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'I Dream of Chang and Eng'

Chang and Eng Bunker were conjoined twins who presented themselves in freak shows in the mid 19^th century. UCSC Theater Arts performs the play inspired by their lives, I Dream of Chang and Eng, from May 25, through June 3. The leading actors and director spoke to KUSP’s Rick Kleffel.

Also on this program, otters nearly went extinct on the California coast. The fur trade of the 19^th century eliminated nine tenths of the original population. Since a few dozen were discovered near Big Sur in the 30′s their numbers grew to about 24 hundred in the last decade, but have declined since. Otter 501 is a new film illustrating their tenuous recovery and the role this animal plays in the relationship between humans and the ocean. The film makers spoke with KUSP’s Kelly O’Brien.

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Courtesy Monterey Bay Aquarium

Even after increasing cuts for several years of successive budgets, California needs to do more to bring its revenues and spending in line. One approach that has gained steam this year is to change how much public agencies are obligated to set aside for employees’ retirements. Also, California Secretary of Natural Resources John Laird on the challenges weathered by Marine Protected Areas. First, the young great white shark that had been on display at the Monterey Bay Aquarium had appeared strong and healthy when staff released him near Santa Barbara October 25th.