Terra Lopez is a Sacramento-based artist and Host of This Is What It Feels Like - which began as an art exhibit. Season 2 officially released today, independently produced by Lopez. She joins us about the new episodes and an upcoming launch party on May 3 at Demo Art & Books in downtown Sacramento. WWI Musical ‘The Hello Girls’ <? Jenny Connors is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Women’s Theatre Collective, as well as the director of the new musical The Hello Girls about the telephone girls in World War I, who were America's first women soldiers. She joins Insight ahead of opening night on Fri. April 18 at Ooley Theatre in Midtown Sacramento and cast members Alyssa Seeley and Ciara Spade perform a scene.

Last-minute tax tips with the California Franchise Tax Board and IRS. Also, an investigation into why dangerous drivers in the state are allowed to keep their license. Finally, artist Jack McTiernan’s exhibit in Sacramento. Last-Minute Tax Tips <? Tax Day is tomorrow for the majority of people. Iris Solis from the California Franchise Tax Board and Raphael Tulino from the IRS join Insight with last-minute filing tips for state and federal income taxes. They will also explain what is needed to file for an extension, tax bill payment options, as well as scams to be on the lookout for. Investigation into CA’s Most Dangerous Drivers <? Of the roughly 40 million people in California, 28 million - or 70% - have a driver’s license. Getting behind the wheel is a privilege, not a right, that can be stripped away. But an investigation found that in California, the DMV routinely allows drivers with dangerous histories to keep their license. CalMatters Investigative Reporter Robert Lewis spent the past year looking into driving records statewide and found that nearly 40% of the drivers charged with vehicular manslaughter since 2019 currently have a valid license, and that the DMV has issued licenses to people less than a year after they allegedly killed someone on the road. In the most extreme cases, they have gone on to kill again. We reached out to the DMV for comment. They did not respond to this request before broadcast. CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state. Artist Jack McTiernan <? Artist Jack McTiernan joins Insight to discuss his exhibit Crossroads & Intersections at the ARTHOUSE Gallery in downtown Sacramento through May 5, which highlights how daily responsibilities distract from the beauty in everyday surroundings via an exploration in color and materials. Jack will be available for a Q&A session Sun. April 27 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Student visas are terminated for some international students at California colleges. Also, Sac State President Luke Wood talks about football's Spring Game. Finally, the Sierra Poetry Festival. Student Visa Terminations <? In recent days, dozens of international students at colleges and universities across the state have seen their student visas terminated by federal authorities, including at multiple UC and CSU campuses. These actions have raised concerns among student bodies, as well as university systems already grappling with threats of funding cuts on the state and federal level. Amy DiPierro and Michael Burke are higher education reporters with the nonprofit journalism organization EdSource, and join Insight to talk about why these cancellations are happening, and what the larger implications are for students and schools. Sac State Football Spring Game <? Sacramento State Football is coming off a tough season that broke a successful streak for the Hornets. 2025 comes with new head coach Brennan Marion, and this weekend is the first time to see the team in action. Sac State President Luke Wood joins us to talk about the Spring Game on Sun. April 13 at 4 p.m. and how this fits into his goal to boost student engagement. We’ll also discuss challenges facing the university - including budget cuts and some international student visas being terminated under the Trump Administration. 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. Sierra Poetry Festival <? The 9th Annual Sierra Poetry Festival takes place this weekend in Grass Valley. Eliza Tudor is the executive director of the Nevada County Arts Council and the festival’s director. She’s joined by Karen “Kat” Terrey, Nevada County Poet Laureate, to talk about the overarching mission of the festival, how you can engage in the event and why poetry seems to be on the rise across the United States.

How looming federal cuts will impact health coverage in the San Joaquin Valley. Also, an update on the Yurok Tribe’s condor restoration program. Finally, the Crocker Art Museum has a new CEO. Health Coverage in San Joaquin Valley Threatened <? There is uncertainty right now in the healthcare field. Particularly for organizations that are considered safety nets, offering care to low-income and uninsured residents, as providers try to make sense of the impact of looming federal cuts. The Intersection is a health equity reporting lab from the Central Valley Journalism Collaborative and took a look at how this is playing out in the San Joaquin Valley. Marijke Rowland is a Senior Health Reporter and Tim Sheehan is a health reporting fellow. They join us to break down what might happen as House Republicans decide how to slash some $880 billion from Medicaid. Yurok Condor Rehabilitation Program <? The California Condor is one of the largest and rarest birds in the world, but this endangered scavenger has long been at risk of extinction. The tide began to turn almost three years ago in Humboldt County, thanks to the Yurok Tribe rehabilitating and releasing condors across their ancestral homeland for the first time in more than a century. Tiana Williams-Claussen is the Director of the Yurok Tribe Wildlife Department and provides an update on the condor restoration program, as well as the dangers that have cut some lives short. Crocker Art Museum’s New CEO <? The Crocker Art Museum is the oldest public art museum west of the Mississippi, and its history dates back to the founding of Sacramento. This year brings a new era, after its longtime museum director Lial Jones stepped down after 25 years. This week, the Crocker announced that Agustín Arteaga will become the new Mort and Marcy Friedman Director & CEO. Arteaga joins us with his history in the art world and the contributions he hopes to add to Sacramento’s creative scene.