POLITICO’s California Playbook | California’s New Year Snowpack | Remembering Georgia ‘Mother Rose’ West

Insight With Vicki Gonzalez

POLITICO’s California Playbook on the state’s 2025 political priorities. Also, California’s snowpack for the new year. Finally, remembering Underground Books’ longtime manager Georgia “Mother Rose” West.

POLITICO’s California Playbook

A new year brings a fresh set of priorities for California. Gov. Gavin Newsom will be outlining his budget priorities in the San Joaquin Valley, and state lawmakers are full steam ahead into its new legislative session. Dustin Gardiner, co-author of POLITICO’s California Playbook, gets us up to speed on the latest in politics - including some notable new state laws.

California’s New Year Snowpack

The California Department of Water Resources conducted its first snow survey of the season, reporting the statewide snowpack is 108% of average for this time of year. Dr. Andrew Schwartz, the Lead Scientist and Manager of UC Berkeley’s Central Sierra Snow Lab, joins us with a deeper look at the state’s current snowpack and water needs.

Remembering Georgia ‘Mother Rose’ West

Underground Books is known as the literary hub of Sacramento’s Oak Park neighborhood, and is one of the few African American bookstores in the country. But this year comes with a big loss. Its longtime manager Georgia West, affectionately known as Mother Rose, passed away last month. She was also the mother of former Sacramento Mayor and NBA star Kevin Johnson. Cassandra Jennings, President and CEO of ST. HOPE, as well as CapRadio Communities Reporter Keyshawn Davis, reflect on the contributions of Georgia West and her enduring legacy. A celebration of life is planned at Saint Paul Church of Sacramento on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 10 a.m.