Issues & Ideas: Wind turbines for Morro Bay, farmworkers' rights, and Healthy People Healthy Trails.

KCBX | By Jim Dantona

Published July 12, 2021 at 1:39 PM PDT

On Issues & Ideas we're exploring the history of farmworkers' rights in California, and how that history affects people on the Central Coast. We're also taking a look at redistricting on the Central Coast, and some of the challenges being faced. And, we explore the possibility of wind turbines in Morro Bay, and the reaction of some in the fishing industry. We’re checking in with Healthy People Healthy Trails is a community initiative in Santa Barbara County to promote health and well-being through the use and enjoyment of nature. Meteorologist John Lindsey reports that a serious decline in the sea star population has led to a massive die-off of the kelp forests along the Northern California coastline. And finally, the San Luis Obispo City manager Derek Johnson talks about job strategies and city projects.

Beth Thornton

Beth Thornton was a freelance reporter for KCBX, and a contributor to Issues & Ideas from 2019 to 2024. She was a 2021 Data Fellow with the USC Annenberg Center for Health Journalism, and was accepted by the Center to receive a 2024 California Health Equity Impact grant. Beth has contributed reporting to KQED's statewide radio show The California Report.

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Francisco Martinez

Francisco Martinez joined KCBX in January 2021 as a substitute staff announcer, then became a regular midday host, occasional reporter, and host of Citizen Sound — the alternative music show each Sunday night at 11:00 on KCBX. Francisco left KCBX to move back to the Bay Area in January 2022.

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Benjamin Purper

Benjamin Purper was News Director of KCBX from May of 2021 to September of 2023. He came from California’s Inland Empire, where he spent three years as a reporter and Morning Edition host at KVCR in San Bernardino. Dozens of his stories have aired on KQED’s California Report, and his work has broadcast on NPR's news magazines, as well. In addition to radio, Ben has worked as a newspaper reporter and freelance writer.

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Sophie Lincoln

Sophie Lincoln is a journalism senior at Cal Poly, working to pursue a career in broadcast news. She is also the News Director for Cal Poly’s KCPR and the Special Sections Editor for Cal Poly’s Mustang News. In her spare time, she likes to hike, go to the beach and spend time with friends.

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