July 09, 2025

Experts on Esparto Fireworks Explosion | DNA Analysis at the Davis Science Cafe | Dave Brubeck Concert at Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

50 minutes

Firework and explosion experts weigh in on the deadly Esparto warehouse explosion. Also, Davis Science Cafe explores DNA analysis and forensic science. Finally, a Dave Brubeck benefit concert for the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.

Experts on Esparto Fireworks Explosion

A week after a massive explosion at a fireworks facility in Esparto killed seven people and injured two more, questions remain about the cause of the blast, whether workers at the facility could have been protected and how a similar event can be prevented in the future. Richard Meier is a Fire and Explosion Investigator and talks about how the investigation into the explosion might be conducted. Also joining Insight is Julie Heckman, Executive Director of the American Pyrotechnics Association and a member of Cal Fire’s General Fireworks Advisory Committee.

Cal Fire, the lead investigating agency, was invited to join Insight but was unavailable.

DNA Analysis at the Davis Science Cafe

Every second Wednesday of the month, the Davis Science Cafe allows audiences to explore different academic topics in the casual setting of the G Street Wunderbar. Tonight, the latest event in the series focuses on the development of DNA analysis techniques at crime scenes. Ashley Hall is the Director of the Forensic Science Graduate Program at UC Davis and talks about how this scientific process has changed over the years - from the early days of the O.J. Simpson trial to the ongoing Brian Kohberger case in Idaho.

Dave Brubeck Concert at Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament is considered by many to be one of the most historically significant buildings in Sacramento. When it opened in 1889, thousands of people traveled from all over Northern California to see what was then the largest church west of the Mississippi. Since its inception, the Cathedral has served as a home for the Catholic Church in Northern California, as well as a community space dedicated to arts and culture. Art and music will combine in the Cathedral this Friday when The Brubeck Brothers, with Joe Gilman on piano, perform Dave Brubeck’s To Hope! A Celebration on July 11. Proceeds from this event will go toward refurbishment of art in the Cathedral. Oscar Ramirez is the lead docent at the Cathedral and he joins us to talk about the art and history of the building.

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