Challenging Solitary Lockdown

This week, a federal judge in San Francisco heard closing arguments in the case of a man who spent years locked in isolation after authorities declared he was an associate of a violent prison gang. Ernesto Lira says he was never a member of any gang. And he's suing the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for violating his civil rights. Lira's legal battle could strengthen calls for an overhaul to California's use of solitary confinement against alleged prison gang members.Reporter: Michael Montgomery

• More: "Gangster Confidential" from American RadioWorks
• More: "Locked Down" from American RadioWorks
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Coping with Carnage through Community Art

The city of Oakland, like many urban cities, is no stranger to street violence. But how do you heal a community in which brutality is commonplace? One local artist has an answer. She's created an interactive art exhibit out of letters written to the victims. Mina Kim went to the show's opening to see how Oakland is healing its wounds. Reporter: Mina Kim

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Young Love

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, we present a story of young love. Seventeen year old Logan Barnes and his 15 year old girlfriend, Ruthie Singh, have been dating for two years. That's what you call 'locking down' by high school standards. But tomorrow marks their first Valentine's Day together, because Logan was sent abroad to boarding school shortly after they met. The two sat down recently at Youth Radio's Oakland studios to talk about their long distance romance.

Looking for Love Online

Internet dating has become a billion dollar business. One big reason why these sites have proliferated is because it's easier than ever to become an online Cupid.

Hot Ramen

For many Asians, ramen egg noodles are a food staple. The best ramen doesn't come out of a package, but is made fresh in noodle houses. Some ramen restaurants are known for the quality of their noodles, while others stand out for their broth. Orochan Ramen in Los Angeles' Little Tokyo is famous for the spiciness of its ramen. It has a cult following among extreme eaters, as KPCC's Queena Kim discovered. Reporter: Queena Kim

• More: Video: I Eat Ramen Hear Me Roar