There's Snow in the Sierra, But Don't Pop the Champagne
This week, state water officials conducted an important measurement of the Sierra snowpack. The good news? The water content was 87 percent of average. But in terms of the drought, we would have had to surpass that figure, into the way, way, way above-average category to really celebrate. We talk with KQED Science Editor Craig Miller about where we stand as California's wet season winds down.
How Training Shelter Dogs Helps Compton Teens Cope With Trauma
A group of students and teachers is suing the Compton Unified School District, alleging officials there haven't done enough to help students traumatized by violence keep up with their studies. Right now, a handful of Compton schools are working to teach at-risk kids important coping skills -- and they're getting help from some four legged ambassadors.
With Bees in Trouble, Almond Farmers Try Trees That Don't Need 'Em
Next time you're snacking on a handful of almonds, think about bees. Almonds wouldn't be the cash crop they are if weren't for the hardworking bees that help pollinate the trees. But what if the trees no longer needed bees for pollination? We find out about a new breed of almond that could put these busy insects out of work.
How Theater Transformed This HIV-Positive Grandmother's Life
If you could go back in time and give the teenage you some advice, what would you say? That's the question Cassandra Steptoe wrestled with as she wrote a monologue for a play. Steptoe says theater gave her a voice and helped her overcome a past of abuse, addiction and incarceration. For decades, Steptoe felt like she couldn’t talk about her HIV diagnosis with anyone. Now she explores her experience in-depth and on stage to help inspire others.
Lasagna & Kleenex: Reaching Out Online in the Face of Death
Los Angeles is a big place, right? It can feel a bit lonely at times, and a friendly voice in the morning can mean a lot, setting you on your way in the day. For the last 16 years, Steve Julian has been the local Morning Edition host at KPCC Public Radio in Los Angeles. Now, he's dying from brain cancer. And his wife Felicia Friesema has been blogging about it. For the latest episode of our radio series and podcast "Love in the Digital Age," co-producers Rachael Myrow and Polly Stryker went to L.A. to talk with them.
