Justin Ray
Follow Us
Justin Ray is a former Metro reporter who wrote the Essential California newsletter. He joined in 2020 from Columbia Journalism Review, where he grew the magazine’s digital audience as a digital media editor. Previously, he served as a web editor for NBC New York and NBC Chicago. He’s originally from Cincinnati.
Latest From This Author
We truly don’t know what happenstance moments may yield. Here’s a collection of memories for my final newsletter.
July 7, 2022
Here’s why a pair of ultra-contagious Omicron subvariants have health officials concerned.
July 6, 2022
William Alexander Leidesdorff Jr. was a man of wealth and power, and the first African diplomat in history.
June 23, 2022
This year has been hellish for several tech companies based in the Bay Area, especially in the last month.
June 22, 2022
Essential California newsletter writer Justin Ray explains how his homosexuality has created friction in his relationship with his parents.
June 21, 2022
Three men escaped from Alcatraz in 1962 and have never been located. Here is the story and images from the enduring mystery.
June 20, 2022
Here are some ways people in California can reduce their water consumption during the drought.
June 16, 2022
Members of the Oakland City Council voted to make racial equity a priority.
June 15, 2022
A future Jan. 6 select committee hearing will discuss efforts former President Donald Trump and John Eastman made to prevent Biden from taking office. Who is Eastman? We explore.
June 13, 2022
A Placer County executive did not face charges after fatally striking a teen with his car. Police refuse to release records related to the incident.
June 9, 2022