The Bay

In this insightful discussion, guest Natalia Navarro, a KQED news anchor and expert on sports controversies, dives into the heated debate over anti-trans politics affecting San Jose State University's volleyball season. She highlights the personal struggles of team members amidst a lawsuit targeting a trans player. The conversation explores the electric atmosphere at key games, the implications of Title IX, and the team's resilience in facing backlash. Navarro sheds light on the broader societal impacts and the ongoing fight for inclusion in athletics.

Cassandra Garibay, a senior housing reporter for El Timpano, and Jasmine Aguilera, a senior health equity reporter, tackle the pressing issue of lead exposure in Oakland's rental housing. They reveal that 83% of these homes may contain lead, despite millions in settlement funds sitting unused. The discussion includes personal stories, such as a mother facing kidney failure, and highlights the bureaucratic challenges in deploying these funds effectively. The conversation underscores the urgent need for action to protect vulnerable communities from severe health risks.

Ally Markovich, a former Berkeleyside reporter, dives into the profound history of Indian and Mortar Rocks in Berkeley, highlighting their significance to the Ohlone people. She discusses the dual identity of these landmarks—both a favorite among climbers and a reminder of a lost cultural landscape. Ally emphasizes the urgent need to respect and protect Indigenous narratives and traditions linked to these sites, urging a shift in awareness among visitors. This conversation blends personal reflections with a call to action for cultural preservation.

Kris Perry, a key plaintiff in the landmark case Perry v. Schwarzenegger, joins the conversation alongside Sandy Stier. They reflect on their emotional journey through the fight against California’s Prop. 8, sharing personal stories of love and resilience. The discussion highlights their advocacy efforts and the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals during this pivotal time. They also celebrate the progress made in marriage equality, emphasizing its significance in shaping societal attitudes and the importance of language in the fight for justice.

Azul Dostrom-Ekman, a KQED reporter, dives into the challenges the Bay Area faces with its beloved Dungeness crab tradition during Thanksgiving. She discusses how recent delays in commercial crabbing seasons impact local families and their customs, particularly amid rising competition from Washington's crab. Recognizing the cultural significance of fresh crab, especially within Filipino heritage, she shares insights into recreational crabbing as an alternative. Ecological concerns and the effects of climate change also raise important questions for the future of this cherished holiday staple.

In this discussion, Alan Montecillo, Senior Editor of The Bay, delves into California's recent statewide ballot measures, revealing critical insights on criminal justice, minimum wage, and rent control. He highlights voter support for Proposition 2 and the serious challenges faced by Proposition 33 on rent control. The conversation also uncovers how the outcomes of propositions impact housing affordability and healthcare funding in the state. Montecillo emphasizes the evolving political landscape and voter sentiment shaping future initiatives.

Dan Brekke, an editor and reporter for KQED, dives into the looming crisis facing San Francisco's Muni system. He discusses the staggering $300 million budget deficit that could lead to significant cuts, including the suspension of iconic cable cars. Brekke emphasizes the impact on marginalized communities reliant on public transport, outlining the challenges of overcrowding and decreased revenue. He highlights the need for voter-approved solutions and federal support, stressing that the future of Bay Area transit hangs in the balance.

Joseph Geha, KQED’s South Bay reporter, provides insight into the shocking case of Omar Torres, a San José councilmember facing felony charges for child sexual misconduct. They discuss the whirlwind of allegations that led to Torres' resignation amid public outcry. Geha highlights the turmoil in local politics and how the community is grappling with the impacts of this scandal. Concerned residents voice their fears over representation in District 3 during a critical time, raising questions about trust in local governance moving forward.

Oakland has voted overwhelmingly to recall Mayor Sheng Thao, now the first sitting mayor to be recalled in city history. The Oaklandside’s Eli Wolfe explains how the recall campaign won, and the uncertain future ahead.Links:Who is running for Oakland mayor after Sheng Thao's recall? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

California's Attorney General Rob Bonta discusses preparing for renewed legal battles against the Trump administration. With a solid history as a state assemblyman, he emphasizes the state’s proactive measures in areas like environmental protection and civil rights. He shares strategies to defend reproductive rights amid potential national threats and highlights California's commitment to climate action. Bonta also tackles the challenges posed by misinformation in immigration policy and the implications for LGBTQ+ rights in the face of federal interventions.