Insight With Vicki Gonzalez

How federal Medicaid cuts could impact healthcare across the San Joaquin Valley. Also, the white sturgeon population is among the lowest recorded in California. Finally, the Spoken Word Federation hosts a performance poetry event.

California is creating a state agency exclusively focused on housing issues. Also, local author and National Book Award finalist Jamil Jan Kochai. Finally, remembering longtime Sacramento blues musician and radio DJ Mick Martin.

A look at high suicide rates in the Central Valley. Also, the Sacramento Film Commission discusses new incentives for productions. Finally, the California State Fair kicks off this weekend.

Firework and explosion experts weigh in on the deadly Esparto warehouse explosion. Also, Davis Science Cafe explores DNA analysis and forensic science. Finally, a Dave Brubeck benefit concert for the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.

Breaking down California’s recently-passed state budget and CEQA reforms. How the lack of menopause research affects accessing treatment and care. Finally, summer classes being offered at SFSU’s Sierra Nevada Field Campus.

Update on a deadly fireworks warehouse explosion in Esparto. Also, POLITICO's California Playbook. Plus, why homeless enforcement increased following a Supreme Court ruling. Finally, “King James” at Capital Stage.

Sacramento Assemblymember Maggy Krell is demanding answers from federal agencies following immigration detentions. Also, Lake Tahoe’s annual clarity report. Finally, this month’s “In a Nutshell” storytelling series at The Sofia. Assemblymember Maggy Krell <? A state lawmaker is demanding answers from federal agencies over the near-total shutdown of the John E. Moss Federal Building in downtown Sacramento last week, after multiple people were reportedly detained by immigration agents. Assemblymember Maggy Krell sent a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the Department of Justice over the weekend, seeking information about the restricted access and presence of ICE agents in the courtroom. She joins Insight with her concerns about the lack of transparency and due process. Lake Tahoe Clarity Report <? Lake Tahoe is known internationally for its clear waters. Visitors flock to the region to take in its deep blue color and pristine conditions. But that clarity was on the decline throughout the 1990s before leveling off in recent years. An annual report that measures the lake’s clarity was just released by the UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center. Stephanie Hampton is the director there and she joins us along with Julie Regan from the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency to discuss the lake’s clarity and why it’s important to the region. ‘In a Nutshell’ Storytelling Series <? We all probably have at least one lightbulb moment in our lives. Those times where everything just clicks and you know you’ve stumbled onto something new and exciting. “Eureka!” Is the theme of this month’s storytelling showcase In a Nutshell. Two of this month’s performers, Claire Hennessy and Becky Lynn, preview the show scheduled for June 30 at The Sofia in Sacramento.

A conversation with upcoming Senate Pro Tem Monique Limón. Also, an accessible theater festival by - and about - people who are blind, deaf and neurodivergent. Finally, Black Conservation Week. New Senate Pro Tem Monique Limón State Sen. Monique Limón was elected as the next leader of the California Senate. The 45-year-old Democrat is the first woman of color to hold the position and will replace current Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire once he terms out next year. CapRadio Statehouse and Politics Reporter Laura Fitzgerald sat down with Sen. Limón for a wide ranging conversation. Festival of Accessible Theater A three-day festival in Sacramento is putting artists of all abilities in the spotlight - featuring theater performances by, and about, people who are neurodivergent, blind or low-vision, deaf and hard-of-hearing. Jim Brown is a Coordinator of the ALL IN festival. He and Regina Marie Brink, Director of Innervision Theater and First Vice-President for the California Council of the Blind, join us about the free festival June 27-29 at the R25 Arts Complex at 1725 25th St. 40 Acre Conservation League and ‘Black Conservation Week’ In 2023, California’s first Black-led conservancy group acquired hundreds of acres of land near Emigrant Gap in Placer County to make exploring the outdoors more inclusive. This week, the group's leaders were in Sacramento to mark “Black Conservation Week.” Jade Stevens is the co-founder and Executive Director of the 40 Acre Conservation League and joins Insight about the progress being made to get the property ready for visitors, and the conversations she is having about making nature more accessible to all.

“No Kings” rallies across Sacramento and surrounding counties. Also, the California Legislature passed a $325 billion budget, but faces challenges as it heads to Gov. Newsom’s desk. Finally, an Alice in Wonderland ballet in Nevada County. ‘No Kings’ Rallies Across Sacramento <? From the state Capitol to city halls, shopping centers and highway overpasses, thousands of people took part in “No Kings” rallies Saturday across Sacramento and surrounding counties - as part of a nationwide counter protest against the Trump administration. The date aligned with Washington D.C.'s largest military parade in decades to celebrate the U.S. army’s 250th anniversary. It was also Trump’s 79th birthday and Flag Day. CapRadio Reporter Gerardo Zavala was at the state Capitol rally. Gerardo joins us with his reporting. CA Lawmakers Approve $325B Budget <? The California Legislature passed a $325 billion budget. Lawmakers were tasked with closing a $12 billion shortfall ahead of a June 15 deadline or forgo their pay. But Gov. Newsom still needs to approve the spending plan - which rejected many of the spending cuts Newsom proposed in his May Revision to stabilize finances long-term. Alexei Koseff is a Capitol Reporter with CalMatters and joins us with a breakdown of the legislature’s state budget, and the compromises that will take place as a July 1 fiscal year looms. CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state. Alice in Wonderland Ballet <? A new version of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is coming to Nevada County. But this time, the Lewis Carrol classic about a curious risk-taker on a journey of self-discovery will be told through dance. The Holt Ballet Conservatory will perform Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland June 19 through June 22 at the Don Baggett Theater in Grass Valley. Yelena Holt is the owner and director of the conservatory and joins us today about this weekend’s performances.

Sacramento's mayor discusses city budget vote. Updates from CapRadio reporters on possible arrest at courthouse and how Sacramento’s Latino community are responding to immigration raids and protests. Finally, an update on an altercation in Los Angeles today. Mayor Kevin McCarty on City Budget <? The city of Sacramento faced a $62 million deficit at the start of the year and faced the possibility of layoffs for the first time in more than a decade. On Tuesday, the city council and mayor adopted a nearly $1.7 billion budget - without laying off any city employees. Mayor Kevin McCarty joins Insight with the decisions and financial priorities made to close the shortfall, as well as how they are planning for the possibility of more shortfalls in upcoming fiscal years. Courthouse ICE Arrest <? Sacramento’s immigration court downtown has been shut down due to possible arrest activity. CapRadio Reporter Greg Micek joined with an update from inside the locked courthouse. Sac Latinos React to ICE Raids, Protests <? As ongoing ICE raids rock Los Angeles, Sacramento’s Latino community has responded with rapid organizing. CapRadio Communities Reporter Gerardo Zavala spoke with local advocates who report rising panic, misinformation and call on officials to support undocumented residents. California Senator Padilla Detained <? Earlier today, California Democratic Sen. Alex Padilla was detained and handcuffed in Los Angeles during an altercation at Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s press conference, according to news reports and a video. Blake Jones, co-author of POLITICO’s California Playbook breaks down what happened.

Gov. Newsom’s national address criticizing President Trump’s response to immigration protests. Also, the legality of federal militarization on U.S. soil. Plus, the state of Sacramento’s craft beer industry. Finally, Sac Pride Festival this weekend. Gov. Newsom’s National Address <? In a nationally televised address, Governor Gavin Newsom condemned President Donald Trump for deploying National Guard members and U.S. Marines in response to immigration protests in Los Angeles against his request. Laurel Rosenhall is a New York Times reporter covering California politics and government and joins us with analysis of the governor’s speech. Federal Militarization on U.S. Soil <? The last time a sitting president deployed National Guard troops without a governor’s request was during the civil rights movement in the 1960s. Gov. Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta are suing the Trump administration over federal militarization in response to protests in Los Angeles - a case that will head to federal court on Thursday. Leslie Gielow Jacobs is an Anthony Kennedy Professor of Law at McGeorge School of Law, and joins Insight with the legality of the use of military force on domestic soil. Sacramento Craft Beer Scene <? Over the past decade, the craft beer scene has been riding high as more breweries and tap houses began popping up. But drinking habits are changing and demand for beer has taken a hit along with other pressing economic challenges. Following the closures of two popular breweries in Sacramento, we decided to check in with the Sacramento Brewers Guild about the state of craft beer in the region. Andy Klein is the owner of Monk's Cellar in Roseville, Kristen Madigan is the taproom manager at Touchstone Brewing in midtown Sacramento, and Kenny Terry is the owner and brewer at Logoff Brewing in Rancho Cordova. Sac Pride Festival <? This weekend, the heart of Sacramento will come alive with color and pride. The Sacramento Pride Festival returns June 14 and 15 and is expected to draw more than 20,000 people for the two-day celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, community, and resilience. Pride Director Collin Lourenco joins Insight to share what’s in store and how the event supports year-round services at the Sacramento LGBT Community Center.

City considers eliminating Sac PD vacant positions to help close a budget deficit. Also, a daylong event for Cancer Survivors Day. Finally, Davis Science Cafe explores same-sex relationships in the animal kingdom. Sac PD City Budget Impacts <? The city of Sacramento will vote to pass a balanced budget tonight, aiming to close an estimated $44 million shortfall. The proposed budget includes cutting about two dozen vacant positions at the Sacramento Police Department and restoring $1.3 million in one-time funding for youth programs, including violence prevention. But the budget is raising a debate, with police officials saying it would add more pressure to a strained department, while youth advocates are calling for long-term sustainable funding for children and families. Dustin Smith, president of the Sacramento Police Officers Association, and Sacramento City Councilmember Mai Vang join Insight to share their perspectives. Cancer Survivors Day <? Roughly two million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and many will be embarking on a difficult road to survivorship. It’s easy to feel lost, overwhelmed and lonely in the midst of procedures and treatment. This week, a daylong event will bring the community together in honor of National Cancer Survivors Day. Dr. David Tom Cooke is the physician in chief at the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center and joins us with more about this year’s Cancer Survivors Day taking place Thu, June 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free to the public. Davis Science Cafe <? Some people may assume that same-sex behavior in the animal kingdom is unusual, but research tells a different story. Dr. Rebecca Calisi Rodriguez is the featured speaker at this month’s Davis Science Café. She’ll be talking about “Celebrating Gender Rebels and Queer Pairings in the Animal Kingdom” in connection with her book Wild Pride. She joins us with a preview of Wednesday’s event at G Street WunderBar at 5:30 p.m.

Los Angeles anti-ICE protests. Also, Blue Diamond Growers is stopping operations at its Midtown Sacramento plant. Plus, Sacramento Republic FC’s proposed stadium draws criticism. Finally, artist Jermain Jcrux Tilson’s new show “The Nu Blak.” LA Anti-ICE Protests <? For the first time in 60 years, National Guard troops have been deployed to downtown Los Angeles despite the objections of California leaders, including Governor Newsom. CalMatters Investigative Reporter Sergio Olmos and Blake Jones, Co-Author of POLITICO’s California Playbook, join Insight to talk about the escalating fight between California and the Trump administration over immigration. Blue Diamond Closes Sacramento Plant <? After more than a century of operations, Blue Diamond Growers announced Friday it will stop production at its historic plant in Midtown Sacramento and shift to facilities in the Central Valley. The company says the move will impact hundreds of workers. CapRadio Communities Reporter Gerardo Zavala talks about how officials, farmers and the business community are responding to the news of the impending departure. William Burg, board president for the nonprofit Preservation Sacramento, also talks about Blue Diamond’s legacy in Sacramento as part of the city’s larger history of food production. Sac Republic Stadium Vote <? Sacramento Republic FC is planning to build a new soccer stadium in the downtown Railyards as part of a $321 million entertainment district development. But, the proposal has drawn criticism over the amount of affordable housing and union jobs included in the design. CapRadio Reporter Tony Rodriguez breaks down how city officials and opponents are viewing the development, ahead of a city council vote tomorrow on a $92 million financing plan for the project. ‘The Nu Blak’ Juneteenth Show <? More than a dozen creatives are joining forces for an evening of art, culture and community through the eyes of Black artists. Artist Jermaine Jcrux Tilson and Artist and Curator Noelle Tavares join Insight ahead of their show The Nu Blak // In Celebration of Juneteenth happening Sat June 14 from 6pm to 8pm at The House of Common Good in Old North Sacramento.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.