Mornings on 2

Dollars & Sense 12.16.25 8am

Brentwood native, Gillian Thirwall, joins 'Celebrity Name That Tune' on KTVU FOX 2 at 8 pm Monday night.

In a world where AI can create or alter images in seconds, trust is harder to come by. AI-generated images are flooding the internet and social media, making it harder to know what's real, what's being manipulated. Now, one new tool claims it can do more than just flag fake images-- it can show you exactly where they've been altered.

The holiday shopping season is in full swing, and the average shopper is expected to spend about $1,100 on gifts this year. Amid increased costs and job uncertainty, some are looking to pull back on their buying, but feel pressured by guilt. Dr. Pam Orren, a clinical psychologist at Kaiser Permanente East Bay, joined us on 'The Nine' for more insight.

Winter wellness, community resources, and a showcase of local Black-owned businesses. The 40x40 Neighborhood Council is hosting a special holiday edition of its Neighborhood Empowerment Day in East Oakland.

While the holidays are billed as a time that's filled with lights and laughter, for some, it's an especially stressful time of year. New research finds children often struggle when routines disappear, leading to anxiety, irritability, and even sleep problems. Dr. Jackie Shiels, a clinical psychologist at Kaiser Permanente, joined us on 'The Nine' to discuss how overstimulation and seasonal expectations can push children to their limit.

If the weather permits, one of the brightest and most reliable meteor showers of the year is set to light up the night sky, and Chabot Space and Science Center is giving viewers a front-row seat.

From Sandy Hook to the Brown University shooting 13 years later, UC Santa Cruz political science and media lecturer, Nolan Higdon weighs in on national prospects for reform

Life changes inspired Oakland author Jen Newens to cut back on alcohol and create recipe books focused on mocktail and low-alcohol content, or ABV cocktails. She shares some holiday-themed recipes from her book, Wednesday Night Wine Down.

Bay Area filmmakers Jamal Trulove, known for his breakout role in "The Last Black Man in San Francisco" and D'Lo Lewis, who got his start in film with mentor Ryan Coogler, discuss Bay Area Film Night, which features their short films and the work of other local filmmakers at the Grand Lake Theatre, on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

One of San Francisco’s cultural treasures is once again helping usher in the holiday season. The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus has launched its annual holiday concert series, filling some of the Bay Area’s most iconic venues with hundreds of voices singing in harmony.

Take 2 49ers 3rd block

D&S 12.12.25

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is rolling out 'Winterfest,' which blends fan favorites from California's Great America with Discovery Kingdom's own holiday. The event runs through January 4.

The clock is ticking, but the deals are not totally gone. Jesse Neugarten, the founder of Dollar Flight Club, joined us on 'The Nine' to show us how we can score the savings.

An animated character is sparking a travel surge. 'Zootopia 2' is now in theaters, and one of the new characters is serving as an ambassador for Western Australia. It's happening just as United Airlines launches a brand-new direct flight out of San Francisco International Airport Thursday, making that adventure even closer. Gabe Saglie, a travel expert, gave us a sneak peek.

A holiday favorite is back: Panettone from Starter Bakery. Brian Wood, the owner of the popular East Bay bakery, joined us on 'The Nine' to talk about the process.

As the days get shorter and the temperatures dip, some people my be feeling more than just the winter blues. Dr. Jackie Shiels, a clinical psychologist at Kaiser Permanente, joined us on 'The Nine' to discuss seasonal affective disorder, and the ways to get around it.

Holiday shopping is hard enough, but The Toy Insider is making it easy. The organization joined us on 'The Nine' to share some of the top gifts to give children this holiday season.

Dollars & Sense with Pam Cook

As K-pop spreads across borders, it offers a rare lens into the dynamics of modern identity, soft power, and the cultural ties that bind global audiences together. Chuyun Oh, professor of dance theory at San Diego State University gives insight.

For Bebe Black Carminito, what started as an at-home Friday date-night tradition with her husband during the pandemic turned into a passion for creating and styling unique appetizer boards. The professional food stylist and author shares recipes from her book, "The Curated Board: Inspired Platters and Spreads for Any Occasion".

KTVU is partnering with the San Francisco SPCA to shine a light on the animals waiting for the forever homes. The organization's Shelter Animal Toy drive is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, December 13 located in Winter Walk at the corner of Stockton and O'Farrell Streets in San Francisco. Just bring a new toy for cats or dogs to the SF SPCA tent to participate.

While many people think about going to Europe in the summer, some Americans head overseas for the holidays. Travel journalist, Angel Castellanos, joined us on 'The Nine' from Florence to show us how Europe's Christmas markets offer an "old-world" holiday experience.

A new survey finds nearly half of people nationwide want cash or gift cards, instead of traditional gifts this year. It comes as overall spending is shifting toward things people need, rather than items that collect dust. Jennifer Jolly, a tech-life columnist, joined us on 'The Nine' for with smart, tested ideas for the person in your life who already has 'everything.'

Dr. Lasé Ayaji, pediatrician and board chair elect at the American Medical Association, talks importance of flu shut during winter season.

Oakland's cultural heartbeat is gearing up for one of its most powerful holiday traditions the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce's Black Sunday holiday shopping experience returns this weekend, bringing entrepreneurs, families, artists and community leaders together for a day that blends celebration with economic empowerment. Joining us on The Nine is Cathy Adams, the president and CEO of the organization to talk about the event.

From Maná to Dua Lipa collabs and Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Spotlight, the Bay Area feeling Latin music’s global rise. Grammy winner José Valentino Ruiz, associate professor of Music Business & Entrepreneurship at the University of Florida, gives insight.

The holidays come at a time of financial uncertainty for millions. According to a new poll, in addition to cutting back on gifts 1 in 4 say they'll trim their decorating budgets this year. Though, there are ways to make the season magical, while not breaking the bank.

Holiday Heroes is taking over Oracle Park Tuesday, with a celebration focusing on uplifting Bay Area kids and their families.

Starting January 1, drivers will have to pay more to cross several Bay Area bridges, in an effort to address rising maintenance costs. The tolls are rising from $8 to $8.50, which be the second of a series of hikes approved by the Bay Area Toll Authority. The bridges affected are the Bay Bridge, San Mateo, Dumbarton, Richmond-San Rafael, Carquinez, Benicia-Martinez and the Antioch bridges.

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan talks Westfield Valley Fair mall shooting, California candidates for governor and homelessness.

San Francisco Ballet's 'Nutcracker' has returned to the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco, with performances running through the 28th.

Downtown San Francisco has become a world of color and imagination, as Let's Glow SF has returned for its fifth year.

A good laugh as Frank plays a game of table tennis with Sandra Oh Lin, founder of KiwiCo.

KiwiCo founder Sandra Oh Lin shares how being a busy working mom sparked the idea that grew into a global multimillion-dollar company.

UC Santa Cruz media education and political history lecturer, Nolan Higdon discusses the fall-out from U.S. military boat strikes, Supreme Court's approval of gerrymandered redistricting and a flood of GOP retirements before the next mid-term elections.

It’s a symbol of California's Gilded Age and a piece of Bay Area history. Now, for the holidays, Filoli Gardens in Woodside is ready to welcome visitors with some dazzling light displays and a new model train village.

The event is organized by the Oakland Chamber of Commerce. The CEO spoke with KTVU about what the event has to offer. She also discussed the results of a new report the Chamber commissioned, that found Oaklanders are feeling less pessimistic about the state of the city compared to one year ago.

About 54 percent of California fourth graders are reading below their grade level. It's a struggle that many educators, families, and students are all too familiar with. A non-profit called "Reading Partners Bay Area" has been helping kids read, one tutoring session at a time, for decades. Now, they need more volunteers to help.No experience needed.

Opening day arrives at Kirkwood Mountain Resort. Ricky Newberry, general manager of Kirkwood, talks 2025-26 ski season.

Graham Lustig, Oakland Ballet Artistic Director, dancers, Jazmine Quezada and Jacob Seltzer-Rios, give a sneak peek of The Nutcracker. Graham Lustig’s The Nutcracker will take center stage, December 20-21, at Paramount Theatre.

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This week, a former AI CEO launched a new AI gadget for kids, but the key is that it works without internet to keep kids safe from inappropriate content. Robert LoCascio joined us on Mornings on 2 to explain how KID Company works.

CDC advisers delay vote at chaotic vaccine meeting. Dr. Jake Scott, a board-certified infectious diseases specialist and Clinical Associate Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, explains benefits of hepatitis B vaccine.

Senior economist of Realtor.com explains why some Bay Area metros are expected to see slight price reductions, while others will rise slightly.

Tahoe expert Kevin Cooper joins us from the top of Heavenly ski resort - one of the first to open this ski season - for an update on current ski conditions.

Excitement is building for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the San Jose Earthquakes are gearing up for a massive watch party for the final draw Friday at PayPal Park. Jared Shawlee, the president of the Earthquakes,. joined us on 'The Nine' for a preview.

The holiday party season is officially here, and for anyone who is newly sober, the next few weeks can feel like the ultimate test. Mary Stephens, the author of 'Uncorked: A Memoir of Letting Go and Starting Over,' joined us on 'The Nine' for tips on navigating sobriety.

The FBI's San Francisco division is sounding the alarm, calling out a surge in cybercriminals using AI in their scams. From phishing emails, to eerily convincing cloned voices and videos: the agency says the tools are getting sharper.

On Giving Tuesday, The Salvation Army is highlighting the importance of being generous and kind to those in need.

A San Francisco holiday tradition is hitting a milestone. 'The Golden Girls Live: The Christmas Episodes' is celebrating 20 years on stage, coinciding with the TV show marking its 40th anniversary.

Canine Companions is one of the nation's leading providers of trained service dogs for people with disabilities. It's a nonprofit that pairs adults, children, veterans, and working professionals with dogs that support daily tasks-- all at no cost to the client.

A Bay Area teen is continuing her tradition leading a holiday movement that's changing lives for children in California's foster care system. Nia Metz-White has turned her own story of being a former foster child into a powerful mission. For the last seven years, she's built hundreds of personalized stockings for kids who often feel overlooked this time of year.

Chris Camejo, director of advisory services at TrustedSec, gives insight on protecting your money from scammers during Cyber Monday.

As people plan holiday parties and gatherings, members of a Bay Area community are reminding hosts to ensure private homes and event spaces are accessible to everyone. Jan Garrett, deputy director of ADA programs at the Pacific ADA Center, joins the show to discuss how simple steps can make celebrations more inclusive.

Hear the inspiration behind Charo Fuente's Char.cuterie boards.

Charo Fuentes of Char.cuterie joins us on Mornings on 2 for insight on the latest charcuterie trends this holiday season.

A growing number of people are choosing to go "no-contact" with toxic family members. We speak with psychotherapist and author of "Mend or Move on: A guide to healing or leaving toxic relationships" about things to consider before making that call.

Shopping for kids can be overwhelming with so many options available these days. The Toy Insider's gift guide aims to make it easier.

A new survey reveals that Gen Zers and Millennials are planning on taking advantage of "Black Friday" sales to score a date and impress their significant other.

Vanessa Corcoran, Papal expert and advising Dean at Georgetown University, gives insight into the history, faith, and diplomacy behind Pope Leo's visit to Turkey.

Thanksgiving often comes with a plethora of leftovers. While some might be tempted to eat the same meal on repeat, there are some easy, creative ways to turn those extra dishes into something new.

From early morning prep, to last-minute sides: the kitchen becomes the busiest room in the house this week. Chief Damon Covington of the Oakland Fire Department joined us on 'The Nine' for safety tips ahead of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving brings joy for many, but for others, it can bring a wave of emotional pressure. From tricky relationships, to uncomfortable family dynamics, Kaitlin Soule, the founder of Bay Area Modern Therapy, joined us on 'The Nine' to discuss how to navigate and ease the emotional weight of the holidays.

The Lend a Hand Foundation has spent years supporting the community, and during the holidays, it goes even deeper with 26 days of giving.

FICO announced in addition to credit cards and loans, those 'Buy Now, Pay Later' installment purchases are also factoring into your debit calculations. Alma Galvan, a spokesperson for the Better Business, Bureau, joined us on 'The Nine' for tips on how to enjoy the holidays without overspending, while protecting our credit scores.

Families were told they must bring in at least $100 worth of food to participate in the Thanksgiving meal.

The Intertribal Friendship House has been a home for the Bay Area's Native American community since 1955.

Flying under a foreign passport or with a temporary status can turn into a gamble for some immigrants. Immigration attorney Mariam Masumi Daud shares insight on risks and how to prepare for travel if you're a non-U.S. citizen.

He's a Hip Hop legend here in the Bay area, and he's making sure no one goes hungry this week for Thanksgiving. Mistah F.A.B. hosts his 21st Annual Dope Turkey Giveaway in Oakland. He joined us in studio to talk all about it and the number of ways that you support Oakland this holiday season.

The Asian Art Museum’s new exhibition, Rave Into the Future, invites visitors to rethink everything they know about raves, club culture, and dance music. Associate Curator of Contemporary Art Naz Cuguoglu explains how the show blends the pulsing energy of rave culture with activism and contemporary art, transforming the dance floor into a space for political expression and community empowerment. Through immersive installations and multimedia works, the exhibit explores how collective movement and sound can spark dialogue, solidarity, and new visions for the future.

Anthony Guzman, chief cultural officer, at The Native American Health Center, gives update on new building and community services.

Mark Wahlberg and Michelle Monaghan discuss their new film "The Family Plan 2".

Executive Chef of Oakland's Mago restaurant offers a Thanksgiving Day recipe with a twist.

Updating this year's One Warm Coat drive with President & CEO, Beth Amadio

An interview with Dr. Pam Orren, clinical psychologist at Kaiser Permanente East Bay, about overcoming caregiver burnout.

One Warm Coat tries to make sure local families in need have enough clothing during the winter months.

Matt Schulz, chief consumer finance analyst, at LendingTree, talks holiday shopping trends and impact of government shutdown, tariffs.

Matt Schulz, chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree talks about this year's spending trends and the impact of inflation on consumers.

Katy Nastro, travel expert for Going.com, gives tips on booking trips last-minute, finding deals, and travel destinations.

Morning clouds and patchy dense fog will erode by late morning setting the stage for a mostly sunny, seasonal afternoon. Daytime highs will range from upper 50s to upper 60s. A Beach Hazard Alert continues for the coastline until 10 PM tonight.

Hosting for the holidays? A local florist offers tips for creating the perfect arrangement.

Travel guy Gabe Saglie visits Mendocino County

Author of "Becoming JFK: John F. Kennedy's Early Rise to Leadership" sticks around for Take 2 for more fascinating stories about JFK's early days.

Bay Area producer/director chronicles the life of Larry Ramos in documentary titled "Along Comes Larry"

A new production of the Broadway classic Into the Woods is bringing a dose of magic — and a reminder about the power of community — to Union Square this holiday season.

More than 720,000 Californians are living with Alzheimer’s disease. November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. The holidays can present some unique challenges for people with the disease — and their families and caregivers. Dr. Han Lee, Chief Neurologist with Kaiser Permanente San Leandro spoke with KTVU about the issue, and explained why family gatherings shouldn't be avoided: seeing familiar faces can also be a restorative and comforting experience for Alzheimer's patients.

Today marks 62 years since President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, a turning point that reshaped American history. We spoke with the author of “Becoming JFK” about how Kennedy’s early years — including his time in the Navy — helped shape the leader he became.

Katy Tucker, Cal Performances Chief Programming Officer, talks 'The 4th Witch' which is inspired by Macbeth. The show is Saturday, November 22, at Zellerbach Hall, UC Berkeley. 'Alice' will play Saturday, November 29 -28.

Kelsie Whitmore was the first pick in the inaugural Women's Pro Baseball League draft. Kelsie is a longtime member of team USA and represents the US in several international tournaments. She also played for the Sonoma Stompers, the Oakland Ballers, and most recently, the Savannah Bananas. Kelsie Whitmore joined us in studio to talk about all the excitement.

It's time to start planning those 2026 adventures, Travelzoo has just released its 'Best Bets' list of the top destinations for Americans in the New Year.

Celebrating KTVU's Steve Paulson, retiring after 25 years.

Our tribute to the man, the myth, the legend who is Steve Paulson, retiring after 25 years here at KTVU. We have been a team for a long time and are so happy for you, but sad to see you go!

Bay Area Realtor Milana Ostroy discusses the reality around the 50 year mortgage loan idea.

Margaret Poe, head of consumer credit education at TransUnion, explains how to take control of your credit during the holiday shopping season.

The characters from 'Zootopia' are back for a sequel. 'Zootopia 2' comes to theaters November 26. While the familiar faces are coming back, there are some new ones featured in the film, including Mayor Winddancer played back Patrick Warburton, who joined us on 'The Nine.'

Cirque du Soleil has set up the big top at San Francisco's Oracle Park. This time, it's for the production, 'Echo.'

As Americans increasingly turn to online shopping and digital payments, scammers are widening their reach. According to a new report from AARP, about 9 in 10 adults have experienced at least one type of fraud linked to charity donations, gift cards, or other schemes.