Protesting the Violence Across the Border
We begin today with a tragedy that has shaken Mexico to its core. The disappearance -- and presumed murder -- of 43 students from the southern state of Guerrero. Police took them into custody in September after killing several of their classmates. They haven't been seen since. The state-sponsored violence has rocked the country and it's inspired activism on both sides of the border. And as Brooke Binkowski reports, a growing number of Americans have joined the demand for change in Mexico.
Disspelling the Myth of an Endless Water Supply
Federal weather forecasters are predicting that overall, California will have at least average precipitation this winter. Given the severe drought we're having, average sounds pretty darn good. Despite that prediction, some scientists believe that California's recent dry spell is actually the beginning of an epic drought that could last decades. That of course would change how we live. And yet, our cities are, to a great extent, built on the idea that fresh water is endless. KQED Science reporter Amy Standen wanted to find out where this idea came from ... and what it would mean to change it.
Finding a Path to the California Coast Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail was the focus of the popular memoir "Wild," and will get even more attention when a Hollywood movie starring Reese Witherspoon comes out next week. By comparison, the California Coastal Trail is relatively unknown. It runs from the Mexico border up to Oregon, and has some of the most breathtaking ocean views. Problem is ... it runs through many people's backyards, and even though the public has a right to access that land, the trail has taken almost 40 years to build. But as Vinnee Tong reports, a law signed earlier this year by Governor Brown could finally help finish it, and open it up to everyone.
African-American Motorcycle Club Celebrates 55th Year
California and motorcycles go way back. When Marlon Brando played a California biker in "The Wild One," he epitomized the biker outlaw culture. And the current TV hit "Sons of Anarchy" is set in a fictional town in San Joaquin County. Real-life California is packed with motorcycle clubs, including dozens of African-American groups. Oakland's East Bay Dragons, have been revving their engines the longest. Reporter Aaron Mendelson caught up with them as they celebrate their 55th anniversary.
Los Straitjackets Leader Finds a Community in Mexico
Members of the instrumental band Los Straitjackets are instantly recognizable ... in a way. Since the group's founding in 1994, the members have sported lucha libre masks onstage. But for co-founding guitarist Danny Amis, there's a special connection south of the border that goes beyond the mask. Peter Gilstrap has more.