The Political Junkie is turning his analytical gaze west. Ken Rudin, known to NPR listeners from his many years talking all things politics with Neal Conan on "Talk of the Nation," joins Insight host Beth Ruyak for our signature segment that puts California politics in the context of the national scene. Rudin joins us from Washington D.C. in an effort to put it all in perspective.

Capital Public Radio’s Region Reporter Bob Moffitt joins us live from Sutter Street in Folsom, where organizers and volunteers for the Amgen Tour of California are preparing for today’s time trials. We’ll recap Stage One of the race, which started and finished at the State Capitol in Sacramento yesterday, and we’ll get a preview of today’s Stage 2 course.

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CapRadio's Coverage of Amgen Tour of California 2014:

• Amgen Tour of California Races Attract Thousands Near and Far
• Access To Cycling Elite Contributes To Bike Race Popularity
• Sacramento Hosts Next Stage Of Women's Cycling Movement
• Amgen Tour Riders Face Tough Course And A Suspicious Public
• Colorful Cyclists In Jersey And Personality Share Thoughts On Amgen Tour Return To Sacramento
• Live Updates: Stage 2 Of Amgen Tour Of California

Another cycling event is starting in Sacramento just days after the Tour of California leaves the area. It’s the NorCal AIDS Cycle ride and it’s a major fundraising event for HIV/AIDS programs in Northern California. One of the teams participating in the four-day 330 mile trek is a father riding with his daughter because his wife has AIDS. Jon Adler is also a passionate community educator about HIV and runs an emergency housing program for people living with HIV. Adler, his wife Vikki Adler and his daughter Torri Gilbert join us to talk about the NorCal AIDS Cycle ride and how AIDS has shaped their lives. The ride starts Thursday.      

SacImpulse is a Sacramento-based theatre company that specializes in contemporary translations and adaptations of classic works. It’s recently opened its second season with Virginia Woolf’s “Orlando,” adapted by Sarah Ruhl. Gail Dartez directs the production, which stars Sacramento favorite Melinda Parrett. “Orlando” runs May 8 to May 17 at the New Helvetia Theatre in downtown Sacramento.