KPBS Midday Edition

NASA's Artemis II will splash down in San Diego after a 10-day mission around the moon.It's the first time in 50 years that American astronauts have been to the moon.On Midday Edition, we sit down with former astronaut and NASA administrator Major General Charles Bolden Jr. to hear about his career and his insights about the significance of the Artemis II mission.Guest:Major General Charles Bolden Jr., former astronaut and NASA administrator

One of the biggest coffee industry events in the United States is coming to San Diego this weekend — and coffee lovers are in for a treat.World of Coffee will be kicking off at the San Diego Convention Center Friday, bringing together specialty coffee shops, roasters, educators and experts from all across the globe.Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with a local business owner and a coffee educator to talk about what it means to bring World of Coffee to San Diego, and how coffee itself is intertwined with culture and community.Then, if you're looking for more arts and culture events to check out, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans has you covered in her weekend preview.Guests:Kristin Cleavinger, owner, One of One CommunityJacquie McCourt, coffee educator, San Diego Coffee Training InstituteResources:World of Coffee San Diego — April 10-12

We've now seen parts of the moon no human has ever seen before.That's thanks to the four-person crew of NASA's Artemis II mission — and plenty of other scientists here at home, on Earth.It's a story many of us have been following over the past week, marking humanity's return to the moon after more than 50 years.Later this week, the Artemis II crew will be splashing down right off the coast of San Diego. We get all the details from the San Diego Air & Space Museum and hear about their upcoming Family PJ Night Watch Party.Guest:David Neville, communications director, San Diego Air & Space Museum

Ballots for California's Gubernatorial Primary Election will be in your mailbox within weeks.On Midday Edition Wednesday, we take a closer look at some of the many candidates vying to be California's next governor. On the congressional side, we talk about the race for California's newly redrawn 48th District seat.Guest:Carl Luna, professor of political science at Mesa College; visiting professor at the University of San Diego and director for USD's Institute for Civil Civic Engagement

The Citizens' Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) found that two sheriff's deputies engaged in criminal conduct in connection with the death of Bobby Ray Patton, who died in the Vista Detention Facility.Patton died in the jail on Dec. 28, 2024 after hours of struggling to breathe and complaining of chest pain.The civilian watchdog panel sustained allegations of criminal negligence against the deputies, concluding that the officers failed to respond to signs that Patton needed medical attention.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we talk more about Patton's case and what this ruling could mean for similar investigations moving forward.Guest:Kelly Davis, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

For nearly 20 years, National Public Radio's "Planet Money" has been telling enlightening stories about the economy in unexpected and creative ways. Now, the team behind the popular podcast is out with a new book.We hear from members of the Planet Money team about their new book "Planet Money: A Guide to the Economic Forces That Shape Your Life" and how they brought their unique storytelling style to the world of text.Guests:Alex Mayyasi, author, contributor, "Planet Money"Sarah Gonzalez, cohost, reporter, "Planet Money"

A federal judge last week struck down a central part of President Trump’s executive order that targeted federal funding for public media. The District Court ruling said the order violated broadcasters' First Amendment rights.On Midday Edition Monday, we hear what the ruling means to the future of public media, and explore other trends across the media landscape.Guests:David Loy, legal director, First Amendment CoalitionDean Nelson, professor, Point Loma Nazarene University

For more than 400 years, 12.5 million people in Africa were ripped from their homes and families, chained in pairs, packed into cargo holds at the bottom of ships and trafficked to the Americas.On the other side of the two-month journey through the middle passage was the horror of chattel slavery.Today, the continued impacts of that reality are all around us. In America, we see it reflected in every system — from our economy to our health care system.Last month, the United Nations General Assembly passed a landmark resolution that declares the transatlantic slave trade the "gravest crime against humanity." It also calls for reparations beyond symbolic acknowledgement.We talk about what the resolution could mean for reparations proposals in California.Guest:Monica Montgomery Steppe, San Diego County Board Supervisor, District 4

For years, Alma Rodriguez and her late daughter Ana Rodriguez brought the Beatles Fair to San Diego's North Park.This year, it's coming to the desert. The new location is one of several ways Alma is honoring her daughter. The festival is also supporting Alma's new advocacy mission around pedestrian safety.On Midday Edition Thursday, we talk to Anna about the inspiration behind this year's event.Plus, KPBS Cinema Junkie Beth Accomando sits down with an author about the history and evolution of Black representation in film.And, more young people are turning to so-called 'grandma hobbies' to disconnect from social media — from knitting and gardening, to pottery and needlepoint.We hear from two local crafters to hear how they're building community for hobbyists.Guests: Alma Rodriguez, owner of Queen Bee’s Art and Cultural Center and organizer of the San Diego Beatles FairDavid F. Walker, author of "Black Film: A History of Black Representation and Participation in the Movies"Marlee Drake, co-founder of Queer Crafting San DiegoKimberly Molin, co-founder of MoMo Craft Club

A jury last week found Meta and Google designed their social media platforms to hook young users without a concern for their well being.The case was brought forth by a woman who had been using social media since the age of 6. She testified that she became addicted to social media as a child and that the addiction worsened her mental health struggles.On Midday Edition Wednesday, we talk about the case and how social media features like infinite scrolling and autoplay can lead to problematic social media use.Guest:Kristen Vacarro, associate professor of computer science and engineering, UC San Diego

Small businesses in South County, near the sewage-laced Tijuana River, are attributing years-long revenue losses to the ongoing pollution crisis. While construction projects designed to stop the flow of untreated wastewater are underway, business owners say relief cannot come sooner.This week, William Briggs, the deputy administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), visited the communities most affected, including Imperial Beach, to hear directly from business owners.He is the latest federal official to meet with people who live and work near the Tijuana River in San Diego. In February, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin also visited the region to highlight how the federal government is working with its Mexican counterparts to end the decades-long problem.Voice of San Diego reporter Jim Hinch followed along during Briggs' visit to Imperial Beach. He joined Midday Edition on Wednesday to share his biggest takeaways.Guest: Jim Hinch, South County reporter, Voice of San Diego  

U.S. gas prices have passed $4 a gallon first the first time since 2022, largely due to the war in Iran.California has the highest average in the country, at nearly $5.89 for a gallon of gas.On Wednesday's Midday Edition, we talk about the high price of gas and other economic trends, from housing to population size in San Diego.Guest:Daniel Enemark, chief economist, Policy & Innovation Center

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park opened its latest addition, Elephant Valley, in early March. The new exhibit gives visitors a rare glimpse into the lives of Earth’s largest land animals.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear about the new exhibit's design, and learn about the intelligent and family-centered animals living inside.Guest:Kristi Burtis, vice president of wildlife care, San Diego Zoo Safari ParkLink:Elephants Form "Alert Circle" in Response to Earthquake at San Diego Zoo Safari Park

"Good Writing: 36 Ways to Improve Your Sentences" is a new book by married writers Anne Lamott and Neal Allen.It guides writers through a series of rules about the craft of putting a sentence together and fine tune any type of writing — from a book and social media post to a professional email. Along the way, they want writers to stay curious.Allen is a former journalist and now author and coach. Lamott is a bestselling author of more than 20 books, including the beloved "Bird by Bird," a guide to writing and life that was first published in 1994.KPBS' Julia Dixon Evans sat down with the author duo ahead of their San Diego book event at Balboa Theatre this week.Guests:Anne Lamott, bestselling author of "Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life"Neal Allen, author and life coachLink:Good Writing: An Evening with Anne Lamott & Neal Allen

March 31 is officially Farmworkers Day in California.Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill last week to rename the holiday from César Chávez Day, following allegations of rape and sexual abuse by the late labor leader.Here in San Diego, where Chicanos have fought for civil rights and representation, many are grappling with the allegations against Chávez.We hear from KPBS reporters to learn how people have been processing the allegations against an icon of civil rights and workers' rights.Guests:Katie Hyson, racial justice and social equity reporter, KPBSKori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBSVerónica Martínez-Matsuda, associate professor of history, UC San Diego

It's the time of year for Padres fans' favorite words: Play ball!On today's arts and culture show, we get a peak into Padres Opening Day and hear from a Carlsbad chef in the running for a major award.Plus, our Midday Movies critics highlight women directors for Women's History Month, from trailblazers to emerging new voices.Then, the weekend preview of upcoming events in the music scene.Guests:Jacob Aere, producer, KPBSEric Bost, chef and owner of several Carlsbad restaurantsBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, host, MoviewallasJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

Laughter and joy have always been central to the Black experience.The '90s especially were a golden era for Black comedy. But it didn't just start then — there were others that paved the way for shows like Living Color, Martin, and A Different World.The truth is: Black comedians have always shaped culture and civic discourse in America.We sit down with broadcaster and author Geoff Bennett to talk about his new book, "Black Out Loud," which explores Black comedy's history and cultural influence.Guest:Geoff Bennett, co-anchor of PBS NewsHour, author of "Black Out Loud: The Revolutionary History of Black Comedy from Vaudeville to '90s Sitcoms"

Across the country, hundreds of thousands of children are living in the foster care system.It's an experience that author David Ambroz knows all too well.In his memoir, "A Place Called Home," Ambroz recounts his experiences in and out of the poverty cycle — growing up homeless and later unprotected in the foster care system.In spite of these harrowing experiences, his memoir is also a story about love, strength and solutions.We sit down with Ambroz ahead of an upcoming appearance at the San Diego Writer's Festival.Guest:David Ambroz, child welfare expert and author, "A Place Called Home"

The San Diego Unified School Board voted this week to rename César Chávez Elementary School.It's one of many efforts to remove Chávez' name from schools, parks and other spaces following allegations of sexual abuse and rape that surfaced last week.We unpack the layers of issues surrounding Chávez' legacy and what this means for survivors of sexual assault.Guest:Jean Guerrero, investigative journalist and author of the substack, "UNSILENCING"

In 1992, federal agents and a white separatist family faced off in a remote part of Idaho, culminating in a violent standoff that became known as the Ruby Ridge incident.The 11-day siege is chronicled in the book, "End of Days: Ruby Ridge, the Apocalypse, and the Unmaking of America."Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear from the author about the confrontation that transpired, the family's belief in the apocalypse, and how it foreshadowed conspiracy-driven politics — and the ongoing resurgence of white Christian nationalism.Guest:Chris Jennings, author, "End of Days: Ruby Ridge, the Apocalypse, and the Unmaking of America"Events:San Diego Writer's Festival - March 28

The latest release of files by the Justice Department have shed light on Jeffrey Epstein's relationships with prominent researchers across the country.That includes several researchers affiliated with UC San Diego — Deepak Chopra and V.S. Ramachandran.Epstein helped them fund research into whether autistic children had telepathic abilities.We break down the research and what it reveals about Epstein's interests and the level of scrutiny in research funding.Guest:Lucas Robinson, reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

On Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission and Justice Department approved Nexstar Media Group's $6.2 billion acquisition of rival Tegna.The deal puts San Diego's CBS, CW and FOX affiliates and KUSI under the same ownership.Monday on Midday Edition, we talk about what this merger could mean for San Diego's journalism landscape and information ecosystem amid declining trust in news.Guest:Lynn Walsh, assistant director, Trusting News

A rapid effort is well underway to erase Cesar Chavez' name from schools, parks and monuments following allegations last week about the labor leader's sexual abuse of women and girls.San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria has signed an executive order directing city departments to remove public references to Chavez.This week, the San Diego Unified School Board will vote on whether to begin the renaming process for César Chávez Elementary School.But historians know that the full story of the farmworkers' movement does not begin or end with Chavez. We sit down with a scholar to unpack that history and the significance of this moment.Guest:Verónica Martínez-Matsuda, associate professor of history, UC San Diego

The city of San Diego is considering new rules around electric bicycles. As e-bikes grow in popularity, so have concerns over safety.On Midday Edition Monday, we get a breakdown of the different types of e-bikes available, and what people need to know. We also hear about efforts at the city and state level underway to regulate electric bicycles.Guest:Aria Grossman, policy manager, Circulate Planning & PolicyResources:Media toolkit for electric bicycles

Friday marks the beginning of Nowruz, also known as the Persian New Year.A new children's book, "Celebrate Nowruz!" by a local mother-daughter duo honors the holiday and its significance to millions of Iranian families across the world.Then, the San Diego Latino Film Festival kicks off its 33rd year with nearly 150 films showcasing the best in Latino cinema. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando brings us a preview.And if you're looking for things to do this weekend, don't fret. KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans has you covered. From protest art to a musical about public toilets, we dive into all the arts events in your weekend preview.Guests:Zohreh Ghahremani, author, "Celebrate Nowruz!"Susie Ghahremani, illustrator, "Celebrate Nowruz!"Ethan van Thillo, founder, San Diego Latino Film FestivalLuis Martinez, programmer, San Diego Latino Film FestivalCatherina Cojulún, filmmakerJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

There's nothing like a good friend.They're the people who make you laugh. They have your back. And, they take care of you when times get tough.But making new friends as an adult can be challenging, especially as we try to balance jobs, families and big life changes.On Midday Edition, we take a deep dive into all things friendship — how to make friends, keep friends and everything in between.Our journey takes us from Kate Sessions Park, to the therapy room, Lestat's on Adams Ave, and improv at Liberty Station.Guests: Julianna Domingo, producer, KPBSAshley Rusch, producer, KPBSMitzy Ruelas, licensed marriage and family therapistDan Singley, psychologist and director of The Center for Men's ExcellenceLauren Mapp, co-founder and journalist, Daylight San DiegoMaura Fox, communities reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneLinks:Daylight San Diego's Third Spaces SeriesLet Me Have It! All Femme Improv Group

The U.S. Postal Service released a new commemorative set of stamps honoring lowrider culture on Friday.The stamps, which highlight five classic lowrider cars, are the latest recognition for lowriding as an important form of expression in Mexican-American communities across the Southwest.Lowriding also faced bans in many communities, including a ban in National City until it was repealed in 2023.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear more about the rich history of lowriding and what it has meant for Chicano culture in San Diego through the years.Guest:Alberto López Pulido, professor of ethnic studies, University of San DiegoLinks:Lowrider stampsSan Diego Archival ProjectLowriding: Everything Comes from the Streets

The California legislature has been on a housing blitz, passing major housing policy reforms in recent years.Now, Congress is finalizing a package of housing bills — some of the proposed changes were inspired by California.Some experts say it would be the federal government's most significant housing reform in decades.We talk about what the bill package could mean for housing affordability moving forward, in California and beyond.Guest:Adhiti Bandlamudi, housing reporter, KQED

On Tuesday, the San Diego City Council will be voting on adopting a new working definition of antisemitism.Councilmember Stephen Whitburn is proposing adopting a definition crafted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, also known as the IHRA.The definition has been widely adopted by countries, states, cities and schools. But critics say it's imprecise and could have broader implications for freedom of speech.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we look at the history of the IHRA definition, how it's been interpreted and put into practice and competing perceptions of antisemitism.Guests:Jonathan Graubart, political science professor and chair, San Diego State University