Blain Roberts

professor of history at Fresno State

Guest

Blain Roberts on KCRW

The Miss America Organization announced today that it plans to drop the swimsuit competition -- a tradition that was always controversial.

Miss America pageant dumps swimsuits

The Miss America Organization announced today that it plans to drop the swimsuit competition -- a tradition that was always controversial.

from Press Play with Madeleine Brand

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“ Jack Kirby: Heroes and Humanity ” opens today at the Skirball Cultural Center.

from KCRW Features

Can the “chaos” at the Department of Defense be resolved, or is it just how this White House operates? Plus, KCRW examines the political legacy of Pope Francis.

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This year’s toxic algal bloom off the coast is the longest and deadliest ever seen in Southern California. Will sea lion and dolphin populations recover?

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Google and Meta are under fire in court. Officials claim they crushed rivals to stay on top. The outcome could upend how Big Tech works.

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A new report from Trump’s Department of Health and Human Services tries to discredit gender-affirming care, contradicting leading medical experts who say it can save lives.

from Press Play with Madeleine Brand

Seven new stations are coming to the LA Metro D Line within the next few years. KCRW tours the Wilshire/LA Brea station, slated to open in 2025.

from KCRW Features

Cracks within the GOP turn the “Big, Beautiful Bill” into a mess. President Trump visits the Middle East. Plus, Democrats’ past and future collide.

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Nearly 2 in 5 LGBTQ+ youth considered suicide in the last year. They could lose access to a federally-funded suicide hotline under possible budget cuts.

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Toxic material in burn scars remained even after cleanup, an investigation found. Do homeowners feel safe rebuilding?

from KCRW Features