Bay Curious

When people think of the Black Panthers, most imagine militant Black men in berets carrying guns. While that's not an inaccurate picture, the Black Panthers did much more than just fight back against racist policing. They created a whole host of community programs. This week, we bring you an excerpt from the Mindshift podcast about one of them — an elementary school in Oakland that made a big impact on education.Additional Reading: 5 Ways the Black Panthers Shaped U.S. Schools Read a transcript of this episode Sign up for our newsletter Enter our Sierra Nevada Brewing company monthly trivia contest Your support makes KQED podcasts possible. You can show your love by going to https://kqed.org/donate/podcastsThis story was reported by Nimah Gobir. Bay Curious is made by Olivia Allen-Price, Amanda Font, Christopher Beale, and Ana De Almeida Amaral. Additional support from Jen Chien, Katie Sprenger, Maha Sanad, Holly Kernan, and the whole KQED family.

Gabriela Glueck, a reporter for Bay Curious, uncovers the explosive history of Glen Canyon Park, once home to the first dynamite factory in the U.S. Ryan Flynn, a local resident, shares how he sparked this investigation by finding a forgotten historical marker. Longtime resident and historian Evelyn Rose discusses the significant yet dangerous roles of Chinese laborers in the explosives industry. Together, they explore dynamite's transformative impact on San Francisco and the park's hidden legacy, blending history with modern echoes.

Katherine Monahan, a KQED reporter, takes listeners on a chilling journey through the haunted USS Hornet, a retired WWII aircraft carrier. She recounts her late-night paranormal investigation with ghost hunters, attempting to make contact with spirits through flashlight communication. Monahan vividly describes personal encounters, including a touching moment connecting with a deceased loved one. The eerie atmosphere is amplified by chilling temperature drops and ghostly imagery, making the exploration of this haunted ship both captivating and spine-tingling.

Exploring the synergies between fandom and politics, this discussion unveils how passionate communities shape electoral engagement. Delve into the phenomenon of political fan edits on platforms like TikTok, which transform public perception of leaders like Kamala Harris. The conversation highlights the evolution of political branding in the digital age, revealing how pop culture, memes, and fierce loyalty impact modern campaigns. From the vibrant emergence of political fandoms to the risks of authenticity in viral trends, the interplay is as fascinating as it is complex.

Danielle Venton, a KQED science reporter with nearly a decade of experience covering wildfires, dives into California's complex fire ecosystems. She discusses how prolonged fire suppression has led to larger, more destructive wildfires, emphasizing the natural role of fire in certain ecosystems. Venton sheds light on historical fire practices, like prescribed burns, and the ecological benefits of wildfires, including the revival of wildflowers. The conversation challenges common misconceptions and highlights the intricate relationship between climate change and fire management.

Ana De Almeida Amaral, a KQED intern, shares the heartwarming story of the Presidio pet cemetery, a unique site where beloved pets find their final resting place. She discusses the emotional connection between pets and their owners, reflecting on the cultural significance of pet funerals. The podcast covers the transformation of the cemetery from military outpost to serene memorial park and the efforts to restore it. Listeners are invited to join in community engagement and trivia, making this a heartfelt exploration of love and loss.

Carly Severn, a reporter at Bay Curious, delves into the extraordinary life of Mary Ellen Pleasant, a former slave turned civil rights leader. They discuss her vital role in the abolitionist movement and how she empowered the black community during the Gold Rush. Severn uncovers the shift in Pleasant's legacy, from celebrated hero to misunderstood villain, shaped by racism and sensationalist media. The conversation highlights how her remarkable story remains ghostly yet pivotal in the narrative of San Francisco's history.

Marisa Lagos, a KQED Politics Correspondent and co-host of Political Breakdown, dives into the contentious Proposition 36. She explores its implications for drug and theft penalties, contrasting it with the earlier Prop 47. The discussion reveals how community rehabilitation and homeless issues are intertwined in this legal debate. Lagos sheds light on the divided opinions surrounding crime policy, the influence of political funding, and potential legal challenges, making the complexities of California’s criminal justice landscape accessible and engaging.

Lesley McClurg, a health correspondent known for her focus on health policy and access, dives deep into Proposition 35, which aims to secure consistent funding for California's Medi-Cal program. She discusses the complexities of making the managed care tax permanent and its implications for healthcare services. Listeners will learn about the support and opposition surrounding the proposition, as well as its potential impact on vulnerable communities. The conversation also highlights the current state of Medi-Cal funding and the need for enhanced services.

Aaron Schrank, a reporter from KCRW in Los Angeles, delves into the complexities of Proposition 34, which influences how federal drug pricing revenues are allocated. He highlights its unexpected ties to the rent control debate, showcasing how landlord groups are heavily financing this initiative. The conversation also covers the implications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and the Medi-Cal RX program, raising concerns about the interplay of healthcare funding and housing politics. Schrank reveals the contrasting motivations between health advocates and real estate interests.