KUCI: Ask A Leader: Recent Episodes
Claudia Shambaugh
Today the show’s all about performances in our neck of the woods. In advance of “Peter Pan” being performed @ Segerstrom Hall Aug 6-18 is our first guest, Larissa FastHorse. Speaking as an enrolled member of the Sicangu Lakota, a playwright, MacArthur fellow, Larissa talks about her intentions around re-writing a standard bearer of a musical, as well as making space for all Indigenous Peoples. In the second segment (approx. minute 31:12), O.C. native Armanda Gutierrez brings his many parts in South Coast Repertory’s production, a play with music, “The Old Man & The Old Moon.” This will be the last season of SCR Outside at the Mission in San Juan Capistrano. It’s running now through August 11th. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Grace Kelly with Strings, “He’s A Pirate,” At the Movies – album; and Sportive Tricks, “Bonnie Ship the Diamond,” Old Dogs, New Tricks – album.
With recent news cycles mimicking a hurricane season; one storm after the next, building peaking, and subsiding, we turned the mic over to four women to process how the latest, unprecedented news is landing for them, 105 days before the election Nov 5th. For the full hour we heard from Pauline Merry, Yolanda Robinson, Jane Wishon, and Olivia Fu for their reflections. this live with heavy-duty news constantly breaking. Pauline Merry, a retired higher education administrator appeared earlier about her memoir, Growing Up in the Ville in St. Louis Missouri; Yolanda Robinson is also a retired professional a friend and colleague of Pauli’s, and a veteran of election politics in OC; Jane Wishon, a builder of many LA area Democratic organizations is currently Co-Chair of Organizational Development and Chartering Committee at LA Co Democratic Party and Co-chair of the CA Democratic Credentials Committee; and Olivia Fu, former co-editor of The Express at San Juan Hills High School, previously appeared on this show about her voting registration work in southern OC high schools as an anti- gun violence activist, graduated from Stanford and now a Tom Ford Philanthropy Fellow at North Star Fund. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; A. Ray Fuller, “Work to Do,” The Weeper – album.
My guest for the full hour is entrepreneur consultant, author, activist, and veteran Dee Batiste. She breaks down what is Project 2025 a 933-page document of proposed policies, built by a coalition of 110 conservative groups in their words, “advocating for the next conservative president,” or generically put a future Republican administration. Instead of a test at the end, consider this an ongoing teach-in that is taking place in small and large circles across the country, to understand the complete overhaul of the federal government. Some of these measures are already institutionalized. Your KUCI hosts are covering and will continue to cover this into the exhausting slog toward the general election, and for as long as this long game looms over all public institutions. If you’re new to Project 2025, now is a good time to begin understanding its far-reaching facets. Note of Correction: my reference to former NIH director Dr. Redstone was intended to refer to Dr. Redfield, former director of the Center for Disease Control. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Charlie Haden-Liberation Music Orchestra, “America the Beautiful,” Not in Our Name – album.
My guest for the full hour is Paige Barrows, a fully-immersed volunteer bringing humanitarian aide to Ukraine. Her commitment to Ukraine stems from her service as a Peace Corps worker in Ukraine 2010-2012. She talks about her activities both stateside as well as in Ukraine since the full invasion by Russia in 2022. Her latest trip was to Bucha, Irpin, and multiple locations along the from line in April 2024. She is the first non-Ukrainian to speak about this war on our show.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; and ParfeniukVsevolod Zaderatsky’s Preludes and Fugues in a minor, performed by Irma Klimenko.
Returning to the show for the full hour is Scott Bartell, UCI Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health. He brings us all the way up to speed on the forever chemicals, those PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Good news, more people are finally aware of them - bad news, industry is interfering in their regulation. Well, the bad news got worse last Friday with the SCOTUS rollback of the Chevron doctrine. It is time to rename Project 2025 to Project 2024, with PFAS at the intersection of this overhaul of the administrative state. Links that advance the coverage include: https://www.propublica.org/article/3m-forever-chemicals-pfas-pfos-inside-story; https://silentspring.org/project/pfas-reach; https://www.nature.com/articles/s41370-018-0109-y; https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/news/ada-statement-on-study-involving-dental-floss-1003939091/; and https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30671781/.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Sham Family, “This Blue Mob,” sinlge.
Our guests are two highly acclaimed story tellers offering new books for summer reading or anytime of the year reading, bringing big city life to their plots. In the first segment is Curtis Chin, co-founder of the Asian American Writers’ Workshop, filmmaker, and author. He talks about his highly intersectional memoir "Everything I Learned I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant," published by Little Brown and Company. In the second segment (minute 34:04) is George Pelecanos, author, screenwriter, essayist, television writer/producer, who bring a dog’s perspetive in his novella "BUSTER: A Dog," published by Akashic Books. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Sly5th Ave, “Pour it Up,” Composite EP; Black Disco, “Night Express,” Night Express – album.
My guests for the full hour are two water activists who’ve been monitoring consequential infrastructure decisions over the decades: Sierra Club Water Committee Chair Charming Evelyn; and Conner Everts, Executive Director of the Southern California Watershed Alliance and facilitator of the Environmental Water Caucus. They attend innumerable water board meetings so that you and I don’t have to! Today’s focus is on some Metropolitan Water District board of directors’ maneuvering to oust the forward thinking general manager Adel Hagekhalil. Charming ad Conner connect the dots between this power struggle and the Newsom administration’s top priority - the $20+ billion Delta Tunnel project. Actually we learn it's more like $38 billion, not counting the much anticipated cost over-runs.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Bill Beach, “Aqua De Beber,” Letting Go – album.
Returning to the show are both guests. Madelynn Hirneise, CEO of Families Forward, speaks about her organization’s current efforts - before the holidays, well before chestnuts start roasting on the winter open fire. Housing is top of mind. She invites prospective volunteers to call 949-552-272 7 or check out: https://www.families-forward.org/volunteer-opportunities/.In the second segment (minute 39:27), “AAL” resumes the annual tradition of having a graduating senior from the KUCI staff take stock of their UCI years; Kalisee Ajlouny takes the Class of 2024 out this year, the class that took a lot of public health and political lumps. Hit it Maestro Elgar!Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; A. Ray Fuller, “Work To Do,” The Weeper - album; Blue Claw Philharmonic, “Pomp & Circumstance,” Hip Hop Remix.
My guest for the full program is Michelle Story, a non-traditional student, mother of five soon to collect her diploma at UCI’s School of Social Sciences, before she pursues a graduate degree in clinical psychology. Listen to what breaking a mold sounds like as she talks about her institutional arrangements and studies at UCI after transferring from the community College of the Sequoias. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; José Antonio Rodríguez, “El Regalo,” Adiós Muchachos – album.
Our featured guest is Sadaf Rahmani, the public affairs director of Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties. She speaks about the challenges of delivering reproductive health services in today’s complex regulatory framework, post SCOTUS’ “Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization” decision on June 24, 2022. With all the headwinds in which Planned Parenthood is navigating, public health trends are concerning: availability of emergency birth control methods, young adults seeking sterilization, and Fontana’s City Council imposing a moratorium on permitting a downtown Planned Parenthood care center. It is an enormously changed world since the previous public affairs director at Planned Parenthood was on this program July 30, 2019. Details for upcoming events are available: https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/community-action-fund-planned-parenthood-orange-and-san-bernardi. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Lorraine Klaasen, “Jolinkomo,” Free At Last – album; and Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, “Flight of the Cosmic Hippo,” Flight of the Cosmic Hippo – album.
My guest for the full hour is UCI social scientist and one important demographer, Professor Wang Feng. We focus on his latest publication, especially as it helps us appreciate what China’s got to work with under current conditions. "China’s Age of Abundance; Origins, Ascendance, and Aftermath,” published by the Cambridge University Press, explores China’s rise to material wealth, current predicaments and future challenges. Demographers . . . the ones with lots of receipts. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; and Jodi Proznick Trio, “The Moon Represents My Heart,” Jasmine Jazz collaboration at Vancouver International Jazz Festival 2022.
For the full hour is Joey Forsyte, an LA based, award-winning filmmaker and visual artist. She focuses on works that build community, political awareness and activism. She is the owner of Velocity Filmworks as well as the founder and executive director of A Band of Voters. Civics is on her front burner as she works with institutions that reach out to the youngest of eligible voters: CA Student Civic and Voter Empowerment Act of 2019, the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE), and the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), to name a few. Interested parties can reach Joey et. al. by emailing them at: adoptacollege2024@gmail.com.This is a reminder for all eligible voters to register to vote and keep confirming their registration as many primaries continue, in the run up to the 2024 general election this November 5th. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; and Kamasi Washington, “The Magnificent,” The Epic – album.
We begin with Rosaisela López Cienfuegos, a lead coordinator at Orange County Communities for Responsible Development, talking about the naturalization process that they’re overseeing, always looking for takers. Recent changes to the application and associated fees lower some of the earlier barriers; the processing time have been reduced get newly naturalized citizens into the voting booth sooner than was possible a few years ago. She sets you up with citizenship clinic training, in upcoming events. The next training at the OCCORD office is 5/3 and 5/4, 6-8 p.m. The next clinic is 5/18, with shifts starting at: 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and I p.m. More details: https://occord.org/.In the second segment (approx. minute 25:00) is playwright and screen writer Eleanor Burgess. Fresh from last year’s South Coast Repertory Pacific Playwright Festival, her world premiere of "Galilee, 34" is being performed now through May 12th, at SCR's Argyros Stage at the Segerstrom Center for Performing Arts. Details are available at: https://www.scr.org/plays/productions/23-24-season/galilee-34/. It’s an audacious interpretation of “none of it ever happened and it’s all true.” The host aimed for a spoiler free treatment of this play during these very fraught times.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Dana Landry Trio, “Transfusion,” Memphis Skyline – album; Marcel Khalife, “I Shall Name You,” Stripped Bare – album.
My guest for the full the hour is mixed media artist Soheila Siadate, with an extraordinary solo exhibition at the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art in Santa Ana, “In Search of the Third Feather of Simurgh: Contagious Dictatorship and Fragile Democracy” on view now through 4/26th. Details are available at: https://www.occca.org/EXHIBITIONS.html. This is her most expansive exhibit yet. On the radio: she leads us through layers of culture, history, and the special media with which she works. On your visit: the hours are Mon-Thursday by appointment only; open Friday-Saturday noon to 5 p.m., 117 North Sycamore St., downtown Santa Ana at the corner of 2nd and Sycamore.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; and Hossein Omoumi and Madjid Khaladj, “Tasnif.”
Returning to the show, for the full hour, is Samantha Trad, the National Director of Advocacy for Compassion and Choices. Up the escalator are more states enacting laws granting end of life options or “medical aid in dying,” (MAID). Amidst this trend, boarding the downward escalator, are federal and state challenges to end these choices. In the background are Compassion and Choices’ findings that a majority across the political spectrum support MAID. More earnest questions about this last act we all have. Hop onto their website for all the resources to which she refers in this interview: https://www.compassionandchoices.org/.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; and Leonard Bernstein conducting, Debussy’s “Nocturnes,” A Total Embrace of the Conductor – album.
For the full hour is Chinmayi Sharma, assistant professor at Fordham University Law School. Think Cassandra for this time we are in, as she brings her not-so-modest proposal, "AI’s Hippocratic Oath.” Amidst the tech sector’s arms race to build these voracious artificial intelligence systems, she raises the specter of harm overtaking the common good. Professionalizing the AI engineers at the front end would do for the public, what licensing other professions has done for clients, patients, and communities. In the closing segment (approx. minute 46:15) is Mykola Omelchenko, Ukrainian filmmaker/photographer who’s presenting “War Up Close” showing Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine thru virtual reality this Friday, April 12 at the Chinese Theater in Hollywood Stand With Ukraine 11 am-6 pm this Friday. It’s free, visitors can sign up at: https://war.city/upcoming/.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Claraguilar, “Invisible Orchestra,” Figura – album; Vsevolod Zaderatsky’s Preludes and Fugues, performed by Jascha Nemtsov.
In this extended portion of Jordie Davies' interview we draw comparisons with Ukrainians coalescing in the Maidan Revolution in 2013-14 and American protest movements.This clip is under 3 minutes.
Today we first hear from Dr. Jordie Davies, Assistant Professor of Political Science at UCI, and an affiliate faculty member of the UCI Culture & Theory Ph.D. Program. Of particular interest is her work on “Solidarity Processes in Multi-Racial Coalitions.” An additional portion of this interview is available in Part 2 of this pod.In the segment (minute 35:50) is Paula Tomei, managing director of South Coast Repertory. She’s stepping down this August after a 44-year career, building a lot of things of local, regional, and national significance. It’s SCR’s 26th Pacific Playwright Festival May 3-5. Wrapping their season are the productions “Prelude to a Kiss, The Musical” and “Galilee, 34” which were previously showcased in earlier festivals. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Casey Benjamin, “Your Recipe,” single At Clement’s Place; “Ponteio,” Peppino D’Agostino, single.
We begin with Davin Phoenix, who talks about the voter participation gap opening up between Black and white voters, since the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on Shelby Co. v Holder. His very well received book, "The Anger Gap; How Race Shapes Emotion in Politics" anticipated this trend. He breaks it all down for us; his work along with the findings of the Brennan Center for Justice. In the segment (approx minute 35:11), is Grace Kelly: alto saxophonist, singer, composer, arranger, and more, releasing her 15th album and latest project, "Grace Kelly with Strings: At The Movies." This tribute to her sax hero Charlie Parker, features more than 16 films. Listeners will be able to find her recordings through PAZZ Productions, https://www.gracekellymusic.com/, or her live performances this Spring and Summer, including a Festival of the Arts gig in Laguna Beach July 13th. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Oliver Jones, “Mark My Time,” A Classic Act – album; Grace Kelly, “Morricone Medley,” Grace Kelly with Strings: At The Movies - album.
Logic for kiddos and dance are on today’s roster. We begin with former therapist now children’s book and memoir author Cornelia Maude Spelman. Her brand-new children’s non-fiction book, entitled A "Foot is Not a Fish," published by Frederator Books, pairs rhymes with vivid illustrations, to help parents show their children that it is not hard to see what is true and what is not, a fitting starting point for talks about the elections. In the second segment (approx. minute 26:15) is Jennifer Backhaus, founder, and artistic director of Backhausdance, a critically-acclaimed contemporary dance company, in advance of their March 27th, 8 p.m. Barclay performance in the middle of their 21st season. Ticket information is available: www.thebarclay.org or call (949) 854-4646.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Lunatraktors, “Rigs of Time,” single; Bobby Sanabria Multiverse Big Band, “Gym Scene” Blues/Mambo, Westside Story Reimagined – album.
Our guest for the full hour is Sudi Farokhnia, a local Risk and Audit professional and Co-founder of Iranian American Democrats of California. Speaking in her capacity as an activist, she has a full roster to cover today including: Iranian American political organizing in general; The Middle Eastern Northern African Inclusion Act, California AB 2763; the Temporary Family Visitation Act, HR 5155; and The Allyship Act, HR 6865; all this going into Ramadan and Nowruz. As spring has sprung, civics keeps up on this show.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Kiosk, “Vada Bebar,” Triple Distilled – album.
Paa-Kwesi Heto had more to say, on the heels of the news about the U. S. Supreme Court rendering its decision about Donald Trump's eligibility to appear on the Colorado primary ballot.
Welcome all to the CA Primary 2024 edition of "Ask A Voter," continuing the tradition of asking guests to tell their voting story. Think Story Corps walking around the polling place. Today, on Super Tuesday our roster of voters include: Alex Denysov, Ukrainian-American actor, filmmaker, musician and songwriter based on Los Angeles (minute 1:48); Shawn Khalifa, UCI sociology major soon to complete his BA in UCI’s Underground Scholars program (minute 17:00); Paa-Kwesi Heto, international political economist, security analyst affiliated with both UCI and Soka University of America (25:12); Elizabeth Martin, retired Orange County attorney and contributor to Orange County Communities Organized for Responsible Development’s citizenship fair (minute 35:19) and finally KUCI radio trainee Matt Sereno (minute 44:33). Music credits: Fanfare for the Common Man, Leonard Bernstein, conducting NY Philharmonic; DakhaBraka, “Carpathian Rap,” – single; Matt Haimowitz, “Star Spangled Banner,” single; Charlie Haden Liberation Music Orchestra, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” Not in Our Name - album; Agustín Uribu, “Fiesta en Ticara,” Santa Fe – album.
We are 1 week away from CA Primary Election Day, March 5th. On today’s roster is our last candidate: Crystal Miles, Villa Park City Council member, running as a Republican in the CA State Senate 37th District. Other candidates either did not reply, were unavailable for interview, have appeared in past election cycles, or are not actively campaigning. In today’s second segment (approx. minute 27:15), we do one better with a heady discussion of civics. Taking that up is Linda Bytof, retired judge and currently the Chair of Youth Outreach Committee with the League of Women Voters, Alameda CA; and a member on the Alameda Co Office of Education Civics Advisory Committee. NOTE: Calling all “Ask A Voter” guests to reach the host to appear on the CA Primary show next week. We still have openings. As with election show, we want to hear your election story: about your first time you registered and why are you voting today.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Nestor Torres, “Solar," Dance of the Phoenix - album; Mc Coy Tyner Trio, " Happy Days," Infinity - album.
As our primary coverage continues, our first guest is Dr. Nancy Watkins, education professional and OC Board of Education candidate running for trustee in Area 3. This area includes: Fullerton, Brea, Placentia, Yorba Linda, Orange, Foothill Ranch, Villa Park, central and North Irvine, Portola Hills, Anaheim Hills, portions of Lake Forest and Tustin. This is 3 of 5 trustee races that are on the CA Primary ballot. In the second segment (approx. minute 32:59) is financial technology entrepreneur Max Ukropina, who is running as a Republican in CA 47th Congressional District. This district includes: Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Newport, and Seal Beach, and portions of Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, and Laguna Woods. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Vincent Herring/Bobby Watson/Gary Bartz, “Folklore,” Bird at 100 – album; Isaiah J. Thompson, “1,000 Rainbows,” Plays the Music of Buddy Montgomery.
We are 3 weeks out from CA Primary Election Day, March 5th. Our vote-by-mail ballots are delivered; on Feb. 24th select vote centers will open, 25 with a drive through ballot drop off. The Registrar of Voters office will be open for the entire voting period. Information is available at: https://www.ocvote.gov/VIG . AAL continues coverage of the primary; on today’s roster are 2 State Senator candidates running in the 37th District: First is Alex Mohajer, Democrat and LA County Civil Service Advocate/Employee Relations Representative. In the second segment (minute 28:40) is Guy Selleck, Republican and founder/CEO/principal of BuildersMax Inc. and G.E.M. Investment Properties.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Miki Yamamoto, ”Suite 1 Brain,” Human Dust Suite – album; and Bela Fleck “Rhapsody in Bluegrass,” single.
Yesterday vote-by-mail ballot mailing began, California! Feb. 20th last day to register to vote, Feb. 24th select vote centers (183) open, inc 37 open for 11 days, 146 open for 4 days & 25 with a drive through ballot drop off, Registrar of Voters office will be open for the entire voting period. Information available at: https://www.ocvote.gov/VIG . In the service of that effort is AAL’s coverage of the primary. We start with State Senator Josh Newman (D-29), who is running for reelection in the newly mapped 37th State Senate District, which includes: Aliso Viejo, Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Modjeska, Newport Beach, North Tustin, Orange, Santa Ana, Silverado, Tustin, and Villa Park. In the second segment (approx. minute 30:05), we hear from CA 47th Congressional District candidate Joanna Weiss. This district includes: Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Newport, and Seal Beach, and portions of Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, and Laguna Woods. NOTE: Useful analyses of the intersection of transportation, affordable housing stock, and commutes are available at: https://www.niskanencenter.org/sprawl-can-be-good-actually-expand-the-metropolitan-commute-zone-to-grow-housing-supply/ and https://enewspaper.latimes.com/infinity/article_share.aspx?guid=646d928c-fea3-4d90-90ef-98fd783ca2e4.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Weather Report, “Birdland,” Heavy Weather – album; The Lyman Woodard Organization, “Belle_Isle_Daze,” Saturday Night Special – album.
Shawn Khalifa had a whole lot more to say about his transition to academia and the world beyond. Have a listen.
Today we begin coverage of the CA primary, a mere 5 weeks away. Community radio has an additional responsibility in this coverage as we all note the dwindling coverage of the OC politics in the area newspaper the L.A. Times. We first hear from CA State Senator Dave Min, one of the several candidates I’ll be interviewing, who are running in the CA 47th Congressional District, in the seat vacated by incumbent Congresswoman Katie Porter. In the second segment, (approx. minute 31:30) is Shawn Khalifa who’ll be graduating from the UCI's “Underground Scholars” program for felons from the carceral system and sends them off to thriving lives. The extended portion of his interview is posted on this same day. Please do listen.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Gustavo Dudamel conducting Simón Bolivar Youth Orchestra of Venezuela - Arturo Márquez, “Conga del Fuego,” Discoveries – album; John Beasley & Monk’estra, “Work,” John Beasley presents Monk’estra vol. 2 - album.
Dr. Dana Mukamel, economist and UCI professor of medicine, will talk about her findings in the Health Services Research journal published Dec 2023, in collaboration with Heather Ladd, Debra Saliba, and Tamara Konextzka; all of who whom have found that not just adding staff, but specialized training and a more stable labor will improve outcomes in American nursing home care, including dementia care. One of the resources that she particularly found useful for listeners to reference is the Quality Care Compare resource: https://www.cms.gov/medicare/health-safety-standards/certification-compliance/five-star-quality-rating-system.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; #17 Wilhelm Peterson-Berger composer, “Gratulation,” Nordic Piano Favorites – album.
Today our guests for the full hour are three young women applying to colleges and universities in what we’re referring to as the post "Dobbs" era, where abortion and reproductive healthcare are highly restricted if not effectively banned in seventeen states. Offering their personal reflections, choices, and experiences as higher education applicants in this moment are: University High School senior Camryn Cummings, applying to undergraduate programs; and UCI alumna Kimberly Martinez and UCI undergraduate Kalisse Ajlouny, both of whom are applying for advanced degrees. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Miki Yamanaka, “March,” 29 seconds in, Human Dust Suite – album.
Today our guests cover the world in two different ways, two different constructs. We start with Richard Downie, President and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Orange County, talking about the forums and mentoring that his local chapter offers the community. He surveys some highlights and moves into what they’ve got planned for 2024. In the second segment (approx. minute 30:00) Alonzo King Co-Founder, Artistic Director & Choreographer of LINES Ballet, raises the fundamentals of life and creativity, in advance of his San Francisco company performing Jan 20th, 7:30 p..m., at Segerstrom Hall. Details about the performance are available at: https://www.scfta.org/shows-events.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Aaron Lington Quartet performing Robert Nelson's Concerto for Baritone Saxophone and Orchestra, “III allegro,” Secondary Impressions – album; Wayne Shorter Quartet, “Zero Gravity,” Beyond the Sound Barrier – album.
For the larger share of the hour is Climate Action policy director, Ayn Craciun. She talks about local public works, public advocacy, and will later cover her public office aspirations this fall. Of interest are: the redirection of Orange County Power Authority; warehouses in the land-use mix; the single use plastics non-ban; and the CA March 5th Primary ballot down ticket item-the Irvine City Charter amendment. NOTE: The California State Auditor's 2-28-23 report pertaining to the OCPA is available here: https://www.auditor.ca.gov/pdfs/reports/2022-120.pdf. The CA Energy Commission is an entity under the CA Natural Resources Agency, the director of whom is appointed by the governor of California.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; a tba jazz track; Teodross Avery, “Teo,” Harlem Stories: The Music of Thelonius Monk - album.
Matt generously spoke at greater length in this session. This portion completes the whole.
Shahir Masri, an environmental scientist, who identifies as a Lebanese American, uses his science and grass roots sensibilities to address the human public health catastrophe in Gaza. In the second segment (approx. minute 41:05), cellist extraordinaire Matt Haimovitz speaks about the possibilities and power of his musical instrument, especially in times like these. An extension of Matt's interview is available in a separate sound file on this same day.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; De Hartmann Cello Concerto Op 57 I Andante con brio, performed by Matt Haimovitz with Leipzig Symphony Orchestra; Cello Concerto Op 57 III Allegro ma non troppo, performed by Matt Haimovitz with Leipzig Symphony Orchestra.
This is an extension of the interview with Adriana Jasso. The host sought extra context for what it feels like to be providing aide amidst such a wide range of needs.
Sometimes we just need to cover a lot of ground, starting with Adriana Jasso, Human Rights Advocate based in San Diego, California. She speaks in her capacity as the Program Coordinator for the U.S./Mexico Border Program of the American Friends Service Committee, at various open-air detention sites in San Diego County. During the annual tradition of La Posada, Adriana takes stock of what the inn actually looks like. https://afsc.org/action/take-action-stop-border-militarization?ms=WEB23TA. The extended portion of this interview can be heard in a separate sound file. Please refer to that post on this same day.In the second segment (approx. minute 34:00), Susan Jaffe, the artistic director and interim executive director of American Ballet Theater, has some special takes as her company performs “The Nutcracker” at the Segerstrom Hall, Dec 8th-17th, choreographed by Alexei Ratmansky. Tchaikovsky’s score is performed live by Pacific Symphony. Ticket details are available at: https://www.scfta.org/events/2023/american-ballet-theatre-s-the-nutcracker.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Adeste Fideles, “Vayamos Cristianos,” en español, Canto Católico Christmas Carol Album; Hal Leonard Choral, “Three Jazzy Nutcrackers,” SATB Choir, a cappella) – arranged by Paul Langford.
Over the full hour we cover an ambitious City of Irvine update with Branda Lin, Irvine Planning Commissioner; and Adam Cavecche, the supervising Principal Council Executive to Irvine City Council member Kathleen Treseder. On the municipal menu are: the failed single use plastics ordinance, warehouse creep, Irvine’s lobbying rules, the civil servant exodus, and the level of city commissioners’ training. For future coverage will be how Irvine Watchdog’s sights are set on city business on both the primary and general election ballots. A long table is set for this expansive buffet of topics. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Béla Fleck and The Flecktones, J.S. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio No. 41, BVW 248, “Ich Will,” Jingle All the Way – album.
Natasha Frolova, associate professor and crisis psychologist in the Dept. of Psychology and Social Work at Dnipro National University in Ukraine, speaks as a Fulbright scholar in residence at UC Irvine, working with trauma social scientist Roxanne Cohen Silver. She has the full hour to chart the dimensions of trauma experienced in Ukraine as she continues to build onto approaches toward addressing trauma on both the individual and the societal levels.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Andriy Khlyvnyuk x The Kiffness, “Chervona Kalyna.”
For the full hour is Lisa Bunker; writer, transgender activist, former New Hampshire state legislator, and fellow community radio aficionado. Based now in Sacramento, they are currently on the book tour circuit with their latest book, “Almond, Quartz, and Finch,” published by New Wind. Available at: https://www.lisabunker.net/ or your favorite independent book dealer. Someday, it would make a wonderful a film in a theater near us. Meanwhile, this conversation is one more serving at this week's feast.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Sandunes, “Follow Me,” The Ground Beneath Her Feet – album.
In his capacity as a member of the Irvine City Council, Larry Agran returns to talk about the special measure before Irvine voters on the March 2024 primary ballot. This special municipal election measure would amend the city’s charter to expand the number of council members to serve on the City Council and create of districts in which they would run. https://www.cityofirvine.org/government/city-clerk/election-information. Top of mind is how the City plans to engage voters down ballot, amidst the much anticipated drama of open legislative races at the top of the ballot.In the second segment (approx. minute 36:40), Craig Tyrl returns this time with The Wayward Artist’s current production of "Rotterdam" which he’s directing, running through 11/19, at the Santa Ana artist’s Village, in the Grand Central Art Center 125 N Broadway. He’s got details about how they’ll wrap their sixth season, and then takes measure of the general health of local community theaters. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood," Scored Suite performed by Nate Heller; and Anis, “Pensées amères,” La Chance – album.
Gabe Rosales, UCI Criminology, Law and Society Ph.D. candidate, professional musician, and advocate - has a whole lot to tell us about bringing music to the carceral setting, particularly at Donovan State Prison. We hear about the remarkable yields, when a system chooses rehabilitation over punitive measures, a fertile continuation of the reforms discussed with UCI professor Keramet Reiter on AAL 10/3/23.Meet Gabe in his own words "I have toured on a private plane over Europe. I have done drugs in a room by myself for days. I have cleaned toilets and been pepper sprayed in jail during the worse race riots in OC jail history. I have meditated in silence 16 hours a day for weeks in the mountains of California. I have been cornered on the streets of Los Angeles by thousands of riot police with the Occupy LA movement. I have marched with the American Indian Movement to the Jumping Bull house for the first official Leonard Peltier day in South Dakota. I have been lucky enough to see my writing published. I have had the honor of working with the BEST musicians on the planet. The meaning of life is to give life meaning, so use your time wisely. I am just getting started." Useful places to visit include: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9ixLTcjVOc and https://www.gaberosales.com/.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Kioea, “Lion’s Mane,” Stand Tall – album.
For the full hour we get more tricks than treats from Bryan Cunningham - UCI Law professor, Executive Director of UCI’s Cybersecurity Policy and Research Institute, practicing attorney, and vigorous Twitter Space contributor. Admittedly only an introduction to the pernicious workings of disinformation, misinformation, and even mal-information, the host hopes to resume this discussion, covering the concerning trends post 10/7. Bryan offers listeners a few topics to investigate, including the Mitrokhin archives and Operation Infektion.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Thomas Koppel, “Overture: Train Ride into the Belly of the Beast,” Messe For Et Tilfælde – album.
Returning to the show, this time together, are: Dr. Ara Apkarian, UCI Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, and Dr. Kev Abazajian Professor of Physics & Astronomy and the Director of the Center for Cosmology at UCI. Ara and Kev have a lot on their minds with the geopolitics taking place, from the campus to the Caucasus. They speak truth to power - a tale of two University of California chancellors weighing in on international catastrophes. Then on to the remarkable gesture of the recent visit of former member of the Turkish Parliament, Garo Paylan, whose laps around Southern California this month, included one right here in Irvine. Mr. Paylan, among one the few Armenians elected to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, has been speaking about levers within the grasp of Armenians around the world. This program considers his points as well as his broader audience, amidst the staggering incidences of genocide, globally. Listeners are directed to additional sources for information and action: https://anca.org/ and https://www.armenian-assembly.org/ (nationally) and https://www.instagram.com/uciasa/?hl=en (locally).Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Vahagn Hayrapetyan Trio, “Yes Kez Siretsi,” – live at the Tsitsernakabert.
For the full hour we hear from UCI anthropology professor, and award winning author, filmmaker, and playwright, Roxanne Varzi. She is rolling out a whole new creative enterprise: the Armchair Anthropology Whodunit Series, “Death in a Nutshell,” a murder mystery, is the first book in a series. This genre offers another way for her to examine and interpret anthropologists’ assumptions and roles in the study of humans. Of course there’s more under her microscope.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Demanda E Despejo (Bartosz Weber Remix, feat. Rogério Martins).
UCI political science professor Matthew Beckmann returns to talk about the impossible job of the American presidency amidst legislative currents, some of which flow right up to a bluff. Watch next summer for his latest book: "The President's Day; Every Day Work in an Impossible Job." In the second segment (approx. minute 37:00) is playwright and director Octavio Solis, with his play now being performed at the South Coast Repertory, "Quixote Nuevo." The show runs now til Oct 28th at Segerstrom Theater at Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts in Costa Mesa. The Rep is in a celebratory mood; this richly re-told story of a classic is a fitting performance to herald their 60th season. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Las Cafeteras, “If I Was President;” David R Molina-composer and performer, “Rusting Soul I and II.”
Returning to the show is UCI Professor Keramet Reiter, Professor with appointments at UCI’s Dept. of Criminology, Law, and Society and UCI’s Law School; and founding director of “Lifted,” a prison education program in the UC system. Her acclaimed writings include her book: "23/7; Pelican Bay Prison and the Rise of Long-Term Solitary Confinement." She brings insight into solitary confinement reform in CA, and the intersection of that with her other projects in the carceral system: the BA degree program in the UC system, & other education programs. Details about this program are available at: https://lifted.uci.edu/. On future programming AAL will resume discussion of the bail reform and how the system affects individuals and communities. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; and Jaimie Branch, “theme 001,” FLY or DIE LIVE – album.
This is the extended portion of Briana Walker's interview. Thank you for having this listen.
In advance of her 10/20 workshop at UCI for PhD students, is Kimberly Duong, UCI School of Engineering graduate, now employed as a water agency civil engineer. She will return to the show to talk about her new calling as a PhD coach, assisting PhD students in: productivity, project management, procrastination, and anything else related. She can be followed in various ways at: https://itscoachkimberly.com/wp/. Her 10-20-23, noon- 1 p.m. PT, on line webinar registration: https://gps-stem.grad.uci.edu/project/2023-10-20/.In the second segment (approx. minute 23:42), Briana Walker (@InMinivanHell) returns in her capacity as a local muckraker, to talk about local school board culture war policies cropping up all over Orange County. Her work is proof of the importance of down ballot voting, such as the next primary election on March 5, 2024. Resources available at: Rainbow Youth Project and Our Schools hotline 866-975-8870, and Ladera Ranch Social Justice Conversations on the Zuck pages.The extended interview portion follows this posting.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; #2 T S Monk, “Crepuscule with Nellie,” Monk on Monk – album; and #11 Sportive Tricks, “Rigs of Time,” Old Dogs New Tricks – album.
Irvine, the largest city in California to have at-large city council members, is undertaking the process of amending the city charter to create distinct city council elections districts from which the candidates would run. The charter amendment would also add 2 seats to the City Council. Returning to the show for the larger share of the hour is demographer Justin Levitt, retained by Irvine’s City Council, to update us on that process, wherein the City of Irvine is drawing these 6 council districts for the voters’ approval on the Spring 2024 Primary election ballot. The November 2024 general election vote would include voters in 3 of those districts. Residents of Irvine are welcome to participate in this process by spending time at: https://drawirvine.org/. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Hideto Sasaki – Toshiyuki Sekine Quartet, “Turquoise Twice” Stop Over – album.
For the larger share of the show are two childhood friends, building something special together. Saara Dang of Sage Hill High School, and Rohan Soni of Orange County School of the Arts - are partners in creating the app dearme.mentalhealth a project that assists youth in managing the challenges of chronic illness and mental health. The app is a platform for anonymous journaling. In the second segment (approx minute 47:30), we check in with local Iranian American activist Guita Sharifi about the Women.Life.Freedom rally this Sat in DTLA; 9-16th, 2-4 pm, at 200 N Spring Street. Other events around SoCal are planned leading up to that event. Volunteers can call 818-943-6276. She also posted us on the Mahsa Act HR 589, under consideration in the US Congress. We then closed the show (approx. minute 52:20) with a tribute to civic leader extraordinaire Mary Ann Gaido, whom we lost 9-6-23. For those who wish to pay their respects… the Funeral Mass Service for Mary Ann Gaido will take place at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 9 Hillgate, Irvine, CA 92612, Friday September 15th, 2 PM. Reception to follow. The family invites attendees to bring a photo or written memory to add to a display. Cards of condolence can be mailed to John and Peggy Gaido, Mary Ann’s son and daughter at 5071 Berean Ln Irvine CA 92603. Donations in Maryann’s memory may be given to: Kennedy Commission for Affordable Housing, Sisters of St Joseph of Orange, Barclay Theatre, School of Nursing at UCI, or the Sierra Club. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Mindrangam and Indian Hand Drum; Benjamin Clementine, “Condolences,” At Least for Now – album; and Nadine Sierra performing “Take Care of this House,” composed by Leonard Bernstein, Pennsylvania Ave – album.
Returning to the show is Vic Gerami, editor and publisher of the Blunt Post, host and producer of the “Blunt Post with Vic” on Radio KPFK, and documentary filmmaker of the feature film “Motherland.” Given that the Republic of Artsakh is in greater tatters than when he last was on "Ask A Leader," given that the media is watching a little bit more closely the mud show at Burning Man, or Barbie - that media appears to be missing some salient points about the disputed territories in the Armenian and Azerbaijani area. It is useful to return to sources who attend to existentially threatened nations. Vic explains about the 8 month long blockade in the Lachine Corridor, breakdowns what analysts are getting wrong, and offers a template about how to achieve and understanding of other fronts without feeling exhausted or helpless. For a moment that exercise took place in Irvine’s City Council chambers last winter. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Armen Martirosyan with Armenian Jazz Band – “Eastern Blues.”
Dr. Terry LePage, research chemist, transitional minister, and hospice chaplain, brings her brand new book: . It is a profound manual, which covers novel as well as recognizable domains. Copies can be ordered at: https://opendoorcommunication.org/eye. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Angélique Kidjo, “Sweet Lullaby,” Every Mother Counts – album.
Our guest for the full hour is Olya Yaloza, chocolatier originally from Lviv, Ukraine, now setting up life and her enterprise here in OC. The host first met her at the World Refugee Day earlier this summer. As she explained what it was like to produce some of the finest chocolates one could find anywhere in the world, and to have to uproot from providing that choicest of treats, giving up her personal investments in that business - the host wanted to share her story more broadly to locals and beyond. That refugees are over-achievers is an adage that listeners will hear again today. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; DakhaBrakha, Carpathian Rap,” broadcast in KEXP Studios.
Today's guests are in financial spaces then brain places. In the first segment, Doug Ressler manager and analyst at Yardi Matrix, explains how Irvine is such an expensive home ownership proposition, the first year costs considered. Then we’re off to the annual tradition of the UCI MIND leading edge science about Alzheimer’s Disease (approx. minute 31:00); UCI MIND'S director of education Megan Witbracht brings their 34th annual conference in Irvine themed, “Sex and Gender in Dementia Research and Care,” and will be held Friday August 25th, 8am-3:15 p.m. Irvine Hilton OC Airport 18800 MacArthur Blvd., or virtually on your screen. Details are available at: https://conference.mind.uci.edu/.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Sax cover Justin Past “Our House,” and Sanga Noona performing “Georgia on My Mind.”
We’re not done with labor issues or Jan 6, oh no. That and more are under examination in the latest Citric Acid; An online Orange County Literary Arts Quarterly of Imagination and Reimagination, out this very month. Talking about that today for the full hour are our two guests: founding editor Andrew Tonkevich, and contributor Anthony Pignataro. All the latest delectable submissions are available for your reading pleasure at: https://www.citricacid.ink/.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; YouTube Lari The G, “Santa Ana in the Summer Time,” Ft Scrizzy Santana.
In the thick of strike-mode is our first guest Ada Briceno, Co-President of UNITE-HERE Local 11, representing over 30,000 hotel workers, 60 hotels in Los Angeles County, Orange County and Arizona. In the second segment (approx. minute 29:00), Youssef Kaddeche, transportation commissioner for Irvine City Council member Kathleen Treseder, talks e-bikes in around town; the software and the hardware of it all. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Gershwin Piano Quartet, “An American in Paris;” and Jimmy Scott performing, “Nothing Compares 2 U.”
Today's guests are theater people with The Wayward Artist and the South Coast Rep, with plays we can all see in the next couple of weeks right here in the OC. We’ll begin with Craig Tyrl, Artistic Director of The Wayward Artist to talk about "Avenue Q," which runs until this Sunday, July 30th at the Grand Central Art Center in Santa Ana. Details are available at: https://www.thewaywardartist.org/avenue-q. In the second segment (approx min 20:20) playwright, actor, and singer Sandra Delgado talks about how she built her own immersive experience of a play La Havana Madrid which runs til Aug 4th at SCR’s Outside, at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Details are available at: https://www.scr.org/plays/plays-landing/outside-scr/. Both productions have the host's stamp of approval.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Avenue Q, “There’s a Fine, Fine Line,” sung by Stephanie D’Abruzzo; Malavoi, “Ti Djo’,” Salsa Mundo – album.
Along the US Mexican Border is one particular segment; reflecting on the software and the hardware on that space is Ricardo Arana Camarena, the director of the food justice project “Cultiva ya!” and co-creator of the community garden project around the binational garden of native plants on the Mexican side of Friendship Park. It’s hot alright on planet earth; and conditions along that slice of the border no less so. It’s a special part of the border, unlike no other; a mere 105 miles from this station.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; El Santo Golpe, “La Cosecha,” NYCT-7036 – album.
Dr. Iresha Goonesinghe, specializing in Cardiology and Internal Medicine, with a former private practice in Ridgecrest, CA, speaks as CEO at Compassionate Doctors. With her remarkable blend of life-long individual practice of meditation and clinical grounding, Dr. Goonesinghe’s work has always been focused on root causes in medical situations. She previously launched a couple of blogs: PeoplePower77.Blogspot.com and UnitingTheUSA.blogspot.com, most recently she’s here for us with Compassionate Doctors in CA, focusing on Helping Hand not for profit work and Vipassana Meditation. We’ll revisit together some of what she brought in May 2017, and see what this #BeMyBestMovement is all about.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Alice Coltrane, “Vrindavana Sanchara,” Spiritual Eternal: The Coltrane Warner Bros. Studio Recordings – album.
This is an extension to Jackie's interview; two observations about the impact of civic engagement on policy and word choices for refugees.
Jackie Menter, founder and executive director of the Orange County Jewish Coalition for Refugees, picks up where we left on her last appearance on 6/13. She starts with what we were treated to on the June 20 World Refugee Day Open House held at the nearby Merage Jewish Community Center in their Holocaust Memorial Garden; then plot the complicated immigration infrastructure that is being restored in the Biden administration; then she'll conclude with some assignments for how listeners to get involved. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Charlie Haden-Liberation Music Orchestra, “America The Beautiful,” Not in Our Name - album.
For the full hour are human rights activist and veteran journalist Colin Stewart - and writer, actor journalist Rob Salerno who cover the scope and background of the Anti-Homosexuality Law of 2023 adopted in Uganda May 30th this year after many years of proposals, and then draw actual connections from Orange County. An essential guide toward following trends and specific cases, offering useful tools is: https://76crimes.com/ Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Dobet Gnahoré, "Dala,” Na Afriki – album.
Today my guests are: Alexis Tutunnique and Elizaveta Gogidze, both principal dancers with the United Ukrainian Ballet Company, an assemblage of refugee dancers from all over Ukraine, who will perform at our Segerstrom Hall, 6/29-7/2nd, in Alexei Ratmansky’s version of the ghost story “Giselle, with surprising nuances and a hopeful ending in place of the usual bleak one. They’ve performed in the Netherlands, the UK, Singapore, Australia and the US; we are fortunate to have them in our neighborhood. We’ll hear what these artists are doing, what’s on their minds. Details for tickets and times are available at:https://www.scfta.org/events/2023/united-ukrainian-ballet. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; and Vsevolod Zaderatsky, Preludes and Fugues in a minor, performed by Irma Klimenko.
Note to listeners: In 1937 Ukrainian composer Vsevolod Zaderatsky (1891-1953) was one of those who fell under the Great Terror – the most brutal of Stalinist repressions. In earlier years all his compositions were destroyed to render him silent. Zaderatsky was accused of being a teacher for young Tsarevich, of formalism – a fraught word, which means one’s music is not approved by the Party – and of “anti-Soviet statements” that musical life in Ukraine was superior to that in Yaroslavl (Russia), where he worked before. This prelude and fugue was written during his imprisonment in GULAG – on fragments of telegram forms, without access to any musical instrument – and performed publicly only in 2014, 75 years after the composer’s death. Please listen to the whole work.
We open with Melissa Saavedra Gill, founder and CEO of Steamy Lit, prior to the book convention (August 18-19) in Anaheim celebrating diversity in romance and the romance genre. Representation, relevance, and agency all are on the menu. In the second segment (minute approx. minute 35:23), Jackie Mentor with OC Jewish Coalition for Refugees will return in advance of her organization’s June 20 World Refugee Day Open House, to which the public is most welcome. Please rsvp to: https://tinyurl.com/WRDRSVP. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Buena Vista Social Club, Lorena, "Chan Chan,” Buena Vista Social Club cover; Souad Massi, “Hayati,” Raoui – album.
Gloria Mark, UCI Professor of Informatics, gets the full hour to talk about her latest book "Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity." It’s published by Hanover Square Press. Luckily there’s a few people left with long enough attention spans to write about it, so we can have a little agency to regain, shore up the decline of this capacity, and achieve some balance. Copies are available at her website gloriamark.com, or your favorite independent book dealer - eventually and hopefully at the campus’ The Hill.
Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, “In Motion” Social Network – film.
For this 2023 Memorial Day edition, my guests return in these reprised interviews, with emphasis on prize. The first will be a segment of my longer interview with Air Force veteran Don Fisher who served during WWII. In his later years, Don understood the value he had as a relic of that war period, considering his experience in training, serving, and surviving those years, so he began offering his stories to the National Archive, and later shared on “Ask A Leader.” The full program is available on the 10/09/2010 episode at: https://askaleader.com/?p=826. Don Fisher died in October 2015 at the age of 97. The second segment will be the full 25 minute interview with Don Lipstein, then a volunteer at Tragedy Assistance for Survivors (TAPS) talking about surviving his son Joshua who at the age of 23 died by suicide in March 2011 after serving in Iraq as a Navy Casualty Assistance Officer. This interview is also available, 6/25/13 at: https://askaleader.com/?p=53. Don Lipstein continues his connection with this humble radio program and has moved on as a consultant, having founded a new firm, Imagine Family Recovery, which offers services to families who survive a loved one who dies by suicide after military service. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; César Franck, performed by BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Tadaaki Otaka conducting; Fabrizio Bossa, Max Ionata, Roc Flowers, “Mood Variations,” Ovision – album.
Finally, Irvine, the largest city in California to have at-large city council members, is transitioning toward creating distinct city council districts from which the candidates would run. The City will also add 2 seats to the City Council. Our guide to this process for the full hour is demographer Justin Levitt, retained by Irvine’s City Council. He lays out the process under way, wherein the City of Irvine is drawing these 6 council districts for the voters’ approval on the Spring 2024 Primary election ballot. The November 2024 general election vote would include voters in 4 of those districts. Residents of Irvine are welcome to participate in this process by spending time at: https://drawirvine.org/. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Rodney Whitaker, “Minorabilia,” Oasis – album.
This is a continuation of Mark and A.J.'s discussion of nuclear power, including an industrial application of a closed loop system.
Taking the heat down a few notches are today’s guests: Mark Nelson, engineer and founder and managing director of Radiant Energy Group; and A. J. Shaka, UCI chemistry professor and director of the UCI Nuclear Reactor Facility. We go local and zoom out to international cases with their consideration of the viability of nuclear power in the energy mix, with the goal of reducing greenhouse gases overall. An extension of this interview is posted on this same day.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Terry Riley, “A Rainbow in Curved Air.”
Virginia Parks, UCI professor of Urban Planning and Public Policy and director of UCI's Labor Center presents her recent findings on how the closure of a Marathon refinery affected its displaced workers; a story of the challenge in transitioning to renewable. The full report is available at the U.C. Berkeley Labor Center. In the second segment (approx minute 36), we continue coverage of South Coast Rep after their completion of last week's Pacific Playwrights Festival, with playwright and performer Michael Shayan. He brings phenomenal story-telling in his world premiere of avaaz, running now through May 27 at the Segerstrom Stage in Costa Mesa, https://www.scr.org/plays/productions/22-23-season/avaaz/.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Laura Love, “If I Knew,” Octoroon – album; Jalal Hemati, “Baba Karam.”
Back in full swing, in their new Santa Ana location, is Orange County Communities Organized for Responsible Development with a whole roster of community activation building leaders, supporting labor, and guiding prospective citizens - all this under the helm of their executive director Ely Flores. Find out what's the next event on their roster at: https://www.occord.org/. or call 714-621-0919 et 6. The National Day of Action will be celebrated this week 5-4-23.In the second segment (approx. minute 34:26) is Andy Knight, co-director of the South Coast Repertory’s 25th Annual Pacific Playwrights Festival, underway through May 7. SCR’s outsized role in dramatic arts comes through with this incubation of plays: from ideas to final production. Details about the May 5-7 events at the Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts in Costa Mesa are available at: https://www.scr.org/plays/plays-landing/pacific-playwrights-festival/2023-pacific-playwrights-festival/. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Hermanos Guitérrez, “Esperanza” single; The Musical Stage Company performing “Dr. Silver is Gone,” Dr. Silver a musical by Anika & Britt Johnson.
Women For: Orange County Board member Felicity Figueroa muses with us about the much treasured, the annual Great American Write-In returning to the community after a three-year hiatus. The public is welcome to attend on May 6th 9:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. at the Delhi Community Center at 505 East Central Ave. in Santa Ana. Reservations on evite are recommended: http://www.womenfororangecounty.org/.In the second segment (approximately minute 26), Families Forward CEO Madelynn Hirneise returns with the challenges, changes, and expansions of their operations to serve families around Orange County. They are a part of “Help Them Home,” a giving day 24 hours with 25 non-profits, on April 26th, details: https://help-them-home-giving-day.ocnonprofitcentral.org/.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Charlie Haden & Liberation Music Orchestra, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” Not in Our Name – album; Alex Goodman, “Acrobat,” Border Crossing – album; The Lemon Twigs, “The One,” Song for the General Public -album.
Anna had more to say about how "In the Green" performances are going so far. She lifts up the curtain a bit about the crew and the audience reception.
Stephanie and Susan had a tab more to say; in this extension they talk about the residential requirements for people to travel to other states for more end of life options than are available in the states where they reside.
Stephanie Campbell and Susan Johnston, of Compassion and Choices, track CA and federal legislation and judicial rulings that affect bodily autonomy around needed end of life options. Details for following up with the rich trove of resources that their organization produces are available at: https://www.compassionandchoices.org/. Also, we hear from Anna Miles, director of a Wayward Artist production entitled, “In the Green,” by playwright Grace McLean who hails from Santa Ana. The show opened last Friday and continues through April 30th. Stephanie Campbell and Susan Johnston active in Compassion and Choices and moving legislation in a and tracking rulings that affect bodily autonomy around needed end of life options. In the second segment (aprox. minute 37:200) we hear from Anna Miles, director of a Wayward Artist production entitled, “In the Green,” by Grace McLean. The play runs from April 14-30th Th, Fri, Sat 7:30pm; Sundays at 2pm at the Grand Central Theater in the Grand Central Art Center 125 N Broadway, Santa Ana. More details are available at: thewaywardartist.org. Both segments have continuations, the recordings of which are archived on this same day. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Ahmad Jamal, “I Came to See You/You Were Not There,” Marseille - album; In the Green “Eve,” performed by Grace McLean at the Lincoln Center Theater.
Irvine Planning Commission Chairwoman Branda Lin, covers City Council items currently under consideration: the city’s proposed acquisition of the All American Asphalt plant, Live Nation’s amphitheater prospects, USA Water Polo, municipal districts, and more. In the second segment (minute 36:30), Melyssa Zive offers insight about adolescent mental health in her capacity as Program Director for ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Center recently opened in Tustin, California. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; The Black Market Trust, “Minor Swing,” Folk Songs – album; and Odetta, “This Little Light of Mine.”
Ayn Craciun, Orange County Policy Advocate with the Climate Action Campaign brings you energy in three parts: the City of Irvine’s newly adopted electrification ordinance, the Climate Action plans, and the Orange County Power Authority. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Ann Callaway, “Thoughts and Prayers.”
Today’s program is fine art all the way, offered locally. The first focus was on Susan Jaffe, who due to a string of technical calamities, was unable to speak on the program. Of interest was her career as premier dancer, choreographer, now the new artistic director of American Ballet Theater on the eve of the upcoming North American premiere of Like Water for Chocolate staged at Segerstrom Hall March 29 - April 2, the production of which is based on the novel by Laura Esquivel. In the second segment we’re treated to Liz Callaway, who spoke about her shared career work with her sister Ann Callaway, both of whom will also be appearing this week at the Center, at the Samueli Theater, performing jazz on the theme “Broadway the CallaWay,” March 30, 31, and April 1. Details for both performance runs are available at: https://www.scfta.org/shows-events.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Charles Lloyd, “La Llorona,” 8: Kindred Spirits – album; Ann Callaway, with the Ted Rosenthal Trio, “The Nearness of You,“ Jazz Goes to the Movies – album.
Randall Crane talks in his capacity as the recently elected Director of Div. 5 at Municipal Water District of Orange County, about all the water issues that we can hit him up with, since folks the drought is NOT over. The next monthly So Cal Water Dialogues, presented by the Metropolitan Water District is tomorrow, 3-22, noon - 1:30, details are available at: https://www.socalwaterdialogue.org/Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Bill Beach, “Agua de Beber,” Letting Go – album.
Dr. Lori Wiener from the National Institute of Health; and oncologist Dr. Jamie Ferdiani and clinical coordinator Kirsten Kapser, both from the Children’s Hospital of Orange County, are our guests for the full hour. They are building an important document, “Voicing My Choices,” a guide for seriously or terminally ill adolescents and young adults toward expressing how they want to be comforted, supported, treated and remembered. Music credits: Chimora, "Africano Americano," Sounds of Africa - album; Keith Jarrett, "Blossom," La Fenice - album.
For the full hour, is Kate Abate, Gerontologist, Olympian Athlete, Healthspan Implementation Research & Development a gerontologist who’s got some insight about elder abuse under our very noses; think continuum, from intentional to not so intentional. Together we slogged through an unwieldy and useful conversation about our elders as we collectively strive for better aging outcomes, or just plain better aging scenarios. Forthcoming is a reading list that Kate will provide listeners here.Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Wayne Shorter, “Footprints,” Adams Apple – album.
This is a bonus segment wherein Pauli and Adam share their craft of writing; it's 9 minutes.
Local activist, artist, and retired higher education administrator Pauline Merry, and Oakland attorney and writer Adam Smyer return to the show - this time on the same program, for a dialogue on the arc of progress in the lives of Black Americans. Music credits: Chimora, "Africano Americano," Sounds of Africa - album; Corcoran Holt, "14th Street Bounce," The Mecca - album
All hands on deck with today’s time-sensitive coverage. Doug Elliott with Irvine Watchdog, examines how Live Nation isn’t just wielding their anti-trust might around the country, but performing their own power dynamic inside the Great Park. Tonight, February 21st, 6:30 p.m. Irvine City Council’s special meeting to consider the new terms Live Nation has proposed for the amphitheater. In the second segment (minute 31:21)UCI Law student Bonggeul (Edward) Joo covers the Environmental Law Clinic's mobilizing to reduce the harmful impact of fast fashion on the planet, including the collecting used clothing and hosting the ELC Thrift Swap event on February 28. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Soul Jazz Orchestra, “As the World Turns,” Resistance – album; Gregory Porter “In Fashion,” Magic Radio presents.
For the full hour is social entrepreneur, artist, and advocate Irma Velasquez, bringing her recently released a book about raising her son Aaro. The title is “Fish Dreams; A Mother’s Journey From Curing Her Son’s Autism to Loving Him as He Is,” and it's published by Deep Living Lab. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Omar Sosa, “Escucho,” A New Life – album.
We devote the full hour to Young-Suk Kim, professor and Senior Associate Dean at UCI’s School of Education. She’s been involved at the forefront of literacy legislation in California, bringing her decades of experience and research on the science of reading. She considers the multi-dimensional cognitive and social processes involved between the reader, the household, the educator, and the environment.Music credits: Lambarena (Hughes de Courson and Pierre Akendengué), “Agnus Dei,”Bach to Africa - album; Sesame Street Workshop, “Let’s Read A Book.”
This 20 minute segment of the interview with Tina Rivers Ryan and Paul Vanouse features three of the seventeen artists whose work is on display at the Beall Center for Art and Technology: Keith Piper, The Mongrel Project, and Hasan Elahi.
Lots happening around the UCI campus - from forging ahead researching climate change to exhibiting provocative contemporary art. In the first segment earth system scientists: professor Keith Moore and researcher Yi Liu, will talk about their deeply concerning findings on climate changes’ impacts on ocean currents, recently published in Nature Climate Change. In the second segment (minute 31:29), co-curators Tina Rivers Ryan and Paul Vanouse, present their brand new installation at UCI’s Beall Center for Art + Technology, “Difference Machines: Technology & Identity in Contemporary Art.” The exhibit will remain through April 29th. Details at: https://beallcenter.uci.edu/. An additional, separate segment, from this interview covers three of the artists presented at the installation: Keith Piper, the Mongrel Project, and Hasan Elahi.Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Claude Debussy, La Mer “Waves”; Sounds of Liberation, “Billie One,” Sounds of Liberation – album.
Today our guests run the gamut of water policy to Black community. We start with Max Gomberg, formerly staff to the CA State Water Quality Resources Control Board, now independent consultant on water affordability and resilience. With his decades of experience in water management, his seasoned takes we fly at roughly 50,000 feet, considering the consequential water policy decisions being made on all levels of government. In the second segment (minute 30:00) local activist and retired higher education administrator Pauline Merry brings her new autobiography, Growing Up in the Ville, in St Louis Missouri, recently released by Great Tales Told Well Publishing. With this genre of Black history, is an uncanny education on lives lived in all kinds of communities. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Bill Beach, “Agua de Beber,” Letting Go – album; McCoy Tyner, “Illuminations,” Illuminations – album.
Vic Gerami, editor and publisher of the Blunt Post, as well as host/producer of the “Blunt Post with Vic” on Radio KPFK,” speaks about his recently released documentary, "Motherland" an award-winning documentary feature film about Azerbaijan’s, Turkey’s attack on Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) in 2020 and the massacre of 5,000+ people. In his film he details his travels to Armenia several times last year, where he interviews elected officials, eyewitnesses, veterans, refugees, and journalists for the film. That act of aggression, is part of campaign that has associations with our Irvine Mayor, which listeners have heard raised before on this show. The film will be presented at the Irvine City Hall chamber at 6 pm on 1/25th, with Vic Gerami presenting, and Q & A to follow. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Djivan Gasparyan – Dle Yaman.
No, we’re not done with the Covid pandemic - Covid is not done with us. It’s quite instructive to do examine a comprehensive list of parts in the politics of the pandemic, like before the next pandemic or crisis ensues. Sara Wallace Goodman, UCI political science professor talks about her new book out entitled, "Pandemic Politics: The Deadly Toll of Partisanship in the Age of Covid; How the politicization of the pandemic endangers our lives-and our democracy," co-written with Shana Kushner Gadarian and Thomas Pepinsky, published by Princeton University Press. Sara Goodman’s team was the first to collect and analyze national survey data asking Americans about their health behaviors and attitudes. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; The Elovators, “People Go," Defy Gravity - album.
For the whole hour are: Esperanza Veilma, executive director of Environmental Justice Coalition for Water, Dave Rosenfeld, of the Solar Rights Alliance, each bringing useful insights about trends and policies pertaining to electricity distribution. The recent CA Public Utility Commission's recent ruling has set deadlines for grandfathering solar rooftop panels by 4/14/23. As we continue covering this utility sector, OCPA included, listeners can follow the developments with: https://ceeetruth.org/ and https://solarrights.org/.Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; and Hunrosa, “Ransome” Ransome -EP.
As we close out this year together, a treat from two performing arts artistic directors. First, the retiring artistic director of America Ballet Theater, Kevin McKenzie offers the long view of his 30 years leading that internationally acclaimed dance company. In the second segment (minute 29:08), South Coast Repertory artistic director David Ivers reflects on coming back full throttle in this season, and offers early next year’s “Voices of America;” two plays in conversation with each other - Little Foxes and Appropriate. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Carlos Simon “Amen;" The Scott Oakley Trio, "Greensleeves,” Jazz for the Holidays - album
This close to the lore of Mary and Joseph looking for room at any inn, today we look at how workers are faring as they keep clean our nearby inns. For the whole program the guests are: Austin Lynch, director and negotiator at Unite Here Local 11; and Maria Balderas, union member and rank and file leader, working at the Irvine Hilton give us a look at working conditions for hotel staff as well as Irvine’s recently adopted workers protection ordinance, the first of its kind in Orange County. For those Irvine voters, who have signed the petition circulating to revoke the ordinance, who wish to retract their signatures, they can text 562-688-5867 for instructions. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Groupo Nueva Vida, “Las Posadas,” Alabanzas Cristianas Que Llegan al Alma, Vol. 6
Returning to the show is the world renown investigator on Huntington's disease, Dr. Leslie Thompson. Accompanying her is Melody Bandley, advocate for her husband and other patients, for advances in Huntington’s Disease research and care. Details on ongoing search and care are available at: https://hdcare.org/. Stay tuned for additional legislative actions that support HD care.The bonus interview with American Ballet Theater’s retiring artistic director Kevin McKenzie, that was not broadcast on this program, is now available in a separate podcast on this same date. He appears in Orange County during the current run of The Nut Cracker performed at now through December 18th at the Segerstrom Hall. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; and Bill Beach, “Dreams Deferred," Letting Go – album.
American Ballet Theater’s retiring artistic director Kevin McKenzie reviews his 30 years of leadership with the company. The arc of a dancer's career, comparisons between the scourges of AIDS and COVID, Russian connections, and the baton he hands off to incoming director Susan Jaffee. Mr. McKenzie appears in Orange County during the current run of The Nut Cracker performed at now through December 18th at the Segerstrom Hall, https://www.scfta.org/shows-events. Music credits: "Amen," composed and conducted by Carlos Simon.
This is a continuation of Caron Whitaker's interview; a few last takes about charter of the League of American Bicyclists.
Emily Penner at UCI School of Education returns to the show to speak to the theme of "pedagogy not politics of ethnic studies. In the second segment (minute 31:24), Caron Whitaker, Deputy Executive Director of the League of American Bicyclists, will talk about road safety as we move through the pandemic – looking at you exceptional USA, with our scary trend of raised fatalities bucking the global decline. The continuation is in another entry on this day.Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Richie Havens, “Peace Train;” and the Gershwin Piano Quartet "American in Paris.”
Since "Ask A Leader" listeners can walk and chew gum, you all can continue watching 2022 midterm election results while we take on local union activity. Organizers with the UAW and the UC-AFT on UCI campus have just started a strike, joining 48,000 UC system wide with grievances aplenty among those in lecturing and researching roles, https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/reinstate-fired-lecturers-respect-the-union-contract-restore-justice Guests include: Nick Maurer, lecturer awaiting re-appointment; Mia Villegas, lab project coordinator and academic workers' UAW recording secretary; and in absentia, Honora St. Clair, UC-AFT 5810 field representative; and . Returning to the show in the second segment (minute 29:26), is Craig Tyrl, artistic director of The Wayward Artist. He’s got a play this month, a gala next month, and a new season next year.
Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Sportive Tricks, “Working Man,” Tricks of the Trade – album; Billy Bragg “There is Power in the Union,” Talking with the Taxman about Poetry – album; Sportive Tricks, “The Working Man,” Tricks of the Trade – album.
Welcome to the Nov 8, 2022 edition of "Ask A Voter." We made it, today is the Midterm Elections 2022. As our tradition goes, this program morphs into Ask A Voter. On general elections we fan out across the nation. This year we visit battleground states; heading from the east going west. We open with Ngozi Nnaka, mental health care counselor in Macon, GA and Dawn Walker, non-profit consultant in Athens, GA (minute 1:46). In the next segment (minute 13:13) is Tamina Rawls, retired trauma care professional, now fully a political organizer, based in Detroit, MI. We move on to Madison, WI with Sue Jones, water management retiree, returning with her canvassing experience (minute 20:26). Next is UCI earth system science Ph.D candidate and KUCI public affairs host, Audrey Odwuor (minute 31:40). Closing out the show, staked out in Yuma, AZ is journalist/writer/attorney Sharon Lieb, reporting on her canvassing and poll-watching activities (minute 42:44). They pack this hour with intention and insight, all in the thick of campaigns across the nation! Music credits: Aaron Copeland’s Fanfare for the Common Man, Leonard Bernstein conducting New York; Charlie Haden/Liberation Music Orchestra, “Blue Anthem,” Not In Our Name – album; Berklee We Will Rise Summit, “Lift Every Voice.”
One week til the midterm elections, folks. Dropped my ballot off in the drop box last week, saved Registrar Page a stamp. After the tsunami of October surprises, we seem to be experiencing November surprises, so keep your critical thinking caps on ever snugly. Today my guests are Allyson Muñiz Damikolas, Tustin Unified School Board member with insights about the trends afoot in Orange County school boards’ composition. Think tectonic plates moving under our feet. In the second segment the planned guest, who committed to this segment, and despite repeated attempts to reach her live, Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan was unavailable. She is running for another term. The host pressed on with election advisories.
Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Zélia Barbosa, Sertão & Favelas; ”Conga del Fuego" composed by Arturo Marquez, Gustavo Dudamel conducting Simon Bolivar of Venezuela; “Minor Swing,” Black Market Trust, Songs – album.
Two weeks to go before the election day; so much activity with early voting. Today we hear from two gentlemen running for Irvine City Council, incumbent Larry Agran and Navid Sadigh (minute 36:54). On the menu: Orange County Power Authority, All American Asphalt Co, the Great Park, broadband services, and municipal elected districts.Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Elisa Bee, "A Sun That Never Goes Down;” Weather Report, “Young and Fine,” This Is Jazz - album.
Part 2 of the Ryan Dack interview taking up how his district map and the incumbent's resignation continue to process.
Voters around the country, California included, are beginning to vote; the Elect Project Monday posted over 2 million votes have already been cast. Continuing our coverage of down ticket races in the Irvine area, we hear from Ryan Dack candidate for Trustee Area 6 of the South Orange County Community College District. In the second segment (minute 21:38), pastor and Army reserve officer Simon Moon will speak about his bid for the mayor of Irvine. And as time allowed (minute 45:06), a few words from playwright Christina Ham about the current run of her play “Nina Simone: Four Women,” at the South Coast Rep in Costa Mesa. Details for this production are available at: https://www.scr.org/plays/productions/22-23-season/nina-simone-four-women/ Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; John Beasley, “Played Twice,” Monk’estra Vol. 2 – album; Silk Road Ensemble with Yo Yo Ma, "Saidi Swing,” A Playlist Without Borders – album; and Nina Simone, “Ain’t Got No – I Got Life.”
Voting has already begun in California, among other states - it’s now 27 days til the midterm elections. The first guest on this show is tech sales executive and Irvine mayoral candidate, Tom Chomyn. The Orange Co. Power Authority, city council districts, and the Great Park are topics in tight rotation with city council candidates on this show. In the second segment (minute 28:10) is Congresswoman Katie Porter, representing the 45th and running in the new 47th CA Congressional Dist. Assuming folks’ familiarity with the Democratic Party’s standard talking points, it’s a fine time to head into some other policy areas for a teachable moment covering: the Inflation Reduction Act, federal flood insurance, and the child tax credit. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; #9 Balsam Range, “Marching Home,” Marching Home – album; Carlie Simon, “Let the River Run,” Working Girl Soundtrack – album; Darryl Taylor performing, “Dreamer,” DREAMER; A Portrait of Langston Hughes - album.
First guest will be Orange County’s newish Registrar of Voters Bob Page for our ritual coverage of election logistics as vote by mail ballots will be shipping their way to Californians’ homes. He offers a shopping list of tabs on https://ocvote.gov/ to register to vote, track your ballot, apply for voting center poll work, report improper activities pertaining to elections, and follow the results at 8:05 p.m. 11-8th. Hotlines to keep handy: 714-567-7600 or 888-OC VOTE. In the second segment (minute 30:13) is Scott Hansen, one of six Irvine City Council candidates running for two seats; one open and the other challenging incumbent Anthony Kuo, who's been invited to this show, but from whom have not yet heard back. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Brahms Symphony #1, Marin Alsop conducting London Philharmonic Orchestra; Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, “Outbound,” Outbound – album.
Today’s guest roster opens with Krista Hollinger, Chief Operating Officer of Planned Parenthood Orange and San Bernardino Counties, to cover what is at stake regarding reproductive public healthcare infrastructure, in the moment we are in. In the second segment (minute 26:42), Stephanie Campbell speaks about the seven statewide propositions in her capacity as a volunteer for the League of Women Voters’ Speakers Bureau.
Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Chick Corea and Béla Fleck, “Senorita,” The Enchantment – album; Tété, "Par Monts et Vallons (le Long de la Route)," Le sacre des Lemmings - album.
Today we crowd three plus hours worth of civics in under 1 hour! There won’t be a quiz after the show, but voters must complete all their ballots, which includes these two races. First, Randall Crane, Professor Emeritus at UCLA’s Luskin School of Public Affairs and Irvine resident, is running in Division 5 of the Municipal Water District of Orange County. In the second segment (minute 35:13), Branda Lin, co-founder of Irvine Watchdog, this time dons her candidate hat, in her bid to run for Mayor of Irvine. She is one of 4 candidates challenging the incumbent mayor. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Bill Beach, “Aqua de Beber,” Letting Go – album; Magwinya, “Magwinya Mangola neWhite Liver,” Spaza – album.
Karriann Farrell Hinds, CA President of the National Women’s Political Caucus, examines state and local races with women running in the Midterm elections 2022. Lots of ground moving under the campaigns with all the red dot blue state action here. In the second segment (minute 28:17), returning to the show is UCI professor Kathleen Treseder, this time as a full-on candidate for Irvine City Council; energy, climate goals, and democracy are on the City Council ballot. An Irvine candidate forum will be hosted by Irvine Watchdog and moderated by our very own Prof Richard Matthew, Sept 29th 7pm. That might be necessary since not every candidate makes it possible for me to reach them for these nice little interviews I do over here. Kathleen Treseder will be our first look under those local candidates’ hoods. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Angélique Kidjo, “Sweet Lullaby,”; Sinne Eeg & The Danish Radio Bid Band, “Samba Em Comum,” We’ve Just Begun – album.
This is a continuation of Andriy Strekhaliuk's personal accounts of his participation in the EuroMaidon movement and how that contributed to the capacity that is rallying in Ukraine's nation building - before, during, and after the Russian Invasion of Ukraine.
For the full hour is Andriy Strekhaliuk, Ukrainian entrepreneur, consultant in HR & organizational development, and instructor at local business school - currently assisting his country’s military. He paints a personal picture of one Ukrainian man and his family, as well as show particular intersections between Ukrainian and American institutions, while taking every opportunity to bring us along with Ukrainians’ rich culture. Along with this broadcast, the host urges a listen to the accompanying Part 2. Andriy brought a host of resources for listeners who want to be more than by-standers to the horrific invasion of Ukraine. Those include: https://prytulafoundation.org/en https://savelife.in.ua/en/ https://spendwithukraine.com/ https://www.etsy.com/shop/NatArtiStudio?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1209255865 https://www.facebook.com/valerii.pekar - thinker and entrepreneur https://www.facebook.com/andrij.bondar - author https://www.facebook.com/volodymyr.yermolenko - philospher, journalist
Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Jazz Kolo, Ukrainian Jazz Melody.
Alex Armlovich, senior housing policy analyst at the Niskanen Center weighs in on how empty nesters are trapped in the single-family huts, and how young homeowners are shut out. The barriers toward solving this are as persistent as they are increasingly formidable.
In the second segment (minute 32:30), it’s that time of the year for the Annual UCI MIND Alzheimers conference, it’s their 33rd and it’s a hybrid event for the first time. Megan Witbracht, Associate Director of Education at the UCI, offers the highlights and the secret sauce blend of leading-edge topics and invited experts for all you prospective attendees this September 9th, 8am-3:15 p.m. Irvine or in your home. Details for the conference are available at: https://conference.mind.uci.edu/. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Y Tube-Victor Hugo Morales, “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,” Fred Rogers composition; Sai Galaxy, feat Olugbase Okunade, “Get It in The Sun,” Get It As You Move - album.
CRT Forward Tracking Project Director Taifa Alexander at UCLA’s Law School brings her Anti-CRT Mapping Project. Last spring on this show, involved O C parents zoomed in on their district. Director Alexander zooms out onto the national effort: to identify, track, and analyze local, state, and federal activity aimed at restricting the ability to speak truthfully about race, racism, and systemic racism. In the second segment (minute 30:35), UCI ethnographer and anthropologist Roxann Varzi has raised her creative game during Covid staying in place, with some beautiful, intentional pieces she’s created and produced, gauging our capacity to deal with challenges like oh climate, and Covid and the next scourge. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Antibalas “Gold Rush” Where the Gods Are in Peace – album.
Returning to the show, wearing his public health cape is my guest UCI professor Andrew Noymer, again for the full hour about the pox on all our households. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Tadaki Misago & Tokyo Cuban Boys, “Sakura Sakura,” WaJazz Japanese Jazz Spectacle, vol. 1 – album.
After Metropolitan Water District water pump mechanic Gina Chavez’ several appearances on this program, it’s her offsprings’ turn to take this the full hour to talk about growing up amidst her labor history and growing up in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Lucy Panuco, senior at Lake Havasu High School, and Milo Panuco, graduate of Parker High School; share their own experiences on their own terms. Their duet is chronicle of two identities, two high schools, and two career paths. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Radar State, “What’s a Rebel,” Strays – album.
For the full hour, UCI Political Science Professor Louis DeSipio considers how and at what rate the GOP is managing to draw Latino voters away from the Democratic Party. Among the he explores are: Latino identities, regions in the country, gender, wedge issues, and the campaign approaches both tactics & strategies tailored to each and every demographic segment/niche. A lot of noise around these trends, we’ll bring it to a sensible volume. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Los Ángeles Azules, "Mis Sentimientos," ft. Ximena Sariñana.
For the full hour is Linda Kraemer, Orange County chapter co-chair of the Climate Reality Project. As we continue coverage of local climate actions we turn to Linda for her inestimably thorough pursuits, closely following local institutions’ energy distribution models in pursuit of lowering everyone’s, businesses’ and residents’, carbon footprints. Means for following up: https://www.climaterealityoc.com or LKTeamTalk@gmail.com. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Electronic José González, “Swing EP,” Solomun Remix.
For the full hour, is UCI emeritus Jack Miles bringing his new book, that he co-wrote with his long established friend Mark C. Taylor, the noted cultural critic and philosopher: A Friendship in Twilight: Lockdown Conversations on Death and Life (Columbia University Press, 2022). Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Michael J Miles, "Mississippi River Sweet", featuring Zahra Glenda Baker.
This is the extended interview of today's program with MWD employees: Ellen Mackey, Gina Chavez, and Jason Sierras. 9 minutes of added commentary, have a listen.
Returning are My guests for the full hour are Ellen Mackey, Senior Ecologist, and Gina Chavez, water pump plant mechanic, one of score of women who are challenging the workplace culture at the MWD, featured in the recent LAT article penned by Adam Elmahrek. Jason Sierras is an aqueduct pump specialist for MWD, employed in this position for 18-1/2 years. These three speak to the ever-continuing to develop story of the Met executive’s response to claims of unhealthy work culture conditions. picking up where we left off with our 8/21 show on the MWD workplace culture with women and ratepayers paying some serious cash. The extended portion are posted on this same day.
Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; The Expansions, “Miles Away,” Murmuration – album.
For the full program we explore the heft of a log life lived at the intersections of the spiritual, political, and physical domains. Dr. John Cobb, process theologian and leading organizer of Living Earth. His latest endeavors can be followed at: https://livingearthmovement.eco/, recently launched in March 2022. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Visioneers, "The World is Yours," Dirty Old Hip Hop - album.
In advance of the fall municipal election season, we listen to Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan who has requested an opportunity to speak. We discuss her record, her performance, and her connections - subjects of which have been the focus of our attention on previous “Ask A Leader” programs. It is a democratic story, with a small d – that runs through Armenia to Anaheim to the Authority, the OCPA. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Vancouver Inter-Culture Orchestra, “Gypsy Chronicles (Crossing Byzantium),” In The Key of the World – album; and Demanda E Despejo, Bartosz Weber remix.
Music credits: Beloved So African Track tbd; Gimnazija Kranj Symphony Orchestra and Choir, “A Moonlight Night,” Chick Corea and Bela Fleck, “Señorita, The Enchantment - album. UCI Professor of global & international Studies, Eve Darian-Smith will bring her brand new book, Global Burning; Rising Antidemocracy and the Climate Crisis. Her accessible read, is another tome published by an academic who is sufficiently concerned about these times. In the second segment (minute 31:00), Brooke Aston Harper returns to talk about the upcoming play that she’s directing at The Wayward Artist), Collection of Rage; A Play in 5 Betties, a play by Jen Silverman. Tickets are available now, for the July 15-24 shows.
On California’s June 7th Primary Day, “Ask A Voter” honors our biannual tradition of bringing voter stories to you listeners, on your way to the voting booth. Invited guests include: Giesela Tanner (minute 1:53), mother of Ellis Tanner, advocate of victims of violent crimes and one of many Moms Demand Action; Brianna, AKA @InMiniVanHell (minute 14:30), O C analyst extraordinaire on Twitter; and U C Irvine English Professor and founding director of Illuminations Julia Lupton (minute 36:21). Voting centers and Registrar of Voters ballot drop boxes will be open til 8 pm. If you are in line before 8 p.m., stay in line, and vote. Help someone get to these places. Details are available at: https://ocvote.gov/elections/2022-statewide-direct-primary-election. Music credits: Fanfare for the Common Man, conducted by Leonard Bernstein; Berklee College of Music We Will Rise Summit “Lift Every Voice and Sing - A Cappella: Mikis Theodorakis composer, Z film soundtrack; Henry Purcell, #21 “Dido and Aeneas,” Susan Graham, conducted Emerson Lake and Palmer, “Fanfare for the Common Man,” remix.
Both guests meet the listeners at this moment, the week before CA finishes the June 7th primary. First, the last primary candidate to speak on this show is Scott Baugh: attorney, Orange County Republican leader, and former CA Assemblyman. He’ll talk about his challenge to incumbent Congresswoman Katie Porter in the new 47th Con. District that includes the cities of: Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Costa Mesa, and Irvine. In the second segment (minute 29:20), Bethany Webb, member of the California Victims for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, speaks at the intersection of gun violence and the electoral choices we all make. Her skin in this game - her sister was killed and her mother wounded in the 2011 Salon Meritage mass shooting in Seal Beach. Details for the 6-4-22 March for Our Lives rally in O.C. are forthcoming.
Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Christian Sands #2, “Fight for Freedom,” Facing Dragons – album; Demand e Despejo Bartosz Weber remix.
With just 2 weeks to go for CA’s June 7th primary, appearing first today’s program is Assemblywomen Cottie Petrie-Norris running for her third term, this time in the brand new 73rd Assembly district is which includes: Irvine, Costa Mesa, and portions of Tustin. In the second segment (minute 28:00), Bryan Chehock, Counsel for the United States Drug Enforcement Administration in the Southern District of California, will be the last of the three candidates challenging O C District Attorney incumbent Todd Spitzer to appear on this show. Yes, the Angel baseball park in Anaheim is an organizing principle. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Beoga, "Aurora II" Carousel - album; Electric Squeezebox Orchestra, “Cheap Rent,” Cheap Rent – album.
We continue CA Primary coverage as we hear from two candidates for the O C Board of Education Trustee Area 2, inside which KUCI resides. This election is the final; there will be no run-offs. So other reason why to hang close down ballot this June 7th primary election. The new boundaries for the OC Board of Education were redrawn in 2020 and include: Seal Beach, Rossmoor, Los Alamitos, Cypress, Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, Costa Mesa and parts of Newport Beach and portions of Irvine mainly south of I-405. The first candidate to speak is Martha Fluor, former Newport Mesa Unified School District Board Trustee, former president of the CA School Boards Association, and former special ed teacher. In the second segment (minute 34:02), Mari Barke, Chair of the OC Board of Education, affiliate of the CA Policy Center, and serves as OC coordinator for both Run Ben Run, and Carson America Inc. She is a member of the Lincoln Club of OC, the NRA, and the Cypress Chamber of Commerce. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Hiromi Piano Quintet, “Jumpstart,” Silver Lining Suite - album; Bill Beach, “Letting Go,” Letting Go – album.
Ballots are on their way to our residences. With a mere 4 weeks til the CA June 7th Primary, we hear from a few more state and local candidates. The first guest is CA 68th District Assemblyman and Republican Steven Choi who is running against Democrat Cottie Petrie-Norris of the 74th, for the newly redistricted 73rd. In the second segment (minute 32:32) is OC District Attorney candidate Michael Jacobs, who’s challenging incumbent Todd Spitzer. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Bela Fleck, “Star Spangled Banner,” Flight of the Cosmic Hippo – album; and Alogte Oho and His Sounds of Joy, “Mam Yinne Wa,“ Mam Yinne Wa – album.
Continuing our CA 2022 Primary on June 7th, we start with Errol Webber, filmmaker and Republican (America First) candidate challenging Congresswoman Katie Porter in the new 47th District. The 47th District now includes: Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach. In the second segment (minute 34:05), water policy analyst/activist Conner Everts takes us through the next public agency review of the Poseidon desalination plant proposed in Huntington Beach. The CA Coastal Commission is scheduled to hear this application in Costa Mesa: May 12th, at the Hilton Orange, Fountain Terrace Room, 3050 Bristol Street. Draft meeting agenda details are available at: https://www.coastal.ca.gov/meetings/agenda/#/2022/5. Organizations joining the public comment forum include: CA Coastkeeper Alliance, Orange Co. Coastkeeper, Residents for Responsible Desalination, CA Coastal Protection Network, Surfrider Foundation, Nat Resources Defense Council, Heal the Bay, Desal Response Group, So Cal Watershed Alliance, Environmental Water Caucus, Wholly H2O, EHL – Endangered Habitats League, Coastal Environmental Rights Foundation, 7th Generation Advisors, Inland Empire Waterkeeper, Environment California, Oakview Communidad, Azul, Food and Water Watch, OC Earth Stewards, Orange Co Environmental Justice, Santa Barbara Channelkeeper, Emerald Necklace, Amigos del lost Rios, and Environmental Coalition for Water Justice. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Brahms 1st Symphony conducted by Maron Alsop; Bill Beach “Samba das Velas,” Brasil Beat – album; Evelyn Glennie, “Marimba Dances,” Light in Darkness - album
UCI professor Keramet Reiter, and UCI director Jane Page, and theater director Gavin Cameron Webb, talk (minute 5:21- 45:10) about their collaboration that patrons can take in this weekend. The play entitled: "Covid in Custody," is a docu-drama written by Jane and Gavin chronicling the establishment of an online archive of first hand stories of those held in California’s prisons during the COVID Pandemic. The show runs at UCI’s Little Theater this week: April 29, 38, and May 1st. A talk-back will follow the April 30th 2 p.m. matinee. Tickets, which are free, must be reserved at the following link: https://www.arts.uci.edu/event/covid-custody. More information about the archives set up by Keramet, upon which the play is based, is available at: https://prisonpandemic.uci.edu/. Before this interview are comments about the candidate/incumbent OC Assessor Claude Parrish who was not available for the originally scheduled interview. After this interview are pointers about the OC Primary June 7, 2022. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; and _________.
This action packed show starts with Kev Abazajian, UCI astrophysicist and Director of the Center for Cosmology, who zoomd from the international to the municipal in this week’s recognition of the Armenian Genocide perpetrated by the Ottoman Turks in 1915. On April 22nd at 7:30 pm, the Armenian Center in Santa Ana will host a somber occasion for the community to learn about centuries old and recent developments in Armenia. In the second segment (minute 31:11), UCI political scientist Matthew Beckmann parses how American presidential schedules signal each administration’s involvement, priorities, and capacities; the subject has returned to our radar since the former president’s schedule’s eye-opening 7 hour gap on 1/6/21. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; "A Cool Wind is Blowing," Djivan Gasparian, I Will Not Be Sad in the World - album; Michael Dessen, "Water Seeks," Between Shadow and Space - album.
Today we meet another candidate in our continuing coverage of the CA 2022 Primary. Diane Harkey is the former mayor of Dana Point, former member of the CA Board of Equalization, and former State Assemblywoman; she talks about her campaign running for 5th District seat on the OC Board of Supervisors. The new 5th district includes: Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Irvine (south of I-405), Laguna Woods, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, San Clemente, and the unincorporated area bounded on the north by Antonio Parkway, Oso Parkway, Ortega Highway, and on the south by the San Diego County line. Other candidates running for this Board of Supervisor seat are: Board of Supervisor Katrina Foley; Kevin Muldoon, City Councilmember of Newport Beach; and CA State Senator Pat Bates, all of whom have been invited to appear on this show. The primary could become the general if any candidate clears 50 per cent plus one vote. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; George Frideric Handel, "Israel in Egypt"; Kamasi Washington, “Askim,” The Epic – album.
Amidst the massive forces of: the stalling of climate mitigation measures in the US Congress, the undeniable disruption of Jan 6. insurrection, and the horrific Russian invasion of Ukraine.... we continue covering Orange County June 7th 2022 Primary. We begin with OC Board of Supervisor Katrina Foley, to talk about her campaign for re-election in her brand new Orange County Board of Supervisor District, the 5th District. This new district includes: Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Irvine (south of I-405), Laguna Woods, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, and unincorporated area bounded on the north by the the Antonio Parkway, Oso, and Ortega Highways, and on the south by the San Diego County line. In the second segment (minute 41:27), picking up where she left off last month, is Brand Lin, co-founder of Irvine Watchdog to spell out the juncture at which business and residential electricity rate-payers are, whom are covered by the Orange County Power Authority. A lot of action folks, not so much sunshine; a lot of climate aspirations, unclear about the agency’s commitment to those goals. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Hiromi, “Spectrum,” Women’s Voices – album; Shabaka Hutchings, “Black Skin, Black Masks,” We Out Here – album.
The show resumes CA Primary coverage with OC District Attorney candidate Pete Hardin, who’s challenging incumbent Todd Spitzer. Reminder that the election ends on June 7th. In the second segment (minute 32:35), Brooke Aston Harper returns to the show with her insights as a local activist parent, advocate, educator, and an arts professional here in Orange County. She brings perspectives on navigating life in OC as a Black woman – through some rather fraught news cycles. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Gilles Peterson, “Back Orchid,” Black Jazz Radio – album; Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, “Star Bangled Banner,” Flight of the Cosmic Hippo – album; Nadine Sierra performs, Villa Lobos’ “Aria,” There’s A Place For Us – album.
Irvine Watchdog members Branda Lin and Richard Green return, for the whole hour, to speak in advance of the Irvine City Council’s meeting the same day of the broadcast. This show will hone in on some persistent erosions in transparency and accountability in how the City Council conducts business. The Watchdog will offer means for listeners to turn out the same day of this broadcast. The agenda is available here for residents’ perusal: https://irvinewatchdog.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/5.1.pdf. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; track #3Marquez Danzon #2, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel and the Venezuelan El Sistemo Orchestra.
The show’s bringing out the first of many local candidates who will be on the CA June 7th primary ballot – Orange County Assessor candidate Rick Foster is challenging the incumbent. Important in this exercise will be to clue voters in about the many important roles that this office performs. In the second segment (minute 31:50), John Potash talks about the unsolved case in his latest edition of, "The FBI War on Tupac Shakur: State Repression of Black Leaders from the Civil Rights Era through the 1990’s," which comes with an exhibition in LA, continuing through September before moving on to other towns. Listeners will readily recognize some persistent themes. Details about the exhibit are available at: https://www.wakemewhenimfree.com/. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Honda Takehiro Tribute Band, “Save Our Soul”, “Save Our Sole - album; Tupac Shakur, “Hail Mary” instrumental, Makaveli - album.
It’s March 8th and a good time to tap into the gifts of the thinking of seasoned women. Sharon Rosen Leib, attorney and blogger; and Nancy Wingfield, emeritus scholar of Eastern European history - present solid takes on the range and depth of years of analyzing current events. It’s time. And a work in progress. Other women will be invited to weigh in later. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album Ukrainian Folk Song Group Dhzerela.
Over this March 1st edition of "Ask A Leader," we're officially lengthening African History Month to year-long honoring and celebrating how we wouldn’t all be where we are today without such immense contributions. Angeline Dukes is currently a Ph.D. candidate in UCI's Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, and president and co-founder of https://www.blackinneuro.com/; her exit interview we’ll get before she settles into her new job on the faculty of the University of Minnesota. In the second segment (minute 35:00), South Coast Rep production director Lou Bellamy will talk about the innumerable nougats in his show, “What I Learned in Paris.” The show runs at this Costa Mesa venue through March 19th. https://www.scr.org/calendar/view?id=12538 Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Let Your Hair Down, “Ballad of Veracruz”; Roberta Flack, “What’s Going On”3.
Mindful that listeners' ears are drawn to the coverage of what’s taking place in Ukraine, today’s show’s elements have their own kind of connection dealing with corruption. Both guests generously offer their talents and might in non-profit capacities: Akaash Maharaj, Ambassador-at-Large, with Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption and Branda Lin, co-founder of Irvine Watchdog. They draw a through line from the local level to far beyond. They will be examining resources, relationships, and realities. Note: The aforementioned “California Water Supply Infrastructure Trust Account Initiative” signature collection for statewide prop this fall, has been suspended. And the Poseidon desalination project proposed in Huntington Beach, has been withdrawn from the CA Coastal Commission March meeting schedule. Stay tuned for future agendizing. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Sportive Tricks, “Rigs of Time,” Old Dogs New Tricks - album.
Neal Kelley, retiring OC Registrar of Voters, will give us an exit interview. Other platforms are already doing this; the host will do it her way, sad as she is to do it this last time with him. In the second (minute 26:44), Mai Tran, communications strategist for Stop The Music, speaks about the conditions in Orange County Sheriff Barnes’ jails. The central concern is how the food served there is a confounding health problem. Their next meeting will be 2/24/22. More details are available at: https://www.stopthemusick.net/. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Leonard Berstein conduction Aaron Copeland's Fanfare for the Common Man; James Emery Illiad Quartet, " Turbulence," Turbulence - album.
Professor Kathie Stromile Golden, Provost/Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Director of International Program at Mississippi Valley State University, and Executive Director of the National Conference of Black Political Scientists - speaks at many intersections of educating about policy and politics. The historically Black Colleges and Universities have been taking some heat. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album, Nubya Garcia – “Once”, We out Here – album. Or Shabaka Hutchings “Black Skin Black Masks,” We Out Here - album
UCI School of Education Distinguished Professor Greg Duncan, will have the full hour to talk about an unprecedented collaboration, a study making the media rounds, Baby’s First Years. https://www.babysfirstyears.com/. The study showing a link between social safety net funding and improved brain activity in babies, will continue to follow these children til their fourth year. The early findings are published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the USA, January 2022. Music credits: Chimora, "Africano Americano," Sounds of Africa - alum; Terry Riley, Rainbow in Curved Air."
Offering valued insight are two water warriors who’ve been paying attention over the decades: former Mayor of Huntington Beach and climate activist Debbie Cook will return with Conner Everts, Executive Director of the Southern California Watershed Alliance, and facilitator of the Environmental Water Caucus. They both bring a thorough discussion of water policy in California: desalination technology, water governing entities, and the latest California water initiative; to hone our critical thinking skills before statewide sleights of hand sweep the body politic heating up toward the midterm elections this fall. Resources for following up - http://www.socalwaterdialogue.org/, or viewing the most recent meeting -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGIF7Tfah843TO3-rBtkKRg Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album; Margo Cilker, “Tehachapi”
For the full hour is Mandisa Thomas founder and president of Black Nonbelievers Inc.( https://blacknonbelievers.org/), a fitting spiritual take around the celebration of the preeminent clergyman and civil rights activist, Rev Martin Luther King Jr. After recently stopping by the Humanist Association of Orange County, she offers atheists, secularists, and humanists a home on this community radio platform. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Greydon Square, “Omniverse.”
Local enterprising bibliophiles Sarah Rafael Garcia and Andrew Tonkovich bring virtual and physical opportunities for listeners', readers’ and prospective contributors’ consideration. Those opportunities include: LibroMobile Arts Cooperative in Santa Ana and the soon to be launched, "Citric Acid: An Orange Count, California Online Literary Quarterly of Imagination and Reimagination." Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album Robert Glasper YouTube, “Levels.”
Charting where we are as a nation in 1/4/22, is UCI Sociology Professor David Meyer. With his interests in social movements, political sociology, and public policy, he's our guy to break it all down, one year after the insurrection in our nation's Capitol. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa- album Charlie Haden/Liberation Music Orchestra, “America The Beautiful,” Not in Our Name - album.
Nathan Taxel, Orange County Parks resource specialist and interpreter at the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, (https://www.ocparks.com/parks-trails/upper-newport-bay-nature-preserve), leads us around this special habitat, stirring our holiday souls with the wonders of nature. In the second segment (minute 42:05), Linda Biehl, co-founder of the Amy Biehl Foundation, returns to the show to reflect on her family’s connections with the late and great Archbishop Desmund Tutu. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Sinne Eeg and the Danish Radio Big Band, “My Favorite Things,” We’ve Just Begun - album; Various artists, including Hugh Masekela, Miriam Mikeba, "NKosi Sikeleli Africa."
Richard Chang, Arts and Culture senior editor at the Voice of OC, lecturer in journalism, and former KUCI DJ, offers a cultural map of opportunities and workarounds during the pandemic and a look beyond. Music credits: The Comet is Coming, “New Age,” Channel The Spirits - album; Shabaka Hutchings, “Black Skin, Black Masks,” We Out Here – album.
Returning to the show is Rebecca Robles, Acjachemen tribal member, culture bearer and activist, fielding queries about: whether during this season she feels heard more than in a long while; what does a land acknowledgement do in the better sense; and how whole is the Puvungna sacred site on the Cal. State Long Beach University campus? December 3rd at 3:00 PT, will be the Putuidem opening in San Juan Capistrano to which the public is invited: https://patch.com/california/sanjuancapistrano/amp/30138076/village-of-putuidem-to-open-in-san-juan-capistrano. The extended version of this interview will include her takes on the how the Biden Cabinet level leaders are advancing Native Peoples and more.
In the second segment (minute 30:14, another member of the Compassion and Choices crew appears on this show. Christine Goodwin, a regional advocacy manager at Compassion and Choices, takes stock of SB 380 - the improvement and extension of the CA End of Life Option Act. The 2015 law is hereby extended through 2032.
Setting the table for this Thanksgiving program is the Buenrostro/Flores/Delgado family of the Meños Organic Farm: Manuel Buenrostro and Lupe Flores; their children Nelly Buenrostro, Luis Buenrostro, Ismelda Buenrostro; and their niece Jackie Delgado. Joining them later (minute 39:21) long-time family friend Miguel Esquivel. Their Riverside farm, in operation for over 12 years, is institutionalized at the local farmers markets, including the one nearest to the KUCI station at Mariners’ Church parking lot Saturday mornings. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Corey Harris, “Greens Back in the Day,” Greens Form the Garden - album; Groupo Mono Blanco, “El Coconito,” Fandango Sones Jarochos from Veracruz! – album.
we’ll start with latest draft maps of Congressional, State Senate, State Assembly Districts with Commissioner Linda Akutagawa, of the CA Citizens Redistricting Commission. The nuances are as abundant as are the final days of deliberation. If you don’t know your legislative district maps…. you’re missing out: https://www.wedrawthelinesca.org/ In the second segment (minute 32:00), Shahir Masri air quality researcher, author and climate change activist; offers perspective about what was achieved or not achieved at COP26 in Glasgow these last several weeks. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano,” Sounds of Africa – album; Belá Fleck, "The West County," UFO TOFU - album; Snarky Puppy, “Shofukan,” – We Like it Here - album
In the first segment Edith Wharton scholar Sheila Liming, brings her new book Office in the Bloomsbury published series Object Lessons. Like a Renaissance woman, she takes the longest view, over the centuries, of that vaunted structure known as the office in a humanities lesson that, well, breaks humanities lessons. In the second segment (minute 33:36), Craig Tyrl artistic director at the Wayward Artist returns to the show, bringing his latest production that he himself is directing, “The Nether”, written by Jennifer Haley. The show runs from November 12-21st, at the Grand Central Art Center, 124 N Broadway in Santa. Craig will also commemorate the Orange County Theater Guild Awards during a very different kind of year. Music credits: Chimora, “African Americano,” Sounds of Africa - album; Thomas Koppel/feat. Anisette, “Hush – Lulllaby for a Dying Monster,” Messe for et Tilfælde – album; The Snake Charmer and Badasses of Bagpipe, "Shipping up to Boston."
Cal. Poly San Luis Obispo political science professor Michael Latner, who returns to the show brings the heft of his Gerrymandering research to the latest processes underway-this includes CA. He co-wrote with Anthony Charles Smith, Alex Keen, and Anthony McGann, their latest, "Gerrymandering the States; Partisanship, Race, and the Transformation of American Federalism." In the second segment (minute 28:00), air quality scientist Shahir Masri monitors indoor air quality documenting workplace hazards in Santa Ana. He describes a tool among many, the AtmoTube Pro.
Music credits: Chimora, "Africano Americano," Sounds of Africa - album; The Encore Saxophone Quartet, "All The Things You Are," Encore Saxophone Quartet - album; Adam Deitch Quartet, " Progression," Egyptian Secrets - album.
Today, it’s all art: studio and performance art; and it's all local. Tyler Stallings returns to the program in his capacity as director and curator at Orange Coast College’s Doyle Arts Pavilion. The Doyle's current installation of 32 artists’ work is on display at “What Will Remain: Art in the Time of Human Dominion.” Doors are open during special hours October 11 through December 4, 2021. Also returning to the program, in the second segment (minute 28:28),is David Ivers,Artistic Director at the South Coast Repertory. The company is rolling out the return to live theater at the South Coast Repertory, since March 2020, with David Ivers’ with his own one man performance in “A Shot Rang Out,” by Richard Greenberg. The production runs from October 2 through November 6, 2021. Music credits: Chimora, “Africano Americano”; Bill Beach #4 Búzios - album
Today is a flight over the whole Huntington Beach Oil Spill debacle at 70,000 feet. Sean Anderson, Chair and Professor of the Environmental Science and Resource Management Professor and Director of the PIRatE Lab at CA State University University Channel Islands, will speak in the first segment about how innumerable institutions have failed all living things. His recent lecture offers addtional takes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpAkeJyacao
In the second segment (min 31:30), is an intimate portrait of the inestimable jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves, in advance of her appearances around SoCal, including the Segerstrom Performing Arts Center 8 pm at 10-22-21.
Music credits: Chimora, "Africano Americano," The Sounds of Africa - album; Dianne Reeves, "Stormy Weather," Beautiful Life - album; and Dianne Reeves/Billy Childs, "To A Child," Map To The Treasure-Reimagining Laura Nyro - album.
Pharmacology professor and director of UCI’s Center for the Study of Cannabis, Dr. Daniele Piomelli posts us on the fine minds coming together at the Center as well as the 10/13th forum entitled “Cannabis and the Sexual Brain; How Sex Affects Cannabinoid Activity.” Registration open to the public:https://cannabis.uci.edu/news-views/cannabis-and-the-sexual-brain/
This is the expanded version of CA Redistricting Commissioner Linda Akutagawa's broadcast appearance. She will take one more pass on this show as the final visualizations of CA Congressional, CA State Senate, CA State Assembly, and CA Board of Equalization District maps are available.
For the full hour, Laura Bratton-Evans and Gabriel Dima-Smith bring the Black experience in OC. In response to this they are building the brand new Black Democratics of Orange Co. Gabe serves as Chairperson and Laura is the Secretary and head of Community Development. They speak in advance of the Sept 25th afternoon and evening fundraiser: "Link to Life," the details of which are available at: http://www.magicincacademy.org/.
Michele Goodwin, UCI Chancellor’s Professor of Law, Founding Director Center for Biotechnology and Global Health Policy, brings receipts regarding the Texas abortion ban SB 8, that go all the way back to the 1860s, if not centuries prior. Her most recent book offers additional, essential commentary - "Policing the Womb; Invisible Women and The Criminalization of Motherhood," published by Cambridge University Press. Music credits: Patrice Michaels & Kuang-Hao Huang, "No. 8 Dissenter of de Universe," Notorius RBG in Song - album.
Neal Kelley OC Registrar of Voters under whose watchful eye OC voters will cast their ballots, speaks about the logistics involved in administering the CA Statewide Recall Election 2021. It's good to hear about his other duties including: preparing for the 2022 Midterm Primary with newly redistricted maps in the works; managing inquiries from doubters of the 2020 election results; supporting besieged election administrators around the country; and managing the security of ballots, from printing to counting them. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;" Miki Yamanaka, “March,” Human Dust Suite - album.
Returning to the show are local Citizen’s Climate Lobby organizers, Mark Tabbert and Craig Preston, closely tracking the carbon tax in federal infrastructure legislation. In the second segment, Gloria Alvarado, executive director of the OC Federation of Labor, takes stock of the late president of the AFL CIO Richard Trumpka. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Emily Barker, “Machine;” and Aaron Burdette, “Working Class.”
Returning to the show is Shane Coffield, UCI Earth System Science PhD Candidate, bringing his latest findings about how California’s forests are losing their capacity to stash our carbon emissions. This recent UCI study on how higher heat will limit ecosystem’s role in removing atmospheric CO2, was published in the American Geophysical Union Journal. Joining Shane and James Randerson on this project were: Kyle Hemes, Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment at Stanford University; Charles Koven, Climate & Ecosystem Sciences Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory; and Michael Goulden, UCI professor of Earth system science and ecology & evolutionary biology. “Inside the 45th” Part 4 (minute 38:44) is Evan Duran, Irvine resident and soon to be graduate of Cal. State Fullerton University business administration major. Listeners are invited to contact the host at: cshambaugh@kuci.org to participate in the “Inside the 45th” segment, or comment on the show’s programming.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Steve Martin with the Steep Canyon Rangers, “More Bad Weather,” Rare Bird Alert; Claude Hopkins, “Stormy Weather,” Swing Time – album; Kamasi Washington, “Final Thought,” Epic - album.
For the full hour we hear from University High soon-to-be junior Aniyah Shen. With stunning comportment, she talks about how she has been genuinely building and merging her love of science and literature as an individual and as a group member.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Ted Coleman Band, ”Sweet Bird,” Taking Care of Business – album.
Irvine Watchdog Co-chair, Richard Green looks under the hood of the recently created OC Power Authority; transparency and accountability are in very short supply residents and ratepayers in: Irvine, Huntington Beach, and Fullerton. Listeners interested in appearing in the new segment, “Inside the 45th” are invited to contact the host: cshambaugh@kuci.org. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Algote Oho & His Sounds of Joy, “Mam Yinne Wa.”
Branda Lin returns with still more insight as co-founder of Irvine Watchdog, holding Irvine elected and appointed officials accountable. Sometimes just looking at the administration of the Great Park, informs plenty about local leadership. In the second segment, “Inside the 45th” features Laguna Woods resident Metche Franke. Listeners living within the CA 45th Congressional District, who would like to speak out in this segment are welcome to contact the host at: cshambaugh@kuci.org. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Walt Wagner Trio, “Facade,” Trajectory; Uptown String Quartet, “You Are Special;” A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood film; Floating Points, “Bias” Mayfield Depot Mix, Bias – album.
For the full hour, Kim Callinan - President and CEO of Compassion & Choices, and Matt Whitaker - National Director of Integrated Programs at Compassion & Choices talk about how proactive step-taking can benefit any of us, all of us, to make the end of life, our own. Of particular concern is mapping out preferences amidst dementia. We also hear about the progress being made on SB 380 that would renew and amend the End of Life Options Act in the state of CA during the current legislative session. Resources for getting your conversation started with your inner sanctum: https://www.compassionandchoices.org. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Don Cherry and Latif Kahn, “Sangam."
Returning from their March 23rd appearance on AAL are Commissioners: Linda Akutagawa of Huntington Beach and Trena Turner of Stockton, two of the fourteen CA Citizens Redistricting Commissioners, appointed last summer, now in full swing with their community outreach duties toward mapping both federal and state legislative districts throughout CA. https://www.wedrawthelinesca.org. In the new segment, "Inside the 45th," Irvine resident David Erlich offers his views as a constituent (minute 39:27). Listeners living in the 45th CA Congressional District, are encouraged to email the host, cshambaugh@kuci.org to appear on future shows in this weekly segment in the future.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Hermanos Guiterrez, “Esperanza;” Hiromi, “Spectrum,” Spectrum – album.
Alex Keena and Tony Smith, two of the political science signatories of the Statement of Concern, return to examine the considerable warning signals in states’ legislatures adoption of restrictive voting laws. In the second segment (minute 47:30) I’m launching the new segment of “Inside the 45th” with Kev Abazajian, UCI Professor of Physics and Astronomy and the Director of the Center for Cosmology. Listeners who would like to appear in this segment in the future can get on the schedule by reaching the host at: cshambaugh@kuci.org. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” VNV Nation, Lights Go Out,” Noire – album; Sunscreen, “Voices,” - Just A Drop EP
It's an all Anteater show. First UCI professor Kathleen Treseder is preparing to be a city council candidate, this is now our third look under her hood of a formative career. In the second segment, KUCI music director Kate Davidson will deliver AAL’s second annual Anteater commencement address and talk about her where business and radio background will be taking her. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Volebeats, “Desert Song,” Solitude – album; Adam Patrick Jones performs, “Pomp and Circumstance”.
My guest for the full hour is Petra Davis-Johnson, Los Flores Middle School teacher, recently awarded the 2021 Nat’l Middle Level Student Council Warren E Shull Middle Level Adviser of the Year, by the National Student Council. Like all educators she has much to take stock of, maybe she has even a bit more. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Jaga the Jazzist “The Shrine,” Pyramid – album.
In the first segment, UCI School of Education Professor Emily Penner, recently awarded William T Grant Scholar, brings a cool, informed head into the OC and national lab of teaching ethnic studies at the high school level. In the second segment (minute 37:16), Joshua Block of Associated Students of UCI and Branda Lin of Irvine Watchdog, explore the possibilities in districted-elections in the City of Irvine. If we do our job right, listeners might lace their next conversations with the benefits of ethnic studies and proposed Irvine city districts. Listeners resources for building your own municipal district maps include: Dave's Redistricting App, Common Cause CA, and DistrictR. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Nikitch & Kuna Maze, “Francis’ Theme,” Francis’ Theme Album, Beoga, “Aurora II,” Carousel – album.
As the story continues to develop since the 3/16/21 show on the Metropolitan Water District, we resume coverage of workplace culture oversight with: Ellen Mackey, Senior Ecologist and MWD’s AFSCME union women’s caucus; and Gina Chavez, MWD water pump plant mechanic. We add organizational cronyism to your vocabulary and a whole lot of grit in this update. Investigative piece by Adam Elmaharek warrants a look-over. https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-02-12/mwd-accused-sexual-harassment-abuse-against-women Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Muito Kaballa “Tin Tin” - Everything is Broke - album
Political scientists: Alex Keena (Virginia Commonwealth University), and Charles Anthony Smith (U. C. Irvine), discern the political seismic map shifting under our feet, in their latest book, "Gerrymandering the States; Partisanship, Race, and the Transformation of American Federalism," available this August from Cambridge University press. Their co-authors, unavailable for the interview are Michael Latner (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo), and Anthony McGann (University of Strathclyde, Glasgow). Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Visioneers, “The World Is Yours,” Dirty Old Hip Hop - album.
Returning to the show is Dr. Jason Karlawish, professor of medicine, medical ethics, health policy, and neurology at the University of Pennsylvania, and co- director of the Penn Memory Center. He brings his newly released book, "The Problem of Alzheimer’s; How Science, Culture, and Politics Turned A Rare Disease into a Crisis and What We Can Do About It." It is a history, a manual, a call to action, and potential for a play; all in one book. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Chet Baker, “I Remember You.”
UCI political science professor, Matthew Beckmann weighs in with our periodic ritual of examining a new presidency, at the first 100 days of the administration. Tune for what hasn’t already been said. In the second segment (minute 37:02) Branda Lin, co-founder of Irvine Watchdog, returns to raise locals’ civic game with more delicate issues. This time it is the recent City Council resolution on anti-Asian hate and the Council’s proposals toward expending $53 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. If you are an Irvine resident, you can still weigh in . . . https://www.cityofirvine.org/city-council or https://irvinewatchdog.org. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Didier Rachou, “Hail to the Chief,” Uptown Uncle Sam; Sly5thAve, “Pour It Up,” Composite EP.
James Binnall, Professor of Law, Criminology, and Criminal Justice at Cal. State Long Beach reframes former felons as a legitimate talent pool for jury duty – only it’s not possible in most states. His decade of research, builds on a personal story, culminating in his new book, “Twenty Million Angry Men; The Case for Including Convicted Felons in Our Jury System,” published by the University of CA Press. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” and "America," (Simon cover) Courtney Marie Andrews with Liz Cooper and Molly Sarlé.
In the first segment we hear from Rusty Hicks, now running for re-election to a 4 year term of the CA Democratic Party Chair. He reflects compares elections in 2018 and 2020 as he prepares 2022 campaigns, with special consideration to the Orange County Congressional Delegation. Voting continues; delegates will finish voting on all statewide Democratic Party offices by 4/21/21. In the second segment (minute 29:30) is Branda Lin, co-founder of Irvine Watchdog resuming our interview on last week’s show, going deeper into the weeds about the Great Park, the American Asphalt Co., and the Irvine City Council. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Nick Waterhouse, “Proméne Bleu”, Proméne Bleu – album; Rone, “Room With A View” Room With A View – album.
In the first segment we hear from Delaine Eastin - former CA State Superintendent of Education, Assemblywoman, and local government official - now running for the next 4 year term of the CA Democratic Party Chair, challenging current Chair Rusty Hicks. Rusty Hicks will be on next week’s Ask A Leader. Voting is underway; delegates will finish voting by 4/21/21. In the second segment (minute 31:41), is Branda Lin, co-founder of Irvine Watchdog holding Irvine elected and appointed officials accountable. Branda Lin will appear in next week’s show to go deeper into the weeds about the Great Park, the American Asphalt Co., and the Irvine City Council. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Orquestra Akokán, “Mambo Rapidito;” Gratien Midonet, “Roulo” (Kay Suzuki Remix)
Reverend and Chaplain William Summerville, for the full hour, offers his very intersectional work in LA and Orange Counties, as he ministers to patients and their loved ones, during the COVID pandemic. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” The Heliocentrics, “The Uncertainty Principle,” A World of Masks - album
California Citizens Redistricting Commissioners: Linda Akutagawa, (Huntington Beach - No Party Preference) and Trena Turner (Stockton - Democrat) talk to us today about - how they’re getting along, getting it all done, AND how CA constituents with an independent commission tasked with district mapping, have ONE less thing to fret about. The Commission continues to hold meetings, including this week, for constituents to bring their geographic and demographic stories for consideration in drawing state and federal legislative district maps. Suggestions for adding meetings are also welcome. Follow and contribute to these developments: https://www.wedrawthelinesca.org. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Jaga Jazzist, “The Shrine,” Pyramid – album.
Returning to the show is Ellen Mackey, Senior Ecologist with the MWD, with the developing story of the Met executives' response to claims of unhealthy work culture conditions. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Jerry Goldsmith “Chinatown,” film's opening theme.
UCI MIND (Institute for Memory Impairment and Neurological Disorders) director Dr. Josh Grill, takes some deep dives into promising findings in clinical trials for medications treating Alzheimer’s disease. In the second segment (minute 36:32), "Voice of OC Voice," Brandon Pho talks from his recent article about hate crimes directed toward Asian Americans in Orange County. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Rob Mazurek-Exploding Star Orchestra, “Parable of Inclusion,” Dimensional Stardust – album; Uniting of Opposites “Corridor Moves,” Ancient Lights – album.
First Herbert Sigüenza, member of the Culture Clash troupe, speaks about developing and appearing in his solo performance “A Weekend with Pablo Picasso,” streaming this month on Cal Tech Live!. Tickets are available at: http://events.caltech.edu/calendar/weekend-with-picasso.
In the second segment (minute 22:-03), KUCI public affairs host Nathan Callahan take us from the Fairness Doctrine, to Rush Limbaugh and the media swamp, to where our body politic might recover. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Isaac Albéniz, “Granada,” performed by Ana Vidovic; Emancipator, “Currents,” Mountain of Memory - album
For this, extended version, over one hour, are: Ellen Mackey, Senior Ecologist with the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) of Southern California and the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council; and Gina Chavez, water pump plant mechanic. The LAT investigative piece by Adam Elmahrek, broke this story last week but it’s been developing for many years. Ellen in her capacity as the union’s women’s caucus and Gina as an aggrieved employee now on administrative leave, fill us in on the toxic work culture that tradeswomen have been enduring for many years. Water ratepayers interested in monitoring the MWD Board of Directors’ actions can follow with this link: http://www.mwdh2o.com/WhoWeAre/Board/Pages/default.aspx. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” The Warning “We’re Not Going to Take It”
Janet Rappaport, international tax attorney, introduces herself as a candidate for the March 9th special election to fill the recently vacated seat for the O C Board of Supervisor’s 2nd District in the special election. The district includes: Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach, Cypress, La Palma, Rossmore, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Stanton, Buena Park, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, and a portion of Anaheim. Early voting has already begun. "Ask A Leader" has yet to hear back from: John Moorlach, Kevin Muldoon, or Michael Vo, whom have been contacted for interviews. Any listeners have them on speed-dial? Contact the host @clshambaugh or cshambaugh@kuci.org. In the second segment (minute 30:35), Samantha Trad, the California State Director for Compassion and Choices, talks about the campaign to extend and improve the End of Life Options Act and the status of the co-ownership of Hoag Hospital with Providence/St. Joseph system. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Chick Corea Akoustic Band “How Deep Is the Ocean”
Megan Boler Bellamy, Leadership for Educational Equity’s Senior Director of Elected Leadership Development is with us for the full hour. Ms. Bellamy, a political strategist and attorney focusing on the intersection of social justice and elected leadership, covers the layers of supporting budding civic leaders and other participants around the country, amidst current opportunities and challenges in electoral politics. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; Miki Yamanaka, “March,” Human Dust Suite – album.
Costa Mesa Mayor Katrina Foley, speaks as a candidate running in MARCH 9, 2021 special election in the Orange County Board Of Supervisor’s 2nd District. Although the 2nd district includes: Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach, Cypress, La Palma, Rossmor, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Stanton, Buena Park, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, and a portion of Anaheim; the reach of this Board of Supervisor office extends throughout the county of 3.3 million constituents. This district includes: Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach, Cypress, La Palma, Rossmor, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Stanton, Buena Park, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, and a portion of Anaheim. The second segment, (minute 35:33), is a substantive conversation with Vikki Shepp, CEO of Girl Scouts OC; a probing look at the world of scouting in 2021.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Nightnoise, “At the Races,” At the End of the Evening – album; Sunscreen, “Voices”, Just A Drop EP.
Andrew Noymer, UCI Epidemiologist, professor in population health, disease prevention and public health, returns to the show for the full hour. Always the straight-shooting font of information, Andrew offers his hot takes and useful leads on COVID vaccines, the new national leadership, and the seasonality of this virus. If only what he says could be mounted on a banner to be flown up and down Orange County’s beaches and beyond. Pro tip folks - we’re wearing masks even after we’ve been vaccinated. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Franz Schubert’s Fantasie in F minor, performed by Lucas and Arthur Jussen.
For the full hour, in advance of the Biden/Harris Inauguration, Dr. Nancy Wingfield is an academic for the moment. As a Northern Illinois University Presidential Research Emerita Professor, principally investigating Eastern European history and with many connections in public agencies, Professor Wingfield offers insight about: fascism, soft power, autocracies, and more. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Bedrich Smetna “Ma Vlast,” Thomas Hengelbrock conducting Hamburg Sinfonieorchester.
Karriann Farrell Hinds, President of the National Women’s Political Caucus of California, returns to the show as promised at her last appearance September 2020. Today she brings a timeline from her monitoring elections in Arizona last Oct. 2020; to national general election campaigns and outcomes as they pertain to NWPC’s agenda, to the fragility of our democracy post January 6th – for our consideration. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Marcus Miller “Strange Fruit.”
Curtis Morley, a serial entrepreneur from the Salt Lake area, is launching a book entitled The Entrepreneur’s Paradox; and How to Overcome The Sixteen Pitfalls Along the Start-up Journey, published by Mango publications. Over the full hour he breaks down lessons which are equal parts business primer, life skills manual and motivational speaker. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” the olllam, “Bridge of Gllass.”
In the time honored ritual, AAL turns to culture to close out the holidays and the year. Today’s guests cover both rich and abundant offerings in our community. Craig Tyrl, artistic director of The Wayward Artist productions in Santa Ana, and a member of the faculty of the Cal State Fullerton University Dept of Theater and Dance, pivots and persists in the creative process during the pandemic and beyond. In the final segment of AAL in 2020 (minute 24:53), is local artist with international acclaim, Elizabeth Turk. She considers her immersive projects on Laguna Beach and in Pomona, CA, as well as her current installation at the Southern California Art Projects and Exhibitions The Air We Breathe: Covid Diaries. Music credits: Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacificue”; Salsa Celtica, “Auld Ang Syne”; “Gabriel’s Oboe” from The Mission (composed by Ennio Morricone 11/10/28-6/6/20)
My guest for the full hour is José Serrano, Associate Director of Immigration & Outreach Senior Immigration Services and Dept. of Justice Accredited Representative, in the Garden Grove office, the Southern California headquarters for World Relief, http://www.worldreliefsocal.org/. He considers how much room there may be in the inn, the US inn, that is.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; and Calexico, “Happy Christmas”, Seasonal Shift album.
Dr. Mahtab Jafari, UCI Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Director of The UCI Center for Healthspan Sciences, brings her breakthrough course promoting healthy lifestyle choices and students’ well-being, now going University of CA system wide. Then, in the second segment, Orange County Citizens Climate Lobby activists, Ginger Osborne and Mark Tabbert post us on where their bi-partisan efforts over these last 12 years, bring them at this juncture with a new president and the 117th Congressional Session. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifigue”; Scot Miller, “Joyful Joyful,” Christmas Gift – album; Indigo Girls, “Happy Joyous Hanukkah” Happy Holly Days - album
Today we get timely analysis from David Domke, University of Washington political science and communications professor and self-proclaimed engaged citizen putting in his lot with Common Power. It’s a two parter; I talk with him today and later will speak to others organizing inside Common Power. The stakes are consequential in the tight race to fill two Georgia US Senate seats, up for electoral grabs on Jan-5th-21, as that outcome will determine the majority party in that chamber. David Domke’s helpful insight is a good place to start. Look for Charles Douglas III on a later “Digging Out” show.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; Béla Fleck and the Flecktones/Johan Sebastian Bach’s “Christmas Oratorio” – Jingle All The Way - album
The "Almost Presidential" curators and artists had a bit more to say, so here's a brief extension of their comments.
My guests for the full hour, are a bountiful panel of artists and artist-curators, who’ve built a remarkable installation, an online project at the Doyle Arts Pavillion, at the Orange Coast College, in Costa Mesa now til Dec 16th. It’s entitled Almost Presidential presenting new work from Pio Abad, Deborah Aschheim, Matthew Brannon, Cintia Segovia, and exhibition curators Marisa Futernick and Rebecca Sittler,. They examine the American political landscape in quite profound ways, with their use of: sculpture, drawing, photography, installation, and video. The exhibition looks at vice presidents and failed presidential candidates, investigating names forgotten to history, or reduced to one-liners or supporting roles outside the spotlight. Their scope includes political systems in the U.S. and beyond, including Mexico and the Philippines, combing fiction and historical fact into an active survey of political material, text, and image. A brief extension of this interview will be available along with this show’s podcast on this same date. The exhibit will remain online after the date, with so much material to consider from all these artists.
Music credits:Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; Josh Johnson, “Western Avenue,” Freedom Exercise – album.
Today we consider sacred lands, and how in recognizing them in where we live, we can advance the important processes of: reparation, resolution, and revitalization in our time. For the full hour my guests are Rebecca Robles, Acjachemen tribal member, culture bearer and activist; and Joyce Stanfield Perry, Acjachemen, Luiseno and Kumeyaay descendent and Acjachemen tribal scholar. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Wayne Nelson, “Indio Bird Singing” Final Song at 2016 Cabazon Powwow.
Editor in Chief of the Voice of OC, Norberto Santana had a few more things to add . . . .in his longer reflections.
Today’s show begins with Norberto Santana, founding publisher and editor in chief of the nonprofit, digital newsroom, Voice of OC. He reflects on the bobbing and weaving of holding local government officials accountable during the pandemic and before and after the 11/3/20 season. An extended interview is available on this same date at askaleader.com.
In the second segment, (minute 32:27) Diana Wyenn, a Los Angeles-based director, choreographer, dramaturg, and curator of contemporary performance, brings her virtual, autobiographical live performance of Blood / Sugar this Saturday evening, 11/21 at 7 pm @ CalTech Live!
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Mint Field, “Quiero Otoño de Nuevo” - Pasar De Las Luces – album; Rone “Gingko Biloba,“ Room with A View - album
In the first segment, Keramet Reiter returns to the show to talk about UCI’s launching the first in-prison BA completion program in the UC system. Professor Reiter, at both UCI’s Dept. of Criminology, Law, and Society and UCI’s Law School, with 20 years of experience in teaching in prisons, explains how many of California’s institutions are positioned to pull off this program with huge dividends for the individual and the community.
In the second segment (min 30:57), emblazoned on the Ask A Leader marquis, is Kyung Hyun Kim’s fresh as can be, play for this moment, Pan-Damn-It! UCI professor of Humanities and screenwriter Kyung Hyun Kim; and co-directors Jane Page, UCI director and professor at UCI Claire Trevor School of the Arts, and Gavin Cameron-Webb independent director - talk about Pan-Damn-It!, Kim’s original screenplay to be performed as a Live Zoom play reading on 11/15, 4-5:30 pm PT. Information on the play and how to get your free tickets is available at: https://illuminations.uci.edu/events/2020_11_15_Pan_Damn_It.html
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Walt Wagner Trio, “Trajectory,” Facade - album; and Illum Sphere, “Thousand Yard Stare,” Glass - album.
Welcome to the 2020 general election edition of “Ask A Voter.” The polls are open; millions of you have already voted; rest of you step up!. Today we check around battle ground states: Ion Sancho, election integrity expert in Tallahassee, Florida (minute 00:53); Sue Jones, retired state water quality manager in Madison, Wisconsin; Jane Korest, Open Space and Real Estate Manager in Durham North Carolina (minute 27:13); and Sharon Rosen Leib and Rich Leib in Tempe, Arizona (minute 44:35). Make sure your friends, families, co-workers vote. Check your county’s registrar of voters for all the information that you need! OC Voters, you can register right on this election day at any of OC’s vote centers. Drop boxes open til 8pm. Music credits: Aaron Copeland, “Fanfare for the Common Man,” Leonard Bernstein conducting; Sean Jones “Lift Every Voice, ” Roots album; Kiwi Jr. “Undecided Voters;” Nate Heller, “It’s You I like,” Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood film.
Today, it’s the last go at candidates on our 11/3/20 ballot, striking a legislative theme here. First, representing CA 45th District Congresswoman Katie Porter, is her Chief of Staff and part-time campaign volunteer, Jordan Wood. In the second segment (minute 29:05) is Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, running for her second term in the CA 74th Assembly district. Diane Dixon, challenging this incumbent, did not respond to numerous requests for an interview.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; The Lemon Twigs, “The One,” Song For the General Public album; Beoga, “Aurora II,” Carousel album.
I leave you dear listeners with a week to make some good choices:
1 Vote, if you haven’t already.
2 Make sure all your loved ones and all your friends vote; help them with their voting plan.
3 Doom scrolling, still? You might spend that precious lockdown time hanging out on Ballotpedia or Voters Edge.
4 Send your kiddos a choice comic strip, right after telling them that you love them.
5 Stay tuned to the best that KUCI can offer and send us a donation on kuci.org.
6 Repeat #’s 2-6, cuz voting twice is illegal.
This is the last segment covering the Irvine City Council candidates for the 11/3/2020 general election. My guest is Christina Dillard City Council candidate, and a fulltime student working toward her paralegal degree. This interview went straight to podcast, and was not broadcast on Radio KUCI. Irvine voters will be able to cast one vote for mayor and three votes for city council; all positions are non-partisan.
We continue coverage of Irvine City Council Candidates. We first hear from UCI researcher, Abigail Pole. In the second segment is former business owner and currently a family manager, Laura Bratton. All city council seats are non-partisan. Irvine voters will be able to cast one vote for mayor and three votes for City Council.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; Sun Palace, “Rude Movements,” Raw Movements album; Josh Johnson, “Western Avenue,” Freedom Exercise album.
Additional local candidates will be similarly posted due to limited available broadcasting time. As we continue coverage of local candidates, my guest in this podcast is Irvine City Council candidate, and a software development manager Diana Jiang.
This interview, recorded today went straight to podcast. Additional local candidates will be similarly posted due to limited available broadcasting time. As we continue coverage of local candidates, my guest in this segment is Ryan Dack, a resident Laguna Beach High School teacher and candidate running for the governing board member, Trustee Area 1 of the South OC Community College Dist. All comm college district races are non-partisan. Ryan Dack is challenging incumbent Board member James Wright.
We’ve got more down ticket action with Irvine Unified School District Area 3 and deputy OC district attorney Cyril Yu.
In the second segment is Garden Grove City Council District 2 candidate, speech pathologist and advocate Julie Diep. Remember to confirm your voter registration, vote early if possible, and track your ballot. https://www.ocvote.com
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Emancipator, “Currents,” Mountain of Memories album.
For the full hour, Becky Newman, Orange Coast Chapter president of the League of Women Voters, for a time-honored ritual, explains the League’s positions on all twelve statewide propositions on the 11/3/20 general election ballot. More information is available at:https://votersedge.org/ca. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Emancipator, “Currents,” Mountain of Memories album.
Orange County ‘s voter sample ballots are moving out this week. On today’s show, we’re hanging out down ballot again with Irvine City Council candidates: Farrah Khan, running for mayor; and Larry Agran, Lauren Johnson-Norris, and Tammy Kim running for City Council. For the full hour they appear all at the same time. Confirm your voter registration; study all ballot items for full voter participation; vote early.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; Jose Rizo “Descargo Ramon Banda”, Mongorama album.
Going into the final stretch of the 2020 general elections, Orange County Registrar of Voters Neal Kelley shows how it’s done; running a tight ship with innovative maneuvers. Details about voting in this election are available at: https://www.ocvote.com
In the second segment (minute 26:37), we get acquainted with Greg Raths, Mission Viejo City Council member of the City of Mission Viejo, as he talks about his GOP candidacy challenging incumbent Katie Porter in the California 45th Congressional District race. As of this writing, the show has not been able to secure an interview with the incumbent.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; Keith Shocklee, “No Pressure,” Laswell/Shocklee: The Sam Huber Remix album; Patrice Michaels and Kuang-Hao Huang, “Dissenter of de Universe, Five Opinions and a Comment”; Notorious RBG in Song album
As many states have already sent out vote-by-mail ballots, this week I begin my coverage of the 2020 general elections. On this show we start with Irvine Ranch Water District Board candidate and water quality scientist Dr. Karen McLaughlin and in the second segment, (min 28:57) running for re-election to the Board is current Board president and attorney Mary Aileen Matheis. They are running for the same seat on the board in a non-partisan race in the general election this November 3rd. Once again, a reminder to send me your questions as I announce each week who the upcoming guests will be on this show: email me cshambaugh@kuci.org, or send me a tweet @clshambaugh. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; Keleketla!, “International Love Affair”; and Hideto Sasaki – Toshiyuki Sekine Quartet, “Turquoise Twice”, Stop Over album.
In this continuation of UCI epidemiologist Andrew Noymer's update on COVID-19, he explores the various ways in which excess deaths can be attributed to COVID-19
Today, over the full hour, we get another installment from UCI epidemiologist Andrew Noymer, who offers his inestimable insights about the COVID-19 pandemic. Surging and spreading trends, vaccines, and testing, are in the mix. At the close, Noymer notes the work of Gina Neff regarding the impacts of self-tracking on privacy. In a separate podcast posted on this same day is an extended interview on how excess deaths could be attributed to COVID.
Music credits: Greg Foat “Symhonie Pacifique;” and VNV Nation, “Lights Go Out,” Noire album.
A continuation of my interview with Karriann Farrell Hinds is available in this podcast. We cover LA elections, Get Out The Vote efforts, and the NWPC's alliances with other organizations both nationally and locally.
Attorney and writer Adam Smyer has a new book "You Can Keep that To Yourself: A Comprehensive List of What Not to Say to Black People, for Well-Intentioned People of Pallor," published by Akashic Books. Today begins his book launch. In the second segment (minutes 23:23) Karriann Farrell Hinds, President of the National Women’s Political Caucus CA brings milestones and a large electoral agenda in Orange County, and beyond, for our consideration. Additional resources: http://www.nwpcca.org/, http://www.nwpc.org/herstory/, and https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Suffrage/Ellen-Carol-DuBois/9781501165160. An extended portion of this interview with Karriann Farrell Hinds, is available in a separate podcast link on this same date. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” Tricky, “I’m in the Doorway,” Fall To Pieces album; Sly5thAve, “Everything is Everything,” Composite EP
Amidst one of the strangest election seasons that this country has experienced, we devote the full hour to Davin Phoenix, UCI political science professor with his reflections on all the identity politics that has taken place since we discussed his book "The Anger Gap; How Race Shapes Emotions in Politics," last January. Davin's book examines both the causes of anger and the consequences. Pointing to black Americans’ tempered expectations of politics and the stigmas associated with black anger, it shows how race and lived experience moderate the emergence of emotions and their impact on behavior. Accompanying this interview is a list of scholars who have weighed in on the Biden/Harris ticket and the meaning of it for diverse constituencies of color: Nadia Brown, Danielle Lemi, Sarah Sadwhani, Keneishia Grant, and Cheryl Laird.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; Stanley Turrentine, “Junebug”, If I Could album.
Learn even more from Briana Zimmerman and Eve Garrow about the People's Budget OC in this continuation of their interview.
David Bennett, with the US Census’ Regional Census Center updates us on the gains and the challenges in counting all our noses, since regional director Jeff Enos of the LA office was on this show. The general website for following their progress is: More specificically: https://2020census.gov/en.html. https://2020census.gov/content/dam/2020census/materials/partners/2020-08/how-to-id-census-taker.pdf
In the second segment (minute 29:54), The People’s Budget, namely the People’s Budget OC for our consideration, with Eve Garrow and Brianna Zimmerman. They present an opportunity to rethink how local government resources could be used in the name of safety and public health and safety. An extended portion of the interview is available in a separate pod this same day. More details about their work and coalitions are available at: https://www.transformingjusticeoc.org/. Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique;” The Tin Tins, “A moment of Your Time,” The Tin Tins album; Khruangbin, “Shida” Mordechai album.
In the first segment, employment law attorney Teresa McQueen walks us through the complexities of pandemic conditions, and protections at the workplace as rescue packages are being implemented.
In the second segment (minute 27:50), Madelynn Hirneise, CEO of Families Forward returns to the show with updates, as families’ needs surge, this far into the pandemic. Details about their 8/28 Gala and their 8/15th and future food drives are available at: https://www.families-forward.org.
Music credits: Greg Foat, “Symphonie Pacifique”; Eliot Lipp, “Not Quite Awake,” Skywave album; Emanicpator, “ Labyrinth,” Mountain of Memory album.
This is the continuation of Tony's Smith's interview about Joe Biden's running mate selection. We get down to an even geekier discussion about the process - party platform planks, campaign funds, and more.
Rolling out UCI’s School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences is the founding dean Dr. Jan Hirsch, who talks about building this institution; and the opportunities it offers researchers and students, before during and after the pandemic.
In the second segment (minute 32:39), UCI political science professor Tony Smith offers useful insight into the Joe Biden vice-presidential nominee naming sweepstakes as the parlor talk continues to heat up in advance of the announcement anticipated on 8/10/20. The extended portion of this segment is available in a separate podcast on this same day.
Music credits: Greg Foat, "Symphonie Pacifique"; Off to the Races, "Carousel"; and Lakecia Benjamin, "Pursuance."
Returning to the show is UCI law professor and election law expert, Rick Hasen, with his most recent book, one meant and written for these times, Election Meltdown: Dirty Tricks, Distrust, and the Threat to American Democracy, published by Yale University Press. In the second segment (minute 33:20) we hear from UCI public health professor Daniel Parker about the tools that the Orange County Health Care Agency and he will use to launch contact tracing for COVID-19.
For the full hour we hear from healthcare activist and retired emergency room physician Dr. Bill Honigman. Dr. Bill has lots of healthcare policy, and many intersections, to get off his chest as we go into political convention season in the middle of a pandemic.
For the full hour we hear from organizers with UCI4COLA, doctoral student Nalya Rodriguez and PhD and law school student Courtney Echols. Cost of Living Adjustments, UC system policing practices, and student housing rental terms are among the many issues on their movement plates. For more details about their bi-weekly donation drive 7/17 at the UCI Montessori parking lot, the 7/27 housing meeting, Strike U, and other events are available at: https://uci4cola.com.
Stephanie Campbell, local maven serving on many grassroots’ boards presents the sustained efforts of the national and local chapters of Americans United for the Separation of Church and State. She offers as well, the hefty roster of speakers lined up from now into the fall, at the Orange County chapter.
In the second segment (minute 29:08), I speak with UNITE HERE Local 11 organizer Austin Lynch about Anaheim workers’ public health, making the case to city, county, and state leaders to delay the opening of the Happiest Place on Earth.
Scott Bollens continues his reflection on urban planning in the inflection point of the age of COVID and BLM.
This is the continuation of Danielle Watt's interview. She offers comprehensive insight as a STEM administrator at the University of Minnesota and of living in these times with mixed feelings.
We follow Danielle Watt from her stellar STEM outreach work at UCI physical sciences to the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. While continuing to say lots about how zip codes matter, she’s got news from her own zip code which has seen a lot this last month. In the second segment (min 30:40), UCI Urban professor Scott Bollens also returns to the show. He examines the manner in which urban planning education and practice bakes into the system considerable inequalities. Each of these interviews has extended portions available in separate podcasts.
Kathleen Treseder takes up the new trajectories that her Treseder Lab researchers are taking upin the age of COVID, and how her lab is able to manage during a lockdown. Professor Treseder also talks about additional civic pursuits. She posts us on all of this in her continuation of this interview.
Archer Altstaetter had a whole lot more to say that we simply could not fit into the original broadcast. He said even more after we recorded, about having become a gay activist elder. Unpacking that on another interview appearance, will be our essential starting point.
It’s the 10th anniversary of “Ask A Leader.” On today’s program I take stock with and have the pleasure of bringing to you: KUCI Station Manager Kevin Stockdale (minute 2:04), Activist/Producer/Performer Archer Altstaetter (minute 9:55), UCI scientist Kathleen Treseder (minute 25:02), and UCI Claire Trevor School of the Arts theater director Jane Page (minute 0:39). The extentions of both Archer Altstaetter's and Kathleen Tresede's interviews are available in separate posts on this same day for this podcast.
This is the continuation of Katherine Stewart's coverage of her definitive book, "The Power Worshippers, Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism."
For the full hour we hear from author Katherine Stewart, about her new book, "The Power Worshippers; Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism," a definite analysis of the vast infrastructure of Christian nationalism. Ms. Stewart is the featured speaker of a forum presented by Women For: OC June 20th at 2 pm PDT. Details pertaining to that forum are available by reaching the show host at: cshambaugh@kuci.org. The extended portion of this interview is available on this website askleader.com.
KUCI’s very own program director and graduating senior, Claire Moore, takes stock of life up til now, then delivers her particular commencement address. Congratulations to Claire and to everyone in the Class of 2020.
In the second segment (minute 18:52), we hear from two Santiago High School teachers approaching their finish line for the school year of 2019-20 in the Garden Grove District: Teri Osborne and Cheryl Garcia.
You can listen to the extended portion of this interview, posted in this part 2 of with Ben Leffel.
Ben Leffel, Ph.D. candidate in the Dept. of Sociology and Public Impact Distinguished Fellow at UCI, returns with leading edge opportunities for municipal leadership to take up toward climate change, especially in the age of COVID. In the second segment, My Nguyen, community organizer at OC Communities Organized for Responsible Development, brings to our attention a new campaign: Safety Net For All of Us, offering some relief to undocumented residents in need during the pandemic: https://act.wpusa.org/we_need_a_safety_net_for_all_of_us
This is the final installment of Dr. Carl Schultz’ coverage of the COVID pandemic. He is currently the Emergency Medical Services medical director at Orange County’s Health Agency, and for the full hour, speaks as a seasoned disaster medicine practitioner and researcher at UC Irvine.
Today we peel back the curtain of disaster medicine during the pandemic with Dr. Carl Schultz’ frank and heartfelt insight. He is currently the Emergency Medical Services medical director at Orange County’s Health Agency, and for the full hour, speaks as a seasoned disaster medicine practitioner and researcher at UC Irvine. The extended portion of the interview is in Part 2 of this day's posting.
For the full hour, Pastor Samuel Pullen offers a useful case study on how grassroots is getting the job done in Los Alamitos in the sanctuary city movement. Lessons learned could sustain additional grassroots efforts as the post pandem financial pie is being carved.
We devote the full program to UCI epidemiologist Andrew Noymer. Already seen and heard on media platforms nationally and internationally; he offers his latest, compelling insights about the pandemics he has known, including the one we’re all sharing right now. This podcast is the second of two parts and pertains to Orange County.
We devote the full hour to UCI epidemiologist Andrew Noymer. Already seen and heard on media platforms nationally and internationally; he offers his latest, compelling insights about the pandemics he has known, including the one we’re all sharing right now. This interview has been divided in two parts, Part 2 pertaining to Orange County is posted on this website in a separate podcast.
Deputy Regional Director for the US Census 2020, Jeff Enos, overseeing operations in 7 western states, reminds us of our opportunities and obligations with this latest US census. Listeners can camp out at their website to complete the census online and for employment opportunities: https://www.census.gov.
In the second segment (minutes 29:20), Michele Musacchio speaks this time as an affiliate of Transforming Justice Orange County, about COVID-19 spreading in our local jails, as it spreads in jails throughout the country. Among the links offered in the interview are: https://www.transformingjusticeoc.org, https://www.ocsd.org/about_ocsd/covid_19, https://www.aclusocal.org/en/press-releases/aclu-sues-oc-sheriff-over-jail-conditions-during-pandemic, and https://www.change.org/p/orange-county-sheriff-s-department-demand-that-orange-county-jails-release-people-and-prevent-the-spread-of-covid-19?recruiter=20796092&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=copylink&utm_campaign=share_petition&utm_term=share_petition.
As “Ask A Leader” becomes “Ask A Neighbor,” we continue our hyper-local focus, to serve our community in the age of COVID. We hear first from atmospheric researcher and lecturer and climate activist Shahir Masri, who returns on the heels of the 50th annual commemoration of Earth Day, taking up the pandemic collision course with climate change and how Biden, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, squares with climate policy. In the second segment, Madelynn Hirneise, Chief Executive Officer of Families Forward, speaks to how her a nonprofit is meeting a multitude of needs of local families in extraordinary times. Operation notes: 8 Thomas Irvine, M-F 10am-2 pm, 949-552-2727, and https://www.families-forward.org.
UCI Humanities Professor Mimi Long, along with students: Summer Pagaduan, Lori Sinanian, and another student, mobilize on behalf of renters adjacent to the UCI campus, advocating for relief from the terms of their Irvine Company leases, while they hunker down with parents elsewhere amidst the early closure of the UCI 2019-20 academic year. In social media #releasethelease or https://www.change.org/p/irvine-company-irvine-company-early-lease-termination offers more steps to take.
It’s 7 o’clock somewhere; we salute the essential workers e v e r y w h e r e. In our hyper-local coverage in the Age of COVID, is another person of the moment, Bernadette Boden-Albala, Director and Founding Dean of the Program in Public Health, at the Samueli College of Health Sciences.
It’s 7 o’clock somewhere, so let’s salute the essential workers everywhere. In our hyper-local coverage in the Age of COVID, is another person of the moment, Bernadette Boden-Albala, Director and Founding Dean of the Program in Public Health, at the Samueli College of Health Sciences. In the second segment, UCI Humanities Professor Mimi Long, along with students: Summer Pagaduan, Lori Sinanian, and another student, mobilize on behalf of renters adjacent to the UCI campus, advocating for relief from the terms of their Irvine Company leases, while they hunker down with parents elsewhere amidst the early closure of the UCI 2019-20 academic year. In social media #releasethelease or https://www.change.org/p/irvine-company-irvine-company-early-lease-termination offers more steps to take.
Nick Gerda, reporter with the Voice of OC, a digital news agency based in Santa Ana, shares his observations about how the county government is performing, literally and figuratively, as it sets policy and administers procedures in the age of COVID-19. The stakes are raised ever higher, as various Board of Supervisors gear up in their campaigns toward the November 2020 general election.
In the Age of COVID, our focus will be hyper local, to serve our immediate community; the show now becomes for the indefinite period, “Ask A Neighbor.” Today we will start with Rev. Dr.Terry LePage, taking up how we cope. Her latest project is conducting Grief, Gratitude, and Courage workshops. Information about these is available at: terry@opendoorcommunication.org . Listeners please help me help all of us by sending your concerns that you would like covered. Send to: cshambaugh@kuci.org.
In what we all know to be a highly fluid and changeable situation, we cover the medical and psychological aspects of COVID-19, at this particular moment. First we hear from Dr. Michele Cheung pediatric epidemiologist at the O C Health Agency who speaks to the medical issues. Ongoing updates at the OCHA are available at:800-564-8448 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. or http://www.ochealthinfo.com/. 1) To apply for Medi-Cal and CalWORKs benefits, review your case information, request a replacement benefits card and submit verifications, please visit www.mybenefitscalwin.org or call SSA’s Service Center at (800) 281-9799 2) To apply for CalFresh benefits, review case information and submit verifications, please visit www.getcalfresh.org 3)To apply for General Relief benefits or for continuing case information, please call (800) 281-9799 or you can fax an application to (714) 825-3155 or the Center for Disease Control at: https://www.cdc.gov/. 4)To apply for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) or for questions related to ongoing IHSS cases, call (714) 825-3000.
In the second segment (minute 28:09) Professor Roxane Silver, of UCI’s Department of Psychological Science, Department of Medicine, and Program in Public Health, returns to the program to take up the psycho-social aspects.
Returning to Ask A Leader is UCI Lecturer and labor organizer Keith Danner, to take up the mobilizing of UC system academic student employees to keep up with their living costs while they serve students. He also has some insight on how his own peers have stakes in the breaking health and economic developments.
In the second half (minute 24:11), UCI Claire Trevor School of the Arts director Jane Page, and actors: Ariella Kvashny and Crystal Kim are involved in a wonderful production of Lisa Loomer’s comic drama Living Out. Performances continue through March 15th, tickets are available at the box office, (949) 824-2787 or https://www.arts.uci.edu/boxoffice. And yes, the program’s definitely got a through line – the haves and the have nots; a bit more not having than having.
Welcome to the CA Primary 2020 edition of “Ask A Voter.” This is an historic three month adjustment to CA’s primary with lots on our ballot besides presidential candidates. Factoids galore: CA has 415 delegates for the Democratic presidential nomination. The races within OC, many of which we covered right here, include: OC Brd of Supervisors Dists 1 & 3; House of Representatives Districts 38, 39, 45, 47, 48, and 49; State Senate Districts. 29 & 37; State Assembly Districts 68, 69, 72, 73, & 74; OC Board of Education Areas 1, 3, & 4. Today’s show we’re all over the political spectrum, folks with history, intention, and ideas for our deliberation: Laiseng Saechao – Asian Pacific Environmental Network Political Director and She The People affiliate; Alan Beek – Retired computer designer/Nixon campaigner/current Radio KPFK board member (minute 13:00); Alex Loniak – Orange Coast College President of Young Republicans (unfortunate no-show); Sophie Prettyman-Beauchamp (filmmaker) & Angelica Sheen (AWS Cloud Management employee) – Radio KUCI DJ’s and UCI graduates (minute 20:16); and Randy Lioz – Better Angels CA Director (minute 34:04). Once your ballots are submitted you can camp out on the following websites: http://apen4ej.org/, https://www.shethepeople.org/, and https://www.better-angels.org/california/.
We’re still in the horse race free zone, folks; more important than ever with the punditry stifling worthy discussion about policy. Our first guest will be Kim Bernice Nguyen, Garden Grove Council Member, challenging the incumbent in the OC Board of Supervisors District 1. This dist includes: Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Westminster and portions of Fountain Valley. Then, in the second segment (minute 31:00), we will hear from Anaheim City Council Member Jordan Brandman, who will talk about his bid running for the open seat for Orange County Board of Education Area 4, which includes: La Habra, Brea, Fullerton, Placentia, Anaheim, and Buena Park.
Returning to AAL is O C Board of Supervisor District 3 incumbent and local attorney, Don Wagner, who won the Supervisorial seat in the 3/12/19 special election. District 3 includes portions of Anaheim and Irvine, as well as Anaheim Hills, Orange, Tustin, North Tustin, Villa Park, Yorba Linda, and unincorporated Silverado and Trabuco Canyons. He considers the budget, emergency housing in the housing mix, the 30 year backlog of sexual assault kits, Board of Supervisors' relationship with the Orange County Sheriff's Office, and his campaign endorsements and financing.
Helping you out with your 3/3/20 ballot that you’ve received in the mail, we continue with local election coverage, in this horse race free zone! First we hear from Beckie Gomez, incumbent running for another term on the OC Board of Education’s Area 1; which includes: Garden Grove, Fountain Valley, Santa Ana and Tustin. In the second segment (minute 27:52) we meet Paulette Chaffee running for Trustee on the OC Board of Education’s Area 4, which includes: La Habra, Brea, Fullerton, Placentia Anaheim, and Buena Park.
As we continue our focus on local candidates in the CA 3/3 Primary, we shall first hear from Ashleigh Aitken about her challenging the incumbent in the 3rd District of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. This district includes: portions of Anaheim and Irvine, Anaheim Hills, Orange, Tustin, North Tustin, Villa Park, Yorba Linda, and Silverado and Trabuco Canyons. She is a former federal prosecutor and part of the Leadership Council of the United to End Homelessness OC. In the second segment (Minute 30:40), Ada Briceño; co-president of UNITE HERE Local 11, a hotel and resort workers' union and Chair of the Orange County Democratic Party, posts us on organizing at John Wayne Airport, LAX, and Loyola Marymount University. Clergy Laity United For Economic Justice (CLUE), has all the details for showing up and supporting the workers this Thursday at John Wayne noon-4 p.m.: aoverton@cluejustice.org or 661-373-8679.
As our vote-by-mail ballots are heading this week to our residences, OC Registrar of Voters Neal Kelley walks us through all the changes occurring here in the 3/3/2020 CA Primary. A good place to hang out during these next several weeks is: https://www.ocvote.com/vc/web/. In the second segment (minute 28:27), Costa Mesa Mayor Katrina Foley (D) talks policy in her campaign for State Senate District #37, challenging incumbent John Moorlach (R). Join us as we cover state policies as they pertain to daunting trends. David Min (D) also challenging the incumbent, will be on next week’s show.
Dr. Hoda Anton-Culver, Director of Genetic Epidemiology Research Institute at UCI, offers very current commentary about the National Institutes of Health “All of Us" research program of which UCI is part. The study will include 1 million participants around the country. Information is available at: 949-824-0281, allofus@uci.edu, #JoinAllofUs, and https://allofus.health.uci.edu/. In the second segment (minute 26:53) is Andy Thorburn, the only candidate challenging incumbent Ken Williams in the Area 3 Orange County Board of Education. Local coverage of the CA Primary will continue through March 3rd.
“Ask A Leader” CA primary candidate coverage will be focusing on several local races. We begin with Dr. Ken Williams incumbent running for another term on the OC Board of Education’s Area 3, which includes Irvine. In subsequent weeks we’ll hear from candidates running in OCBE’s Areas 1, 3, and 4.
José Trinidad Castañeda, Climate Action Campaign organizer who’s taken over for Robin Ganahl in Orange County, offers a thorough review of how local municipal leadership is stepping up in ways that are already being institutionalized in surrounding counties. Resources for constituents include: https://www.cityofirvine.org/news-media/news-article/community-choice-energy and https://occleanpower.org/
Davin Phoenix, UCI political science professor, returns with his definitive and clarifying new book - The Anger Gap; How Race Shapes Emotion in Politics, published by Cambridge University Press. In the second segment (minute 38:40), members of the Orange County Women’s March Planning Coalition will provide us with the scoop on the 4th annual Women’s March in the OC; January 18th, 10 a.m., in Santa Ana. Keynote speaker, 45th Congressional District incumbent Katie Porter will take up some voting themes at the March. Details about the March are available at: http://www.ocwomensmarch.org/.
As the news dessert opens up in Orange Co. with its 3.3 million residents, the media continues to fall behind in covering us. The beginning of 2020 is an opportune time to raise KUCI’s game, so….. we’ll get on with that today with social scientists taking the reins; starting with Alexandra Macias, political science professor at Cal State University building what you could call a two-way civic education enterprise –https://www.california45th.org/. In the second segment (minute 31:33), UCI Sociology Professor David Meyer runs some through lines into abundant protests unfolding on most continents. The cue lengthens.
Three women weigh in just as we leap into a new and consequential year: Christina Shea, Mayor of Irvine (minute 1:01) ; Lisa Bartlett, Orange CountyBoard of Supervisor for the 5th District (minute 23:41); and Zoe Nicholson, scholar of Alice Paul the architect of the 19th Amendment and the ERA amendment (minute 39:19). The complete interview of Zoe Nicholson is available in a separate podcast of this same date. Happy New Year One and All!
Among three women weighing in just as we leap into a new and consequential year, this podcast features the complete interview of Zoe Nicholson, scholar of Alice Paul the architect of the 19th Amendment and the ERA amendment.
Ani Zonneveld, founder/president of Muslims for Progressive Values returns to the show for a review of the year: difficult topics, awkward dialogues, and meaningful coalescing. She will return to the show after the Forum of Religion and Belief in Kenya 3/25-26/2020. In the second segment (minute 29:03), artist/photographer Tom Kiefer takes us on a remarkable excursion with his photographs at the Skirball Center – “El Sueño Americano, The American Dream” on exhibit at the Skirball Center in L.A., now through March 8, 2020. https://www.skirball.org/exhibitions/current
Independent book dealers are the focus with Ivy Bookshop owner Emma Snyder, whose enterprise thrives in the shadow of one Amazon’s major hubs, Baltimore, MD. Book store experiences and abundant possibilities, during the holiday season and throughout the year, are explored. In the second segment (minute 31:35), Attic Community Theater owner and co-founder James Huffman shares what you might consider are his best kept secrets - his productions in Santa Ana. "Matilda" runs now through 12/22. Plays in the New Year include: "Harvey" and "The Full Monty."
Dr. Rhoda Au, professor of epidemiology and anatomy at Boston University’s School of Public Health and faculty member of the world famous and enduring Framingham Heart Study, brings progressive insight about the heart brain link in the aging process and the variability of this process in aging brains. She’ll also take up patient access to our private patient data; a whole new way of decentralizing this asset and making it our own. In the second segment (minute 35:57) Norma Aguilar, Consul for Community Educational, and Cultural Affairs at the local Mexican Consulate in Santa Ana, extends a warm and gracious invitation with to their seasonal offerings while she explains their ongoing charge. Tis a lovely time to cover these occasions while many celebrate La Posada with all its universal themes. Ways to remain well informed include: https://www.consulate-info.com/consulate/14390/Mexico-in-Santa-Ana, and http://www.octa.net/Bus/Promotional-Events/Go-PASE/.
Casey Gerald writes what he lives with remarkable wit, depth, and honesty; starting with his deep and delightful memoir "There Will Be No Miracles," published by the Riverhead Books division of Penguin Random House. It is now available in paperback. In the second segment (minute 32:27), Rebecca Helm professor at UNC-Asheville, takes up the complexities of plastic cleanup in our oceans, while teaching us about the barely known sea surface ecosystem. Those remediation projects we’re hearing about have much to learn about their impacts in the Neuston environment. Calling community scientists - if you see something on the beach, please report it to: https://www.inaturalist.org/.
For the full hour, Diné/Ihanktonwan writer and creator of #NotYourMascot, Jacqueline Keeler recontextualizes the United States’ relationship with Native Peoples. In her pronouncement “The United States is still a colony,” she offers useful analogies, including: the colonial algorithm versus the indigenous peoples' algorithm; the white supremacist's cabin perspective versus the marginalized person's beyond perspective. Her powerful analogies reset the mythology perpetrated since the original sin when the Separatist Puritans established the Plymouth Colony. Available for pre-order is her book to be released next year, entitled - "Standoff: Standing Rock, The Bundy Movement, and the American Story of Occupation, Sovereignty, and the Fight for Sacred Lands."
We’re going to work the social justice theme rather vigorously – the first guest is Stephanie Hammerwold, executive director and co-founder of Pacific Reentry Career Services, a local non-profit that helps formerly incarcerated women find and maintain employment following release. In the process we’ll learn all about California’s two-year old law, the Fair Chance Hiring Law. In the second segment (minute 29:06), Professor Mónica Ramírez Almadani, visiting clinical professor of law at UCI, civil rights advocate, litigator and policy advisor; offers insight about where we are after last week’s oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court on the Trump Administration’s efforts to end Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals/DACA. UCI law school student Viridiana Chabolla is one of the plaintiffs.
Climate warriorette and award-winning author Terry Tempest Williams has just published her latest book, Erosion-Essays of Undoing; a book for these times with her inestimable attention to the health and souls of all beasts, including us. Williams sizes up the continuing assaults on America’s public lands and the erosion of our commitment to the open space of democracy. She asks: “How do we find the strength to not look away from all that is breaking our hearts?” We devote the full hour to her. The book is published by Sarah Creighton Books/Farrar Straus Giroux.
Today we dwell in two very different museum spaces. First, conceptual artist lauren woods and curator Kimberli Meyer talk about the immersive and transformative experience of their current installation “American MONUMENT,” at UCI’s Beall Center. This installation continues through February 8, 2020. Details about the installation; including the upcoming think tanks and the unveiling forum 2/8/20, are available at: https://beallcenter.uci.edu/exhibitions/american-monument. In the second segment (minute 37:35 ), Malcolm Warner, executive director of the Laguna Art Museum, returns to speak about this year’s “Art in Nature” program commission by artist Yorgo Alexopoulos entitled – 360° Azimuth, commemorating the Museum’s 7th annual multidisciplinary exploration of art’s many engagements with the natural world. The opening includes the outdoor multi-media installation launch Thursday Nov. 7, followed by a roster of events over the weekend. Details for this and later events are available at: https://lagunaartmuseum.org/events/.
Karriann Farrell Hinds, President of the National Women’s Political Caucus of California, a multi-partisan organization, brings us from the multi-partisan good old days of her organization’s founding – to the present. Everything is in play. In the second segment (minute 31:47), CA Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, representing District 47: Irvine and nearby cities, reflects on the latest legislative session, her first. More of everything on the table, from the committee rooms, to town halls, to the Assembly floor, back to the campaign season.
Ming Chen, law professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, and a member of the Colorado State Advisory Committee to the US Commission on Civil Rights, reports on the lengthening delays in the naturalization process. Fascinating findings are available in that report entitled: "Citizenship Delayed: Civil Rights and Voting Rights Implications of the Backlog in Citizenship Naturalization Applications." Attention: if you have not already applied for citizenship, you will likely not be eligible to vote in the November 2020 presidential election. In the second segment (minute 40:20), Richard Alexander, electrical engineer and technical electrical publisher provides insights about the electricity infrastructure amidst the wildfires breaking out in California.
Shane Coffield, PhD student and researcher at UCI's Department of Earth System Science, presents the Randerson Labs' interesting findings using machine learning/artificial intelligence which models wildfires in Alaska, to predict which of those fires will burn out of control. The model soon will be applied to California wildfires. In the second segment (minute 30:19), Dr. Carl Cotman covers the state of Alzheimer's research in advance of the UCIMIND Alzheimer's Association annual conference in Irvine on 10-25-19, the title of which is "30 Years of Discovery; Hope on the Horizon. Chelsea Cox covers the roster of this year's presenters. It all takes place at the Irvine Marriott; information is available at: conference@mind.uci.edu, kleinkm@uci.edu, or 949-824-9475.
Roxane Silver, UCI Professor of Psychological Science, Medicine, and Public Health and Associate Director of the ADVANCE Program, brings the heft of her over 30 years of compelling work on how we experience publicly-shared trauma. Natural and man-made disasters are considered.
Then, (minute 33:00) staying in the expansive public health realm, UCI professor Scott Bartell offers a look under the hood about the challenges to understanding the pathways and public health impacts of PFAS chemicals in our environment and in our bodies. It’s very current work, and on the radar of people representing us in local, state, and federal places.
Dr. Jerry Schubel, CEO and President of the Aquarium of the Pacific, returns to the show in advance of their Sea Level Rise free community event on the evening of 10/7, 7-9 p.m.,co-sponsored with The Nature Conservancy and the ArtCenter College of Design. Reservations are requested and available at: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/events.
Amidst the dizzying developments outta D.C., Ask A Leader puts Gerrymandering in front and center, with a civics lesson on why something so complex, so long established in political history, is so consequential to all of us. Seasoned political scientists Alex Keena (Virginia Commonwealth University) and Michael Latner (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo) guide us through the nuances of state of the States mapping/remapping gerrymandered districts.
Then (minute 43:18) we bring back Aquarium of the Pacific CEO and President Dr. Jerry Schubel, in advance of their Sea Level Rise free community event on the evening of 10/7, 7-9 p.m., co-sponsored with The Nature Conservancy and the ArtCenter College of Design. Reservations are requested: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/events.
The green economy is on sharp display with the wind turbine sector – Dennis Pedersen, CEO of the Port of Esbjerg in Denmark, offers how the Esbjerg Harbor is a success story for these times. In the second segment (minute 27:56), Dr. Linda Fox, President of the Long Beach/West Orange County section of the National Council of Jewish Women, takes up how her local council sustains an ambitious charter amidst considerable social needs. They extend the invitation to "everyone with shared values of the beliefs in the dignity of every human being, in education, and the pursuit of social justice, Jewish or not, female or not." The human trafficking hotline is 888-373-7888 or text 233733. Information on upcoming events is available at: https://www.ncjwlongbeach.org/.
As Director of the Center for Hydrometeorology & Remote Sensing, and Professor of Civil & Environmental Engineering and Earth System Science Department at UC Irvine, Professor Soroosh Sorooshian offers the finer points behind what we all witnessed as Hurricane Dorian blew toward the East Coast. His Center for Hydrometeorology and Remote Sensing website, https://chrs.web.uci.edu/ is one cool place to geek out for a while, for real time and long term weather patterns. In the second segment (minute 35:10), South Coast Repertory’s new artistic director David Ivers, presents the offerings at the beginning of this year’s season, this side of the New Year. Ticket and other information is available at: https://scr.org/ and 714-708-5555.
REPARATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES. “So You Want to Talk About Race,” “Tears We Cannot Stop; A Sermon To White America,” “Lies My Teacher Told Me; What Your American History Teacher Got Wrong,” “Winners Take All,” The NYTimes “1619 Project,” “The Beautiful Struggle,” “Sweet Taste of Liberty; A True Story of Slavery and Restitution in America,” "Shadow Bodies: Black Women, Ideology, Representation, and Politics," and “There Will be No Miracles Here;” provide some background on the juncture at where we have arrived with respect to reparations in the United States. This solemn occasion is handled by Davin Phoenix, UCI Political Science professor, and author of the soon to be released “The Anger Gap: How Race Shapes Emotion in Politics for Action.”
We bring back climate science researchers: Kimberly Duong (UCI) and Gianna Lum (Columbia University). Joining them will be the new UCI President of Climatepedia, Patricia Haigh, to herald a huge season of youthful grassroots climate activism, as organizers gather in New York in advance of Greta Thunberg’s much anticipated UN address and the September 20th Global Climate Strike. As their part of these forums, they will host "Irvine Climate Resilience" 9-20, 10 a.m. at Culver Drive-Alton Parkway. Climatepedia continues to post climatememes on Instagram. Find them on: https://strikewithus.org and on their social media.
We continue to rethink the plastic proposition with Nick Lapis, Director of Advocacy for Californians Against Waste; taking up CA SB 54 and CA AB 1080; The Circular Economy and Plastic Pollution Act. As the CA Legislative session winds down, details are available at: https://camustlead.org/ and https://www.cawrecycles.org/. In the second segment (minute 26:17), Dr. Brian Cummings, Professor and Vice-Chair for Research at Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at UCI’s School of Medicine; speaks truth to a powerful publishing house, Elsevier, about open access to all that research academics do. In case future developments do not get their due in mainstream media, essential information is available at: http://stemcell.uci.edu/ and https://www.change.org/p/elsevier-boycott-elsevier-and-support-affordable-open-access-scholarly-publishing.
Clergywoman Dr. Terry LePage returns to Ask A Leader to offer another kind of Christianity, in these times where some brands of theology seem to be in crisis. We devote the full hour to this topic. Additional commentary from Terry is available at: http://justshine1.blogspot.com/.
For the full hour, refugee crises are made very personal, very real, with Guerline Jozef, executive director of the Haitian Bridge Alliance and Lydia Natoolo, former U. C. Irvine Student Body President and current vice-presidential candidate for the Ugandan diaspora. While you are at it, help yourself to additional materials: https://www.haitianbridge.org/ and https://faithinaction.org/.
Jack Cheevers, Public Information Officer for Region 9 of the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, talks about the basics and intricacies of Medicare enrollment. In my second (minute 28:50), George Shea, playwright and children’s book author, George Shea, merges science with art as he talks about his play “Dr. Keeling’s Curve,” a subversive and lovely play for these times, for all audiences.
Ana Gonzalez, Public Affairs Director for the Community Action Fund of Planned Parenthood Orange and San Bernardino Counties, takes up the reach of their local advocacy efforts amidst legislative, executive, and electoral changes afoot. In the second segment (minute 29:10), Dr. Matthew Zahn, specialist in Pediatric infectious diseases, currently serving as a medical director of the Division of Epidemiology and Assessment for the Orange Co Health Care Agency, offers insight about childhood immunization policy and trends in and around Orange County.
Democratic National Committee Chairman Tom Perez will look over the Party’s electoral map going into the 2020 Presidential Primaries. In the second segment (minute 27:45), Kayleigh Levitt, founder of Zero Waste Collective Orange County and member of Citizens' Climate Lobby; considers our options to trim our consumption. The Zero Waste Collective is an online community about all things zero waste, as well as sustainable and ethical living, including the work of Max Loboiron.
Plowing right into the headwinds and the moving targets of immigration policy are guests: Ana Ramirez, Coordinator of the Orange County Rapid Response Network; and Tim Burns, local activist, and community advocate for universal representation for immigrants facing deportation. See something, say something to the hotline: 714-881-1558. Details for how further to get involved are available at: https://resilienceoc.org/.
We wrap the show (minute 38:38) with Carissa Macias, program coordinator serving up “Gourmet by the Bay,” a fundraising plein air dining experience this Saturday, July 20th, 6-9 p.m. at the nearby Newport Conservancy’s Interpretative Center.
Katie Kalvota, who’s recently founded a new political action campaign in OC, “Asian Americans Rising,” among other newly realized political talents, has the full hour, to explore them all as she institutionalizes these organizations right here, right now. Asian Americans Rising is a political action committee that elevates the political impact of the AAPI community through civic engagement, issue advocacy, and promotion of candidates at the local, state, and national levels who represent the interests of the American Asian Pacific Islander community in Orange County.
Rachel Bitecofer, political scientist and forecaster at the Wason Center at Christopher New Port University, returns to the show to bring her inestimable model of forecasting, fresh off the press, on what the electoral map will look like in 2020. In the second half (minute 19:53), Citizens’ Climate Lobby activists Mark Tabbert and Virginia Bernal talk about the heady times they had on Capital Hill this last June, and ways in which the political ground is shifting on climate policy on the municipal as well as the federal levels.
Senior plastics campaigner David Pinsky, is out there in front with Greenpeace’s assessment and ranking of the US supermarkets’ contribution to the plastic waste stream. Customers, get your details at: https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/shopping-for-plastic-2019/ Then in the second half (minute 27:30), Jackie Menter, co-founder of the Orange County Jewish Coalition for Refugees, brings the heft of her personal experience with refugees amidst the international commemorations of the World Refugee Day, amidst the ramping of the man made immigration disaster occurring along our border and around the country. Ample marching orders are provided for those who refuse to witness the horrors in silence.
With my first guest Anaheim City Council Member Jose Moreno, we head over to the Platinum Triangle as negotiations concerning the Angel Stadium and surrounding properties heat up. Interested parties can attend the city council this same day, and follow some money. Council meetings of interest in the near future are: July 16th and July 30th. Then (minute 33:47), fresh from recent travel in the Hong Kong realm where the chief administrator blinked, UCI professor Jeff Wasserstrom speaks to the rapidly developing, consequential news still breaking there; One China, how many systems?
For your consideration are some events, you won’t want to miss, right around the corner. Jackie Wu, of the OC Registrar of Voters posts us on what to expect with voting in the Presidential primary March of next year; you think it’s too soon? There’s a whole dog and pony show moving around the county from June 8th til July 13th, about the new ways we’ll be voting from the presidential primary onward. Jackie leads us through the process, including details about the community workshops which start with one in Irvine, this June 8th. Details about all things new about voting in OC are available at: https://www.ocvote.com/fileadmin/vc/ In the second segment, Dr. Stephen Tucker, reflects on his intimate connections to the late UCI music professor and composer, Bernard Gilmore in advance of his conducting, along with his twin brother, Dr. Paul Tucker, “Journey to Freedom.” This will be the world premiere of Bernard Gilmore's composition, and will be performed only at the Soka Performing Arts Center on June 9th. Tickets are available at either: 949-480-4278 or https://www.boxofficeticket.center.
Amidst the recently unearthed college admissions scandals, we hear what Vice Provost of Academic Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and history professor Doug Haynes really thinks – how his charter within the UC system handles the inequities of education in the broadest possible sense. In the second segment (minute , pharmacology professor and director of UCI’s Center for the Study of Cannabis, Daniele Piomelli posts us on the fine minds congregating March 31st 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at The Cove at Applied Innovations. The workshop will address the complexities of pot behind the wheel, as well any progress that we can pry out of him about the Center. Details about how to live-stream this workshop are available at: https://www.law.uci.edu/centers/csc/.
UCI Humanities Dean Tyrus Miller has much to say about some warning signs related to Stanford University Press on or near the budget chopping block. In the second segment, (minute 30:55), we talk about the all new addition at Aquarium of the Pacific, "Pacific Visions," with their CEO Jerry Schubel; ample servings pertaining to climate change are available for all members of the public. Details about the public opening May 24th are available at: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/.
Back by popular demand and the host’s insistence on finishing what we started, is UCI engineering PhD candidate Kimberly Duong. Gianna Lum, senior Earth System Scientist at UCI, joins her in taking up effective science communication, bridging research with the general public to increase literacy, with their pretty impressive tools. Their many useful sources and tools are: https://sustainability.uci.edu/portfolio-items/climatepedia-at-uci/, https://www.instagram.com/climate_memes/?hl=en, and https://climatecommunication.yale.edu/.
Professor Rachel Bitecofer, polling forecaster and Assistant Director of the Wason Center for Public Policy at Christopher Newport University, knows how to call ‘em and offers pronouncements that may surprise. First stop, Orange County Congressional Districts; then on to the broader national picture for 2020 and beyond. She’ll make us better consumers of political polling. Breathlessly, (minute 28:50) we head over to Bob Inglis, Executive Director of https://www.republicen.org/ and former Congressman from South Carolina, who returns to the show to gauge the change in the political discussion of climate change, and the value he sees in the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, the Green New Deal, and the Green Real Deal.
For the full hour, UCI political science professor Davin Phoenix returns to the show, for another good hard look at identity politics, the role of privilege leading up and into the college admissions process, and under-represented minorities’ success in higher education and general civic engagement. Along the way he takes stock of the late John Singleton's breakout cinematic contributions.
We devote the whole hour to Ben Leffel, UCI PhD candidate in Sociology, Kugelman Citizen Peacebuilding Research fellow, and co-creator of the Center for Innovative Diplomacy digital archive. He talks about the 30 year old legacy of municipal foreign policy that began here in Irvine, as well as his work with ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability an important, international strategic alliance. The archive can be accessed at :http://escholarship.org/uc/uci_cid and details about the ICLEI at: https://www.iclei.org/.
For those interested in details about the 4/28/19 CA Redistricting Commission public information forum at the Fullerton Police Department go to: http://shapecaliforniasfuture.auditor.ca.gov/.
Shahir Masri will weigh in about the climate initiatives moving through Congress and about his next climate change awareness trek, this time up the West Coast. He’ll pack copies of his book, Beyond Debate: Answers to 50 Misconceptions on Climate Change. Have a peek of the tour and other progress at:https://www.shahirmasri.com/on-the-road-for-climate-action.html In the second segment (minute 27:25), performer, teacher, and activist, Dr. Derrell Acon talks about his singing role in the Long Beach Opera world premier of The Central Park Five by Anthony Davis. In addition, he talks about the LBO’s companion justice-themed lectures during this season. Details are available at: https://www.longbeachopera.org/the-season/2019-season.
Joe Geever, of Residents for Responsible Desalination, will provide an activist’s tutorial on all those desalination plants in place or proposed along the California Coast. In the second segment (minute 31:54), presenting for our consideration is Kimberly Duong with the anatomy of a researcher and a spokesperson. To bend an old adage: Water issues everywhere and not a moment to squander.
Jazz Singer and Pianist, Sarah Mackensie, sits in Studio with Claudia to talk about her just released album, "Secrets of My Heart" on the Normandy Lane Music label.
We hear from CA Auditor’s Office, Margarita Fernández, Chief of Public Affairs and Quality Assurance and member of the executive management team for the California State Auditor’s Office. Her agency is tasked with overseeing the CA citizen redistricting process. This program suits up everyone for participating in that process, including the public meeting in Irvine April 7th, 12:30-2:20 p.m. at the Duck Club. Follow the process at: http://shapecaliforniasfuture.auditor.ca.gov/ In the second segment (minute, 30:27), Craig Tyrl, artistic director of Wayward Artist, lifts the curatin about his troupe’s second season opening April 12th, inside the Grand Central Art Center, in Santa Ana. Details for this robust season are available at: http://www.thewaywardartist.org/.
In these times, for those hungering for a bit more intellectual honesty and some nuance along the Muslim-Jewish divide, we hear from two distinguished leaders in the LA metropolis. First is Dr. Ahmed Soboh, Chairman of the Islamic Shura Council of Southern California. In the second segment (minute 30:22) is Aziza Hasan, executive director of NewGround a Muslim-Jewish Partnership for Change, based in Los Angeles. Having lived lives of bridge building, in some unassuming and some very privileged settings, both individually make their best cases for crossing particular divides-goodness willing.
Costa Mesa City Council Member Arlis Reynolds posts us on how Costa Mesa is governing; attending to their regional share of emergency housing, among other things getting done on that council. In the second segment (min 31:05) we check out what’s on those walls at the Laguna Art Museum, the intentional and irrepressible work from Self-Help Graphics; with Victor Viesca, CAL State LA professor of liberal studies, and Marinta Skupin, Curator of Education at the Laguna Art Museum. Details about the exhibit that continues through May 27th, and special events are available at: https://lagunaartmuseum.org/.
On the heels of the CA Coastal Commission’s recent adoption of a sweeping new environmental justice policy, Andrea Leon-Grossman, LA Deputy Director of AZUL takes up the impact of this and other policies in the coastal domain. Then in the second segment (minute 25:12), Danielle Watt and Jacques Bordeaux post us on the upcoming Girls in STEAM Conference on April 27th, 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at UCI. Information is available at the Girls in STEAM Conference website/http://www.castl.uci.edu/node/1031, dwatt@uci.edu, or 949-824-9473.
We hear from Katherine Daigle, one last candidate for the 3rd seat County Board of Supervisor 3/12/19 special election. Details available at: https://www.ocvote.com/. In the second segment (minute 29:20), award winning playwright James Fritz dials in from London about his play being staged on campus, "Parliament Square." UCI theater professor Jane Page is directing; the play will be performed at the CTSA xMPL, March 9th through March 17. Fritz will be appearing at talk backs on 3/13,14,15. Tickets are available at: http://www.arts.uci.edu/event/parliament-square , 949-824-2787, or at the School’s box office.
We hear from two more candidates in the lead up to the 3/12 special election to fill the seat for Orange County Board of Supervisors 3rd District: former Villa Park Council Member Deborah Pauly; and (at minute 29:20) former Anaheim City Council Member Kris Murray. Information about the special election is available at the Orange County Registrar of Voters,https://ocvote.com/.
Urbanist Scott Bollens returns to the show to break down the innumberable complexities unfolding around the Northern Ireland/Ireland border amidst the Brexit process.
UCI urbanist Scott Bollens returns to the show to break down the innumberable complexities unfolding around the Northern Ireland/Ireland border amidst the Brexit process. In the second segment (minute 35:30), Irvine Mayor Donald Wagner, talks about his candidacy in the special election, 3/12 to fill the seat recently vacated on our Orange County Board of Supervisor 3rd District.
Because elections matter, we begin our coverage of candidates who have filed to run in the 3/12/19 special election for the Orange County Board of Supervisors District 3. Former Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez will be the first candidate. Details about this special election are available at: https://ocvote.com/. In the second segment (minute 36:23), Kathy Orlinksy and Dana Leslie of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, present the 2019 Citizens’ Climate Lobby Southern California Regional Conference program Feb. 23-24 on the Cal State L.A. campus. This program is entitled, “2019: The Tipping Point.” They talk about their compelling themes and guests. Registration details are available at:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-citizens-climate-lobby-southern-california-conference-registration-53164341978.
UCI second year law student James Lamb brings for our consideration, real power amidst the problematic, persistent aspect of tribal politics; the fodder does not let up. His reading list includes: Paul Frymer's "Uneasy Alliances"; Steve Phillips' "Brown Is The New White"; and Carol Anderson's " One Person No Vote." In the second segment (minute 40:00) Ani Zonneveld, founder of Muslims for Progressive Values, returns to post us on this year’s “Celebration of Life” and how she see’s America “creeping toward theocracy.” Details for this event held at the Harmony Gold Theater in LA on 2/10 are at: http://www.mpvusa.org/.
Marrie Stone is your inestimable host this show, giving the full hour to UCI visual anthropologist, filmmaker, and author, Roxanne Varzi. Details about her publications and all her visual work are available at: http://www.sup.org/books/title/?id=25983 http://www.socsci.uci.edu/~rvarzi.
For the full hour, we present a stellar example of how the entire UCI campus and academia the world round, can realize genuine diversity in their ranks. Today's three guests, offering this opportunity in various capacities at the NSF and UCI’s Center for Chemistry at the Space Time Limit: CaSTL are: outreach extraordinaire Danielle Watt, and researchers Kate Rodriguez and Howard Weatherspoon, about their work and recruiting under-represented minorities to STEM research. Follow leading edge research and socially redeeming projects at: http://www.castl.uci.edu/.
Wylie Aitken, OC trial lawyer and local rainmaker in political, cultural and educational realms, ponders the dynamics and developments afoot in local politics. In the second segment (minute 36:37): Jennifer Muir Beuthin, labor leader and journalist, as an organizer of this year’s OC Women’s March, post us on what to expect at this 3rd annual taking place in Santa Ana on 1/19, 10 a.m-1 p.m.
The first guest is respected member in the green chemistry community Martin Mulvihill, who heads up SaferMade, https://www.safermade.net, an organization keenly involved in what goes into the products we literally consume. Essential certifications and other sources covered include: Environmental Work Group, Toxic Use Reduction Institute, MadeSafe, Skin Deep, Safe Charter, and Safe Choice. Consumers and activists are now armed to raise their game in the market place as well as the regulatory arenas. The second segment (minute 33:43), John Spiak, Director Chief Curator of the Grand Central Art Center in beautiful downtown Santa Ana, brings compelling installations, events and programs to our attention. It's located at 125 N Broadway, S.A. Call 714-567-7233 or go to: http://www.grandcentralartcenter.com/ for all postings of current and future delights.
For the entire hour Melanie Silverman, Chief Clinical Officer; and Vivien Earthman, contracting lactation specialist; break down how their app Pacify is a public health game changer offering full support, and a special kind of life-line, to new parents. A wholesome and hopeful note upon which to start 2019. Questions could be directed to: melanie@pacify.com or details for enrolling are available at: https://www.pacify.com/.
Professor Jennifer Fisher, UCI dance historian, recalls the vast, intentional, and generous contributions made by the inestimable dancer and choreographer Donald McKayle. From now into early March 2019, the UCI Langson Library will be housing an exhibition in his honor, "Donald McKayle Dancing for All Time."
Todd Smith, Director and CEO of the Orange County Museum of Art, posts us on the Museum's transition from the Newport Beach location to the Segerstrom Performing Arts Center. The temporary location until the new building is completed in the early 2020s, is 1661 W Sunflower in Santa Ana. Details about current exhibits and events are available at: https://www.ocma.net/.
With all that continues to roll out from the COP24 Climate talks in Katewice, Poland; Shahir Masri is back from a 36 state climate science dog and pony show, and has recently published a book entitled, "Beyond Debate; 50 Misconceptions on Climate Change." With Mother Earth churning and burning at disturbing rates, Shahir's jovial text calls the cats down from the climate denial trees. Copies of the book or information about Shahir and Athina's recent trek is available at: http://www.shahirmasri.com/road-for-climate-action-.html In the second segment (minute 37:43), recently elected Costa Mesa Council member Arlis Reynolds offers perspectives from the bottom of the ballot to the top of the city wide leadership.
This week, delegations from countries all over the world are meeting in Poland for COP24, the United Nations’ international climate change conference, a crucial opportunity for countries to hammer out technical agreements governing the 2015 Paris climate accord — but the US is largely sitting it out; perhaps Gov Brown has some personnel on deck. Today we tack onto some of those climate issues (minute 35:23) with Citizens Climate Lobby’s Mark Tabbert and Kathy Orlinksy. But before they take stabs at the latest news, we hear from Brooke Adams, Organizing Director for Student Action with the People’s Action Institute, and organizing students, both from UCI: Lorraine Nance, and Cas Yip; they’ve been in the electoral trenches at UCI, with some amazing outcomes to show for it. And they’re not done doing this work, either. Developments pertaining to The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act/HR 7173 are available at: #priceonpollution.
Bob Inglis, Executive Director of RepublicEn.org and former Congressman representing Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina, offers wholesome and winning perspectives on climate change solutions. He moves mountains on climate change acceptance in business and in the Grand Ol' Party. Details are available at:http://www.republicen.org/.
In the second segment, Kate Melges, Ocean Plastics Campaigner for Greenpeace directs our attention to the production end of the omnipresent plastics. Yeah, consumers can make better decisions, but the producers make it oh so hard for us. Their campaigns can be followed at: https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/oceans/.
Pull up a chair to a very different Thanksgiving table. Jose Antonio Vargas, Pulitzer prize winner, journalist and immigration activist, brings essential perspectives from his new book "Dear America, Notes of an Undocumented Citizen," and his thriving “Define American” campaign, https://defineamerican.com/. JFK, who’s assassination was 45 years ago this week, wrote "A Nation of Immigrants," a book that figures several times in Jose’s book. In the second segment (minute 31:00), Patricia Martz returns to the show, joined by Rebecca Robles, nurse and Acjachemen descendent, to unearth local Native American culture in our midst. Behold the cog wheel in Surf City! The Panhe annual celebration is scheduled on March 24, 2019. Details will be available at:http://www.ccrpa.com/.
The first guest will be Colby Lenz, organizer and legal advocate with the CA Coalition for Women Prisoners and the Transgender Advocacy Group, who is in a dash to have Governor Brown commute as many sentences as possible before he crosses the finish line of his 4th and final term as governor of California. Concerned parties can follow up with: https://survivedandpunished.org/freethemca/. In the second half (min 28:10) UCI political science professor Kristen Renwick Monroe considers the backlash to #MeToo with prescriptions toward a constructive resolution. Her manuscript, soon to be published, is entitled "Ending Sexual Harassment: Protecting the Process of #MeToo."
The Midterm elections are now. In keeping with our ritual on elections, it’s “Ask A Voter,” and we check around the country: Monique Wong at the UCI polling place, (min 1:28); Sue Jones in Madison, WI, (min 9:00); Ann Bidlingmaier in Tallahassee, FL (min 21:53); and Marcos Scauso in South Bend, IN (min 36:00). Vote. Get your friends, families, and co-workers out to vote. Check your county’s registrar of voters for all the information that you need!
In the lead up to the Nov 6 midterm election, we continue local election coverage with Irvine City Council candidate: Farrah Khan, Executive Director for the Newport Mesa Irvine Interfaith Council and Co-founder of First Drops.
In the lead up to the Nov 6 midterm election, we continue local election coverage with Irvine City Council candidates: UCI physicist, Kev Abazajian, in the first segment; and in the second segment (minute 29:00), urban planner, Frank McGill.
We continue local election coverage with Irvine City Council candidate Lee Sun, seeking election to fill one of two open seats in this midterm election on November 6th.
We continue local election coverage with Irvine City Council candidates: Carried O'Malley, Irvine Transportation Commission Vice-Chair; and Jaci Woods, Irvine real estate broker at Seven Gables.
Lauren Johnson-Norris, local attorney and Irvine Community Services Commissioner, makes her case for why she should fill one of the two open seats on the Irvine City Council.
In the second segment (min 29:21), Rebecca Newman, president of the League of Women Voters of Orange Coast offers the pros and cons of the California statewide propositions. Useful resources for voters include: https://votersedge.org/ca, https://cavotes.org/news/our-pros-and-cons-ballot-measures-online-now-english-and-spanish, and http://cal-access.sos.ca.gov/.
Jennifer Koh, immigration attorney and professor at Western State College of Law, takes up Irvine Mayor Don Wagner’s resolution pertaining to SB 54, the CA Values Act. Postponed, the resolution is once again on the City Council agenda the same day as this show, 10-9-18. Its agenda Item 4.1 may begin at 5 p.m., at the City Council Chambers The legal and political implications of this resolution will be considered. 949-724-6205 is the City Clerk's number. In the second segment (min 30:00), is Mike Levin, Congressional candidate for CA’s 49th District spanning Southern Orange County and Northern San Diego County, talks policy: the ACA, climate change, the Tax Overhaul of 2017, the Consumer Protection Bureau, among other topics.
In advance of her Barclay Theater 10-19 performance on her ""Grace's Joy Party" tour, Grace Kelly calls it in from Logan International. Catch this rising star as she talks of her formative years, her inventive productions, her non-profit contributions, and her growing studio enterprises. Follow her on https://www.gracekellymusic.com/.
UCI Voting PSA for general election 2018, featuring OC Registrar of Voters, Neal Kelley
We begin electoral coverage with a CA State Senator Kevin de León, challenging incumbent US Senate Diane Feinstein in this year's general election on November 6th. In the second segment, OC Registrar of Voters, Neal Kelley weighs in with how he's managing this year's midterm election; it's the ritual, we have elections - we talk to Neal. Important voter information is available on his always improving website: https://www.ocvote.com/. On November 6th the office can be reached by phone at: 714-567-7600.
Jeffrey Clayton, Executive Director of the American Bail Coalition, offers a grounded analysis about what California, versus others states, is doing with SB 10, the law ending money bail in CA. Petitions for reversing this law are being distributed statewide; qualified signatures are due into the Governor's office by November 26th. In the second segment (min 26:06) Conner Evers, water policy whisperer of Southern California, has tools for some out of the box thinking with water solutions. Ways in which to follow Connor's work include: http://ewccalifornia.org/home/index.php, and https://www.coastkeeper.org/,
UCI researcher Daniel Gillen speaks to all facets, including his talk, of the upcoming 29th annual Alzheimer’s conference, held this Friday, 9-21, 7:30 a.m. til 4 p.m.at the Irvine Marriott Hotel. Right around the corner, right down the street. Registration is still available at: https://www.mind.uci.edu/announcing-the-29th-annual-socal-alzheimers-disease-research-conference/. Details regarding participation in clinical trials are available at: 949-824-0008 or research@mind.uci.edu. In the second segment, Patricia Martz, anthropologist and board president of the California Cultural Resources Preservation Alliance, has lots of opportunities to direct our attention toward the civilizations over which we’ve settled our subdivisions and infrastructure: first is the California Cultural Resource Preservation Alliance’s 20th Anniversary Celebration, coming up this Sunday Sept. 23rd, the other are ancestor walks, 8 of them, around the OC, on October 7th. Details about both events are available at:https://www.facebook.com/California-Cultural-Resources-Preservation-Alliance-CCRPA-121990207811286/.
We mark a somber 17th anniversary of the 9/11 with voices reminding us of what’s been and continues to be at risk in this nation of ours. First, Melina Abdullah, co-founder of the LA Black Lives Matter, breaks down the persistent structural barriers that deprive African Americans of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In the second segment Nuha Eshaq, lets sink in the huge divide that current immigration policy poses for her Yemenese family, friends, and colleagues; the travel ban amidst a violent proxy war.
Jorge Hermosillo of the OC Communities Organized for Responsible Development (OCCORD), puts on the map and your calendar their yuge Citizenship Fair in Anaheim on Sept 29th; an opportunity for all to assist applicants to become naturalized citizens. The Fair is here before we know it! Details about training to prepare for the big event and the big event itself are available at: https://www.occord.org/volunteer. OCCORD is located 13252 Garden Grove Blvd. Suite 204, in Garden Grove. In the second segment (min 37:43) Diana Cavanaugh returns to talk about the Assistance League of Irvine’s Sept 12, Igniting Potential, a collaborative giving day, as well as ongoing fundraising efforts, toward meeting the needs of not-so-affluent households in Irvine. The 24 hour event is available online at: https://igniting-potential.funraise.org/. The Assistance League of Irvine, for donations or boutique purchases is located at 2452 Alton Parkway, 949-789-5020. Doors are open Wed. Thur. Sat 10-3; and Fridays 10-5:30 p.m.
John Laird, Governor Brown’s appointment as California Secretary for Natural Resources, takes up the California’s 4th Climate Change Assessment with menacing trends that the state stares down; this in advance of the Global Climate Action Summit to be held Sept. 12-14th in San Francisco. Details are available at: http://resources.ca.gov/climate/safeguarding/research/ In the second segment (min 16:10), Robin Ganahl, Orange County Organizer for the Climate Action Campaign, presents a trove of municipal activity right here in Irvine and around Orange and San Diego Counties. Upcoming events to plug into are available at: https://occleanpower.org/
Greenpeace is engaging the public to raise Gov. Jerry Brown’s climate change leadership game in time for next month’s Global Climate Action Summit hosted in San Francisco. Covering that is Greenpeace Senior Climate Campaigner/attorney, Naomi Ages. Assignments related to "Brown's Last Chance Campaign" are regularly posted by texting 877-877 and typing CLIMATE; news posted at: https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/. In the second segment (min 17:53), Jane Stoever, Director of UCI’s Law School Domestic Violence Clinic, and co-director of the Initiative to End Family Violence; and Julie Marzouk, formerly of Chapman University Law School and now a consultant; ponder the intersection of domestic violence and the WH immigration policy dealing with family separation. Information on how to get involved is available at: 949-824-9660 or 949-824-7916 https://www.law.uci.edu/academics/real-life-learning/clinics/domestic-violence.htm.
The show offers a warm anteater welcome to our brand new dean of UCI School of Humanities Tyrus Miller; let us listen to him make the case(s) for a more perfect union the Humanities way. Then, keeping the civilization theme going in the second segment (min 38:35), is Craig Tyrl, artistic director of Wayward Artist productions, presenting his inestimable theater in beautiful downtown Santa Ana, 125 North Broadway. Information about the upcoming performances as well as their Kickstarter campaigns is available at: http://www.thewaywardartist.org/.
In advance of his 8-19-18 appearance at the Pacific Amphitheater at the Orange County Fair, Ziggy Marley talks about his music, music he listens to, and where it all fits in these times.
Ada Briceno, co-president of UNITE-HERE Local 11, a hotel and resort workers' union - is joined by two women employed in the hospitality sector in Anaheim: June Mekker, a Disney Dining phone operator, a hotel concierge services worker, and a Union shop steward; and Veronica Chavez, a Disney housekeeper and a union organizer. They cover: Anaheim's recently adopted City Council districts, the new minimum wage ordinance that has qualified for the Anaheim City general election ballot this 11-2018, and the rigors of extending hospitality to hotel guests.
The marine scene is not so much water water every where but not a drop to drink-no, it’s more like plastic plastic everywhere . . . talking about this e x p a n s i v e l y will be Katie Allen, Executive Director of Algalita Marine Research. In the second segment (min 27:38), Scott Lee, engineering researcher at UCI’s Advanced Power and Energy Program, walks us through the feat his colleagues and he achieved, pulling the UCI campus off the grid. We look under APEP’s hood and around at UCI's Microgrid.
Christine Gagnier, attorney at law with a practice at Gagnier and Margossian LLP and adjunct professor at UCI’s Law School takes up the underpinnings and nuances of fake news; around forever but oh so menacing to democracy in our time. In the second segment, curator Anuradha Vikram and exhibitions director Carolyn Yarnell at the Orange County Contemporary Art Center in Santa Ana, will talk about the current exhibition “It’s Time; An Uncensored Look at the Time’s Up & #MeToo Movements,” open at that Santa Ana venue through 8/11th. Artists using all matter of media, get through blood, sweat, semen, and tears.
Rick Hasen, UCI Law School professor and nationally recognized expert in election law and campaign finance regulation weighs in on the effect of rulings from the recent Supreme Court term. He makes predictions about the US Supreme Court's composition, and how SCOTUS nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh would affect that. In the second segment, Jack Cheevers, the public information officer for Region 9 of the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, posts us on the roll-out of the new Medicare card. Pssst, it's an improvement; no more Social Security numbers on it. Ways to find out more, download your own copy, and or report weird things happening include: 1-800-MEDICARE, 1-800-633-4227 or http://www.mymedicare.gov/. A tip line is also available at: 1-800-HHS-TIPS -- or 1-800-447-8477.
Olivia Fu and Samantha Newman, formerly co-editors of "The Express" at San Juan Hills High School, got a little ink in a recent "New York Times" article. They make some radio waves on this program talking about sex, parents, sports, politics, and censorship.
In the second segment, Michael Saavedra, former detainee at the Pelican Bay Prison, spent the last 12 years of his 19 year sentence, in solitary confinement; a study of resilience and struggle, prior to and following his release in 2/2017. His appearance, originally scheduled with UCI scholar Keramet Reiter was deferred last February; he offers his own story about his detention, his studies, his activism, and his career plans.
Some real fire works: UCI chemistry Professors Joonhee Lee and Ara Apkarian blow our minds with their nano, hyper nano single molecule electromechanical sensor proposition; a heady technology with consequential applications.
Then in the second segment (min 30:30), Dallas Augustine and Mahan Naeim, UCI students with the Orange County Needle Exchange Program, soldier on as the Orange County Board of Supervisors and other civic leaders turn their backs on a best practice. Details are available at: http://ocnep.org/ or on all social media platforms.
Immigration attorney Angelita Chavez-Hakala, practicing at a Cerritos private firm Chugh LLP, speaks with experience about family based petitions, asylum, deportation defense, VAWA and DACA. Fresh from this month's American Immigration Lawyers Association convention and as the nation digests the SCOTUS ruling uphold the Muslim Travel Ban, over the full hour, she answers our wide-eyed questions about what is taking place in a very arcane, and politicized legal system.
Soprano/composer Patrice Michaels and Cedille Records founder/producer James Ginsburg take up their knowing collaboration about the Supreme Court's Ruth Bader Ginsburg, celebrated on new album - 'Notorious RBG in Song'. Follow http://www.patricemichaels.com/ for details on performances near you or http://www.cedillerecords.org/albums/notorious-rbg-in-song for a listen. In the second segment (min 29:37), Rashad al Dabbagh, as a member of the Arab American Civic Council reports back on getting to know members of Congress over his recent trip to D.C. Breaking news around this broadcast may be a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the Muslim Ban. The deadline for the Fellowships with the National Network for Arab American Communities is 6/23/18. Details on press releases and gatherings in anticipation of the SCOTUS ruling on the federal Muslim Ban are available at: https://aaciviccouncil.org/.
The power couple Shahir Masri and Athina Simolaris are gearing up to listen and interact over climate concerns, with the public in 30 states around the country this August. Their progress can be followed, support can be offered at: http://www.shahirmasri.com/road-for-climate-action-.html
In the second segment (min 28:58), LA Times humor columnist and editor, Chris Erskine talks about his new book out, "Datitude: The Joys and Absurdities of Modern Fatherhood," a tell with a whole gambit of textures. He offers additional choice moments in reflection on this program. Chris' book signing tour continues in OC at: Barnes and Noble in Aliso Viejo/July 14th/2 p.m. and Beach Town Books in San Clemente/July 21/2 p.m. Copies are also available at your favorite independent book dealer or at: https://www.prospectparkbooks.com/portfolio-item/daditude/.
Today the show morphs into "Ask A Voter;" our time honored ritual of piping you directly into the CA Primary election taking place. On this same day Alabama, Montana, and New Jersey are also going to the polls. Unlike the general election coverage, I won’t be hopping around the country. For the primary we’ll stay with California, asking voters about their election stories. First is KUCI Radio Intern Gloria Elena Estrada who will be the co-host. Then we’ll hear from a host of voters, each with a different something to tell. Out of the echo chamber and into the fire, here on "Ask A Voter.”
In the first segment CA 48th Congressional District candidate Omar Siddiqui talks policy in the final week before the CA June 5th Primary election. In the second segment (min 33:52) is, Duke Nguyen, one of three candidates running for Orange County Sheriff in an open race this year. As with the previous coverage, the focus remains on policy. Orange County residents can confirm their registration at: https://www.ocvote.com/registration/.
In the CA 74th Dist. Assemblyman Matt Harper, a Republican, running for reelection on the Primary Ballot, talks about state level policy. The 74th includes: Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, and Laguna Woods. n the second guest (minute 26:08), covering federal policy is Hans Keirstead, Democratic candidate in the CA 48th Congressional District, which is centered in Huntington Beach and includes coastal cities from Seal Beach to Laguna Niguel, taking in parts of Westminster, Garden Grove. It also includes Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, Newport Beach, Aliso Viejo, and Laguna Beach. Yesterday was your last day to register, unless you head to the OC Registrar of Voters desk in Santa Ana.
Sample ballots, voter pamphlets, and vote by mail ballots have all landed in our homes for the California Primary Election 6/5. The show’s first guest will be Cottie Petrie-Norris, Democratic candidate for the CA 47th Assembly District which includes this station, South Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Laguna Woods, Costa Mesa, and most of Irvine. In the second half of the show (min 25:11), in another installment in the CA 45th Congressional race, we’ll get acquainted with Democratic candidate Brian Forde. The 45th includes: Irvine, Tustin, North Tustin, Villa Park Orange Anaheim Hills, Laguna Hills, Lake Forest; and parts of: Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Mission Viejo.
Returning to the show is City of Irvine Bill Jacobs with General Plan updates, all of which are facts on a map that eventually become facts in the ground that affect anyone residing, working, or visiting our fair city. More information is available at: http://www.cityofirvine.org/news-media/news-article/irvine-2035-%E2%80%93-our-future-general-plan-update In the second segment (min 28:43), Samantha Leigh and Kendra Walters, Ph.D. candidates at UCI's Dept. of Ecology and Environmental Biology talk about the Climate Solutions Summit open to the public on May 30th from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Beckman Center. Registration deadline is 5/21; details are available at: http://sustainability.uci.edu/events/climate-solutions-summit/.
O C Registrar of Voters, Neal Kelley returns for his ritual primary election visit to present all that we voters are not even thinking about, including how much postage is needed to mail an absentee ballot and the cyber security of our election infrastructure. The office is located at 1300 South Grand Avenue Building C in Santa Ana; a number to call for help is 714-567-7600. Their website has useful tabs for easy of navigation, including: https://www.ocvote.com/early for early voting information; https://www.ocvote.com/verify to verify registration in OC; and https://www.ocvote.com/track to track absentee ballots using the envelopes for the OC Ballot Express.
UCI political scientist Bob Uriu returns to carefully examine the tea leaves missed and newly served with the international summits on the Korean Peninsula. In the second segment (min 30:05), Orange County Registrar of Voters, Neal Kelley returns for his ritual pre-primary election visit to present all that we voters are not even thinking about, including how much postage is needed for the absentee ballot (pssst, it's 71 cents) and the cyber security of our election infrastructure. The Registrar of Voters office is located at 1300 South Grand Avenue, Building C Santa Ana; 714-567-7600. On their website are several different useful tabs for ease of navigation: https://www.ocvote.com/early for early voting details; https://www.ocvote.com/verify to verify your registration in OC; and https://www.ocvote.com/track for your OC Ballot Express tracking envelope. https://www.ocvote.com/ is also useful in tracking all deadlines for processing your ballot.
In the run up to California’s 6/5 primary, we continue our coverage with two more CA 45th Congressional District candidates: in the first segment, UCI law professor Dave Min; and in the second segment, (min 27:30)public policy analyst Kia Hamadanchy.
Katie Porter, UCI law professor, currently running as a Democrat in the CA 45th Congressional District, speaks about her candidacy. Additional candidates' interviews forthcoming on AAL! Reminder that everyone confirm their voter registration at: https://www.ocvote.com/.
In the second segment (min 27:26), Michael Yassa, UCI proferssor and Director of the Center for Neurobiology of Learning and Memory International Conference on Learning and Memory to be held at this week, 4/18-4/22 at the Hilton in Huntington Beach. Accompanying him is Manna Yass, Director of Outreach and Education, making exceptional programs, talks, and events available to the public both at this conference and ongoing around Orange County and the US. Details for this free conference are available at: http://learnmem2018.org/.
Tiffany Ackley, Aliso Viejo attorney and municipal candidate on this year's election ballot talks about the wave of meetings in Orange County cities about opting to join the US Dept. of Justice's lawsuit against California's SB 54 regarding sanctuary cities. Although Irvine has not scheduled a forum at this writing, the following meetings being convened are: Newport Beach 4/10, 7 p.m.; Orange 4/10, 6 p.m.; Westminster 4/11, 7 p.m.; Los Alamitos 4/16, 6 p.m.; Laguna Niguel (tentative) 4/17, 7 p.m.; Lake Forest 4/17, 6:30 p.m.; and Dana Point 4/17, 6 p.m. In the second segment, UCI Law School professor Alex Camacho takes up the potential for the case of coastal property owner, Vinod Khosla, to challenge the California Coastal Act in a fundamental way. With the owners legal representation's sights set on the US Supreme Court, the case could have far reaching consequences for California's entire coast line.
Peggy Maradudin returns to the show with her inestimably hefty insight about Russia; a week after their elections, and generations into the gulag, now a forced memory camp. The whole hour is hers to ponder the nature of what Vladimir Putin inflicts upon his society and beyond.
It’s Passover, Holy Week, and Nowruz continues to bring in the Persian New Year. This continues to be a backdrop for how we navigate the homeless crisis amidst the holiest of the holiest in Orange County and especially in our fair town of Irvine. Mohammed Aly, attorney and founder of the Orange County Poverty Alleviation Coalition, along with Morgan Denges and Jordan Hoiberg of the Orange Co Catholic Worker, bring us right up to the latest policy laps in the run to settle unsheltered, homeless residents of Orange County. This broadcast occurred at the same time that the OC Board of Supervisors convened to hear from parties around the County on this issue. Looking further for some room in the inn.
UCI Climate Scientist and oceanographer Keith Moore shares what his research team's leading-edge models are learning about trends with phytoplankton, the menu supporting fish populations. More details about their findings are recently published in "Science" :http://science.sciencemag.org/content/359/6380/1139/tab-pdf. In the second segment, Elizabeth Brown, President of the Laguna Greenbelt, will oversee the Wildlife Corridor Project coming to fruition while honoring the 50th anniversary of the Laguna Canyon conservation. Didn’t happen on it’s own; a lot of locals have been working tirelessly to keep that project alive. Follow their progress at: http://lagunagreenbelt.org/ and at all the usual social media hangouts.
The first segment guests are Martha Wheelock of Wild West Women films; and Zoe Nicholson, creator and performer; both a veritable brain trust of women’s movements and women’s worth over the ages. Ms. Nicholson’s upcoming production will be staged in Long Beach on 3/30: Tea With Alice and Me. Not that Alice, but the American revolutionary Alice Paul (1885-1972). Tickets are available through Eventbrite or at The Alice Paul Institute. In the segment Charles Blek, of the OC Chapter of the Brady Campaign for the Prevention of Gun Violence will have a whole lot to say since his 1/23/18 appearance, leading up to walk-outs scheduled for 3/14 in OC and around the nation on 3/24. Joining him are two San Juan Hills seniors and activists, Olivia Fu and Kate Finman, organizing locally on both of those days with the bridges they’ve built over their local political divide, #NeverAgain, https://marchforourlives.com/, @sjhstudentwalkout on Instagram and FB; or SOC4Change . Details for the Great American WriteIn taking place in the morning, are available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/33rd-annual-great-american-write-in-registration-42648170827. T OC location for the March 24 March For Our Lives will be located at Centennial Park 3000 W. Edinger Ave. Santa Ana.
UCI professor of neurobiology and anatomy, and co-director of the UCI Center for the Study of Cannabis, Dr. Daniele Piomelli, moves past the prejudices and speak to the need for fully researching the use of cannabis, now that recreational use of cannabis is legal in CA. Critical areas to be attended to are: age specific impacts of cannabis on the brain, determining the extent to which cannabis influences one’s ability to drive, and how cannabis pain management might help in dealing with the opiate crisis.
The full hour will be devoted to Keramet Reiter, UCI professor of Criminology, Law, and Society to talk about her new book 23/7: Pelican Bay Prison and the Rise of Long-Term Solitary Confinement, published by Yale University Press. Michael Saavedra, who was detained in solitary confinement the last 10 years of his 19 year prison sentence from which he was released in 2/201, was originally scheduled to appear on this show. Once he's recovered from last night's motorcycle accident, he will appear on this show. Reiter’s research and Saavedra’s experiences yield stories that exceed the darkest of Charles Dickens' passages. http://www.kerametreiter.com/ Civilians can be involved through following: http://solitarywatch.com/ and specifically: http://solitarywatch.com/about-lifelines/.
On tap are two guests, each with purposeful events in the offing this coming weekend. Ani Zonneveld, founder and president of Muslim’s for Progressive Values talks about their annual "Celebration of Life" honoring and remembering: Nadia Anjuman, Xulhaz Mannan, Elham Arab, Sheikh Hamza Congera, and Numan Afifi activists whom have been dealt with for charges of blasphemy in Moslem theocracies. It will be hosted at the CBS Studio Center in LA, February 25th from 4-7 p.m. Tickets must be purchased 24 hours in advance. Ani will have other enterprises to share with MPV’s ambitious roster of activities throughout 2018. Details for the event, and ongoing forums, are available at:http://www.mpvusa.org/.
In the second segment (min 31:53), the Veterans for Peace Golden Rule, Project Manager Helen Jaccard kicks off the Peace Boat PARTY on the Golden Rule, pulling into Newport Beach 2/23 and will remain through 2-26 at 1931 West Coast Highway. With all the party favors and necessary speeches, and fund driving pitches, the party will carry themes like atmospheric nuclear weapon testing, during these more than interesting times. Contact information for attending the events and for contributing in numerous ways: vfpgoldenruleproject@gmail.com, or call Helen at 206-992-6364.
Kathy Orlinksy and Mark Tabbert, OC affiliates of Citizens Climate Lobby speak in advance of this week's CCL SoCal Regional conference. They also post us on campaigns as we head into the CA state primary on June 5th. Registration details for the Feb 17-18th conference at Cal State LA, are available at: http://tinyurl.com/2018SoCal. Watch for UnDoYourPart campaign newly launched by CCL.
Nationally renown playwright Amy Tweed talks about her world premier Shrew! that will be performed this Spring (3/24-4/21) at South Coast Repertory Theater at the Segerstrom Center in Costa Mesa. Imagine the classic written from the perspective of a 17th Century woman. Art Manke directs. Details are available at: https://www.scr.org/calendar/view?id=9349
Megan Herbert, illustrator and TV writer, has collaborated with Climate Scientist Michael Mann on a book explaining climate change to young earthlings; it’s entitled The Tantrum That Saved the World. She talks about how she settled on what message for such a delicate age and all ages and audiences. e-books and conventional books can be ordered on: https://www.worldsavingbooks.com/. This community radio station anxiously awaits her eventual trek to Southern California.
In the second segment (min 26:17), UCI Humanities professor Jeff Wasserstrom returns to the show, posting us on what we can look forward to at the 4th annual Forum for Academy and the Public, presented by the UCI Humanities and Law Schools, and the Los Angeles Review of Books. The forum themed “Who Do We Think We Are? – American Identity and the Ideal of Democracy in the 21st Century,” will be hosted at the UCI Law School, 2/9-10; it is free and open to the public. Details available at: http://sites.uci.edu/americanidentity/.
Tekle Woldemikael, sociologist at Chapman University, and an Eritrean national repatriated decades ago in the US. With nuance and intimacy, he speaks for the full hour about an old culture and nation that thrives even in the grip of the current repressive regime. Postliberation Eritrea: The Rise and Fall of the African Renaissance State, published by Indiana University Press will be out this May/June. He is also working on special issue of African Identities Journal on Asmara, the capital city of Eritrea, as Modernist African City.
Local banking executive Tyrone de Wale covers how the federal Tax Overhaul affects lending practices and investments, especially here in the OC. Prevailing real estate ownership trends will be of additional interest. In the second segment Charlie Blek returns to the show with Congressional and CA statewide updates from the Brady Campaign for the Prevention of Gun Violence. The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act HR 38 passed in the House 12/6/17, goes to the US Senate next.
Marie Benedict, author of The Other Einstein, has a new book out Carnegies’ Maid; both books of which cover consequential, yet unsung roles, in historical fiction for these times. Ms. Benedict continues to write new pieces on the next women to be rediscovered and recognized, all published by Sourcebooks Landmark. In the second segment, Julie Darrell, of Bring Your Own Long Beach (BYOLongBeach), takes on our consumption assumptions helping us pare down waste we’re so good at generating! Her zero waste enterprises can be followed on all social media platforms.
The full hour is devoted to UCI’s Science Policy Group; Richard Prince, Christie Mortales, and Terra White; accompanied by fellow activists Alex McDonald and Nick Paganini, an entirely revved up group of STEM graduate students, and graduate student turned professional - who refuse to take the current political status quo sitting down as they promote science policy literacy amongst their members. Listeners, including STEAM students, will be invited to join in the special and ongoing events convened by SPG. Details for the upcoming roundtable convening on January 18th 4:30-8:00 at the UCI Student Union are available at:https://clubs.uci.edu/spg/. Additional resources are available at: http://www.climatepedia.org/. "Brews and Brains" gatherings' details are posted on h their MeetUp page.
UCI School of Social Ecology urban sudies professor Scott Bollens, for the full hour, offers a full consideration of what is taking place in and around Jerusalem. He brings nuance and laser like focus on the facts in the ground around this divided city, up to and during the time of the White House's recent proposal to designate Jerusalem as the capitl of Israel. His latest book, "Trajectories of Conbflict and Peace: Jerusalem and Belfast Since 1994," comes fresh off the Routledge Press later this month. Media coverage also recommended for the look and the feel of Jerusalem also includes: https://www.btselem.org/ and http://www.ir-amim.org.il/en.
A double treat, care of the Getty sponsored Pacific Standard Time exhibitions throughout the LA and OC museums and galleries, is presented on this day during the holidays. First curator and art historian Ilian Cepero talks about her exhibition which she curated at the Anneneberg Space for Photography, "Cuba Is," open through March 4, 2018. Details for this exhibit and related events and talks are available at: https://www.annenbergphotospace.org/. Returning to the program is the second guest (min 29:08), executive director of the Laguna Art Museum, Malcolm Warner, covering his museum's ambitious exhibit: "California Mexicana: Missions to Murals, 1820-1930, closing on January 14, 2018. Details about this exhibit and related cultural fare are available at: http://lagunaartmuseum.org/california-mexicana-missions-to-murals-1820-1930/.
UCI Professor Bob Uriu, steps up with his political science heft to take on the surreal and consequential ordeal that are US/North Korea relations. For the second segment, working in a few room at the Inn themes, UCI senior Iman Siddiqi, presents the Refugee Students Scholarship Program, which she has founded from whole cloth. Information is available at: http://www.accesscal.org/services/refugee-services/. Stay tuned for Refugee Awareness Week on UCI's main campus Jan. 16-19 2018.
George Mehaffy, the Vice President for Academic Leadership and Change at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities reviews the state of state colleges and universities-with an eye particularly on the CAL State system; and consider the benefits individual and societal, when first generation and low income students board the degree-completed train. Then, speaking of going places, in the second segment CEO of SeeJaneGo, Cassandra Miller rolls out a proposition in getting the women around in the OC-there’s an app for that. Stay tuned for all that might app’s features, just in time for the holidays.
UCI Merage School of Business Professor Margarethe Wiersema brings her strategic management expertise to focus on gender diversity in the board room; how US companies compare with companies around the world; and the opportunity costs incurred. In the second segment (min 34:14), on the first day of their book tour, the "Dinner Party Download" duo Rico Gagliano and Brendan Francis Newnam offer a hospitality manual for our time: "Brunch Is Hell; How To Save The World By Throwing A Dinner Party," published by Little, Brown and Company. Copies and more available at:https://www.brunchishell.com/.
UCI Professors Steve Allison and Kev Abazajian report on their recent visit to 45th Dist. Congresswoman Mimi Walters’ office. In addition, Steve offers glimpses into a special forum to be convened on May 30, 2018, "Climate Solutions Summit,” in which Walters’ office's participation is anticipated. Organizations that they refer to as engaging local activism include: OC for Climate Action, Citizens Climate Lobby, and Climatepedia. In the second segment (min 31:27), Claire Trevor School of the Arts faculty director Jane Page, along with actors Eriel Brown and Chris Mansa present for your consideration, "Intimate Apparel," in advance of their December 2-10 production. Tickets can be purchased either by calling 949-824-2787 or online at: http://www.arts.uci.edu/ctsa-academic-departments-drama.
Aaron Strong, University of Maine Professor of coastal and marine policy, offers an insider's perspective of what transpired at the UN climate summit known as COP23 earlier this month in Bonn, Germany. "We Are Still" is a response to the White House's lack of leadership in addressing catastrophic climate trends. In details are available at https://www.wearestillin.com/us-action-climate-change-irreversible. In the second segment (min 39:00), with sexual predation on everyone's radar, body language expert Patti Wood explains the natural response to aggression and how it can be managed in the workplace or elsewhere.
Examining difficult subjects in girls' and women’s lives through new work, this show begins with UCI MFA director candidate Melissa Livingston and UCI actor Monica Minix about their play “Is There Life After Birth?” This production focuses on the lives of teenage mother, and draws, in part, on the director’s own experiences. The play will run from Nov. 17- Nov 18, on and off campus respectively. Information about these performances is available at: http://illuminations.uci.edu/events/2017_11_17_Life_After_Birth.html. In the second segment, (min 31:00) Dania Alkhouli will present her latest collection of poems entitled “Oceans & Flames,” an anthology which highlights work she created amidst her experience dealing with domestic abuse. Follow her on social media as "Lady Narrator" for information about getting her book or meeting her. In addition information for the UCI 11-16-17 benefit and the ongoing program for Refugee Students Scholarship Program is available at: http://www.accesscal.org/refugee-students-scholarship-program/.
Two brand new enterprises known as BottleRocket and Closed Loop Plastics are keeping track of, and paring down the waste stream of those polymers that most of you use without even thinking. These titans are recent UCI graduates: CEO Will Amos of Closed Loop Plastics, and Brian Leung COO of BottleRocket. In the second segment, Irvine City Principal Planner Bill Jacobs presents the update on Irvine’s city’s General plan - what goes in the ground where you live, matters folks. We will cover several of the elements, talk trends, kick the tires of a few urban planning assumptions, and offer some ways of registering public comments before the deadline on Monday November 20, 2017. Take the survey at: https://www.peakdemocracy.com/p/185 or call 949-724-6581.
It’s Halloween, and what can be more unnerving than the non-fiction served up today? Extreme heat and your health; it’s lethal folks. Last week the Natural Resources Defense Council rolled out their report addressing the huge number of Americans suffering from the toll of extreme heat days. Today's guest is a major contributor to the report, Dr. Kim Knowlton, Senior Scientist and deputy director of the NRDC Science Center. Resources for more information include:https://www.nrdc.org/climate-change-and-health-extreme-heat#/map, https://www.weact.org/whatwedo/areasofwork/climate/, and https://www.iseechange.org/
On the heels of Sustain OC’s rousing 8th annual Conference and Expo, Anaheim Council Member and Orange County Council of Governments, Kris Murray talks about her work with Sustain OC and what her involvement there brings to municipal governance. From civic engagement in sustainability she then offers a civic lesson about Anaheim's brand new districts after their 159 history of an at large system. In the second segment, Geoffrey (AKA Django) Mangalam has many reveals after competing in his second Solar Decathlon that just wrapped in Denver last week. Details about this among other entries in this year's competition is available at: https://www.solardecathlon.gov/2017/competition-team-uc-davis.html. Take note: the next Solar Decathlon will be scheduled not in 2019, but 2020. The host is yet to be determined.
Documentary filmmaker Angelo Baca returns to the show on the topic of Native American food sovereignty, along with an update on the Bears Ears National Monument. Watch In the second segment (min 30:35), Patrick Michels reporter with Reveal/Center for Investigative Reporting, brings his definitive account of Orange County's complicated history with immigrant detentions. OC residents: Theo Lacy Jail is in a league of its own nationally. Read his enire article at: https://www.revealnews.org/article/orange-county-california-is-ices-island-of-support-in-sanctuary-state/.
Political commentator and author, Charles Sykes will take a break from mainstream media and visit college radio to talk about his new book How the Right Lost Its Mind, published by St. Martin's Press. How will the left vs right political Venn diagram look when we’re done? Then in the second segment Min 36:00), climate scientist and blogger Shahir Masri will resume where we left off two weeks ago about climate science: “Eaarth” Bill McKibben’s re-considering the planet in its current state; the spike in post disaster payouts; and the ubiquitous plastic stuff.
The full hour is devoted to Oscar Teran, Director of the DREAM Center at UCI’s Center for Educational Partnerships. The current status of Deferred Action for Child Arrivals/DACA, and all the functions that the DREAM Center offers, demands our full attention. This is an administrative coverage, the politics of this program are saved for another program with other guests who have appeared previously on Ask A Leader. Information for upcoming events is available at: http://dreamers.uci.edu/resources/, http://www.law.uci.edu/academics/real-life-learning/clinics/immigrant-rights.html or calling 949-824-6390. Stay tuned for future updates on this website.
LA Times business columnist and author Michael Hiltzik will join us once again, bringing his inestimable insights about the headwinds that our Irvine faces toward negotiating a deal with Amazon for the firm’s second campus to be located right here. He will cover the project, the pressure, the parties, the package, the properties, the pander, the process, and the picture - as Irvine officials beat back the competition nationwide. Then in the second half (min 28:05), UCI environmental researcher Shahir Masri will return to connect the dots with the latest climate change markers. Teachable moments are in surplus. There just seems to be an urgent need for all the so-called students to be paying attention and step up their game yesterday.
Chelsea Cox, Associate Director of Education at UCI MIND, covers this week’s ambitious Alzheimers’ conference and it’s ground-breaking theme: “The Elephant in the Room, Sensitive Subject in Dementia Care.” September 22, 7:30 a.m. til 4 p.m. at the Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave. Irvine, CA. Space is always available for last minute enrollees; register on line at: http://www.mind.uci.edu/events/conference/ or call 949-757-3721. The second guest (min 27:20), is UCI Writer In Residence, Rebecca Tuhus-Dubrow with her new book entitled "Personal Stereo," published by Bloomsbury. In this book she traces the history of the Walkman, along with examining its psycho-social impacts, taking us from the analog to the digital and back. Information about where to meet Rebecca, buy your signed copy of her book, and meet Thomas Mullaney author of "Chinese Typewriter," remains to be determined. Details are forthcoming.
Claudia Arellanes, family business owner and treasurer of the Santa Ana Business Council takes us behind the scenes, and offers a long view of what makes downtown Santa Ana so vibrant. And speaking of scenes, playwright Rachel Bonds, talks about the wonders in her world premiere play Curve of Departure which will be performed at the Argyros Theater at the So Coast Rep. Sept. 24-Oct. 15 at Costa Mesa’s Performing Arts Center. Need a few tickets or some information, call 714-708-5555 or go to: http://www.scr.org/plays/argyros-stage.
Monica Curca returns to the show, this time bringing her "Refugees Welcome Guide," fresh off the press, a beautiful and remarkable piece of work. For those unaware of what refugees are enduring, each section of this guide is pause for thought among us who are already settled. Follow Refugees Welcome's progress, contribute valuable resources, and order a copy of the guide by contacting this guest at: monica@activatelabs.org. In the second half (min 32:12), Dr. Jian Peng, Chief of Water Quality Planning at OC Public Works Environmental Resources, from his agency's low impact development toolkit, explains some elegant systems for purifying and retaining stormwater runoff. Not quite the tool for hurricane downpours, but effective in our So Cal climes. Ready for a tour, or care to take up a redeeming school science project? Information is available at:http://www.ocwatersheds.com.
While Mother Earth burns, churns, and floods, local Citizen Climate Lobby chapter founders Mark Tabbert and Virginia Bernal bring to the show the fruits of their focused work on Capital Hill and in local Congressional districts. Ways to get involved are posted at: https://citizensclimatelobby.org/ In the second half, Ani Zonneveld, founder and president of Muslims for Progressive Values offers extensive experience in what makes a political forum perform or not perform. More information about events not to miss and a pithy opening video are available at: http://www.mpvusa.org/.
The whole hour is devoted to guests Richard Madsen, Professor Emeritus of Sociology at U.C. San Diego; and Dr. Sean Lin media professional and activist. We will start with 2011 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Liu Xiaobo, who was forbidden by his government from accepting his award, and who succumbed July 13th to liver cancer while imprisoned. His wife Liu Xia was during her husband’s detention and is currently under house arrest. Both Madsen and Lin will take up the political and cultural contexts in China today, as they examine the tension between “ restless” constituents' desire for connection and their reliance on government stability and predictability. The hope is to resume this discussion with Professor Madsen and Dr. Lin taking up the path that the current leader of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping is taking this country amidst the leadership vacuum elsewhere. Of interest among Professor Madsen's fascinating publications are "Restless China" and "China and the American Dream." Listeners can tune into Dr. Lin's radio station in Rockville, MD at: https://radio-locator.com/info/WQER-FL .
Girls on the Run Orange County Board Member Amy Cook tells us how her organization is helping elementary and middle school girls develop essential skills. She has a longitudinal study fresh out to make her point(s). For upcoming events, and information about applying for board membership: https://girlsontherunoc.org/. Girls enrolled in the program will offer their own testimony on a future show that they will help produce. Watch in December for that program.
For the main portion of the show, UCI graduate engineering students at the Advanced Power and Energy Program, Van Wifvat and Blake Lane, take the fiction out of science fiction about ground transportation; slaying some myths and posting us on what’s brewing up about net zero and self driving vehicles. More details are available, where you could spend all week, at: http://www.apep.uci.edu/3/. Correction: the earliest autonomous vehicle research was conducted on California's Interstate 15, not Interstate 5. Then (min 42:53), Girls on the Run Orange County Board Member Amy Cook tells us how her organization is helping elementary and middle school girls develop essential skills. She has a longitudinal study fresh out to make her point(s). For upcoming events, and information about applying for board membership: https://girlsontherunoc.org/ Girls enrolled in the program will offer their own testimony on a future show that they will help produce. Watch in December that program.
Calling all athletes reporting for practice! Returning to the show are James Hicks UCI professor and Director at Center for Exercise Medicine and Sport Sciences; and Michael Yassa, UCI Professor of Neurobiology and Behavior, and Director of the Center for Neurobiology of Learning and Memory - take up their research along the continuum from the benefits to the hazards of exercise on brain health. Of concern are NFL bangs, the disparities of women in research trauma, and men versus women’s response to trauma and lots in between. Resources galore are available at: http://emssi.uci.edu/ and http://faculty.sites.uci.edu/myassa/lab/.
We contemplate sacred terrain with: Angelo Baca, Native American documentary filmmaker, and Matthew Campbell, Native American staff attorney with the Native American Rights Fund, as they take up their respective and varied efforts to preserve the recently designated US National Monument in southeast Utah known as Bears Ears. They will consider who is taking from whom, following the U.S. Interior Dept.’s recent closing of its comment period over the current administration’s intentions to roll back the 12/2016 1.3 million acre US Monument designation. If some of this makes you consider more deeply what is beneath the ground you live, work, and play upon; then mission partially accomplished.
Los Angeles artist, Beatriz Cortez and Assistant Curator Alyssa Cordova, consider what’s on view at the Orange County Museum of Art’s "2017 California Pacific Triennial, Building as Ever," on exhibit now through September 3rd. For hours, location, and upcoming events consult their website: http://www.ocma.net/. The second segment (min 27:25) covers the latest in sexual harassment workplace issues with local employment attorney Teresa McQueen. Our focus is mainly on the intricacies of the disparagement clause in contract agreements, trending a bit in Silicon Valley and possibly in an office very near you. Ms. McQueen will be launching in September a monthly podcast entitled "Workplace Perspective," covering employment law, HR issues, business etiquette, and workplace civility. It will be available on her firm's website: http://saffirelegal.com/.
Reverend Dr. Bil Aulenbach offers his refreshing and affirming new book entitled, "Cramming for Finals; New Ways of Lookig at Old Church Ideas," published by Summitt Run Press. Copies of his book are available from your favorite independent book dealer or on his website: http://peacelovejoyhope.com/.
During the second segment (min 33:18), it is an opportune time to talk with Joese Hernandez, of Orange County Communities Organized for Responsible Development (OCOCRD), in advance of the 7-22-17 Citizenship Fair. The next ones will be held on 7-26-17, 8-2-17, 8-5-17, and 8-26-17. More will be scheduled in the future. Information about these and other gratifying opportunities to help out, is available at: http://www.occord.org/. In his spare time, Joese hosts a podcast, "ITZ Happenin Radio Show," transmitted on Facebook live every Monday night at 9 a.m. (PT).
UCI neurobiology and anatomy Professor Daniele Piomelli, along with UCI Law School faculty and former State Sen. Joe Dunn, take up the cutting edge of research and institution building around CA's statewide approval of the legalization of cannabis, Propositions 215 (medicinal use) and 64 (recreational use).
Striking patriotic themes our way on Independence Day: Congressman Lou Correa from CA 46th Dist., offers his experiences meeting in Tijuana with veterans who’ve been deported. A reversal of their fortunes will be of interest. In the second segment, (min 29:00) amidst many breaking news items, OC Chapter of the Brady Campaign for the Prevention of Gun Violence board members Charles and Mary Leigh Blek consider NRA initiatives staunching diminished sales, court rulings, and the latest state and federal legislation. Of crucial importance is legislation sponsored by Congresswoman Walters and Congressman Royce, HR38, The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act. The Bleks offer this email to which one can requests alerts on legislative developments: oc@bradymail.org; and for general information about their organization: http://www.bradycampaign.org/content/orange-county-brady-campaign-chapter?ms=CAOCChapter.
Along with University Hills neighbor/activist Rebecca Tuhus-Dubrow, April Price at Community Environmental Council talk about the recent launching of a University Hills solar residential project, Solarize Irvine. The deadline to get in on this group discount is July 30th. Information for an assessment of your City of Irvine home is available at: http://www.cecsb.org/go-solar/solarize/solarize-irvine/ or by calling April herself at: 805-963-0583 x101. The second segment (min 31:59) features the program’s annual ritual of welcoming the New Swan Theater Shakespeare festival, the sixth annual, here at U C Irvine. Director Beth Lopes talks about her production of "Taming of the Shrew" and discusses how William Shakespeare is understood or not in 2017. Information about all festival events and tickets to see "The Tempest" and "Shrew" is available at: http://newswanshakespeare.com/, www.arts.uci.edu/boxoffice, artstix@uci.edu, and 949-824-2787.
Peggy Maradudin, local Russian analyst extraordinaire, returns with more context for the latest developments in Russian and interactions between heads of state. Sergeys Lavrov and Kislyak are mentioned, to clarify references in the latter half of the program. Two readings recommended from this interview: "Nothing is True and Everything is Possible," by Peter Pomerantsev; and "Red Notice," by Bill Browder. Ms. Maradudin will return to this show in advance of the March 2018 Russian elections.
Alyssa Braciszewski Frederick, Elizabeth Hemming-Schroeder, and Kimberly Duong; UCI graduate students studying climate science lift the curtain after having visited a dozen (mainly) Californian Congressional offices in Washington, D.C. If they came away changed, imagine how changed you will be by their observations of these privileged interactions. They'll be convening a webinar 6-15-17, at 5 p.m. PDT; details are available at: https://www.facebook.com/500womensci/. During the second segment of the show, Tyler Stallings, artistic director at UC Riverside's Center for the Arts, in his capacity as juror, leads us around the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art’s current exhibit "Art As Protest,” open through 7/8. Special events staged at the OCCCA space for your cultural levitation include: 6/17 the play “Seven,” and the 6/29 performance by the Pacific Symphony. Details are available at: http://www.occca.org/.
Michele Goodwin, UCI Law School Professor and commentator extraordinaire takes us to a memorable and deeper level of identity politics . With the full hour, she offers critical insights about our consumption and construct of history over the generations and cenuturies, as the stakes in public health and equal protection, are raised by the hour. It’s also a fine time to cover this year’s Juneteenth commemoration in Orange County on 6-17 from 10 a.m. til 4 p.m. at 18100 Goldenwest St. Huntington Beach. Presented this year by: OC Learning Black History, the Santa Ana Black Historical Society, and the OC NAACP; Orange County's Third annual event will be celebrated adjacent to the Huntington Beach Central Park Public Library. More information is available at: 714-377-0659, or at the OC Learning Black History Facebook page.
Following Memorial Day, we explore with Pauline Lubens, Ph.D. candidate at U.C.I.'s Dept. of Public Health, her work dealing with the ravages of war on public health and the design of her dissertation studying grief among combat veterans who have lost friends with whom they have served. We hope to have her return to the program when her findings have been published. During the second segment, Irvine City Council Member Melissa Fox returns to the show to take us behind the scenes as she fields a plethora of official municipal and regional duties.
While California considers different ways to lead nationally, State Assembly Speaker pro Tem Kevin Mullin (D-San Mateo), working both sides of the aisle nicely, posts us on legislation, AB 84 which would move California's presidential primary from June to March. SB 568 is a similar measure moving through the State Senate. In the second segment (min 29:10), UCI earth system scientist and microbiologist Adam Martiny presents his research pertaining to marine bacteria and how it relates to global climate change. He also speaks in advance of moderating a panel at conference hosted this week at UCI, "Headwaters to Ocean." Interested budding scientists are welcome to check out research opportunities at the Martiny Lab, https://www.ess.uci.edu/group/amartiny/adam-martiny-lab.
Richard Gillock, co-founder of the local chapter of Americans United for the Separation of Church and State makes the distinction between "religious freedom" and the 1st Amendment in today's classrooms and places of worship. He appears in advance of the local chapter's monthly meeting held 5/20 at the Irvine Ranch Water District meeting facility, at 15500 Sand Canyon Drive in Irvine. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. and program begins at 1:45. More details are available at https://sites.google.com/site/auorangecounty. The segment (min 23:12), Steven Allison, UCI earth system scientist, breathlessly offers his insights on: federal funding of science, the recent firing of several EPA advisory board scientists, the uncertainty of the US role in the latest UN climate agreements, as well as his students' and his involvement in the political process. He presents colleagues throughout "the academy," a playbook for engaging all students with their Members of Congress. Every and any kind of major has a piece of the action.
Iresha Goonesinghe, MD Facp FACC MACPE, a cardiologist practicing in Ridgecrest, CA (Kern County), has been taking the pulse of her patients regarding how the current political climate has been affecting their health, deep in Trump County. With lessons to be learned on both sides of the political divide, her learned insights might possibly Make Americans' Vital Signs Great Again. Her conversations continue on her two blogs: http://unitingtheusa.blogspot.com/ and http://peoplepower77.blogspot.com/.
Reza Aslan, an internationally renowned religion writer and scholar, speaks today 5/2, at the Barclay about Islamophobia. Douglas Haynes, UCI Professor of History and Provost for Academic Equity, Diversity & Inclusion covers his organization's goals and how Aslan will addresses them. The talk will be at 6-7:30 p.m., followed by a book signing. Information about reservations (still available at this writing) is available at: http://inclusion.uci.edu/.
Next, Matthew Beckmann, UCI scholar on the American presidency considers 45’s 103 days in office. He has much to say about what has not already been said.
The last guests, Joel Veenstra of UCI's Clare Trevor School of the Arts and Theresa Robbins Dudeck Chapman University Theater professor, present their super-charged program Coup de Comedy here at UCI and Chapman University May 10-13. Details for associated workshops and performances are available at: https://improvrevolution.org/
On the heels of last Saturday's March for Science, Roger Gloss and Carl Mariz, activists with the local UN Sustainable Cities chapter, promote the local People’s Climate Action's events on April 29. Information about 9-4 pm program is available at:http://occlimateaction.org/ and http://rogergloss.com/ Then (min 26:15 )on to this year’s Clare Trevor School of the Arts’ season’s theme “ Them." UCI Drama professor Daphne Lei and director/Ph.D. candidate Ricardo Rocha will discuss their upcoming play "I Dream of Cheng and Eng," with some special features and some firsts. The play will run at the Robert Cohen Theater from 4/29-May 7. Tickets are available at the UCI Box Office 949-824-2787. In addition to the talk backs scheduled on 4/30 and 5/5, is the special forum on 5/6, "Thrive in Difference: An Interdisciplinary Conference" : http://medicalhumanities.uci.edu/event/thriving-difference-symposium/ for which reservations are necessary.
The whole hour is devoted to the button down analysis of Russian scholar, Margaret "Peggy" Maradudin. Her nuanced insight stems from decades of study of Russian and Putin. Sources available in English, that she recommends to listeners includes: , the book "Nothing is True and Everything is Possible, by Peter Pomerantsev," and Dozhd TV. She will return to the show in the summer for more privileged coverage of Russian-American relations in these too interesting times.
Jared Ruth, Director of Field Marketing for California at Cox Business, considers the entrepreneurial domain in our local economy. He also posts essential the details about Cox’s "Get Started OC" an entrepreneur competition, open to the public, in Irvine (AV Building 16500 Scientific Way) on April 26, 6-9 p.m. Details are available at: http://www.coxblue.com/getstartedoc/. UCI astrophysics and cosmology professor Dr. Kevork Abazajian, speaks in his capacity as California coordinator and Board Member for 314 Action (http://www.314action.org/). His efforts to explain elaborate issues about our climate to Members of Congress, provide an exemplary model for constituents to become involved in consequential policy making. Upcoming related events include: March for Science (4/22/17-https://www.marchforscience.com/) and People's Climate Science March (4/29/17- https://peoplesclimate.org/).
Dr. Bill Honigman, emergency room physician in Orange County and CA State coordinator for Prgressive Democrats of America returns to the program to examine California's and the nation's prospect for healthcare reform. Details on SB562, sponsored by CA State Senator Ricardo Lara (Long Beach), are available at: http://www.healthycaliforniaact.org/. Details about special forums, including the one on 4/8 2-4 pm at the Garden Grove Community Center are also posted on that website. PDA can be followed at: http://pdamerica.org/.
Dr. Jay Gargus, UCI professor of human genetics, pediatrics, physiology, and biophysics; informs in clear detail, the hazards that lurk in HR 1313, also known as "Preserving Employee Wellness Programs Act." Follow the legislative trail at: http://www.ashg.org/. AAL will follow up with future guests any important developments of this legislation with considerable implications for patient, and the patient's family's privacy. The second guest, Eliza Rubenstein, Director of the Orange County Women's Chorus, will be presenting a stirring program on April 1st and 2nd. She talks about the choir, and the upcoming concert's theme: Rocking The Boat." More details about these and other performances, as well as August auditions are available at: http://www.ocwomenschorus.org/.
UFW President Arturo Rodriguez, sits down at the Orange County Interfaith Committee To Aid Farm Workers dinner Sunday, talks about how shifts in national leadership and in statewide commerce effect farm workers lives and how the union is addressing it. The UFW is now distributing their red card, "tarjete roja," a brief guide spelling out the rights of undocumented immigrants. http://www.ufw.org/
Scott Kitcher, CEO and President of Sustain OC, formerly Clean Tech explains what it going on at this leading edge conservation technology matchmaker, incubator, and and advocate. We'll start calling this trade association the Chamber of Technology, and it's in our backyard. Events and workshops abound at the Cove at the Applied Innovations in UCI's Research and Development Park; information is available at: https://sustainoc.org/.
Dr. Shahir Masri, who researches air pollution exposure assessment and epidemiology, reflects on his work and what it looks like to be a scientist in 2017. He pivots between research and activism with public health policy on the line. Follow him at: http://shahirmasri.blogspot.com/. During the second half, Jane Page, UCI Claire Trevor School of the Art (CTSA) director and professor talks about what's on the roster this week around campus: original works at The Brown Bag Theater "Quebrando el Silencio! Breaking the Silence-Latinx Voices," 3/15 9pm Ring Room at the Cross Cultural Center; 3/19 1 pm in the Nixon Theater. Also featured is Works in Progress, a look at collaboration with scientists, presented 3/15, at 12:45 pm at The Little Theater. All locations can be found at: https://communications.uci.edu/documents/pdf/UCI_16_map_campus.pdf; more information about performances at the CTSA is available at: http://www.arts.uci.edu/.
It's Immigration Awareness Week at UCI - a good time to bring to these airwaves, UCI history lecturer Tina Shull to talk about her work as a principle activist with Community Initiatives for Visiting Immigrants in Confinement (CIVIC). Resources for engaging on behalf of an ever increasing vulnerable sector in our society include: https://www.facebook.com/Madres-y-Familias-Deportadas-en-Accion-895034303955446/, https://www.change.org/p/end-the-quota, http://www.endisolation.org/; as well as Tina's blog https://medium.com/imm-print. The second guest (min 32) is Jeanne Scheper, UCI Professor of Gender and Sexuality Studies, talks about her recently released book entitled: "Moving Performances: Divas, Iconicity, and Remembering the Modern Stage," from Rutgers University Press. She reprises early 20th Century greats: Aida Overton Walker, Loie Fuller, Libby Holman, and Josephine Baker. We let listeners make your own connections with contemporary divas, before you pick up your own copy of the book, available at your independent book dealer or through Rutgers Press.
SoCal regional director of the California High Speed Rail, Michelle Boehm returns to the show for updates on this massive project amidst the competition for infrastructure funding in both CA and the U.S. More information is available at the water cooler source: http://www.cahsrblog.com/ as well as at the official site: http://www.hsr.ca.gov/. (min 33): My second guest is Alicia Rivera, veteran community activist, talking about the imminent expansion proposed for at the Tesoro Refinery in the LA neighborhood of Wilmington. Environmental justice is on the line with the status quo as well as in the future. Deadlines, letter writing materials, updates, and details to arrange for a Toxin Tour are available at: http://www.cbecal.org/, or by reaching Alicia directly: alicia@cbecal.org.
Rabbi Jonathan Klein, Executive Director of Clergy & Laity United for Economic Justice (CLUE) speaks in advance of their 2-22-17 special event "Architects of Justice" to be held 6-9 p.m., at the Temple Beth Shalom 2625 N Tustin Ave. in Santa Ana. Honorees include: Father Arturo Querijero Ferraras; Former Irvine Mayor Beth Krom; and Jennifer Muir Beuthin, general manager of Orange County Employees Association. All the details are available at: http://www.cluejustice.org/. Local CLUE organizers contact information is also available on this website. OC personnel include: Sandra Orega sortega@cluejustice.org and Anaheim rep.Irene Arellano iarellano@cluejustice.org. UCI Professor of political science and rhetoric, Keith Topper (minute 31) takes us to the intersection of propaganda and rhetoric. Key is directing our direction toward policy and away from shiny objects.
On this Valentine's Day edition of AAL, Teresa McQueen of Saffire Legal, takes up how her niche practice gives special expertise to employers and employees toward preventing sexual harassment at the workplace. Ms. McQueen's practice offers legal, human resources, etiquette, and civility training for before or once these transgressions occur. She can be reached at: 949-535-5266, http://saffirelegal.com/, linkedin, Facebook and on Twitter. Her office is located at 2372 Morse Ave., Ste. 442, Irivne, CA. Additional resources are available at: http://www.dfeh.ca.gov/ https://www.eeoc.gov/
Labor activist Steve Early to talk about his recently published book, "Refinery Town; Big Oil, Big Money, and the Remaking of an American City," published by Beacon Press. He’ll offer promising news about the force of grassroots efforts from the Richmond Progressive Alliance vis a vis the Chevron Corporation juggernaut. Copies of this book are available at: http://steveearly.org/, http://www.beacon.org/Refinery-Town-P1229.aspx, or your favorite independent book dealer. Then we’re one of the first to present on the airwaves, the founding dean of UCI’s Sue and Bill Gross School of Nursing and a professor of nursing science, Dr. Adey M. Nyamathi. She links current initiatives with the degrees offered at the school, to prepare these vaunted professionals in the trenches, in delivering better healthcare for all. For information about scholarship opportunities: http://www.grad.uci.edu/funding/fellowships-awards/index.html and http://www.ofas.uci.edu/content/Scholarships.aspx
UCI Law professor, insanely busy blogger, and very present on all media platforms, Rick Hasen – returns our to talk about Voting Rights and 2016 electoral outcomes on state and national levels. Eyes on Wisconsin, North Carolina, and the shape of your Congressional district. Among his many relevant reads are, published by Yale University Press, are: "Plutocrats United: Campaign Money, the Supreme Court, and the Distortion of American Elections, " and "The Voting Wars; from Florida to the Next Election Meltdown." Follow Rick Hasen at: https://electionlawblog.org/ or @rickhasen on twitter.
If those trends keep you up at night, our next guest Dr. Ruth Benca, Professor and Chair of UCI’s Dept. of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, offers important insights about sleep hygiene. Along the way, she presents some very cool aspects about the sleeping brain that you probably have not considered. Psst, all critters sleep! Details: 2/7 7:30 pm at the Barclay Theater at UCI; 949-842-5193, memory@uci.edu; presented by the Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory. No tickets or reservations are necessary.
Reverend Mark Whitlock, Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Irvine, reprises a rich day at his congregation commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. He looks at the soul of the 45th President's inagurgation a president, a nation, and the resulting movements dealing wi Next, Mayor Don Wagner dials in an appearance from the 85th annual US Conference of Mayors in Washington, D.C. Finally a few words from 45th Congressional District Congresswoman Mimi Walter, before she slips into a new committee meeting with her latest appointment, the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Her staff will host a grant writing workshop, 2-7-17 10 a.m.- noo; open to the public. RSVP to Donovan Higbee at 949-263-8703 or Donovan.Higbee@mail.house.gov. Location: Irvine Civic Center 1 Civic Center Plaza Irvine, CA 92606
Claire Trevor School of the Arts Drama Chair and Director Gary Busby and UCI Social Ecology social psychologist Peter Ditto discuss the drama staged during the Trump transition, equipping us with how to interpret the optics and audio with educated eyes and ears.
UCI criminologist Charis Kubrin and PhD candidate Adam Dunbar present their definitive findings about rap music on trial. They’ll take us to the intersection of art, race, and the law. Then in the second segment (minute 34), UCI political science professor Davin Phoenix returns to look at where identity politics has taken us at the moment, in this place on campus and beyond.
We start the new year with an agenda item for your consideration, devoting the whole program to a pair of attorneys with a special niche in estate law. Laura Meier and Marci Miller take up the importance of parents' planning their wills and trusts with their young offspring in mind, including children with special needs. We include in the discussion, Laura Meier’s book, "Good parents worry, Great parents plan; The Guide to Protecting Your Child with a Will and Trust." Parties interested in booking them for a special presentation on their field may reach them at: www.meierevents.com, lmeier@meierfirm.com, 949-718-8420; www.milleradvocacy.com; marci@milleradvocacy.com (949) 402-8266 Also, available financial resources include: U.S. Depart of Education Website – Students w/ Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education; LD Online – The Educators Guide to Learning Disabilities and ADHD; The K & W Guide to College Programs and Services for Students with Learning Disabilities.
Emily Mahon, Senior Director of Education and Community Engagement at the Bowers Museum presents a bounty of delectable possibilities that awaits us at the museum over these holidays and into 2017. Virgins, photographers, actresses, and painters figure into the culture fare. Lecures associated with the Virgin of Guadalupe exhibit will be presented by: Jeannette Peterson (UCSB) on 1/21 at 1:30 pm; Joanna Reyes Walton on 1/29. Events associated with the Imogene Cunningham exhibit are scheduled on 1/7 and 2/4;and with the Madame Modjeska exhibit on 3/12. For the exhibit opening on 2/25/17 entitled "Frida Kahlo, Her Photos,"and for other details, let the official museum website be your guide: https://www.bowers.org/. In the second segment (minute 28), we elbow our way ahead of the new year's resolution frenzy with life coach Trish Walker, with her modest proposals on intentional living, speaking from her recently published book entitled: "Oh Honey...I'm just getting started!" Her blog offers many additional resources at: https://50forayear.com/. Happy Holidays everyone!
Jon Dunn, President/CEO of Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties posts us with all the realities that his and other affiliates face post 11-08-16. He wears both the healthcare delivery and political advocacy hats. Additional resources mentioned at the end of the interview include: http://www.ppactionca.org/local-info/orange-san-bernardino/, https://www.facebook.com/communityactionfund/, and http://www.healthwomentrust.org/. In the second segment, we convene a brief salon on science and faith with UCI evolutionary biology professor and philosopher, Dr. Fracisco Ayala. Central to this consideration is his book, "Darwin's Gift to Science and Religion." This Renaissance Man has recently penned for even more sophisticated readers, a book entitled, "Evolution, Explanation, Ethics and Aesthetics: Towards a Philosophy of Being."
Stuart Trautenberg reveals what recruiting looks like in the 21st Century. His many enterprises include: S A Traut Associates, http://satraut.com/; Jobzlabs Inc., http://jobzlab.com/; and Chief People, http://chiefpeople.com/ will get you on a path The next segment, we resume the matter of Islamic relations in the US with Ani Zonneveld, Muslims for Progressive Values and Jordan Elgrably, The Markaz. Upcoming events providing forums for discussion and discovery are posted on http://www.mpvusa.org/ and http://www.themarkaz.org/. 12/17 7-9 pm at Temple Judea in Tarzana, Celebration of Life, "Freedom of Conscience" on 1/15/17 (info@mpvusa.org, or call 323.696.2678); Ask A Muslim, and LA for Standing Rock are just a few opportunities.
Climate scientist and 2012 Nobel Prize Winner along with IPCC colleagues, Penn State Professor Michael Mann offers his latest book for the holidays and the next four years, "The Madhouse Effect: How Climate Change Denial is Threatening Our Planet, Destroying Our Politics and Driving Us Crazy. This book is illustrated by Washington Post political cartoonist Tom Toles. During the second segment founder and President of Muslims for Progressive Values, Ani Zonneveld; and Jordan Elgrably, founding director of The Markaz; consider the uptick of marginalization of Muslims in the US amidst the transition to the new administration. They offer suitable instruction for by standers to intervene to avert an assault on our brothers and sisters. GreenDot is one such resource. Information for the guests' organizations is available at: http://www.mpvusa.org/ and http://www.themarkaz.org/. Both Ani and Jordan will return to the show next week, 12-13-16.
Jennifer Chacón, UCI professor of law offers definitive analysis of the status of immigration policy heading into the Trump administration. Undocumented UC students, or an undocumented family member of the UC system (parent or spouse), qualify for assistance from the University of California Undocumented Students Legal Services Center. They can contact UCUSLSC at law.ucdavis.edu/uc-undocumented. Students may qualify for assistance with their DACA renewal applications or screening for other potential remedies, but they need to contact UCUSLSC for more information. Also, those in OC looking to renew DACA applications should call the Public Law Center at (714) 541-1010. They are having some renewal fairs. This Friday night, Dec 2nd at 8 pm, University Synagogue will host a special post-election discussion lead by Rabbi Rachlis with special guest UCI Law School Dean Erwin Chemerinsky. Details at: http://www.universitysynagogue.org/event/shabbat-services-led-by-rabbi-rachlis-and-cantor-braier-112/.
UCI Claire Trevor School of the Arts Director Jane Page and Actors Emily Daley and Sam Massaro present "Our Class," a play by Tadeusz Slobodzianek. Performances run at the Experimental Media Performance Lab (Contemporary Arts Center) December 1-4; evenings 8pm, on Dec 1-3; and Matinees 2pm on Dec 3-4. CTSA Box Office: www.arts.uci.edu/boxoffice, artstix@uci.edu, (949) 824-2787. In the second segment, Citizens' Climate Lobby activist Mark Tabbert returns to the show fresh from his meetings last week with Congressional offices on both sides of the aisle. On Dec. 8, the organization will host a viewing of an episode of "Years of Living Dangerously," in Newport Beach, Mission Viejo, and Brea. Details are available at:http://citizensclimatelobby.org/chapters/CA_Orange_County_Coast/.
Lauren Kurtz, executive director of Climate Science Legal Defense Fund, supports and defends climate scientists undermined by political and ideological challenges in the national political area. With the new occupant of the White House, the pressures on essential research are only mounting. Information for attorneys and others who wish to step up is available at: http://climatesciencedefensefund.org/. Stay tuned on this show's upcoming 12-6-16 broadcast Trump transition team updates with climate scientist Professor Michael Mann. In the second guest segment UCI 3rd year law students: Ali Chabon, Laura Lively, and Olivia Weber make the case for the UC system carrying out the California law to provide contraception without a prescription. Their op-ed piece was published in the LA Times 10-5-16, http://www.latimes.com/opinion/op-ed/la-oe-weber-chabot-lively-uc-pharmacist-protocol-20161006-snap-story.html. For updates and further involvement these ladies are available at: llively@lawet.uci.edu;achabot@lawnet.uci.edu; and olweber@lawnet.uci.edu.
Welcome to our standing tradition on election days. We morph the show into Ask A Voter in honor of citizens around the country who participate in the electoral process. Telling their voter stories today are: UCI Chancellor Dr. Howard Gillman; UCI College Republican Carl Olson; Miami Beach, Florida resident and retired university administrator, Deborah Van Cleve; and finally Madison, Wisconsin and Get Out The Vote activists, Caryl Terrell and Claudia Pogreba. Look for your local registrar of voters administration to all the information you need to vote while polling places remain open.
Dale Cheema speaks as an Irvine city council candidate in this 11-04-16 podcast, recorded after the final live broadcast.
We wrap up the local candidate coverage with Irvine Mayoral Candidate Don Wagner, (minute 1:29); Irvine City Council Candidate Christina Shea, (minute 22:36); and Irvine Mayoral Candidate Katherine Daigle (minute 42:00). With the uptick of mailings, commercials, and anonymous yard signs; let's see what a million dollars of campaign funding might buy.
For the full program, League of Women Voter North Orange County Co-President Janice Wagner weighs in with 11 of the 17 statewide propositions about which the League has taken a position. Among several resources she offers for guidance on many ballot items is the League's: http://votersedge.org/ca/page/smartvoter.
Farrah Khan speaks as an Irvine city council candidate in this 10-20-16 podcast, recorded between two live broadcasts.
Irvine Entrepreneur Ian Daelucian speaks as a city council candidate (minute 1). Irvine architect Gang Chen speaks as a mayoral candidate (minute 20). Former Irvine Services Commissioner Shiva Farivar speaks as a city council candidate (minute 40). Deadline for California registration is 10/24. Full service early voting open at UCI at Flagpole Pavilion adjacent to the administration building on 11/1 from 7 am til 8 pm. Other opportunities for early voting in Orange County are at the following locations from 10/29 through 11/7 (10/29-11/4, 8:00am-5:00pm~ 11/5-11/7 7:00am-8:00pm): Irvine Civic Center (City Hall), Anaheim Civic Center (City Hall), Westminster Branch Library, Costa Mesa Community Center, Mission Viejo City Hall, and the Orange County Registrar of Voters in Santa Ana. All addresses are posted at: http://www.ocvote.com/votecenter.
Irvine Planning Commissioner Mary Ann Gaido speaks as a mayoral candidate. Local activist and former mayor Larry Agran casts light on dark money in local campaigns. OC Registrar of Voters Neal Kelley posts us on the latest ballot logistics and early voting opportunities. Reminder: check your local voter registrar office (http://www.ocvote.com/) to confirm your registration. Deadline for California registration is 10/24. Full service early voting open at UCI at Flagpole Pavillion adjacent to the administration building on 11/1 from 7 am til 8 pm. Other opportunities for early voting in Orange County are at the following locations from 10/29 through 11/7 (weekdays and weekends): Irvine Civic Center (City Hall), Anaheim Civic Center (City Hall), Westminster Branch Library, Costa Mesa Community Center, Mission Viejo City Hall, and the Orange County Registrar of Voters in Santa Ana. All addresses are posted at: http://www.ocvote.com/votecenter.
Today begins the show's exclusive 2016 general election coverage of local candidates and California measures. On this program my guests are: Irvine City Council candidate Melissa Fox (minute 1:30), Tustin City Council candidate Letitia Clark (minute 22:30), and Irvine City Council candidate Courtney Santos (minute 41:00). They have much to say; hunker down with us as we race through a lot of local public policy.
UCI climate scientist James Randerson takes up his multi-faceted research on wild fires and helps us step up our game toward climate change. A peak into his work is available on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CL76qqIspFY. During the second half, a trio of UCI Cognitive Sciences and Logic & Philosophy of Science researchers: Ashley Jo Thomas, Barbara Sarnecka, and Kyle Stanford concerned about the epidemic of parental overreach, present their latest research on the morality of parental choices. The antidote to society's willingness to implicate a parent not willing to meet steep supervisory standards might be: http://www.freerangekids.com/the-free-range-kids-parents-bill-of-rights/. Follow their important work at: http://www.cogsci.uci.edu/cogdev/Sarnecka/index.html.
UCI neuroscientist David Cripps returns to the show, taking up BIO 101 on brain plaques and lesions, his own research, news about what might be a promising drug for the treatment of Alzheimers, and highlights of this year’s 9-30-16, 27th Annual Conference on Alzheimer's Disease hosted in Irvine at 18000 Von Karman. Details are available at: http://www.alzoc.org/events/2016-research-conference/. Then UCI’s int’l relations lecturer Paula Garb considers why foreign affairs matter to us all; definitely a bedrock of literate voting. She also presents UCI is plethora of esteemed institutions in which all are invited to take part: Center for Citizen Peace Building: http://www.peacebuilding.uci.edu/, Students for Global Peacebuilding: http://www.peacebuilding.uci.edu/programs/sgp/sgp.php, and the Olive Tree Initiative: http://www.olivetreeinitiative.org/. Paula Garb will return to these airwaves next January for details about the 5th annual Peace and Justice Week Summit 2017.
Join us as we stroll through the Phillips Collection with Orange County Museum of Art director and CEO Todd Smith. A visual feast, "American Mosaic" is possibly one of OCMA’s finest exhibitions. The exhibition continues through December 4th at 850 San Clemente Newport Beach. For more information check out: http://ocma.net/ or call: (949) 759-1122.
Author and competitive swimmer, Constantine Markides offers his engaging book which he co-wrote with and about Anthony Ervin entitled, "Chasing Water: Elegy of an Olympian." http://www.akashicbooks.com/catalog-tag/chasing-water/. All those chapters cover a fascinating saga, and that was before his Rio Olympic triumph. Markides hears our plea for a an epi-epilogue.
This show is brimming over the top with 3 guest segments: Carl Mariz and Roger Gloss of Orange County for Climate Action, invite listeners to 9/10 and 9/15 forums in Irvine, promoting a local action template already operating in San Diego. All the details for these two forums are available http://occlimateaction.org/. Also follow Roger's contemplation at: http://rogergloss.com/. Then, Dr. Terry Welsh, Banning Ranch Conservancy President will return to signal what’s ahead on the following day with the CA Coastal Commission’s agenda at its Newport Beach meeting - the Banning Ranch proposal, http://www.coastal.ca.gov/mtgcurr.html. Finally, we’ll hear from UCI’s Jacky Au, about his leading-edge brain plasticity research toward improving working memory. Follow this research at either http://wmp.education.uci.edu/ or http://hnl.ss.uci.edu/.
Cal State Fullerton philosophy professor Jeeloo Liu, accompanied by Master Leu who offer a vigorous testimonial of how mastery of tai chi ended her severe back pain without surgery. More information about the non-profit association, Jin Pei Club (whose website is currently posted in Mandarin), is available by contacting Dr. Liu at jeelooliu@gmail.com. Classes are free to the public at Irvine's community parks (Turtle Rock, Bill Barber and Northwood) on different days/times. Dr. Liu teaches in English on: Tuesday (TRCP) and Thursday evenings (BBCP) at 7-8:30pm and Saturday mornings (NCP) at 8-9:30am. Then UCI senior lecturer Ken Chew talks about his research entitled, “America's Smartest Neighborhood? A Demographer Explores University Hills, the Nation's Largest On-Campus Faculty Housing Complex.” See his May lecture at: http://www.icha.uci.edu/Living/spot-light.php.
UCI political scientist professor Davin Phoenix returns to take up voting right themes amidst some distressing drumbeats of voter intimidation, as the country’s general election this fall draws nearer and the racial divide opens wider. Over the second portion of the show, we check back in Kennedy Commission project manager Linda Tang with an update on the disappearing act of affordable housing stock in Costa Mesa; today a motel room, tomorrow a deluxe rental unit. More information is available at: http://www.kennedycommission.org/ or lindat@kennedycommission.org.
Oliver Ma, formerly a UniHigh student, now at UC Berkeley is assuming a new leadership role putting together "Future Chinese Leaders of America," training young Chinese Americans in politics as well as informing the Chinese American community of the political issues it faces. City of Irvine Community Services Commissioner Melissa Fox accompanies Oliver as a mentor in his organizing.
Also contributing an enviable profile is Orange School of the Arts senior, Zena Meyer who’s building an impressive portfolio before she even completes high school. We look under the hoods of these two young models, just before they roll out to the fall quarter.
Chief Medical Officer of Medicare/Medicaid, Dr. Ashby Wolfe, covers comprehensively end of life issues as discussed between patient, care-providers, and families. Resources and assistance is available at:https://www.medicare.gov/.
Then we move on to our immediate cultural scene with Cassandra Coblentz, senior curator and director of engagement at Orange County Museum of Art, about the Brian Bress' exhibit entitled, “Make Your Own Friends” - as well as some other offerings that might interest you. Step up to the plethora of offerings with their website as your guide: http://ocma.net/.
Michele Goodwin, UCI Chancellor's Law Professor, and coveted far and wide lecturer and blogger, speaks for the full hour. As a commentator, she recently the Democratic National Convention - a perfect platform from which to vault into the presidential political arena. We exam both the conventions and their respective party platforms.
Gloria Mark, UCI professor of Informatics, at the Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences presents her research which validates what many of us have suspected - that multi-tasking can be hazardous to your health. Put another way, she addresses the virtues of mono tasking. Then we feast on the wordsmith prowess and richly layered perspectives on Islam in the 21st Century, from Ali Eteraz as we talk about his newly released debut novel, "Native Believer," published by Akashic Books. Mr. Eteraz is one to watch and to keep watching. alieteraz.com
With the scourge of violence perpetrated on more fronts than the mind can process, it is a balm to turn to Bonnie Carroll, founder and president of Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). http://www.taps.org/. In the second half of the show OC Registrar of Voters, Neal Kelley will speak to the irregularities that occurred during our recent primary in California, and in Orange County. Register, confirm registration, vote by mail, and or confirm your vote was counted at: http://www.ocvote.com/.
Today everything is coming up Robots. We get into the wiring and gluing, with three gentlemen in the know about collaborative robots, leading edge technology that will be on display this week at the Open House at the Spectrum. Craig Tomita, West Coast sales manager of Universal Robots will speak during the first portion of the show; then speaking together over the larger share of the program are Matthew Bush co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Hirebotics, and Birk Sorensen, Vice President of Engineering at Emtek.
UCI political scientist professor, Jeffrey Kopstein, fills in the many blanks about what has not been said concerning the work in progress - the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union. In doing that, we take up the original charter of the EU, the current situation, and what might be
It’s that time of the year when UCI's Chancellor Professor of Acting Eli Simon beckons listeners to the 5th New Swan Shakespeare Theatre Festival with "Hamlet" and "As You Like it." Shows started rolling on July 7th and continue until August 28. More information on tickets and related events is available at: http://newswanshakespeare.com/ or 949-824-8062. We also hear from curator Michael Duncan, about a gem of a retrospective that he’s put together for “Maverick Modernist” Peter Krasnow, at Laguna Art Museum, which opened June 26 and continues until September 25. 307 Cliff Dr. Laguna Beach open all week except Wednesdays. FREE the first Thursday of every month from 5:00-9:00 p.m. during the Laguna Beach First Thursday Art Walk. Check it out at: http://www.lagunaartmuseum.org/ or by calling 949-494-8971.
For the whole hour we direct our wide-eyed questions to two local activists advancing the cause of refugees from around the world -Monica Curca and Rashad al-Dabbagh. They are co-founders of Refugees Welcome and demonstrate how their organization is a beautiful example of people, from all over the planet, coalescing on behalf of distressed, new arrivals. Events abound, starting with this Sat/ June 18. Information is available on the blog page of: http://refugeeswelcomeguide.org/
UCI political science professor Charles "Tony" Smith lays out how he predicted last fall the outcome of the Republican Party's nomination process. As well, he covers the essential topic of gerrymandering, in his new book published by Cambridge University Press, entitled "Gerrymandering in America; The House of Representatives, the Supreme Court, andthe Future of Popular Sovereignty." A pox on all our districts! Then, in advance of Memorial Day and for all days of the year, Kylynn Maxwell, surviving spouse of Marine Corps Reserves Cpl. Nathan Maxwell, honors her husband who died by suicide and talks about her important work with Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS).
My guest for the entire hour is CA State Senate candidate Dr. Ari Grayson, running as a Democrat in the 37th District. He is challenging incumbent John Moorlach, a certified public accountant and former Orange County office holder, who won the special election in March of 2015, when Mimi Walters vacated that seat when she was elected to the US Congress the previous fall. Senator John Moorlach, will appear on this program on May 31st, availing all of us the chance to get familiar with both candidates who will advance to the general election as they are the only two candidates who have filed to run for this office.
After the recent National Acceptance Day for graduate programs in genetic counseling, we tap into what a group of UCI students aspire with this leading edge practice. Jessica Greenwood, Brittany Keiser, and Kira Lee - co-founders and member respectively of UCI's Genetic Counseling Special Interest Group, bring us to the intersection of biology and ethics in this growing field. Their weekly meetings are Thursdays at 6:30 pm at Physical Sciences Classroom Bldg. Room # 210. Their new website is: https://clubs.uci.edu/gcsig/.
Sarah Butts, 3rd year MFA directing student at UCI, has cut from whole cloth her brand new play entitled, "Forever Changed." Many of you will recognize the mothers whose loss of a child is the material upon which this intimate play is based. The play will be staged at Studio 4 at UCI's Claire Trevor of the Arts April 29th and 30th at 7 p.m, and May 1st at 3 pm at New Horizon School at 1 Truman Street in Irvine. Tickets to this free event are available on a reserved basis at: http://illuminations.uci.edu/events/. April 30 and May 1st performances will be followed by panel discussions. During the second half, Southern California director of CA High Speed Rail, Michelle Boehm returns to the show to talk finance, what the recent public meetings are saying, and what society gets out of investment in infrastructure. Follow the steady progress being made on this project at: http://www.hsr.ca.gov/
Chris Bragg, Development Director of AIDS Services Foundation (ASF) of Orange County and ASF contributor extraordinaire Donald Hart talk about the 30th anniversary AIDS walk, the progress made, and the progress pending, in this public health arena. Don traces the same 30 years along his path of survival. Information about the May 14th at 10 am, AIDS walk at the Mason Regional Park in Irvine is available at: http://www.ocasf.org/about-aids-walk-orange-county.html.
Harvey Liss brings us up to date with the saga of how clean is the new Portola High School site. News of these developments can be followed in TestForToxics.org and in the Irvine Community News and View. Then culture impresario Henry Korn treats us, to biting satire in his brand new book "Amerikan Krazy," published by Boffo Socko Books. Why now? Because he will be showcased at BC Space in Laguna Beach this Sunday, 3-20, at a very special Vernal Equinox celebration at 325 Forest Avenue. Resources to turn to include: http://www.henryjameskorn.com/ and http://www.bcspace.com/.
Beryl Smith and Herbert Fischer, congregants at St. Marks Presbyterian Church in Newport Beach, present "Great Decisions" a series on Monday nights from 7:00-8:30, starting January 25th and continuing through March 14th. The forum is open to the public at: St. Marks, 2200 San Joaquin Hills Rd, Newport Beach. Or create your own home for this forum: http://www.fpa.org/. During the second half Ali Shakeri, Iranian American peace activist, returns to the show, about his latest pursuits in bringing parties together along the Iranian and American divide.
Jonathan Cohen literacy tutor and freelance editor gets to the CORE of his work with the adult literacy program READ/OC. Other programs include: ESL; Working for Inmate Literacy Now, and Families for Literacy; READ Jr., (school aged children of adult learners). Tons more information can be had at the Orange County library branch nearest you, readoc.org, and 714-566-3070. USC International Relations Professor and Citizens Climate Lobby activist, John Odell, reports back from the Paris Climate Talks. And if folks want to be a part of this CCL project: January 19, 7pm, the Canyon Democrats will host at the Norman Murray Center, 24932 Veterans Way, Mission. Viejo: Special guest speaker Craig Preston, So Cal Regional Coordinator Citizens' Climate Lobby Website: www.citizensclimatelobby.org.
Jack Fry, creator and performer of "Einstein!" talks in advance of his solo show to be staged at the Santa Monica Playhouse Monday evening, January 4th at 7:30. einsteintheplay.com gets you in, before tickets sell all the way out. Over the second portion of the show we are treated to a privileged look at Alexa Hill's transgender journey. Previously from nearby University Hills, now a math major at UC Riverside, Alexa's remarkable articulation and fresh perspective make for compelling listening.
For your viewing pleasure over the holidays and beyond, exhibits abound with possibilities. Cassandra Coblentz of the Orange Museum of Art, at 850 San Clemente Dr., in Newport Beach; Jean Stern of the Irvine Museum, at 1881 Von Karman Blvd. in Irvine; and Cody Lee of Bowers Museum at 2002 North Main in Santa Ana; talk about their current exhibits. Information is available at ocma.net, irvinemuseum.org, and bowers.org.
For the whole hour Syrian national, Amal Alachkar returns to the show three years later to speak about the deepening crisis in Syria and where its refugees find themselves. Along with sustaining her research as a UCI neuro-pharmachologist, she speaks locally and nationally with her well-researched and personal perspective. Worthy institutions that advance this cause include: International Rescue Committee, Syrian American Medical Society, and the UN Refugee Agency.
Charles Blek, OC Chapter President of the Brady Campaign for the Prevention of Gun Violence takes up the progress or the lack of it in reducing gun deaths in CA and the US.
Keith Danner, UCI Lecturer in composition and active contributor to the University Council-American Federation of Teachers, offers a look at a particular class of faculty in the University system. Imagine a 6 year probationary period at your next job. Net guest, Charles Blek, OC Chapter President of the Brady Campaign for the Prevention of Gun Violence takes up the progress or the lack of it in reducing gun deaths in CA and the US.
We examine the persistently declining infrastructure in America, with UCI economic professor Daniel Bogart to take up why and how addressing the immense infrastructure backlog during the Great Recession is the stimulus package lurking in plain sight.
After chewing on that huge bite, we turn to financial planning and student debt, busting a few myths along the way, with Karen Caporaso, Certified Financial Planner. Resources include: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/ and http://www.commonwealthoc.net/Home.aspx?.
We devote the whole hour to Fran Solomon, LA-based founder and president of Heal Grief, an enterprise and a domain supporting the bereaved. Exploring the website brings up new ideas or confirms a few time-honored ones: http://healgrief.org/.
Fiona Sanchez, director of Water Resources of the Irvine Ranch Water Management District, takes measure of rate payers progress and options toward water savings. The recent 9-12-15 workshop toward water savings, is but one of many events presented by IRWD. More information about future forums and ongoing rebates for water saving household appliances is available at: http://www.irwd.com/ The drought line is 949-453-5581.
Nathan Wheadon, marketing director at Orange County Transportation Authority, aka OCTA, presents plans and events about cycling in advance of the upcoming Bikeways Collaborative event: OC Foothills Roundtable Discussion #2 Sept. 10 5:30-7:30 Orchard Hills School Multi Purpose Room 11555 Culver Dr.; Irvine, CA. OCTA continues with its monthly webinars sponsored by the Association of Pedestrian and Bike Professionals - next stop: "Share Streets Slow Starts," 9/16 in San Clemente, then "Tactical Urbanism" 10/21, TBA. Nuggets galore about bicycling are available at: http://www.octa.net/Bike/Overview/
We take stock of the contributions of Heather McCoy, KUCI dj and public affairs hostess, who leaves the station and Orange County as she pursues an education at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Thank you Heather for the notes and the quotes! Nathan Wheadon, marketing director at Orange County Transportation Authority, aka OCTA, presents plans and events about cycling in advance of the upcoming Bikeways Collaborative event: OC Foothills Roundtable Discussion #2 Sept. 10 5:30-7:30 Orchard Hills School Multi Purpose Room 11555 Culver Dr.; Irvine, CA. OCTA continues with its monthly webinars sponsored by the Association of Pedestrian and Bike Professionals - next stop: "Share Streets Slow Starts," 9/16 in San Clemente, then "Tactical Urbanism" 10/21, TBA. Nuggets galore about bicycling are available at: http://www.octa.net/Bike/Overview/
Last month, Medicare and Medicaid celebrated their 50th anniversary. Returning to the show to look back on this achievement, as well as forward toward cost effective outcomes and new developments, is David Sayen, Medicare and Medicaid Regional Administrator for the Western US. The official website is: https://www.medicare.gov/. Co-founders of Professional Alliance for Children, Jim Dell and Jon Beyrer, talk about how their non-profit of San Diego attorneys and financial professionals providing free legal and financial advice to families caring for children with urgent needs. Details about upcoming training, as well as organizational templates to grow new institutions, are available at: http://proalliance.org/.
Irvine family members Devlin, Darius, and Elizabeth Turner, are co-founders of a new non-profit, KidScholly. Their organization is raising funds for scholarships for financially needy children to pursue artistic, academic, and athletic activities. More information about KidScholly is available at: info@kidscholly.com; 1-844-9SCHOLLY or 1-844-972-4655; 4521 Campus Drive #163 Irvine, CA 92612; facebook.com/kidscholly; Twitter @kidscholly; and Instagram: kidscholly.
UCI Law School Professor Gregory Shaffer, a welcome resource at a timely moment, brings a nuanced perspective to help us make sense of the Trans Pacific Partnership. Follow this director of The Center On Law, Globalization and Society at: http://www.law.uci.edu/faculty/full-time/shaffer/,http://www.law.uci.edu/academics/centers/glas/, and http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/cf_dev/AbsByAuth.cfm?per_id=85914; or on articles he has written with his colleague and wife, Michelle Goodwin, posted on the Huffington Post. Electronic Frontier Foundation is one source that Shaffer recommends for monitoring the news coming from Maui where negotiations on the TPP continue at this writing.
Ashley Fancher, Ben Harris, and Kat Stanley, all of whom are with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, speak in advance of a series of events for a retreat planned in OC from July 23-26th, for surviving siblings. Information about later events and services offered by TAPS is available at: http://www.taps.org/. The second part of the show we hear from Climate Change Lobby members Mark Tabbert and Chris Hilger about the in roads that they are making with legislators in high places on the state as well as the federal level.
Pastor Mark Davis of the Newport Beach St. Mark Presbyterian Church brings some very specific religious practices close to home. He examines race, and Pope Francis' Encyclical Letter on climate change. Further reflections of Pastor Mark's are available at: http://leftbehindandlovingit.blogspot.com and http://www.politicaltheology.com/blog/. Watch for future coverage of progressive forums hosted at St. Mark Presbyterian Church.
For the entire hour we hear from a font of religion and history, UCI Humanities professor Jack Miles, general editor of the recently released "Norton Anthology of World Religions." A gallery of religion beckons all comers to this remarkable publication. We bow to this collaboration which includes the work of individual editors: Wendy Doniger Hinduism (U of Chicago); Donald Lopez, Jr., (U of Michigan) Buddhism; James Robson Daoism ( Harvard); David Biale (UC Davis) Judaism; Lawrence Cunningham, Christianity (Notre Dame); and Jane Dammen MacAuliffe (Bryn Mawr/Georgetown) Islam.
UCI Humanities professor Jeff Wasserstrom considers dissent in contemporary China. The conversation about more than dissent will continue on this show June 16th. Required reading includes Wasserstrom's "China in the 21st Century; What Everyone Should Know." Talking cleaner landscape practices for Irvine Unified School District, are: Kathleen Hallal (IUSD PTA Health and Safety Chair), Dr. Jonathan Sorci (former chemist and currently a physican), and Tom Kelly (founder of BeeSafeOrganic Lawn Program). The good news is it's cost effective, helps in drought conditions, and has already been adopted in many cities and states in the Union.
Jan Meslin, Director of Social Change Development for CIVIC (Community Initiatives for Visiting Migrants) talks about how the status of immigration reform affects many deportees or those in detention for deportation . The Direct Support Fund is a fundraiser which will continue until mid August. Support can be offered at: gofundme.com/directsupport, 385-212-4842 to send your support. Charlie Blek, President of the OC Chapter of the Brady Campaign for the Prevention of Gun Violence, returns to take stock of legislation passed in the aftermath of the Isla Ista shootings that occurred one year ago. This rapid response, the "California Gun Violence Restraining Order," Blek maintains, would likely have prevented the assault in Santa Barbara.
David Feldman, UCI Director of Planning, Policy and Design, bring a reassuring tack as to how we could all better manage the severe drought in Southwestern USA. His research on the Millennial Drought in Australia offers lessons learned which provide models of varying comparability for application in our socio-economic infrastructure. Next guest Dr. Marc Lerner, pediatrician and medical officer of Orange County Schools, leads us not to temptation from the e-cigarette phenomenon, now a $3.5 business. Important resources from his agency and around the county include: www.projectalert.com; www.notsosafe.org; and www.ocde.us/healthykids. He also provides insight into the immunization requirement for school children as SB 277 chugs through the CA legislative process.
UCI stage manager Joel Veenstra with his student directors Vinny Tangherlini and Chloe Schneider cover UCI's Improv Revolution presenting The Coup de Comedy Festival 2015, a free May 6-9 festival of comedic talent, 2 panels, 14 free workshops, and the Revolutionary Comedy Award honoring Keegan-Michael Key. Lots of links for loads of laughs: http://improvrevolution.org/coup-de-comedy-festival-2015/; https://www.facebook.com/irevatuci; https://coupdecomedy2015.sched.org/; http://improvrevolution.eventbrite.com/. Then, Huntington Beach activists: Vern Nelson, Lori Robeson, and Paul Both make their case for their no-Styrofoam challenge, one business at a time. A posting of "good neighbor" participating businesses is available on the Facebook page - Huntington Beach No Styrofoam Challenge. Rainbow Recycling and wastetowaves.org and SustainableSurf.org are additional resources to which consumers can turn.
Ann Widney, UCI's Emergency Services Manager, helps prepare and pack us, before the Big One shakes. Resources toward preparing include: http://www.ready.gov/, http://sites.uci.edu/emergencymanagement/, or Anne's contact information: 949-824-7147. Peter Ditto, UCI professor of Psychology and Social Behavior, presents Dr. Sean Wojick and his findings published in the March issue of Science, "Conservatives report, but liberals display greater happiness." Additional exhaustive research can be followed in Professor Ditto's Hot Cognition Lab at: http://sites.uci.edu/peterdittolab/ and http://www.yourmorals.org/.
UCI Claire Trevor School of the Arts Professor and Director Jane Page, with MFA students Kelsey Miller, and Sam Arnold speak briefly about some very special Shakespearean encounters to which local listeners will be treated. Much, much more at: http://illuminations.uci.edu/. Jane Page will return shortly to the show with more, fresh programming. The larger share of AAL is devoted to Jolene Hui, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Los Angeles area and the Membership Coordinator in southern California chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) joins Kurt Wellman, the director of the same NAS California Chapter, who take stock of the range of the services, missions, and tribulations of their profession. Resources for the organization are available at: http://helpstartshere.org/, http://www.beasocialworker.org/, and http://www.naswca.org/.
UCI Prof.Richard Matthews, speaks for the whole hour as Director of the Center for Unconventional Security Affairs (CUSA), known for making humanitarian inroads into looming local, regional, and international problems. Sustainability and Public Private Partnerships get intense scrutiny; and then on to specific ventures that demonstrate the value of bottom up, multi-disciplinary approaches. More information for special lectures and other events presented by CUSA are available at: http://www.cusa.uci.edu/
Guest hostess, Helen Kirkby joins the show to make measure with UCI sociology professor David Meyer and student Parshan Khosravi, examining student activism in CA and beyond. The high cost of learning, voting behavior, news consumption, racial justice, and climate change get their attention. In the second half, Executive Director of the Environmental Nature Center, Bo Glover, launches plans for the Center's new preschool, scheduled to start in January 2017. The curriculum will offer an alternative to sanitized early learning lessons in the burbs. Information about the Center's preschool campaign as well as current ongoing activities is available at:http://encenter.org/
Dr. Josh Grill, Director of Education at UCI's MIND (Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders), and the Alzheimer's Research Center, covers ongoing clinical trials at UCI and in collaborations with other health care research centers around the world. Information about enrolling in research, and upcoming events is available at: http://mind.uci.edu/. Josh Grill will return to this program on many future occasions. Scott Martelle, journalist and author, talks about his recently published fifth book entitled, "The Madman and the Assassin: The Strange Life of Boston Corbett, the man who killed John Wilkes Booth," on the eve of the many commemorations of the 150th anniversary of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Published by Chicago Review Press, the book is available at: http://www.chicagoreviewpress.com/ or as a premium at KUCI's upcoming spring fund drive this April. Follow Scott @smartelle or at www.scottmartelle.com.
Louise Stewardson, write-in candidate, and lonely Democratic candidate in the 37th Senate District Special Election on 3/17/15, talks policy in one of the shortest campaigns in local history. She also reminds us of the downside of low voter turnout: the lowering of the required number of signatures to qualify an initiative to become a statewide ballot proposition. Registered voters in: Anaheim Hills, part of Orange, Villa Park, Tustin, Irvine, Foothill Ranch, El Toro, Lake Forest, Laguna Woods, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Costa Mesa, and South Huntington Beach take note - polling places open on 3/17/15 at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Information about your polling place is available at www.ocvote.com.
For the larger share of the hour, Raul Fernandez, UCI Chicano and Latino Studies Emeritus Professor and current Chair of the UC-Cubaa Academic Initiative, gives a nuanced look at the changes taking place in Cuba amidst US-Cuban rapprochement . Briefly, United Farm Workers President Arturo Rodriguez speaks in advance of the 50th Anniversary of the UFW, celebrated in Orange, CA. on 3-7-15. Mr. Rodriguez will return to the program for a longer interview in September with new initiatives planned for launch at that time. Stay tuned!
Jaimee Tashiri and Diana Cavanaugh, co-manager and board member respectively of the Irvine Assistance League Thrift and Gift Shop, present their charity's abundant benefits to community and consumer. This venture is the one and only thrift store in Irvine, city of nearly 250,000. The store opens house with "It's Just Coffee" on March 7th from 10 am til noon, at 2425 Alton Parkway. More information about other events, opportunities, and hours is available at: www.alirvine.org, or 949-955-3437.
Attorneys Frank Barbaro and Frank Lunding, in the thick of unsettling investigations, examine the forensic evidence of dark money laundered and stacked in the Irvine mayoral election of 2012. The Federal Political Practices Commission, and CA Attorney General Kamala Harris' office are the most direct sources of oversight of these transgression - general public take note. LA artist and curator, Astria Suparak walks us through the Riot Grrrl movement as well as "Alien She," the current exhibition at the Orange Museum of Art that she's co-curated with Ceci Moss. This exhibit runs through May 24, 2015. http://www.ocma.org, http://www.astriasuparak.com, http://riotgrrrlcensus.tumblr.com, and http://www.bit.ly/RGmap are resources to follow the plethora of events at OCMA and or get your own project started. The Lesbian Feminist Haunted House will be staged in West Hollywood this Halloween, presented by exhibiting artist Allyson Mitchell.
In advance of the event, emcee Andrew Tonkovich speaks about "Challenging Capitalism," featuring acclaimed progressive intellectual, Dr. Richard Wolff and Ellen Brown, attorney and writer best known for her advocacy of public banking. It was sponsored by KPFK and O C Greens Party, Feb 12th, at the Delhi Center in Santa Ana. Although this segment did not make the broadcast, this interview sets listeners on the path toward broader discussion about labor behind the Orange Curtain. Mr. Patrick Conlin, of the OC Green Party is available for more information, http://www.ocgreens.org/ or http://www.rdwolff.com/ for the featured speaker.
Dr. Virginia Kimonis, UCI Medical Professor of Genetics and Metabolism, takes up her collaboration with researchers and clinicians at UCI, focusing on rare diseases, especially muscle and bone genetic diseases. With her extensive career in rare genetic diseases, she makes the case for the National Institutes of Health's increased funding for precision or individualized medicine. Talking about her medical team's leading edge diagnostics and treatments, support, and care are: Zack Dumond, with the pediatric onset of Pompe Disease; and David Sweetman, with adult onset of Inclusion Body Myopathy Associated with Paget's Disease (IBMPFD). This interview is presented in advance of World Rare Disease Month, February 28- March 31. The UCI event for this occasion will be hosted on 2/25/15 from 12:00-2:00pm, at the Bill and Sue Gross Hall/CIRM Institute. RSVP Erika Fisher, 949-824-2886. More information about Dr. Kimonis' clinics, rare diseases, and upcoming events is available at: UCI Division of Human Genetics and Metabolism and globalgenes.org. David Sweetman generously maintains an encyclopedic website as a resource for the general public: www.ibmpfd.com.
Returning to the show is Napoleon Gomez Urrutia, General Secretary of Mexico's National Union of Mine, Metal and Steel Workers, Los Mineros; as well, a member of the executive commmittee of IndustriAll Global Union. He brings us up to date on his North American and international goals as well as on his personal successes. His book, covered over his 4/2013 appearance on AAL remains very topical, "Collapse of Dignity; The Story of a Mining Tragedy and the Fight Against Greed and Corruption in Mexico." Next, Payal Shah, second year biological sciences major and president of "Anteaters for Autism," posts her organization's goals and upcoming events. On February 8th, from 2-5 pm, at UCI's Student Center Emerald Room, Payal's organization will host "Social for Adults with Autism and Their Caregivers." Watch for other events and fundraising opportunities on their Facebook page.
"Adventures in Physics: Quantam Circuits" returns to UCI this January 31st from 1-3 pm at the Physical Sciences Lecture Hall (PSLH ) 100. In tribute to John Rosendahl's memory, UCI physics professor Bill Heidbrink and John's surviving wife Linda Halopoff talk about this well institutionalized physics demonstration and lecture. With their collaboration, John Rosendahl, UCI's physical sciences instructional programs director, hatched this exciting physics show, in 1987. Information about this event is available at: http://ps.uci.edu/events/8474. One day after this year's commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., UCI political science professor Davin Phoenix and 3rd year poli sci major Parshan Khosravi take up the professor's research on minority executive models, from the mayoral to the presidential level in the U.S. This research is anticipates the cases that President Obama will make in his State of the Union address tonight. The next course that Professor Phoenix will be teaching is, this spring quarter, "Urban Politics."
UCI Earth System Science Professor Michael Prather hones not only in on his contributions to the International Panel on Climate Change, but also on the role of social responsibility among scientists in general. Scientists, policy makers, and the general public all have opportunities to follow the best information in climate science, starting but not ending with the http://www.ipcc.ch/ and http://newsroom.unfccc.int/. In advance of tonight's "Muslim Voices Against Extremism," forum in Irvine, Atilla Kahveci takes us to places not yet considered in the aftermath of last week's killings in Paris. The forum convenes such distinguished speakers as: Nayereh Tohidi, Ozgur Koca, Jihad Turk, Muzammil Siddiqi, and Imam Sayed Mostafa al-Qazwini; tonight at 6:30 at the Pacifica Institute, 18872 Bardeen Ave, Irvine, CA. This is part of series of forums presented around Southern California, details of which are available at: pacificainstitute.org. Additional sources include: http://www.ecef.org/default.aspx and http://www.bayan.us.org/.
Welcome to a buffet of this year's interviews in three separate excerpts. Heina Daddbhoy, Sarah Jones, and Chani Getter spoke about leaving the orthodoxies of their respective religions on 9/30/14. Then, NASA astronaut Tracy Caldwell Dyson took us aboard the International Space Station on 2/18/14. Finally, on 6/30/14, Marrie Stone guest-hosted UCI's New Swan Theater Shakespearean festival directors and scholar respectively: Calvin MacLean, Eli Simon, and Julia Lupton.
This show's cultural fare has something for everyone . . . Stuart Ashman of MOLAA, presents several exhibits now and into 2015, and envisions some opportunities concerning the recent US rapprochement with Cuba. www.molaa.org offers all the details. Next, Malcolm Warner returns to the show to weigh in with Laguna Art Museum's many installations and programs. Details about the February 7 art auction and more are available at lagunartmuseum.org. Logan Crow, executive director of The Frida Cinema, presents a different film each evening, through New Years Eve and beyond. His fundraiser continues at https://tinyurl.com/help-frida. Happy 2014 Winter Holidays!
Jeremy Tucker, Nissan spokesman, talks about today as "Red Thumb Day," a new initiative addressing the very real hazards of texting while driving. More information is available at: redthumb.org. Next, UCI Law School Dean Erwin Chemerinsky presents both problems and prescriptions dealing with the shortcomings of the US Supreme Court, in talking about his latest book, "The Case Against the Supreme Court," published by Viking Press. We wrap the show with Stanford Climate Scientists Chris Field and Katharine Mach. Both having participated in the recent UN Lima Climate Change Conference, bring insight and perspective on the process of establishing international commitment toward lowering carbon emission pollution.
Dr. Laura Mosqueda, geriatrician extraordinaire, (previously at UCI, now with USC's Keck School of Medicine), considers end of life issues raised in Dr. Atul Gawande's recently published "Being Mortal." In lieu of PhD Social Ecology Student Sally Geislar actually appearing on the show to present her research, we announce the upcoming forum at UCI's Crystal Cove on 12/11/14 at 7 pm concerning the Irvine Farmer's Market; the market's relocation to the Mariners parking lot; and its 20 year commemoration. Finally, Stephanie Eng, 3rd year student at UCI gives Ada Lovelace and Grace Hopper their due in the computing discipline. She, along with her computer science colleagues, welcomes middle school and other girls to a coding workshop at UCI 12/13 from 1-3 pm, at the ICS 3rd Floor Computer Lab. RSVP at: tinyurl.com/wicshourofcode14.
Jane Page, professor and theater director at UCI's Claire Trevor School of the Arts, presents this week and next, Tennessee Williams' classic play, "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof." This production at UCI's Little Theater runs from 12/6-12/14 with evening and some matinee performances. More information is available at the Arts Box office 949-824-2787 or www.arts.uci.edu/tickets. Second guest on the program is Lisa Marie Alley, deputy director of the California High Speed Rail Authority, posting us on the latest developments of and planning for this brand new infrastructure. Public meetings on the Palmdale-Burbank segment of the HSR begin this evening in Santa Clarita and end on 12/8 in Burbank. More information on this and all other developments is available at www.hsr.ca.gov.
This is the continuation of the legacy interview with Dr. Howard Tucker, emeritus professor of Mathematics at UCI. He reflects on the developments in his life that shaped his thinking and his considerable activism.
Dr. Howard Tucker, emeritus professor in Mathematics at UCI, now at the age of 92, reflects on the developments in his life that shaped his thinking and his considerable activism. This 57 minute segment is paired with Part II.
Didier Moujaes, certified financial planner and health insurance broker, talks about the choices available during this current health insurance enrollment period. He can be reached for more information at: 1-800-889-1910 ext. 2 or www.executivecapital.com. Director of the film "The Race to Nowhere," Vicki Abeles joins University High School Assistant Principal Michael Georgino, to talk about the insidious and pervasive culture of over achievement among the nation's youth. The recent revelation of the struggle within the UC system to meet the increased demand for psychotherapists is a warning that families and schools need to address the need for more balance in children's lives. www.racetonowhere.com provides forums, updates, and new products that address this phenomenon.
The whole hour is devoted to the in studio appearances of Navy veteran Gabrielle Cobos and Marine Corps veteran David Kok in commemoration of today's holiday. Both enrolled at UCI's School of Engineering, Gabby is working toward her B.S. degree; David is enrolled as a 1st year Ph.D. candidate. 11/13/14 is a veteran panel at UCI's Student Center. On 11/19/14 at the School of Engineering, David Kok will be presenting paid internship opportunities for veterans at Engineering Tower Rm. 331. More information about events and resources for veterans are available at: www.veteran.uci.edu or 949-824-8045. The Veteran Center at UCI is located at the Student Center complex at G303.
Stellar guests cover this Ask A Voter 2014 edition of the program. UCI Political Scientist Louis DeSipio analyses national political trends afoot this year including: gerrymandering outcomes in places like Austin, TX, campaign finance minus the oversight of 501(C)4 organizations; and what messages voters bring to this year's process. Voters weighing with their voting histories and reasons for voting today include: UCI History Professor Vicki Ruiz, 48th Congressional District Candidate Suzanne Savary, and Madison, WI resident and water quality program manager Sue Jones.
Irvine City Council member and candidate for reelection in 2014, Larry Agran speaks for the whole hour about: redevelopments around town; current and previous municipal budgets; The Great Park; and the financial support of both his opponents' and his campaigns. Invited but missing in this Ask A Leader October forum for municipal candidates are: Jeffrey Lalloway and Lynn Schott.
Parshan Khosravi, organizing director at the ASUCI Office of the Executive Vice President talks about registration and turning out the vote among UCI students, with the 60by16 Initiative. Additional sources include: www.asuci.uci.edu and turbovote.org. Brent Yunek, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Services; and Dr. Patricia Morales, UCI Admissions Director; talk about admissions policies and offer guidance during application season, with the approaching application deadline of November 30, 2014. Additonal useful information includes: www.ofas.uci.edu, finaid.org, and admission.universityofcalifornia.edu.
Irvine City Council Candidates Melissa Fox and Evan Chemers, speak individually, with the UCI community mainly in mind. Both candidates' campaigns can be followed on their websites. More opportunities to meet and hear candidates include: UCI Crystal Cove Auditorium 10/16, noon; the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center 10/18, 2:30; and the Irvine Islamic Center 10/29, 5pm; to name a few. Local coverage continues next week.
Neal Kelley, Orange County Registrar of Voters, details logistics for local voters, especially students, for the November 4 General Election. Confirmation of voter registration is a must at: www.socalvotes.com. Other information is available at www.ocvote.com. Speaking individually over the larger share of the program are Irvine Mayoral candidates: Irvine Planning Commissioner Mary Ann Gaido, Mayor Steven Choi, and small business owner Katherine Daigle. Election coverage continues through November 4th.
For the whole hour are Heina Dadabhoy, Sarah Jones, and Chani Getter, three women who have come out, and summoned over time, unimaginable courage to live apart from the religious doctrines of their childhoods - Islam, Christian Fundamentalism, and Hasidic Judaism, respectively. Listeners can gain further insight or assistance from the following sources: www.inspirationallivinginc.com; www.footstepsorg.org, www.au.org, www.aveilandadarkplace.com, becomingworldly.wordpress.com; www.homeschoolersanonymous.wordpress.com; www.freethoughtblogs.com; Cut Me Loose, by Leah Vincent; Unorthodox, by Deborah Feldman; Faitheist, How an Atheist Found Common Ground with the Religious, by Chris Stedman; www.exmna.org.
In advance of the Sept 20-21 Climate Change rallies to be held around the world, both an academic and an activist continue taking up their own charge. UCI Professor Earth System Scientist Steve Davis brings new vocabulary for the common man as well as necessary global perspectives. Returning to Ask A Leader, is Climate Change Lobby activist Mark Tabbert, posts us on his organization's recent legislative and media inroads toward instituting a carbon tax. Information about the 2000+ events planned in 150 countries rallies is available at: peoplesclimate.org.
Victoria Bernal, UCI Professor of Anthropology, talks about her brand new book, "Nation as Network: Diaspora, Cyberspace, & Citizenship," published by the University of Chicago Press. Bernal edifies with a privileged look at Eritrea's diaspora, and makes connections with other nations' use of cyberspace.
Ken Caldeira Earth System scientist at Stanford University, brings real data to why the world needs to reconsider our appetite for beef. Lisa Grant Ludwig, UCI geology professor and President of the Seismic Society of America, who toils over what the earthquake mapping tells us we need to do, and the many levels at which we mitigate hazards when the Big One(s)hit. Professor Ludwig speaks in advance of the Earthquake Roundtable Discussion, that Congressman Dana Rohrbacher will be hosting at UCI on Aug 11th, from 10- noon at UCI's CALit2 Auditorium. More information is available at: http://publichealth.uci.edu/ph/index.php/zotmail/preview/2851
Reggie Bundekis, member of the Orange County Fairgrounds Preservation Society, connects many a local dot between the privatization attempts at the OC Fairgrounds and the privatization outcome at the OC Great Park. State Assembly bill 2490 would expand conversions of county fairgrounds throughout the state. ocfpreservationsociety.com or the facebook page Derail the Sale provide updates on the Costa Mesa property. This program will cover future developments with additional members of the society and Fair Board members past and present.
Leanne Brown, advocate for better food systems and author, talks about her latest publication, "Good an Cheap," a low-cost cookbook for households making due on food stamps. The source of her free pdf of this publication and other undertakings is available at: www.leannebrown.ca/cookbooks. Dick Ackerman, former California Legislator, now lobbyist, recently launched "Irvine Cares," a venture that has consequences for both planning in and around the Great Park and this year's municipal elections.
Marrie Stone hosts today's show presenting this summer's season of New Swan Theater. Guests include: Calvin MacLean, directing "Romeo and Juliet;" Eli Simon, directing Twelfth Night;" and Shakespeare scholar Julia Lupton, dramaturg for Romeo and Juliet, organizing 12 lectures that support this year's festival. August 18th is the Mozart Monday fundraiser. Details for performances and lectures are available at: newswanshakespeare.com.
All four candidates for the CA 45th Congressional District were invited to be on this show. The result, Drew Leavens held court for the complete hour, as the other candidates were either not available, nor replied to the invitation. This guest appearance hews closely to policy in efforts to familiarize the public with his candidacy. His campaign can be followed on www.dl45th.com or on Facebook.com/DrewLeavensForCongress.
Bill Blunden, computer security researcher, talks about his recently published book, co-written with Violet Cheung, "Behold A Pale Farce; Cyberwar, Threat Inflation, and the Malware Industrial Complex." From their exhaustively documented piece, we gain a better understanding about the political and economic factors that undermine our privacy in the name of national security. Additional commentary from Bill is available at: www.belowgotham.com; copies of the book are available at www.ipg.com. As the California direct primary on June 3rd draws near, Neal Kelley, Orange County Registrar of Voters, posts us on: the changes in our ballots, registration and absentee ballot deadlines, and all the essential polling place information. Confirmation of a voter's registration and all information pertaining to the primary are available at ocvote.com. Early voting apart from completing an absentee ballot, can be done at the Registrar's Office located at: 1300-C, Grand Ave, Santa Ana. The office is available to take calls about election day irregularities at 714-567-7600.
This show is dedicated to the late, great Tim Carpenter, Orange County grassroots organizer, and founder of Progressive Democrats of America; who died at the age of 55, on 4/29/14. Viniyoga trainer Juris Zinbergs takes his practice from the lineage of renowned gurus: Krisnamakcharya, Vivekanda,and TKV Desikachar, to address the essentials of yoga in our day and age. Juris will be one of several trainers presenting a free forum, open to the public, on May 17th, at UCI's Anteater Recreation Center. Information and reservations are available through: John.Halsey@uci.edu. Juris will also teach at a 200 hour Viniyoga Instructor Training at UCI this summer; details are available at viniyoga.com or yogawithjuris@gmail.com. Shifing the pace, is the second guest, Michelle Boehm, Southern California Regional Director of the CA High Speed Rail Authority (HSR). The first in the nation, the HSR authority massive plans over these next several decades are taking shape amidst exciting times with the public's shifting preferences in transit. Your questions and comments are welcome at the following platforms: Facebook: 'California High Speed Rail Authority', Twitter: @CaHSRA, Flickr: 'hsrcagov', and Online ridership campaign: '#iwillride'.
Shyima Hall, the Egyptian woman, who in 2002, nearly 13 years old, was rescued from her enslavement here in Irvine, talks about her saga in her new book "Hidden Girl; The True Story of a Modern Day Child Slave," published by Simon and Schuster. Only 2 % of enslaved, trafficked individuals are ever rescued. Shyima offers how to discern these individuals, and notes how agencies are now better prepared to intervene in the rescue and healing efforts. The second guest is Gary W. Matkin, Dean of Continuing Education, Distance Learning and Summer Session covers a host of summer courses to equip aspiring, new, and returning students for success in university life. Information on these programs is available at summerscholar@uci.edu, 949-824-7649, or the following specific websites: HIgh School Scholars Program: http://summer.uci.edu/services/students/highschool/ University Summer Success 101 Online: http://summer.uci.edu/online/ Freshman Freshstart Program: http://summer.uci.edu/fssp/ STEM International Preparation: http://unex.uci.edu/international/preparation/undergrad.aspx
Jane Page, UCI School of the Arts professor/director and leading lady/MFA student Rosemary Brownlow, talk in advance of their 4/26 opening night of "As You LIke It." They entice us with how the Shakespearean play is set this time in New Orleans and surrounding Cajun Country. It will be performed evenings: 4/26, 27, 29, 30, 5/1, 2; and matinees on 4/27, 5/3, 4 - inside a portion of the New Swan Theater set inside the Robert Cohen Theater at UCI. Box office is at 949-824-2787 or www.arts.uci.edu/tickets. Returning to the show, is feature writer Susan Carpenter, now with the OC Register and the recently launched LA Register, riffing with the host about daily habits that could be adapted as a regular observance of Earth Day. Don't just listen to these ideas; we value your ideas even more!
UCI lecturer Daniel Pilchman covers what he taught last winter quarter in his "Ethics of Food" course, with students Julie Fong and Jordan Pittman. The course culminated in students' research at the nearby Irvine Farmers' Market. Jill Mullin, a New York City-based behavior analyst, and recipient of the inaugural Felix in Art Award, presented by Extreme Kids & Crew! presents her recently published, "Drawing Autism." This book provides artists on the autistic spectrum a platform for their work, as well as insight into the artists' perspective This publication is available on akashicbooks.com.
On the heels of the International Panel on Climate Change's latest report, Alex Jackson, attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council focuses on implementing California's Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB32). The California Climate Credit Program recently launched will provide utilities with incentives to lower their carbon emissions while providing rate-payers credits on their April and November energy bills. More information is available at energyupgradeca.org; more information on regional and national initiatives at nrdc.org. Composer/percussionist/multi-media artist Juan David Rubio, along with crew members Elizabeth Erickson and Anna Savery, lays out what audiences in Irvine and Bogota, Columbia are in for with his production, "Spatia." This UCI Masters of Fine Arts project of Juan's takes place on 4/4/14 at 6:30 pm at the School of the Arts' Contemporary Arts Center, Experimental Media Performance Lab. The event is free and open to the public.
Greg Palast, muckraker of choice, connects the dots between British Petroleum and the Exxon Valdez disaster, as we look back on the last 25 years of remediation, recalcitrance, retribution, and the hitting of the repeat button. More investigative work is available at greapalast.com. Dr. John Kabashima, UC Cooperative Extension environmental horticulture advisor, or "wise-crackin' plant sage" posts listeners on the pests that continue to blight crops, parklands, and our own gardens. As funding continues to decline on the state and federal levels, never has any emergency response been budgeted. Problems can be reported to: hotline@uccemg.com. Abundant resources are available at: ipm.ucdavis.edu, cisr.ucr.edu. Stay tuned for the 100th anniversary of the UC Cooperative extension May 6th and again on 9/27/14. 9/23/14 will be a good time to listen to this show for coverage.
Helping us understand and own our drought is today's cast of five; UC Center for Hydrologic Modeling scholars: Neeta Bijoor, Alys Thomas, and AJ Purdy, along with Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) Board Member Steven LaMar and IRWD Director of Water Resources Fiona Sanchez. One correction, lawn irrigation uses about 700 bathtubs of water per year, instead of the amount stated in the interview. Related upcoming events include:3/22 UN World Water Day; Fix A Leak Week 3/17-23; Children's Water Education Festival at UCI 3/26-27, and IRWD Water Awareness tours: 5/30, 5/31, 6/7,9/12, and 9/13. More sources on water conservation include: saveourH2O.org, calscape@irwd.com, and ucchm.org. Eddie Hayes, curator at the Museum of Latin American Art leads us through the recently opened exhibit: "Frida Kahlo, Her Photos." The exhibit runs until June 8, 2014. More information about the exhibit and related programs and events is available at molaa.org.
Dr. Elizabeth Cauffman, Professor of Psychology and Social Behavior and Director of the Center for Psychology and Law, helps us rethink our juvenile justice system. Her research in the Pathways to Desistence Study and the Crossroads Project expansively examine decision making guidelines to reverse the expensive and unproductive incarceration traps set up in mandatory sentencing and zero tolerance policies. Information on research and public forums is available at: http://psychlaw.soceco.uci.edu/ and www.pathwaysstudy.pitt.edu. Next, Orange County comedien Cindy Burns gives local female comics their due, in advance of their appearance at the Coach House. Cindy is the creator, producer, and performs in Funniest Wives whose shows will run at the Coach House March 22nd and May 10th. Information is available at either www.funniestwives.com or at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano.
A triple treat today starts with Christopher Smith, co-director with Merete Mueller, of the documentary "Tiny A Story of Living Small." The film will be presented March 6th, 8 pm at the Orange County Museum of Art, 850 San Clemente Drive, Newport Beach. More information is available at either www.ocma.net, 949-759-1122, or www.tiny-the movie.com. Harvey Liss, local activist and recent appointee to the Irvine Planning Commission, takes up the Irvine Unified School District's complicated selection of a site to build its 5th high school. In addition, he addresses the conditional use permit for the nearby proposed drive-in for Chick Fila. Lastly, Phyllis Gilmore presents at the end of this week, March 8th at 8 pm at the Winnifred Smith Hall, a concert in memory of her husband the late Bernard Gilmore. She considers as we listen to excerpts of his compositions and a performance, his career of music. A limited number of tickets for the free performance are available at the box office 949-824-2787 or at www.arts.uci.edu/calendar.
Get Safe Founding Director Stu Haskin, along with Craig Rexroad and Heidi Campbell, talks about Stu's self defense organization that teaches skills and awareness techniques to students from 5-81, throughout all of California. More information is available at getsafeusa.com. Michael Hiltzik, LA Times business columnist and Pulitzer prize winner, takes the short and long view of Comcast's $45 B merger with Time/Warner.
Shirley Grindle, OC campaign finance reform activist and TINCUP oversight volunteer, offers new blood an opportunity to assume her charge. Since the 2008, the OC's grand jury pronounced the need to create a Campaign Practices Commission; the need for public, county wide oversight of campaign finance persists. Shirley Grindle, a long term fixture in this enterprise, is ready to pass on the torch. Next, in advance of her 2/18/18 appearance at the UCI's Beckman Center, NASA astronaut and International Space Station veteran Tracy Caldwell Dyson gives a personable look at the program. From her selection into the astronaut corps to the projection of future space exploration, priviledged glimpses are offered. For additional information about the Beckman Center free public lecture on 2/18/14 at 7p.m., contact Melissa Sweet at 949-824-2628 or msweet@uci.edu
Tom Buchmueller, healthcare economist at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, offers much needed, nuanced interpretations of the labor market and state/federal budget impacts from the Affordable Care Act. Among the recent adjustments he covers are the Congressional Budget Office's February 2014 report as well as yesterday's extension of the employer mandate. Then, second guest Daniel Estulin, author of recently published, "Transformation: The Coming of Age of Human Deconstruction'" plots the dots along some unnerving trends in human development. Starting with his early work tracking the influence of the Bilderberg Group, Estulin draws extensively on such sources as: the Strategic Trends Report, Codex Alimentarius,the Futures Group, Tavistock Institute, DARPA, In Q Tel with Bio Rad Laboratories, British Coefficients Club, CIA's MK-ULTRA, The Project Pandora, Russia 2045, Project Quasar, and Timothy Thomas' "The Mind Has No Firewall;" to name a few. Daniel Estulin can be followed at: www.danielestulin.com and www.trineday.com.
Margaret Maradudin, a definitive authority of all things Russian, takes the show's full hour, to pull aside the curtain of the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympic Games. As a prelude to viewing the Olympics, the Russian Television broadcast of Vladimir Putin's 2007 IOC meeting in Guatemala is very compelling. Among Peggy Maradudin's many insights are her recommendations that Olympic viewers follow the Games' coverage on the following websites among others for additional perspective: http://en.ria.ru/russia, http://themoscownews.com/, http://english.pravda.ru/, http://www.themoscowtimes.com/ For seniors who wish to hear Ms.Maradudin's lectures, you can enroll at extension.uci.edu/olli or 949-451-1403.
A J Shaka, UCI Chemistry Professor examines our energy options in his inestimably critical and expansive way. Ready to look at nuclear power through a chemist's prospective? Next, UCI sociology professor and demographer, Professor Wang Feng, offers his latest findings on the impacts and adjustments to China's one child policy and gender preferences for offspring.
Howard Vlieger, Third Generation Iowa family farmer and GMO/glyphosate expert, and local activist Kathleen Hallal, cover the impact of the latest agricultural practices on public health and the food chain. Vlieger's current tour in Southern California takes him to Northridge Chabad Jan 21st (818)765-1939; Irvine PTA on Wednesday at the IUSD offices; Laguna Woods Community January 31st (949)597-4200; and The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano on Feb 2 (949)443-4223. More information about these forums and future events is available at www.momsacrossamerica.com, and studentofthesoil@gmail.com. Additional resources include the following books: "Seeds of Destruction," "Uncertain Peril," "Our Stolen Future," "America's Two-Headed Pig," and "The Unhealthy Truth." UCI guest director, Gavin Cameron-Webb in the run up to Saturday's opening night, talks about presenting this week and next week Tony Kushner's mold breaking play "Angels in America." Performances are scheduled at 8 pm Jan. 25, 30, Feb 1; 7:30 pm Jan. 26; and 2 pm Jan 26, Feb. 1,2. The box office at 949-824-2787 or www.arts.uci.edu/tickets, provides additional information about this special production at UCI's intimate Robert Cohen Theater.
Gabriel Piterberg, Professor of History and Director of the Gustav von Grunebaum Center for Near East Studies at UCLA reflects on what Ariel Sharon wrought throughout his military and political campaigns. Chief curator at the Orange County Museum of Art, Dan Cameron, returns to AAL to lay out themes he's pulled together at the current exhibition entitled "California Landscape in Abstraction." Who knew that the OCMA collection could express things in this way? Information on this exhibition, and the many special events still planned, is available at: www.ocma.net or by calling 949-759-1122.
Irvine Valley College Students Django Mangalam and Zachary Ho and U C I graduate student Noe Rodriguez discuss their two prototypes for clean cooking stoves. Their progress can be followed on youtube and at UCI's School of Engineering, respectively. More information is available at cleancookstoves.org. Over the second half of the show, Tom Patterson of Harvard University's JFK School takes up the challenge of maintaining quality journalism in his recent publication, "Informing the News; The Need for Knowledge-Based Journalism." Copies of his book can be ordered at www.vintagebooks.com
Shayk Mustafa Umar, of the Islamic Institute of Orange County, weaves historic and legendary details into his Islamic interpretation of Jesus and the attendant prophecies. Shayk Umar's resonating themes take up application in our everyday, contemporary lives. iioc.com is a source for services, lectures, and cultural activities at the Institute located at 1220 N. State College Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92608. 714-533-6271 is open for calls between 10 am -5:30 pm. Briefly, Scotty Bruer, founder of PeaceNow.com brings on his own initiative, signing up "peace ambassadors" around the world.
Syrian neuropharmacologist, Amal Alachkar, on a temporary appointment at U.C. Irvine takes up how the Syrian academic and scientific infrastructures is at risk amidst Syria's nearly 3 year old civil war. Her appointment is made possible by the Scholar Rescue Fund. Other sources worthy of listeners' support include: the Syrian Organization for Relief and International Awareness Inc. (Facebook page SORIA), and the Syrian American Medical Society. Returning to Ask A Leader, is James Famiglietti, earth sciences engineer and professor at UCI. Accompanying him are Jamiat Nanteza and Sasha Richey, veritable rock stars and doctoral candidates, who address international water security issues from persistent and deepening groundwater depletion. All three consider their research in Eastern Africa, the Middle East, and Asia with the advanced technology available through the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (G.R.A.C.E.) satellite system that locates and measures ground water depletion globally. The Pentagon's highly secure Office of Net Assessment is also paying attention to these trends.
Redeeming grief magnificently, Charles and Mary Leigh Blek continue to take up the prevention of gun violence, as we acknowledge the one year anniversary of the Newtown, CT shootings. They present a report card of state and federal legislation passed and pending. Legislative updates are available at www.smartgunlaws.org. Sat. December 14th, around California and the country, bells will toll for the victims of the Sandy Hook massacre. Information for the Orange County gathering is available at: orangecountybradychapter@gmail.com or 714-200-9676; for other venues around the country: www.bradycampaign.org or 650-863-3360. Moreover, we commemorate the life of Nelson Mandela, as well the work of Linda and Peter Biehl whose daughter Amy was killed 20 years ago in South Africa. Linda Biehl, who survives her husband, continues her work as co-founder and director of the Amy Biehl Foundation, an internationally supported organization transitioning toward local management. Information about Amy and the Foundation's charter and the outcomes is available at www.amybiehl.co.za or www.amybiehl.org Rest in peace, Madiba.
Just in time for the holidays, Gayle Jabour and Daniel Tigner have recently launched their publication, "The Time of Your Life: Everyone Has a Story." This book compiles reflections of some 40 retirees spanning a breadth of careers with a depth of experience. Insights this privileged are rare - the dividends of listening to this extent take us, in everyday life, to some very special zones. Books can be ordered at the usual outlets or www.revealinglightproductions.com, www.gsph.com or calling (819)682-0205. Robin Leffler, President of Costa Mesans for Responsible Government, takes up the latest developments in her city council's efforts to trim public comment. New policies of consequence are expected to be considered as well as enacted tonight, starting at 6 pm at the Council Chambers at 77 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa. More information is available at www.cm4rg.org as well as www.costamesaca.gov.
Local high school students on Thanksgiving break discuss their projects and goals at school, their college aspirations, and the their pending admissions processes. Meet the up and coming professional class on this show: Hunter Craft, ASB president of University High School; Hannah O'Connor, ASB President of Woodbridge High; and Emma Kensington, home schooling in Newport Beach and recipient of The Environmental Nature Center's volunteer of 2013 award.
Dana Garfin, a post doc scholar at UCI's Department of Psychology and Social Behavior, addresses the impact of nationally/internationally covered traumatic events on the individual's physical and mental well being; from the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of JFK's assassination to 9/11. Next, UCI German Professor Kai Evers probes into the ambiguities of the provenance of the Gurlitt art collection recently discovered in the family's Munich apartment. This coverage of the family's relationship to the Third Reich and to the art world,is only the start of many discoveries yet to be disclosed. lostart.de is one website where this topic can be followed.
Katie Barraza, as Director of Senior Services a the Gay and Lesbian Services Center of Orange Co. advocates for elders of the LGBTQ community who are missed in the institutional and social settings. Stu Maddox' film Gen Silent is a remarkable glimpse into these lives which shift in and out of the closet. thecenteroc.org located at 1605 N. Spurgeon Street, SA, CA. You can give Katie a call if you want to sign up a senior friend who could benefit from any of these programs: (714) 953-5428, ext. 204 located at 1605 N. Spurgeon Street, SA, CA or at: thecenteroc.org. Immigration attorney Jeff Khurgel covers the legal and political status quo of immigrant law as prospects for reform dwindle on the Congressional vine. He can be reached at: Khurgel.com or his office located: 4199 Campus Drive, 949-509-6515.
Giving their best analysis of great parks they have known and the Orange County Great Park, are retired engineers and local activists Harvey Liss and Carl Mariz. The greatly accelerated review process will be taken up at the Nov. 12 (5 pm) Irvine City Council session, when a vote is expected on a development order outside the Great Park, as well as on a brand new Great Park build-out plan, all proposed by the Five Point Communities development company. Agenda and scheduling information is available at www.irvinecitycouncil@ci.irvine.ca.us. or www.cityofirvine.org/council. Executive director of the Laguna Art Museum, Dr. Malcolm Warner amazes us with a heady program both indoors and outdoors this week: lectures, discussions, performance art with the featured artists as well as with prominent LA region historian Kevin Starr. The exhibition continues for most installations through mid January 2014. More information on all of the planned activities and exhibition is available at: www.LagunaArtMuseum.org.
Professor and Chicano/Chicana Latino Studies Director Vicki Ruiz blows us away with her coverage at the now 5 year old dept. at UCI; her contributions and appearances in the PBS series "Latino Americans;" her nation-wide professional affiliations and mentoring of students and new professors; and her signing off reference to Noche de Altares celebrating the Day of the Dead in nearby Santa Ana, CA. UCI Dean of the Claire Trevor Bren School of the Arts (CTSA) Joseph Lewis brings a richly endowed calendar of performances and exhibitions presented at UCI for 2013-14. Samples of his music, along with those of CTSA faculty Alan Terricciano and Michael Dessen, are included in the show. Information about the school's offerings are available at the box office 949-824-2787 or www.arts.uci.edu.
Representatives of the Alliance for Boys and Men of Color, Activists Ruben Lizardo and Rafael Solorzano as well as CA State Assemblymen Steven Bradford, talk about recent legislation signed into law toward which they all worked over these last several years. Next Tuesday, October 29th at Century High School in Santa Ana, the Alliance will host a special gathering to advance additional legislation and agenda items. Information is available about that and more on the Alliance's Facebook page, and allianceforbmoc.org or boysandmenofcolor@policylink.org. Then in the second half, Professor Richard Matthew, founder and director of the Center for Unconventional Security Affairs at UCI, calmly speaks about the host of environmental travesties that undermine security anywhere and everywhere. Events and other opportunities are posted at www.cusa.uci.edu.
Sharon Ellis, CEO of the Orange Co Chapter of Habitat for Humanity, now celebrating its 25th anniversary, covers current projects as well as the ongoing charter of providing qualified households with affordable homes. The Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations and hours as well as volunteer opportunities are available at: www.habitatoc.org. Author Dennis Dunivan, on a book tour in Southern CA, talks about his human rights thriller, "Escape from Communist Heaven," which is based on the saga of Viet Nguyen. Mr. Nguyen would have been a part of the book tour as well as this interview, had his visa been processed by the American government; he awaits processing in London, his current home town. More details about the book tour, how Dennis and Viet met, and where to order copies of the book are available on: www.communistheaven.com.
Mark Chamberlain, of BC Space, affectionately talks up his retrospective of Southern California artist Paul Darrow; the recently released publication "BC Space, Mything in Action; and The Legacy Project at the Orange County Great Park. indiegogo.com and bcspace.com are resources for more information. Next we take up human trafficking, wherein there persists a high incidence in Orange County. Dr. Ana Nogales of Casa de la Familia and Lita Mercado with the Community Service Programs, Inc. talk about how their organizations intervene on behalf of victims. In addition they consider how all of us can increase our awareness of this travesty amidst us. The tip Hotline is 1-888-3737-888. Opportunities for involvement can be pursued at www.casadelafamilia.org and www. cspinc.org.
Mark Tabbert, co-founder of the Newport Beach area chapter of Citizens Climate Lobby talks about his organization's laser like focus on national legislative adoption of the Carbon Tax. The carbon tax, a revenue neutral measure, is a policy that has been supported by economists across the political spectrum. Interested individuals can get started with CCL's weekly telephone conferences and or monthly meetings by contacting one's local chapter through citizensclimatelobby.org and they can read "The Case for a Carbon Tax," by Dr. Shi-Ling Hsu. Charlie Blek, President of the OC Chapter of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, returns to the show to talk about the Colorado and New York States' recently enacted gun legislation; then offers full throated support for CA Senate Bills in the LIFE Act (Livesaving Intelligent Firearms Enforcement Act): SB 374, 396, 47, 567, 755, and 683. More information is available at: findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov, smartgunlaws.org/tracking or orangecountybradychapter.
University High School Assistant Principal Mike Georgino and students: Jack Earthman, Carli Jipsen, and Abbie George have a round table discussion about the insidious culture of over-achievement in American public schools. An administrator, graduate, a senior, and junior, respectively, engage in all aspects of student life at University High School.
Attorney Christina Fialho, co-founder/executive director of Community Initiatives for Visiting Immigrants in Confinement ( CIVIC), talks about the increasing criminalization and isolation of immigration detainees in the US. She also distinguishes between the Senate and the US House of Representative versions of immigration legislation pending as the window of opportunity for meaningful reform closes prior to the 2014 elections. More information is available at: isolation.org, and friendsofocdetainees@gmail.com Art History scholar, Liliana Leopardi, currently at Hobarg and William Smith Colleges brings us behind the scenes during the last weeks of the Bowers Museum exhibition: Gems of the Medici. The exhibit, a rare opportunity to see this extensive collection in one place outside of Italy, closes on Sept 15th. The last free Sunday at the Bowers for this exhibit is 9/1/13. More information is available at: 714-567-3600 or bowers.org Thank you for listening!
Teresa Zerilli-Edelglass, in her literary debut, "Thrown Under the Bus, the Rise and Fall of an American Worker," talks about how her work ethic collided with a good ol' boys network at the NYC Transit Authority, resulting in sexual discrimination and harassment, and her go it alone approach to seeking justice. St. Stephen Baptist Church Reverend Anthony Dockery, along with Reverend Jaron Singley, Ms. June Davis, and Reverend Jose Rebus; talk about the host of services offered amidst a zipcode or two adrift in the La Puente area, 20 miles east of Los Angeles. A fundraiser in Newport Beach, benefitting the congregation's Community Based Organization Servants Arms, will be a "Dinner Cruise Extravaganza" on Friday Sept. 6th at 2431 W. Pacific Coast Hwy. More information is available: Chandra Howden 626-377-5914 or 909-223-4718, www.servantsarms.org
Reverend Canon Albert Ogle, President of the St. Paul Foundation for International Reconciliation; and Colin Steward, veteran journalist and blogger; address persistent homophobic policies and acts committed in Cameroon, Uganda, South Africa, and Russia, among other countries. Of particular concern is the recent torture and killing of Eric Lembembe, the executive director of the Cameroonian Foundation for Aids (Camfaids), and contributor to 76 Crimes blog. Ogle and Stewart also examine the extent to which Exodus International has retreated from its promotion of therapy for gays to convert to heterosexuality. These guests' activism can be followed on the blog 76crimes.com or the recently published, "From Wrongs to Gay Rights."
UCI Law School Professor Rick Hasen and UCI Political Science Professor Louis DeSipio consider the recent Supreme Court ruling on the Voting Rights Act, and the many states' recent moves subsequent to the decision. More commentary from Rick Hasen is available at: http://electionlawblog.org/. Edward Randolph, Energy Division Director of the California Public Utilies Commission talks about the costs of decommissioning the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant for all stakeholders, including rate payers. He also takes up energy saving incentive schedules that vary between business and residential users. More information on upcoming hearings concerning the decommissioning and other processes can be followed at: www.cpuc.ca.gov/? .
UCI School of the Arts Drama Director, Eli Simon in talking about this summer's New Swan Theater season, offers a tribute to Dudley Knight. Emeritus Professor Knight, who was slated to perform in the title role of "King Lear", passed away last month, with Henson Keys filling in as capably as anyone, to perform that special role. Eli Simon explains how the compellingly spare New Swan theater creates special circumstances for adapting the settings for: "King Lear," "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and the "Fantasticks." More information for tickets and other logistics is available at: www.arts.uci.edu/tickets or 949-824-2787. Appropriately taking on the heating up of summer as well as Mother Earth in general is Morissa Zuckerman, Fossil Free Fellow at 350.org. an advocacy group building a grassroots movement to solve the climate crisis. www.350.org; offers many resources for following the movement including: Global Power Shift, Summer Heat, and the Divestment Campaign.
Julie Fisher, expert and scholar on Civil Society and Democracy talks about the heady work of intrepid organizers covered in her recently published book, "Importing Democracy; The Role of NGO's in South Africa, Tajikistan, and Argentina." Her blog posts observations about budding democracies in crisis, and books can be ordered at: www.importingdemocracy.org. She vows to return to the show to cover other countries' uphill struggles, with another colleague. Watch KUCI for future program details. Brad Johnson, Campaign Manager for Forecast the Facts, introduces listeners to his organization founded in Jan 2012. This grass roots organization monitors meteorologists around the country, both the climate-change denying and the enlightened kind, given the power that these highly visible broadcasters have in disseminating information to the general public. Johnson also speaks about Google CEO, Eric Schmidt's recent $25,000/plate fundraiser for the reelection campaign of Oklahoma Senator Jim Inhofe - pondering the IT Giant's interests with those of the most famous climate-change denier in the U.S. Senate. More information is available at: www.forecasthefacts.org
Jennifer Muir, Assistant Manager for the Orange County Employees Association returns to the show to take up: the monument commissioned by the O.C. Fairgrounds Board to commemorate farm workers; the effect of the elimination of enterprise zones on workers; and the County's failed Information technology contracts. The business of the Fairgrounds board can be followed on www.cfair.com Dan Cameron, Chief Curator of the Orange County Museum of Art, covers the recent opening of the 2013-California Pacific Triaennial at the Orange County Museum of Art. The exhibit at 850 San Clemente Drive, Newport Beach, runs til 11/17/13. More information is available at: www.ocma.net, (949)750-1122. Thanks for listening.
Don Lipstein, Peer Mentor Coordinator, and surviving father of Navy Master at Arms 2 Joshua Lipstein, talks about an organization uniquely qualified to address the concerns of survivors of veterans. Joshua Lipstein; son, husband, and father, took his own life in March 2011. This interview honors how far Don Lipstein has come in dealing with his own grief and in helping others cope. More information about TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors), which was initiated in 1994, is available at: www.Taps.org or (800)959-TAPS (8277)
Louis Barajas, personal finance and business expert, addresses the complexities of Latino households in aspiring to and meeting the fullest potential of their financial goals. With examples provided from local experiences, this author of "The Latino Journey to Financial Greatness - 10 Steps to Creating Wealth and Happiness for You and Your Family," frankly talks about the barriers Latino families' must overcome for more financial stability and prosperity. www.louisbarajas.com is a source for more information.
Irvine Barclay Theater President Doug Rankin, and culture/media critic Jim Washburn, as Irvine and Costa Mesa residents respectively, talk about the regional cultural, political, and civic benefits of the Barclay Theater. Tonight the majority of the Irvine City Council will propose cutting substantial funding for this special venue. Details are available at: www.ci.irvine.ca.us and www.IrvineMatters.com Matt Garcia, writer, historian, and academic; covers the farm workers movement while talking about his latest book, "From The Jaws of Victory, The Triumph and Tragedy of Cesar Chavez and the Farm Worker Movement," hot off the UC Press, and recent winner of the Philip Taft Award. Currently Professor of Transborder Studies and History at Arizona State University, Garcia demythologizes Cesar Chavez while acknowledging the uncanny contributions of the multitude of United Farmer Workers activists. Media and others can contact Garcia at: matthew.j.garcia@asu.edu
Dr. Justin Lin, licensed, certified doctor of physical therapy, with his own practice in Tustin, cautions us on fad workouts, and offers advise in seeking professional trainers and therapists. His practice website, www.rehabandrevive.com provides additional resources. Other useful links include: http://www.rehabandrevive.com/w/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Rehab-and-Revive-Confessions.pdf and www.ipaconed.com as well as thenoticeca.com Covering a monumental, local cultural event commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first performance of The Rite of Spring, are UCIrvine Claire Trevor Bren School of the Arts Dance Dept. faculty John Crawford and Lisa Naugle. Their collaboration, The Sacre, will be staged at the Samueli Theater around the corner from the Pacific Symphony's performance of the Rite of Spring on June 6, 7, and 8. All details pertaining to this multi-faceted, multi-media, multi-staged program are available at www.pacificsymphony.org or by calling 714-755-5799. Innumerable UCI School of the Arts All Stars are involved in presenting this phenomenal Sacre collaboration.
Dr. Tim Brown, Technology Manager for Sustainable Transportation and Energy at the Advanced Power and Energy Program at UCI, talks about the all new plug-in hybrid vehicle sharing pilot program called Zevnet. The Scion iQ electric vehicle's many fine features and benefits are now being tested with leading-edge opportunity in our midst! More information is available at: www.zevnet.org or 877-378-9476
Returning to AAL, Drs. Kristi Koenig and Carl Schultz, Directors at the Center for Disaster Medical Sciences at UCI review the lessons learned from the emergency response to the Boston Marathon bombings. Both the professional and the civilian roles in this and other disasters are stressed. Additional resources are available at: http://www.fema.gov/community-emergency-response-teams, another for red cross volunteers: http://www.redcross.org/support/volunteer and for National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD), the site is: http://www.nvoad.org/
Jene Meece, founder and executive director for Cradle to Career: Kenya, returns to the program for updates on the Athi River residences and school for Kenyan orphans and children at risk of severe poverty. She showcases the May speaker series intended for raising awareness about many African issues: May 9th, May 16th, May 23rd, and May 30th. More information is available at: 949-533-9569 or www.c2ckenya.org Art Maven Phyllis Lutjeans entreats listeners to consider fine art on terms more personal than is usually considered. She invites listeners to join her salon, "The Art Crowd" which she has been conducting for over 20 years. More information about this opportunity is available by contacting her at: artcrowd@cox.net
Attorney Janice Bellucci, President of the Board of Directors of California's Chapter of the national organization Reform Sex Offender Laws talks about the non-profit engaged in restoring the civil rights of sex offenders through education, legislation, and litigation. AB 702, a bill currently under consideration in the CA Legislature, is worthy of public support as it creates a tier system for removing lower level offenders from the register, which is done in 46 other states in the Union. More information is available on the web at www.californiarsol.org or (805)896-7854 The Claire Trevor Bren School of the Arts presents at UCI's Little Theater, "The Visit," written by Friedrich Durrenmatt and directed by UCI Professor Jane Page. Joining Jane in this interview is Drama Dept. Chair Gary Busby, as they talk about the preparation, and performance scheduled April 27, May 2,3,4 at 8 pm and April 28, May 4,5. Tickets are available by calling the Box Office at 949-824-2787 or online at www.arts.uci.edu/tickets
Linda Bogue, Emergency Services Manager at UC Irvine's main campus talks about preparedness for disasters from dormitory fires to earthquakes to San Onofre meltdowns, while covering yesterday's attack at the Boston Marathon. Outlets for breaking developments at UCI include: http://sites.uci.edu/emergencymanagement http://facebook.com/UCIrvinePD http://twitter.com/UCIrvinePD http://nixle.com/University-of-California-Police-Department Also Zot mail and OIT are sources. Next, Orrin Pilkey, Professor Emeritus of Earth Science at Duke University, talks about the pitfalls of challenging or forecasting the dynamics of beaches worldwide. His more than 250 publications are listed at CoastalCare.org His latest editorial in the NYTimes published on 11/14/12, is "We Need to Retreat From the Beach." He is currently working on a book entitled, "The Lost Beach."
Returning to the show one year later are Becky Tejera and Natalie Burgess, to post listeners on the progress of their treatments for breast and colon cancer respectively. Natalie's success was to be shared in the broadcast, but 5 1/2 month old Isabella slept through the interview! Napoleon Gomez Urrutia, General Secretary of Mexico's National Union of Mine, Metal, and Steel Workers, speaks about the collusion between the government, business, and the media to discredit the Union as well as him. While living in exile in British Columbia these last 7 years, he's completed a book that documents the victimization of a unified miners union, including "industrial homicide." His book "The Collapse of Dignity, The Story of a Mining Tragedy and the Fight Against Greed and Corruption in Mexico," can be purchased online at his website: collapseofdignity.com Accolades go to his wife, Oralia Casso, who advances the cause and perseveres along with him while they remain in exile.
Professor David Pan, UCI German scholar and director of the Humanities Core Courses, talks about this year's launching of the European Studies major. With the immersion in learning and living, this new program breathes deserved relevance back into the pursuit of German, Russian, French, and Italian languages and studies. More information is available at ELSDept@uci.edu or 949-824-6406. David hosted at UCI the recent conference, "Visions of Europe." At the end of 2014, he will present an international conference at UCI, "Europe and the World." The second half showcases engaged students at nearby University HIgh School: recently elected ASB President Hunter Craft, ASB Vice-President Carli Jipson; as well as officers of the club "Peace of Mind," Chiara Galassetti and Sarah Parniani. Hunter and Carli talk about the electoral process with special vetting, distinguishing it from many high schools near and far. Chiara and Sarah's work is culminating in a fundraiser hosted at the University Hills Community Center on 4/26 at 6 pm. Information is available by calling 949-509-1408.
Neda Zaengle, CEO of the Irvine Public Schools Foundation, talks about the charter of her organization both in budgetary and programmatic terms. Upcoming dates and deadlines to follow on the Foundation's website, www.ipsf.net , include registration for the summer enrichment academy; the Don Bren Honors concert; and the Laguna Beach million dollar home raffle. The second half of the program showcases the art presented around John Wayne Airport under the watchful and seasoned eye of Jeffrey Frisch, curator/coordinator of the Airport Arts Program. Also a working studio artist, Jeff leads an audio tour of the work currently exhibited around the airport, including the new installation in the walkway toward the recently completed Terminal C entitled, "Flight of Ideas." Deadlines and other information about art submissions are available on www.ocair.com
Former Boy Scout and current Gay Activist, Archer Alstaetter considers how his experience in scouting has figured into all of his professional and general life's undertakings, amidst the Boy Scouts of America surveying members about including gays in the organization. Archer's latest enterprise, establishing an eco destination resort (La Luisa) in a community outside of Armenia, Colombia, is yet another place where his scouting skills have been put to the test. archerboinkevents on Facebook allows listeners to follow his many projects at all points between Santa Ana, CA and La Luisa, Colombia. Next, Danielle Norwood, organizer for Women Organized To Defend and Resist (WORD) addresses how this new organization mobilizes to address the back-sliding of women's rights and issues in the U.S. This program considers the recent Arkansas and North Dakota legislative actions to ban abortions at 12 weeks and 6 weeks respectively. Information about WORD's website: defendwomensrights.org post listeners on upcoming events and activities. Other announcements on today's show: Another occasion will be presented by former guest Dania Akhouli; on 3/24 from 5-8 p.m., "A Country Called Syria," at the Seal Beach Center for Spiritual Living, call (714)308-6060 for more information. Former guest and journalist, and current Director for Communications at JStreet, Alan Elsner will be tracking Obama's trip to Israel this week on jstreet.org postings.
Carla Jacobs: Mental Health advocate; co-chair of the Lanterman, Petris, Short Act; and board member of the national Treatment Advocacy Center returns to AAL for updates on both Prop 63 (Mental Health Services Act-MHSA) and Laura's Law in California. SB 664, SB 585, AB 1265 AB 1367 all are worthy bills for constituents to contact their representatives to support. Information on more developments is available at www.treatmentadvocacycenter.org The tip line for MHSA expenditure abuses is 916-445-0255 x446. Harriet Phinney, Seattle University Professor of Anthropology talks about her research on women in Northern Vietnam who took up reproduction on their own terms. " Reconfiguring Reproductive Space, Asking for A Child," is one of her extensive publications. The path of her research was guided by the locals in that Vietnamese region, who considered the particular and pragmatic circumstances pertaining to the "xin con" phenomenon worthy of her investigation.
Alan Elsner, Vice President for Communications at JStreet, veteran international reporter, talks about his new position at JStreet, the "political home for pro-peace and pro-Israel Americans." The organization's activities and endorsements can be followed at jstreet.org Elsner also comments on "Gate Keepers," a rare and revelatory Israeli documentary about the 5 most recent directors of Shin Bet. Rachael Klemek, proprietor of Blackmarket Bakery, returns to Ask A Leader after having successfully raised funds with Kickstarter, to acquire a new state of the art oven and expand to a new location, 2937 Bristol Street in Costa Mesa. Her manifesto: create quality baked goods amidst the current feeding frenzies.
Katie Ingmire, creator and lead organizer of OC Young, Fun, and Nerdy meetup; offers a robust list of choices for folks relegated to fringes of the mainstream social slipstream. Activities abound for those 20-30 somethings affiliated with this group established in December 2008. Next, David Meyer, UCI professor with particular interests in social movements, returns to the show to take the pulse of the GOP on local, state, and national levels; following the 2012 elections. HIs blog politicsoutdoors.com is another means for following his commentary.
Mark Chamberlain, co-founder and owner of BC Space, a gallery in Laguna Beach curated a the exhibit entitled "Capital Crimes." The exhibit can still be viewed through March 23rd, at 235 Forest Ave., Wed - Sat. 2-5 pm. Various works are revealed and discussed on air; but better to see the wide range of art that tackles global monetary issues. A live performance fundraiser to benefit the Friendship Shelter will be hosted at BC Space at 7 pm March 21st. More details available at both bcspace.com and FriendshipShelter.org
Bruce Blumberg, UCI Professor of Developmental and Cell Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering talks about how he coined the term "obesogen," in describing his research on the ever present endocrine disrupting chemicals affecting individuals for up to three generations. Mark Chamberlain, co-founder and owner of BC Space, a gallery in Laguna Beach curated a the exhibit entitled "Capital Crimes." The exhibit can still be viewed through March 23rd, at 235 Forest Ave., Wed - Sat. 2-5 pm. Various works are revealed and discussed on air; but better to see the wide range of art that tackles global monetary issues. A live performance fundraiser to benefit the Friendship Shelter will be hosted at BC Space at 7 pm March 21st. More details available at both bcspace.com and FriendshipShelter.org Thanks for listening!
Ellen Olshansky, Professor and Founding Director of UCI's Program in Nursing Science started in 2007, posts us on the training available for nurses gaining their BS, Masters, and/or PhD degrees. She covers the Affordable Healthcare Act, the program's first nurse managed clinic in OC, and the Association for the Advancement of Nursing Science and Research. In the second half, Jessica Bravo, college student and activist affiliated with Orange County Congregation Community Organization, talks about her processing her documentation for residency under the provisions of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. She also relays the fruits of her recent Congressional meetings in Washington, D.C. two weeks ago. She describes her encounter with the Congressman representing her district, Dana Rohrbacher as tense and threatening, in contrast to all the other Congressional appointments regardless of party affiliation or seniority. An Ask A Leader exclusive . . .
Irvine Museum executive director Jean Stern showcases the treasures of the museum's collection, during this celebration of 20 years in the current exhibit, lasting through June 6th, entitled "Lasting Impressions.." irvinemuseum.org posts visitors on regular hours, special events and tours, and gift store offerings for this museum located at 1881 Von Karman Ave. Suite 100 in Irvine. BeSmartee co-founders Tim Nguyen and Veronica Nguyen, with legacies of hard working parents/grandparents from Vietnam/Mexico, respectively, appear in the second half of the show to talk about how they are encouraging new businesses and new business practices to change the world in ever so many dimensions from their Huntington Beach-based company. besartee.com hosts blogs to continue and expand the discussion of how any venture can give back to community.
Irvine Unified School District Board Member Gavin-Huntley; University High School Assistant President Michael Georgino; and University High School PTSA President Marlene Vermeer Campbell talk about the district wide response to hazzards experienced on campuses in general, as well as a particular catastrophe that was averted last year at Uni High. In the second half of the show, Professor Vincent Olivieri, of UCI Claire Trevor Bren School of the the Performing Arts, talks about the The Radio Plays to be performed this February 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. HIs special sound design for theatrical productions experience, and Eli Simon's coodirection as well as special creation of one of the three plays, will be presented as world premiers at UCI's Claire Trevor Theater. Not your grandmother's old time radio, watch and listen how MFA student Stephen Swift accentuates all manner of sounds.
UCI Political Science professor, Katherine Tate; UCI Humanities Chair of Rhetoric and Communication, Virginia Jackson; and UCI Humanities professor of Twentieth-century poetry, Laura O'Connor present a roundtable and interdisciplinary discussion of the prose, poetry, and music offered yesterday in President Obama's second inauguration.
Cynthia Rose, Director of Santa Monica Spoke (smspoke.org) shows how municipal leadership and local activism translates into the Ocean Park Blvd. Green Street Project; the Santa Monica Bike Center; and over all improvements to how the city's transit infrastructure performs. Watch for: the next CycLAvia (4/21/13) extending all the way to the sea; Santa Monica's Michigan Avenue Greenway; and Santa Monica's Bike Action Plan. More cycling information is available on Bike Talk podcasts. Recently re-elected Irvine City Council Member Beth Krom considers the impact of the new composition of the Council on the further development of the Orange County Great Park and its programs. The Park's Board of Directors no longer seats members at large from beyond Irvine, and is comprised of only the 5 City Council members. The 10 year relationship with the Forde and Mollrich, and Townsend Public Affairs firms is ended. All Park contracts over $50,000 will be auditited. The current vision for the Park is yet to be disclosed. The Council meetings can be viewed on Cox Cable channel 30; U-Verse Channel 99; and ICTV Podcasts on line on the City Council website. Today would have been Martin Luther King, Jr's 84 birthday.
Deborah Dickson, CPA and President of SmithDickson in Irvine, CA; distills the affects of the American Tax Payer Relief Act of 2012 on individuals and their businesses. smithdickson.com is the website for her firm. Charles Blek, President of the Orange County Chapter of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence talks about his wife Mary Leigh Blek's and his activism after their son eldest son Matthew was shot killed in a burglary in 1994. Resources and outlets for future acitivism in a time that Blek considers an important moment for gun control regulation include: orangecountybradychapter@gmail.com and wearebetterthanthis.org
Bowers Museum Vice President of Development and Marketing, Meagan Martinez; talks about the exhibits, Bowers After Hours, performances, films, and lectures presented over the holidays and into 2013. Located at the corner of 20th and Main Streets in Santa Ana, Bowers also offers experiences for young musuem visitors at the Kidseum one block south of this cultural complex. More information is available at bowers.org Stuart Ashman, CEO and President of the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach covers the unique setting's origins as well as the exhibits, festivals, lectures, workshops and gastronomic explorations available. molaa.org offers the latest information. Watch for the MOLAA bus, soon to bring children around the LA region to art. Both Bowers and MOLAA present Target Free Sundays, offering free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
For the sustainable you, two special guests aspiring to introduce more ways to make much more with less. First guest, Tara Kolla, owner of Silver Lake Farms (www.silverlakefarms.com), cultivates produce and flowers in her garden and others with surplus turf to meet the needs of Los Angeles households. The Food and Flowers Freedom Act, a breakthrough in legitimizing home produced goods in the market place, was one of her many victories over barriers she has experienced. Watch for her new product line, Seeds to Ceremony, where she locally cultivates flowers for brides to be. Second guest, Lori Whalen, Director of Education at the Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach, joins her colleague Leslie Helliwell to talk about current and future activities and projects in which the public can partake, as the center celebrates its 40th anniversary. Recent events include the art of Furoshiki; Yoga in Nature; Full Moon Walks; Winter Camp; Little Naturalists; and the Science Nerd Series. www.encenter.org gets you more information and 1601 E. 16th Street, Newport Beach, gets you there.
On the way toward Thanksgiving and the Winter Holiday fanfare, Patti Wood talks about how to interpret body language and how to deal with the information. "SNAP, Making the Most of First Impressions, Body, Language & Charisma," is her book published this year by the New World Library. Her blog takes up additional material at www.snapfirstimpressions.com Dr. Thuy Vo Dang, Project Director of the Vietnamese American Oral HIstory Project at UC Irvine's Dept. of Asian American Studies, talks about this project recently launched in Orange County, collecting the stories of Vietnamese immigrants aged 30 and older from around Southern California. Dr. Dang brings many of these narrators to her radio show airing on Mondays at 3:30 pm on VNCR 106.3 fm. Information about offering or taking these narratives is available at www.vaohp.lib.uci.edu
Tammy Strobel, author of "You Can Buy Happiness (And It is Cheap)," offers lessons on how we can reconsider our relationship with money, time, and stuff. These life changes have improved her relationships with family and friends. More information of how Tammy leads by example is available on her website: rowdykittens.com as well as in her recently published book. During this November, the month bringing awareness to Hospice, CEO and founder of Hospice Care of California, Ann Hablitzal disassembles myths about hospice. She makes the case for how our loved ones, and we ourselves, can prepare for making the most of our last days. Moreover, Hospice Care of California continues to collaborate with the Veterans Administration to address the special needs of war veterans. More information is available at: www.hospicecarefca.org and www.nhpco.org/caring connections.
Don Fisher, served as a gunner on a B-17 during World War II. On this program he talks vividly about training for that role, the moment when his aircraft was shot down in April 1943, his hiding in the French countryside, and how the French underground saw to his relocation to Paris where he remained for a year and a half until the liberation of France. He talks of all the near catastrophes along the way.
Greg Palast, investigative reporter and muckraker in our time, talks about the refinement of the levers being pulled to suppress the vote in 2012. He draws on his latest book, "Billionaires and Ballot Bandits; How to Steal an Election in 9 Easy Steps," co-written by Robert Kennedy, Jr. The book closes with how you can steal back your vote in 7 Steps. The book can be ordered where more information is available at: BallotBandits.org or by reaching GregPalast.com. The next guest, Ryan Borden, is a sophomore and political science major at U.C. Irvine. As an intern at CALPIRG, he is involved in the get out the vote effort on campus. More information is available at CALPIRG.org or on the campus' CALPIRG Facebook page. Leslie Curcil; lecturer, author, activist, and mother of an adult child on the autistic spectrum talks about the tribulations of raising an autistic child through all phases of development. Her work and experience is captured in, "You Don't Need to Know That, The Saga of Sammy." On the morning of October 13th, the Walk Now For Autism Walks will be held at the Orange County Great Park, where families and friends can come together for support and resources. More information is available on the web at: walkforautismspeaks.org
Gavin Huntley-Fenner, current Irvine School Board member and local business consultant talks about his credentials as a candidate for Irvine City Council, one of three seats open in the City Council race. Information about the candidate is available on the web: friendsofgavin.org Neal Kelley, director of the Orange County Registrar of Voters updates us on the latest laws signed by Governor Brown and posts us on deadlines for registration and voting in the 2012 General Election. More information about the elections as administered in this California county is available at: ocvote.com
SeniorServ CEO, Holly Hagler, talks about one of California's largest safety net non-profits providing social, nutritition, and health services to at risk, low-income older adults. Community building never looked so elegant. The website SeniorServ.org identifies all programs and the types of volunteers who can aid those seniors proximate to them who risk isolation and or decline in health. Irvine Unified School District School Board candidates Lauren Brooks and Paul Bokota lay out their school district experience and plans for solving the problems that public education continutes to face. These candidates websites: LaurenBrooksForSchoolBoard.com and BokotaforSchoolBoard.com
Lara Fisher, executive director of South County Outreach, outlines the comprehensive emergency services that her non-profit organization provides families in the Southern half of Orange County: Food Pantry, Computer Learning Lab, Upscale Thrift Store; Adopt a Family; as well as special events offered throughout the year. La Dolce Vita Festival in Laguna Niguel to be held 10/6-7. More information available on website: sco-oc.org Next, a brief tribute to Walt Fraser (Frensdorf) Mar 31st, 1923 - September 8, 2012; whose life collided with those remembered in today's LA Times "China's Little Vienna." Thanks for leaving Joni with enough stories to tell til the end of time . . . . . The final guest, Evonne Gallardo, executive director of LA's Self Help Graphics and Arts, talks about the vital cultural mentoring to Latina youth through print-making and other media. Rich programming, such as the monthly public workshops, lead up to the 39th annual Day of the Dead on November 2nd, 5-11 pm. Details about programs and events through out the year are available at selfhelpgraphics.com
Reverend Mark Whitlock of Christ Our Redeemer AME, in Irvine, reflects on various spiritual components of 9/11. Luis Bravo, volunteer media representative of Orange County Congregation Community Organization, and a beneficiary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals; talks of opportunity and complications toward his goal of completing a degree in computer science; as well as his work toward increasing voter turn-out. OCCCOpico.org is the website for the ongoing activities in which listeners can likewise partake. The last guest is Pastor David Brisbin of the effect, a "faith community and recover ministry" which offers counseling from a particular, yet expansive, Christian perspective. First Fridays, a workshop series, was launched last week, with future workshops scheduled 10/5, 11/2, and 12/7. More information is available at theeffect.org
Jan Spencer, from Eugene OR speaks about his permaculture enterprise on his 1/4 acre property and how it can be adapted in other settings. The yield is safer, greener, and more productive neighborhoods. His website offering many valuable resources, is: suburbanpermaculture.org. Speaking from San Juan Capistrano, is founder and executive director of the Ecology Center, Evan Marks. The Ecology Center celebrates its 4th annual Green Feast 9-8-12, and will host an Ecotoberfest in October; along with many other workshops and occasions through out the year. More information is available at theecologycenter.org
Courtney Burkes, fitness director at U.C. Irvine's Anteater Recreation Center lays out the latest in programs launched this fall as well as what is expected later in the academic year 2012-2013. More information is available on the web at campusrec.uci.edu. Over the second half of the show, Lynne Mullowney Vice President of Advancement at the Orange County chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, posts us on events during the Alzheimer's Awareness month, September and later. Events include the Walks to End Alzheimer's, the 20th Annual Southern California Alzheimer's Disease Research Conference, Beyond Memory: The Behavioral and Psychiatric Symptoms of Dementia, as well as other special plans. More information is available on the web alz.org/oc or by calling (inside Orange County) 949.955.9000 or (outside Orange County} 800.272.3900.
Jim Washburn; music critic, cultural curator, and veteran columnist - talks about the performers he has booked for the upcoming OC Great Park event known as Jim Washburn's Guitar Picks. The August 23, 2012 event, free to the public, will feature the John Jorgenson Quintet, Junior Watson, and Mark Trumbull. Selections of each are played during this hour. Jim's love and respect for the ingredients in many musical genres comes through in this conversation. More information about the Made In America program this week end, as well as other events at the Great Park, is available at www.ocgp.org
UCI Humanities Professor, and director of the Humanities Collective Catherine Liu offers up a thoughtful analysis of the breadth and meaning of the life and times of Gore Vidal, who died July 31, 2012. Then activist Yael Maizel, Southwest Director of J- Street, talks about her organization's progressive alternative voice as American political candidates court the Jewish vote in the run-up to the November election. JStreet's main charter is bringing a two state solution for Israel into the American conversation. More information about JStreet activities in the Southern California and beyond are available on JStreet's Facebook page as well as at jstreet.org
Agro-business and fifth generation family farm owner, Les Stephens offers workable solutions into how to transition young employees into the business culture. Opportunities for both the employee as well as the manager abound in this discussion. In the second half of the show, Master Chang talks about how the integrated Tai Chi which he has formulated heals mind, body, and soul. More information about workshops and programs is available at the website, compasssheart.com
Karen Lerner, Principal of Prentice School established in 1986, will talks about what her school offers middle school and high school students in college prep and or vocational courses. More information about Prentice, is at their website prentice.org or the number to call is (714)538-4511 or 1-800-479-4711. The second guest, David Sayen, Regional Adminstrator of the centers for Medicare and Medicaid, returns to Ask A Leader, to talk about the rights and benefits that patients get and should expect from their federal medical insurance programs. More infomation is available at www.medicare.gov
On this program we witness the depletion of two valued commodities: money and water. First guest is UCI economics professor Stergios Skaperdas, wrapping our minds around the budding financial scandal triggered by Barclay Bank's manipulation of the London Inerbank Offered Rate or the LIBOR. The second half of the show, James "Jay" Famiglietti, UCI hydrologist, earth system science, and civil engineering professor talks about the making of the recently released film, "Last Call at the Oasis," offering credit to the progressive resource management of the OC Wastewater Management Authority and Irvine Ranch Water District. Prior to the film's release as a DVD, viewers can arrange a showing at any theater through Tugg.com. Famiglietti also offers small to large ways that water can be conserved. Happy 100th Birthday to Woody Guthrie this coming Saturday!
Katie Hamilton, organizer for LActravaganza, talks about her staging the all new event at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the "Celebration of Mothers and Babies," from 1- 4pm June 10th. For more information on this or upcoming related events contact: heylabreastfeeding@gmail.com
Bob Rush, Democratic candidate for the CA 74th Assembly District seat talks about his background in finance, neighborhood issues, his policy positions and fiscal priorities, and his independent campaign financial support. More information is available at: www.rush2012.com The discussion reminds voters of the new state assembly district maps, and the effect of Propr 14, "the voter nominated primary election." Efforts to reach out to Leslie Daigle, running as a Republican in the same race, were unsuccessful in getting her to this interview.
Around the campus in 60 minutes! Professor Luke Hegel-Cantarella talks about the new and portable Swan Shakespeare Theater that he designed along with Sara Sedeghat-Pisheh. The Merchant of Venice and the Comedy of Errors will be performed in August in this theater, to be located at U.C. Irvine's Gateway Commons. More information is available at: www.newswanshakespeare.com Jack McManus, Director of Hospitality and Dining Services talks about managing all food and drink concessions for students and campus guests over his 27 years (and counting) at UCI. Always taking the pulse of his consumers, Jack offers his cell phone for more input (949)677-3091. Ramon Zavala, Employee Transportation Coordinator announces his workshops this month about bicycle safety and talks about general the increased use of bicyles around the campus. More information is available at www.bike.uci.edu and www.parking.uci.edu
Sister Maureen Fiedler (D.C.) and Sister Mary Ann McGivern (St. Louis) talk about how the Vatican is trying to reign in the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, with the April 18th Doctrine of Faith. More insightful programming on where spiritual matters converge with public policy, can be heard from Sister Fiedler's show that she hosts Interfaith Voices, an NPR radio magazine show or on her podcasts, interfaithradio.org. Sister Mary Ann continues her decades long commitment working toward a peace economy and with men and womoen released from prison. Both women are nuns are members of Sisters of Loretto Community. Mothers Day reflections are shared by mother, grandmother, and political activist Linda Schwarz (Tustin,CA); and by mother and Orange County Register Editor Alan Gibbons (Costa Mesa, CA). Conventional and alternative measures are examined, in order that mothers everywhere can be spared another hollow commercial gesture.
Dr. Richard Jackson, professor and chair of environmental health sciences at UCLA, coming from his recent venture, a CD series on Designing Healthy Communities, makes direct connections between our sprawled developmental patterns and our poor public health and our diminished sense of well being. He examines how various redevelopment and other municipal projects have remedied the dysfunctional suburban sprawl. More information and resources are available at: http://designinghealthycommunities.org/pbs or http://blog.rwjf.org/publichealth/ Celebrating Earth Day on all the days of the year, Odadele Ogunseitan (Professor of Public Health and Founding Chair of the Department of Population Health & Disease Prevention at the University of California, Irvine) and Katherine Ransom, (marketing and communications director at Goodwill Industries) talk about the pile of e-waste that every household accumulates. Senator Barbara Boxer, Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works or other Senators can be urged to act on "The Responsible Electronic Recycling Act" of 2011 202-224-8832. Information for e-waste colletion events and other programs is available at: ocgoodwill.org
David Sayen, Regional Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for CA AZ NE HA and the Pacific Territories, talks about the benefits stemming from the Patient Protection and Affordable Health Care Act of 2010. Prescription drugs doughnut hole closure, attention to preventative services, and medicare fraud, are covered. Programs to check out include: Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program and Senior Medicare Patrols. More information is at www.Medicare.gov www.pcip.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). The second guest, UCI Political Science Professor Kristen Monroe, talks about her extensive work in genocide and altruism, culminating in her latest publication entitled, Ethics in an age of Terror and Genocide; Identity and Moral Choice, published by Princeton Press. The book examines rescuer, bystander, and supporter cases studies as roles along a continuum of many responses in Dutch society, during the Holocaust.
Founders of Costa Mesans For Responsible Government, Sandra Genis and Eleanor Eagen inform about the proposed charter measure to overhaul municipal government in their town. With outsourcing already underway, and with most of the senior staff replaced, the disposition of the city's other assets and processes could also be endangered. More information is available at CM4RG.org The show closes with a brief tribute to the late and great Chemistry Professor Sherwood Rowland, who detected and advanced the understanding of the link between chloroflurocarbons and the depletion of the earth's ozone layer.
Troy Timmons, counselor and therapist specializing in child sexual abuse; informs about understanding, identifying, and preventing this crime. He debunks myths, and offers practical advise to help address why 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused, usually by someone they know. Available now for adult readers: Mommy Please Read This, Facts about Child Sex Abuse; available in 4/2012 for K-2nd grade readers: That's Not Your Job, along with other information at www.troytimmons.com. Other materials are available through Safer Society Press and www.darknesstolight.org. The second guest, Richard Linden, CEO and founder of Next Interactive, Inc.; talks about his firm's recent launching of a new interactive website matching employers with job seekers. Primarily focused on 30-60 second video resumes, the service is free to applicants, and underwritten by employers. More information is available at www.mynextgig.com.
Dr. Bill Honigman, ER physician and OC political activist talks about his single payer healthcare advocacy with Progressive Democrats of America. Joiners welcome at www.pdamerica.org/ More facts are available at www.pnhp.org/ with the Physicians for a National Health Program. Over the second half of the show, Lori Vandermeir, Communiications Director for the National Organization for Women, and local president of the OC chapter of NOW; talks about the California Commission on the Status of Women, and the prospect of the Governor cutting the funding for said agency. Tomorrow, February 22, starting at 5:30 pm, is a fundraiser to bring attention to the Commission, to be held at the Newport Beach Fairmont Hotel. Information and reservations are available by contacting Melahat Rafiei at (949)350-7733 or melahat@canowfoundation.org. Sign up online at ccswcanowfoundation.org
UCI Classics scholar, Zina Giannopoulou, interprets the meaning of Eros as discussed in Plato's drinkfest, "Symposium." Desire, Beauty, Love, and Procreation and their various abstractions are examined in classic and contemporary contexts. On the second half of the show, educator and practitioner of midwifery, Dr. BJ Snell talks about "the second oldest profession," More information about the benefits of midwifery in the US and midwives practicing in OC is available at: www.midwife.org and beachcitiesmidwifery.com
Sociology Professor Ali Akbar Mahdi, currently on the faculty of the College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita California, deftly analyzes the latest developments in Syria and the resultant complications for the MIddle East as well as the whole world.
Frank Cancien, Anthropology Emeritis Professor at UCI talks about his latest photography project now on display this Winter Quarter, at the UCI Student Center, entitled "Mainstreet." He captures the center of UCI's public life under the subcategories: Protests, Along The Street, Play and Performance, and God. Follow the project on www.mainstreetuci.com. More about Frank Cancien's extensive body of photo projects and academic career is available at frankcancien.net. The second half of the show presents guests Daphne Phung, Founder and Executive Director of Californians Against Slavery and Kristine Kil local campaign coordinator; talking about the Californians Against Sexual Exploitation (CASE) Act petition efforts to qualify for statewide initiative on the California general election ballot Nov. 2012. More information is available at info@CASEAct.org or calling (510)473-7283.
Dr. Laura Mosqueda, Director of the Geriatrics Program at U.C. Irvine Medical Center, and U.S. Dept. of Justice award recipient for her contribution toward the founding of the model Elder Abusic Forensic Center; and the Orange County Vulnerable Adult Specialist Team talks about elder abuse: the red flags, the culprits, the delicate way of reporting about and the role that clinicians have in mitigating this transgression. More information is available on www.centeron elderabuse.org. Recommended read: Susan Jacoby's "Never Say Die; The Myth and Marketing of the New Old Age." The second guest is Bonnie Gillman, executive director of the Grandparent Autism Network (GAN), in advance of its 6th annual conference, " Aging with Autism," to be held on Jan. 21st 9am-noon. Attendees are welcome to walk-in if not yet registered. Dr. Minh-Ha Tran, Associate Medical Director of the Transformation Medicine Service at the U. C. Irvine Medical Center, talks about the U.C. Irvine main campus' newly established blood donation center.
Los Angeles Psychotherapist Aimee Wheeler, PsyD., founder of Parenting Discovery Center, talks about how her practice helps parents understand and develop healthy child rearing choices. With video taping, she shows parents how they engage with their infants, looking at such features as over-attunement or under-attunement. More information available at www.parentingdiscoverycenter.com or see her article in the LA Times Health Section 10-31-11. TamiKremer-Sadlik, Director of Programs/Division of Social Sciences at UCLA has been examining closely parental involvement in various household activities. Her psycho-cultural anthropologic research includes cross-cultural comparisons with families in Italy, France, and Sweden. Her research is based on extensive video taping of families in their homes, with her latest book coming out in February 2012.
Henry Korn, Manager of Art, Culture, and Heritage at the Orange County Great Park talks about the recent and upcoming free events arranged for the public. The Artists-in-Residence program features in January include Amy Caterina's "In Case You Get Lost," based on her work in NYC in the aftermath of 9/11; and classical pianist Kevin Kwan Loucks with his chamber music series, a unique music immersion program. More information about the cultural offerings at the park are available at www.ocgp.org. Prior to the broadcast, the OCGP boasted a 10,000 person attendance for the Park's first New Year's Eve celebration. Happy New Year All!
Lisa Silagyi, Director of Education and Public Programs at the Orange County Art Museum in Newport Beach, talks about recent and upcoming contemporary art exhibits and programs, as the museum celebrates starting February 2012, its 50th Anniversary. Feb. 11th is the opening event, an auction to support the museums programs and collection. On the Second Sundays of each month, admission is free to the public. More information is available at www.ocma.net or by calling (949)759-1122.
Biff Baker, beer enthusiast and contributor to freerangezucchini.com talks about the regioanl breweries, restaurants, and gastropubs where beers of a great many styles can be had for the holidays and beyond. He also suggests folks turn out for Vivien Sansour's lecture on Cannan Fair Trade at the Episcopal Church of the Messiah, 614 N. Bush Street, Santa Ana; on 12/14/11, Wed. at 7 pm. On the second half of the show, from an interview broadcast last year, U.C. Irvine Literature Professor Jayne Lewis talks about how she approaches the annual tradition of holiday letter writing. Her advice and insight remain as engaging and helpful as the first time she spoke.
Occupy OC organizers Erin Evans and D'Marie Mulattieri talk about the movement in Orange County from their varied perspectives springing from different grass roots experience. More information available at www.occupyoc.org; www.teachthebudget.com and following on Facebook: 99 Americaoccupiers For Change, Take Back UCI, and Refund Education. Next, Feature writer and Garbage Maven for the LA Times, Susan Carpenter thinks outside of the gift box with ideas of how to pare down the waste stream as we head into the holiday season shopping frenzy. Easily done as said, listen for elegant and satisfying ways to save on absolutely everything.
Dr. Sharon Salinger, Humanities Professor and Dean of Undergraduate Education at UCI, talks about how Thanksgiving is being taught in American schools today; offering facts and deconstructing myths. Her books include: "To Serve Well and Faithfully: Labor and Indentured Servants in Pennsylvania," "Taverns and Drinking in Early America," and due next year, "Warning Out in New England." Reverend Paul Tellstrom, pastor of Irvine United Congregation Church, talks about the Service of Thanksgiving that Rabbi Arnold Rachlis and he will preside at tonight, at the University Synagogue in Irvine. The public is welcome to the attend this service held for 23 years. Featured this year is the Olive Tree Initiative, with students and their mentor UCI professor Paula Garb.
Lorraine Frances, architect and founder/CEO of Cadiz Design Studio in Costa Mesa, California; talks about sustainable design, specializing in the hospitality sector. 3/21 to 3/23/2012, at a trade show in Nashville, TN, she will collaborate in a live event with multiple firms setting up entire models of sustainable design. This can be followed on www.highconnect.com. Lorraine Francis also has contributed a chapter "Sustainable Joy" in the recently released book entitled "Get Your Woman On! Embracing Beauty, Grace, and the Power of Women," published by Yinspire Media. Her firm can be followed on www.cadizdesign studio.com. Jutta Gamboa, Jesus Gamboa, and Mariana Baker - founders of Free Range Zucchini, talk about this newly launched online magazine about the bounty of organic food and drink locally produced in Southern California. Their divergent cultural backgrounds inform them about deepening the American culltural aspect of gardening, cooking, and dining; calling an impressive array of experts and novices who regularly contribute to the magazine available at www.freerangezucchini.com.
Mel Rogers, CEO and President of PBS SoCal, talks about the expansion of Orange County's KOCE-TV to the Public Broadcasting System of Southern California. The mission involvles more regional coverage, and national stories with a Western perspective. The challenge remains drawing audiences from the 18-35 year old age bracket. David Joyner, actor and entertainer, traces his journey from technial student, technician, preacher, while always the entertainer. From the guiding principles of the "Mutant Downunder," with the moves learned from other over-sized characters; for over a decade, David donned the purple dinosaur costume . . . of Barney.
Wayne Sandholtz, UCI Political Science Professor, talks about human rights and the wars on terror: from the December 31, 2011 deadline for the withdrawal of American troops in Iraq; to contractor soldiers; to extra-judicial killings; to the precedent of the American use of drone weaponry. Catherine Collinson, President of the Transamerica Center for Reirement Studies advises about the need for young and old to prepare for retirement for the best possible protection. She refers several sources for more information: www.transamericacenter.org; irs.gov/; SmartMoney.com; and AARP.org If you don't plan, who will plan for you?
Comedian Paula Poundstone talks about her comedic origins in kindergarten; her special brand of audience for which other comics yearn; her own lively math texts prepared with her high school math teacher (The Sticky Problem of Parallelogram Pancakes: Venn Can We Be Friends); and the value of pubic libraries in Santa Monica and throughout the country. She returns to perform at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, at 8 pm on October 27th. More details available at: http://www.thecoachhouse.com/ or www.paulapoundstone.com/ Founder and executive director of Agano With Kenya, Newport Beach resident Jene Meece talks about her execptional collaboration with Kenyan Father Henry Samaro to arrange for orphaned or deeply impoverished young women to get college educations. Her project, first launched in September 2010, is built around an agreement/pact known in Swahili as "agano." The guiding principle of the project is that the benefitting students maintain an agreement that as they are enriched, in turn further enrich, their peers, their villages of origin, and their society with the educations that they receive in any of the 30 universities around Kenya. 10 students were enrolled in the Spring of 2011, and will be joined by the next new cohort of 10 students within the year. Details about this organization can be followed on Facebook or on www.aganowithkenya.org/ On the evening of November 5th, the Gala for AGANO, presented at the Shady Canyon Country Club in Irvine, CA, includes cocktails, dinner, and a silent auction, to support the students in Kenya.
Roxanne Varzi, U.C. Irvine anthropologist, author, and filmmaker examines martyrdom in Iran during and in the aftermath of the eight year Iran-Iraq War. Her 2009 production, "Plastic Flowers Never Die," is the centerpiece of the interview. Varzi speaks in advance of her appearance later this week at UCI forum entitled, "Women, War, and Peace," in a series presented by the Center for Living Peace. Chemistry Professor A.J. Shaka plainly explains the wonder and elegance of liquid fluoride thorium reacters in advance of his Physical Sciences Breakfast talk at the at the UCIrvine Student Center entitled, "Deep Green: Long Term Zer Carbon." The talk is scheduled for 10/18/11.
One hundred years ago Californian women put the 6th Star on the Suffrage flag of the Union on the way toward adoption of the 19th Amendment for Women's Suffrage. Kimberly Salter, Co-Chair of California Women Suffrage Centennial; and Robert Cooney, author of Winning the Vote, The Triumph of the Woman Suffrage Movement; talk about the movement and the celebration to be held in Sacremento on the upcoming week-end. Cooney's book is published by American Graphic Press. Later in the program, co-founder of PeaceLoveSwap, Elle Beyer, talks about an imaginative alternative to conventional consumerism. Inant clothing swaps, Halloween swaps, talent swaps, prom swaps and more; in the community nearest you, is a way to pare down clutter, save money, and connect with others of a like mind about the unconventional. More on that enterprise is available at www.peaceloveswap.com offers all
This program is dedicated to Liz Ayers, in recognition of her phenomenally gifted support group leadership for adult children of Alzheimer disease patients. Jim McAleer, President and CEO of the OC chapter of the Alzheimer's Assoc. talks about the services, fundraising walks, and informative conferences presented by the Assoc. Latest offerings available by consulting: www.alz.org/oc Karen Caporaso, certified financial analyst and certified divorce financial analyst talks about providing financial insigts to clients of all kinds. Her workshops are posted on www.commonwealthoc.net. Other resources are available on www.wise-investors.org
With the solemn week of commemorations, testimonials, and affecting personal narratives - this program considers with UCI political scientist professor Cecilia Lynch and UCI economist Stegios Skaperdas, the trends sending us into the next ten years post 9/11. The socio-economic and spiritual realms are explored, with the hopes that Reverend Mark Whitlock will join the next discussion, in the very near future. www.cgpacs.uci.edu and www.corchurch.org are suggested stops toward moving along the path of exploration. Look out as well for the Oxford Handbook of The Economics of Peace and Conflict, a work in progress.
Jennifer Muir, OC Employees Association and Reick Eiden, United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 324/OC Labor Federation post us on the latest developments with the municipal workers' lay-offs in Costa Mesa. Irvine Unified School District High Schools' ASB Officers: Ted Kim, Adrian Molzon, Nadav Hollander, Yume Nishi, and Rini Sampath talk about their varied backgrounds, their special projects and goals for this school year, and their plans for life after high school. A follow-up interview is planned for June 2012.
Sister Eileen McNerney and Shawna Smith, founder and CEO respectively of Taller San Jose, talk about the success of this Santa Ana organization in advancing the lives of young men and women marginalized by the conditions of the barrios into which they were born. Volunteers wanting to share their knowledge and career insight, or employers interested in hiring a Taller San Jose graduate, can contact staff at www.tallersanjose.org or (714)543-5105. Deadline for the Fall 2011 Chevy Volt raffle is Sept 9th. Anglican Bishop Christopher Senyonjo, Mary Senyonjo, and Rev. Canon Albert Ogle talk about the scurge of homophobia and the attendant increase in the HIV/Aids epidemic in Uganda and throughout Africa. Bishop Christopher, founder of St. Paul's Reconciliation and Equality Centre for LGBT/Straight Allliance , brings his cause on his US tour and connects the homophobic movement to Evangelical roots in Orange County.
Gordon McAlpine, Board President of the Newport Beach Library Foundation guides prospective contestants through the guidelines for the Library Lit 2011 Creative Writing Contest for high school students. www.npblfoundation.org Metrolink CEO John Fenton espouses enlightened management practices in his one year success in improving morale; increasing rideship and rides; improving efficiency; and enhancing the safety culture at the Southern California Regional Rail Authority. www.metrolinktrains.com Science writer, host, and producer Brian Dunning addresses skeptism in its authentic sense. With 272 podcasts and counting, Dunning debunks notions from urban legends, paranormal claims, alternative therapy, and somethings "just plain stupid." www.skeptoid.com
Five Point Communities principal and founder, Emile Haddad, talks about the latest proposed development order before the Irvine Planning Commission dealing with the Great Park Neighborhoods. Planning meeting agendas and approved minutes are kept current on the City website www.ci.irvine.ca.us
Second half of the show, U.C. Irvine political science professor and scholar of presidential politics, Matthew Beckmann talks about the options available to President Obama amidst the Great Deficit Ceiling debate/debacle and the deferred financial decisions. His next book available later for publication, "The Oval's Inner Circle," investigates how intensifying external pressures distort presidents' agenda, advisors, and accuracy - looking at activities for all presidents from Kennedy to Bush 41.
U C Irvine Law School Dean Erwin Chemerinsky talks about the completion of the first year of UCI's Law School and projects into the second year, offers a legal and political appraisal of the 2009-2010 Supreme Court session, and examines what Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan will contribute to the bench.
Five emerging leaders at the UCI Newkirk Center hosted Empowering Sustainability on Earth seminar series, speak about their activism and research in their respective counntries. Saule Alymbekova at the Institute for Social Development (Biskek, Kyrgyzstan; alymbekova@gmail.com), Vladimir Bartenev Director of the Center for Security and Development Studies at Moscow State University (Moscow, Russia; vladimirbartenev@yaho.com), Rosio Carranza (San Jose, Costa Rica; rocicarranza@gmail.com), Solange Teles da Silva law professor at MacKenzie University and the University of the Amazons, (Sao Palo, Brazil; solange.teles@pq.cnpq.br), and Sara Wolcott consultant and researcher on Climate Change and Global Transitions to Sustainability (Berkeley, CA working in the UK, sara.j.wolcott@gmail.com) speak of how they institutionalize policy making and activism with the help of their expanding networks. They offer their emails here as a means for maximizing their exposure at this radio appearance. Archer Alstaetter, newly appointed as impresario of Santa Ana Nights lays out the program for the 10 free Friday night concerts in beautiful downtown Santa Ana. Archer offers a look at the Anglo Latino divide, opening up in this city. A topic that will be taken up another show later this year.
Deborah Lipsky; author, speaker, and counselor give her perspective on and insights about being an autistic person. Her latest book is, "From Anxiety to Meltdown, How Individuals on the Autistic Spectrum Deal with Anxiiety, Experience Meltdowns, Manifest Tantrums and How You Can Effectively Intervene." In a tribute to his 28 years of service at UCI Medical pediatrician Dr. Marc Lerner talks about his practice as a developmental specialist, before he asssumes the new position of first Medical Director of the Orange County Dept. of Education.
Founding daughter and current Board Member, Carolina Sarmiento talks about the cultural institution In Santa Ana, California. Maestro Omar de la Riva and students: Angela Vargas, Maxine Vargas, Yoselyn Velaso, Jacky Acosta, and Jenny Lopez show the vigor that this cultural institution sustains. The mission is in jeopardy of being dislocated with the gentrification trends underway in downtown Santa Ana.
UCI Professors Aileen Anderson and Brian Cummings lead us through neuro biology, explain the small business aspect of financing sustained research, and wrap our minds around the complexity of stem cell therapy in patients with chronic spinal cord injury in their trial underway in Switzerland. This show is dedicated to the memory of Aileen's mother, Mary Anderson.
Dr. Kristi Koenig and Dr. Carl Schultz talk about their respective capacities as director and research director of U.C. Irvine's Center for Disaster Medical Sciences. They cover the charter of the Center, established in 2010; the reasons why the approach to disaster medicine lags behind other fields of medicine; examples of research and protocols to advance this field; an update on the E. coli outbreak in Germany; the differences and similarities of various disasters and their challenges; and how civilians can prepare for the next disaster. More information is available at the website: www.cdms.uci.edu
Sharon Fairborn, Board President and "leader" of So Cal/Nevada chapter of La Leche Leage speaks to the benefits of breastfeeding; the US Surgeon General Regina Benjamin's call to action about breastfeeding; and the upcoming conference, "Parenting and Breastfeeding Conference" in Newport Beach. Over the second half of the show, Marine Corps Veterans David Curry and Jack Williams IV talk about the differences between veterans returning from Afghanistan and Iraq and veterans from other wars/conflicts; how civilians can assist in the transition that recent veterans make toward employment, further education, and society in general; and about the Military Student and Veterans Appreciation 2011 dinner to be held at UCI on 5/25/11.
Nick Spain, raised on a farm adjacent to the Segerstrom's farm talks about the agricultural history of Orange County. He takes up the opportunity of preserving the vestiges of this legacy through the urban farming projects and preservation of the Sexlinger Orchard in NE Santa Ana. The Grain Project and the Gerome Community Learning Center are undertakings that provide the structure for the potential of the adjacent Sexlinger Orchard's 5 acres. Maret Orliss, Senior Project Manager for the 15th Annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, one of the largest book festivals in the country talks about the change of venues from UCLA to UCS for this year's event. Greater regional access, new formats, and more booths and panels make for a new improved book festival experience.
Gina Russo, proprietor of Sugar Beets Bakery, offers alternatives to those with Celiacs disease and other dietary restrictions. Her products are available at Wholesome Foods, Mothers' Market, Bite Market, and other outlets throughout the Southland. Victor Becerra, director of UCI's Community Outreach Partnership Center talks about scholarly engagement in community needs. 4/25/11 is his Center's day long forum, "Public Scholarship: Engaging Contradictions in the Contemporary University." featuring keynote speaker George Lipsitz, American Studies and Black Studies at U. C. Santa Cruz, who will talk about why public scholarship matters more than ever.
Jennifer Muir, Communications Director of the Orange County Employees Association talks about the municipal worker lay-offs in Costa Mesa, and in Newport Beach. Transparency, oversight, institutional knowledge and a breakdown in municipal worker relationships, among other concerns, mount with the specter of privatizing city safety, maintenance, and other contracts. Nick Anas, Chair of Orange County Young Democrats and Associate of Daily Consulting, speaks to the national Republican political strategy behind the lay-offs, including the presence of Grover Norquist. Nick also takes his newly trained, activist Young Democrats to the State Democratic Convention in Sacramento at the end of April.
Feature Writer for the LA Times and Garbage Maven, Susan Carpenter talks about how LA and OC residents can pare down their waste stream. Beth Mulligan, PA-C, addresses the ills of stress and how the mind and body connection can thwart those ills.
Orange County's Emergency Manager, Donna Boston talks about the recent response to the tsunami from Sendai, Japan. She covers how agencies are prepared to handle comparable disasters locally; and counsel residents on how to get prepared. Professor Touraj Daryaee, Associate Director of the Samuel Jordan Center for Persian Studies and Culture of the School of the Humanities explains various rituals around the Persian New Year/Nowruz, including the running over fire/Chahar Shanbah Suri.
Reverend Canon Albert Ogle, of the St. Paul Foundation for International Reconciliation, talks about the anti-gay legislation proposed in Uganda, and the hazards that it poses the LGBT community. He implicates Evangelical congregations in Orange County, CA, and challenges the current leadership of Exodus International for continuing to support a political movement that has resulted in extra judicial killing of gays.
Voters of all stripes and ages are interviewed about where they first registered to vote and why they are voting on this day. The show opens with UCI Chancellor Michael Drake, when he was motivated by the civil rights movement in his day. The show closes with Dr. Nat Kurnick recollecting when at age 14 he saw FDR and later put in his first 70 years of voting.