Next week, San Francisco mayor London Breed will pass the baton off to mayor-elect Daniel Lurie.  Breed led the city through most of the first Donald Trump presidency, the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. In this exit interview with the Political Breakdown podcast, Breed reflects on her six years as mayor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The emotional farewell of the Oakland Athletics resonates deeply as fans celebrate their last game in the Coliseum. Heartfelt memories of over half a century of support flood the atmosphere, while personal anecdotes reveal the special bond between the team and its loyal followers. As the crowd cheers on a tense game, the weight of impending relocation hangs in the air, making this moment even more poignant. It’s a moving tribute to a cherished era in Oakland sports, filled with nostalgia and heartfelt connections.

Experience the vibrant Story Road Night Market in San Jose, a cultural hub for the Vietnamese community. Indulge in mouth-watering street food like grilled sea snails and sugar cane juice, all while enjoying the backdrop of pulsating EDM music. Discover how these night markets have become vital in rebuilding community ties post-pandemic, celebrating rich Asian American heritage. Join the speakers as they explore the emotional connections and sense of belonging fostered by these lively culinary gatherings.

Kami Dominguez, a staff reporter at Golden Gate Express, and Olivia Keeler, editor-in-chief of the Sonoma State Star, share their experiences covering pro-Palestine protests on college campuses. They discuss a peaceful encampment at San Francisco State University filled with speeches and community support. The growing tensions around these protests are examined, highlighting minimal counter-protests and students' worries about administration responses. Their stories illuminate the vital role of student journalism in advocating for social issues during turbulent times.

Reflect on personal experiences and joy in daily life as members of the arts and culture desk share their ‘One Beautiful Thing’ from 2024. Discover a journey of rediscovering the piano and the satisfaction of overcoming childhood challenges. Explore the cultural impact of Kendrick Lamar and West Coast hip-hop, sparked by a moment of joy in a restaurant. Join a transformative queer surf camp experience and embrace the joy of becoming a supportive 'sports dad' for daughters in athletics. Celebrate beauty and connection through these heartfelt stories.

Gabe Meline, KQED’s Senior Editor for Arts and Culture, shares his family's cherished Christmas Eve tradition at Snoopy's Home Ice, an iconic ice skating rink built by Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz. He describes the festive charm of this unique locale, adorned with a Swiss Alps theme, which has been a community favorite since 1969. Through nostalgic stories and emotional reflections, Gabe highlights the significance of this tradition, blending joy with the bittersweet realities of holiday gatherings, while preserving the rink's cultural legacy.

Today, we’re sharing this episode from the podcast Sea Change, a show by WWNO in New Orleans and WRKF in Baton Rouge. In it you’ll hear about how three different cities – including San Francisco — are addressing unique challenges around sea level rise.Links: Sea Change Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tyche Hendricks, KQED’s senior immigration editor, dives into the complexities of Donald Trump’s mass deportation promises and their implications for California. She unpacks how the state’s sanctuary laws aim to protect undocumented residents and the logistical challenges of implementing mass deportations. Hendricks also discusses the vital role immigrant labor plays in California's economy and the ongoing struggles for reform, like the DREAM Act, in a perilous political landscape.

Since Sept. 22, thousands of hotel workers at some of San Francisco’s largest hotels have been in a stalemate with employers, demanding wage increases and affordable health care. KQED’s Farida Jhabvala Romero explains why this dispute has dragged on, and why everyone has a stake in what happens to the city’s hotel industry. This episode was produced by Alan Montecillo and Jessica Kariisa, and hosted by Ericka Cruz Guevarra.Links: Episode transcript Slow San Francisco Tourism Complicates Hotel Strike Resolution Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ezra David Romero, a KQED climate reporter, discusses the Great Highway's transformation into a public space and the fallout from Prop K's approval. He highlights community divides, detailing local opposition, particularly from the Sunset neighborhood, against the road closure. The recall campaign against Supervisor Joel Engardio uncovers feelings of betrayal among residents over promises made. Romero emphasizes the environmental impacts and safety concerns surrounding the proposed changes, showcasing a rich tapestry of community voices in this heated debate.