The Bay

Wildfires in Los Angeles have brought fire department budgets under scrutiny. In Oakland, the recent closures of two fire stations in the city’s hills have left firefighters warning of a tragedy waiting to happen. Links: 2 Oakland Fire Stations Close Amid Budget Crisis, and More Could Soon Follow How to Help People Affected by the L.A. Fires  Got Loved Ones Affected by LA Fires? These Wildfire Resources May Help  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leslie McClurg, a KQED health correspondent, sheds light on Medi-Cal's new inclusion of Native healing practices in addiction treatment. The conversation highlights how music therapy, rituals, and ceremonial dances fill crucial gaps in care for Native communities. McClurg shares inspiring stories, like the transformative journey of a Navajo individual reconnecting with their heritage through tradition. The focus on culturally-specific approaches emphasizes the importance of blending modern medicine with Indigenous wisdom for effective recovery.

The Bay Area is home to thousands of people with Temporary Protected Status, or TPS. Immigrants with TPS are provided a temporary shield from deportation and a work permit as a result of upheaval in their home countries. But as Donald Trump prepares to enter his second term, many fear deportation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Tuesday, Vallejo will swear in its new mayor. Andrea Sorce, chair of the city’s Surveillance Advisory Board and co-founder of the ACLU’s Solano County chapter,  won by running as a political outsider promising change. Today, Ericka sits down with the mayor-elect in Vallejo to discuss what barriers she sees to fulfilling Vallejo’s “potential,” the Vallejo Police Department, housing and homelessness and more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.