KPBS Midday Edition

We speak with a pediatric infectious disease doctor about the status of vaccine approval for children 5 to 12 and keeping kids safe during Halloween activities. Plus, a recent initiative put forth by the governor, the city of San Diego, and the state department of transportation aims to help homeless individuals camped along the area’s highways. Meanwhile, we meet a man who is getting help from a statewide initiative that converts motels into housing for the homeless. And, we speak to the authors of the new book “Dear White Women: Let’s Get Uncomfortable Talking About Race.” And a new initiative from the San Diego Tourism Authority is aiming to increase diversity in the tourism industry. Lastly, a Film Noir film festival is coming to Palm Springs.

The Force Analysis Unit is tasked with reviewing use of force incidents with the aim of improving training and decreasing future incidents. Plus, mounting evidence suggests that the COVID-19 vaccine could help lessen “long COVID” symptoms. Meanwhile, earlier this month, Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have decriminalized jaywalking when no cars are present. The bill was aimed at tackling racial disparities in how jaywalking laws are enforced. And, a piece of classical music is examining California's colonial history and our state's long and complex relationship with Mexico. Finally, it's Halloween season so we are gathering our Midday Movies crew to recommend some appropriate viewing options.

The city of San Diego has taken bold measures to greatly expand the number of bike lanes on its streets, a move partly in response to a number of traffic deaths that have occured in recent months. Plus, California will now study how to set up its own zero-fee public bank accounts, the latest step in the state’s exploration of public banking. And, this weekend in the arts, check out a performance from the Takács quartet, a solo exhibition from Perry Vasquez, San Diego Zine Fest and a sugar skull pinata workshop at the Mingei.

The Biden administration announced a new plan to help combat the nation's supply chain shortage ahead of the holiday season. Plus, San Diego has one of the highest inflation rates in the nation, according to data recently released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index for the month of September. Then, California’s Reparations Task Force met this week to explore the impact of racism on housing, education, banking and the environment. And, oceanographer and author Kim McCoy offers his insights on the fascinating world of ocean science and how it furthers our understanding of climate change through his new book: “Waves and Beaches: The Powerful Dynamics of Sea and Coast.” Lastly, just six weeks after the death of the San Diego-born Chicana artist and activist Yolanda Lopez, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego will reopen this weekend with an exhibition of Lopez's work — surprisingly the first solo museum exhibition of her long and celebrated career.

The Biden administration announced Wednesday it's easing travel restrictions at land border crossings, after 19 months of closure to all but essential travel. The number of new COVID infections are finally going down in California and nationally, but Dr. Eric Topol is warning everyone not to drop their guard. Plus, the San Diego Housing Commission is out with a report on “lessons learned” from its own pilot program building five granny flats in the city of San Diego. Also, in a new episode of KPBS’ border podcast “Port of Entry,” the story of one person’s trash being another person’s treasure often happens in an actual journey from San Diego to Tijuana. Later, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series is back in San Diego after a hiatus due to the pandemic. Finally, the first ever San Diego Filipino Film Festival will run Oct. 14th through 19th in a mix of virtual and in person events.

Federal transportation investigators are on the ground Tuesday, trying to piece together what led to the deadly crash in Santee on Monday afternoon. Plus, in-person school just started up again and now parents have a chance to send their children to their preferred school. And, doctors and hospitals are looking at a new way to treat drug addictions, asking patients, “What do you need from us?”

A number of reforms being proposed to the county’s Citizen’s Law Enforcement Review Board would constitute the biggest changes to the board since its beginnings nearly 30 years ago. Plus, caught up in the chaos of the last days of the U.S. engagement in Afghanistan, one former interpreter is getting back to the difficult task of creating a new life in his adopted country. Also, being home to more recognized tribes than any other county in the country, we interviewed a tribal leader about Indigenous Peoples Day. Meanwhile, Project Homekey, California’s multibillion dollar plan to fight homelessness, has a surprising upside for cities — improving blighted properties in neglected neighborhoods. And, stuck at home during the pandemic, many people turned to yoga and some instructors have found ways to create culturally sensitive spaces for students of color, in an industry where many feel that white Westerners have co opted the practice. Finally, in an excerpt from Cinema Junkie, host Beth Accomando speaks with Bond aficionado Gary Dexter about the final Daniel Craig 007 film.

A huge housing development planned for Otay Ranch has been struck down in court. A San Diego judge agreed with environmental groups and California’s attorney general in a lawsuit against the Adara at Otay Ranch project. Plus, the federal commission charged with replacing Confederate names on military bases is getting thousands of suggestions, but that's just one step in a process that will likely take years. And, the big news in the art world this weekend is the celebration for winners of the San Diego Art Prize. Other art events around the county include the Symphony's take on Gabriel García Márquez, a mural walk and a new play commissioned by the Old Globe.

County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher discusses the ongoing effort to combat misinformation surrounding COVID-19. Plus, in light of increasing gunfire incidents at schools nationwide, KPBS education reporter MG Perez talks about local efforts to keep our schools safe. Also, Congressman Mike Levin talks about his goal of phasing out offshore oil production in light of the Orange County oil spill. Then, a new job placement center in Lincoln Park just opened up to provide people with a pathway to middle-class careers in construction. And, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says as marijuana is legalized in more places across the country, more dogs are munching on edibles and it’s making them sick. Later, the Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego finally opened its doors in September after a merger between two art spaces in the county. Lastly, the California Report visits a well-known restaurant in the Central Valley town of Goshen for their Hidden Gems series.

Contentions over COVID-19 mandates have school boards dealing with increased hostility to the point where Attorney General Merrick Garland ordered the FBI to look into these incidents. Plus, child and teen obesity is believed to have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, what should be done to address it? Also, Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a law intended to address racial disparities in maternal and infant health. Meanwhile, increased wildfires due to climate change are destroying ancient sequoia trees. And, in the California Report’s latest Hidden Gem: a tiny treat shop that sells hand-made mochi. Finally, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando has a preview of the San Diego Italian Film Festival, which is returning to in-person tomorrow.

Much of San Diego experienced hours of thunder, lightning and pouring rain, less than 24 hours after a mild Santa Ana. Another rainstorm may be on its way at the end of the week. Plus, the oil spill in Orange County could have an environmental impact for years. Also, San Diego Nobel Prize-winner Ardem Patapoutian talks about the journey that brought him to the U.S. and a career in science. In addition, how will the new sweeping laws on policing affect law enforcement and the people they serve? Meanwhile, as parts of the United States, such as Texas, are restricting access to abortion, in Mexico, things seem to be headed in the other direction. And, while the military has become more racially diverse, a recent survey found Black, Latino, and Asian service members don’t always feel welcome off-base. Finally, the Haunted Hotel reopens to scare people in person after being closed last year because of the pandemic. Owner Greg DeFatta speaks to KPBS Arts Reporter Beth Accomando about what to expect.

Scripps Research scientist Ardem Patapoutian and his partner David Julius at UCSF won the award for their work in discovering how skin receptors allow people to sense temperature and touch. Plus, San Diego State receives a $15 million grant to research Latinx health disparities across San Diego and Imperial counties. Also, the military often falls short in recognizing how the “wounds of war” can lead to incidents of misconduct. How one Marine won a rare victory against the system. Meanwhile, now that California’s statewide eviction moratorium has expired, many tenants are looking for rent relief and legal guidance. And, the effort to establish the city’s first Black Arts and Culture District to bring resources and revitalization to a long-ignored Encanto neighborhood. Finally, if you've lived in California for long enough, you’ve probably seen one of those iconic yellow bumper stickers that say "mystery spot." But do you actually know what the 81-year-old roadside attraction called "The Mystery Spot" is all about?

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday announced the nation's first coronavirus vaccine mandate for schoolchildren once they received final approval from the FDA for various grade levels. Plus, legal scholars are calling for the disbarment of a law professor who worked to keep Donald Trump in office after his election loss. And a preview of the arts happenings this weekend.

Health care workers have until today to be vaccinated, but many are not. Plus, an independent investigation into the incident at Valhalla High School where a staff member placed his knee on the neck of a Black student has concluded. The school district is moving forward with the recommendations. Also, “The Wrap” device that the Medical Examiner’s Office said contributed to Earl McNeil’s death continues to be used by law enforcement, raising questions about police tactics that officers continue to use across the country. Meanwhile, in the continuing investigation, we look at how some Californians are coping with the smoke created by wildfires, and why the smoke hits some parts of the state harder than others. And, a recent survey found most Americans greatly overestimate how many veterans have PTSD. In addition, a preview of the Gaslight Steampunk Expo as it returns in-person at the Mission Valley Marriott Hotel. Finally, five songs to highlight Latinx musicians as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

The San Diego Unified school board voted to require COVID-19 vaccinations for school district staff and students 16 and older beginning on Dec. 20. Plus, we speak to Dr. Eric Topol about variants, testing and vaccines. Then, we bring you an interview with San Diego's independent budget analyst, Andrea Tevlin, who announced her retirement this month after working at the city for 16 years. Her office was established by voters in 2004 as an independent check on the mayor. Also, a KQED investigative project shows that children are especially affected by wildfire smoke. And, La Mesa’s Oktoberfest is resuming in person this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, after going virtual last year due to the pandemic. Lastly, a “Port of Entry” interview with the famed animator Jorge Gutierrez about his new show and his cross-border influences between Tijuana and San Diego.

While many Americans are eager to bolster their immunity against COVID-19, questions remain about who’s exactly eligible to receive the booster shot. Meanwhile, time and money is running out for San Diego’s rental assistance program. Plus, while San Diego was spared from the recent wildfires, smoke from western wildfires is causing air pollution problems and health issues far away from fire zones. Also, despite lofty expectations, and a high-priced roster, the Padres were eliminated from the postseason. Where does the team go from here? And, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has hatched an Egyptian vulture. It’s the first time the species has reproduced in captivity in North America. Finally, from the archive, the story of Sally Ride, America’s first woman in space, is being told, along with the stories of other inspiring women in a series of young adult books called “She Persisted.”

Parents of children enrolled in the San Marcos Unified School District were given cause for alarm after being informed that some students had been “attending school with known COVID-19 positive test results.” Meanwhile, COVID-19 outbreaks at schools are having big impacts on families, especially those in rural communities. Plus, both the city and county of San Diego want to right the wrongs from the “War of Drugs,” but plans for a cannabis social equity program are still not in place. Also, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria is pushing for more protected bike lanes in San Diego, but for some families, these changes haven’t come soon enough. And, Encinitas is saying no to gas, natural gas that is. City leaders say the building electrification ordinance is part of the city’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gases. Finally, from the California Report, a hidden gem in Joshua Tree and it’s not the striking scenery from the National Park. It’s a salon that’s an oasis of style in this small desert community.

After a year of virtual classes, UC San Diego came roaring back this week in-person, welcoming what could be the largest number of fall semester students in its history. Plus, The biggest professional tennis tournament in San Diego history is being served up next week. And, this weekend in the arts: a 21st birthday party (and exhibition) for Art Produce, Bodhi Tree Concerts, art meets science at La Jolla Historical Society, “The Garden” and Burn All Books + Teros.

The FDA and a CDC panel approved a third dose of the Pfizer vaccine for seniors and high-risk groups. Plus, care workers who visit people’s homes are not required by the state to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Then, a private prison in Downtown San Diego remains open despite an executive order by President Joe Biden. Also, the San Diego City Council cleared the way for another attempt to revitalize the city’s Midway district. And, The California Creative Workforce Act is the first of its kind: it aims to grow and diversify the arts workforce and provide a living wage to artists. Lastly, a decades-old San Diego community choir shares the history, trauma, encouragement and rejoicing found in gospel music.

The San Diego City Council on Tuesday approved increasing water rates and a new set of sewer rates that will increase the fees for single-family homes, but decrease it for multi-family units. Plus, the latest wave of Haitian migrants heading to the United States is centered on a little town in Texas called Del Rio, but its effects could be felt in Tijuana where there’s a sizable Haitian population. Also, since 2003, five Cal Fire fighters have died during training exercises and experts have attributed their deaths to the high heat. Meanwhile, doctors in the Central Valley are told to be on the lookout for a rare complication related to COVID-19 in children. And, National Suicide Prevention Month is bringing awareness to the issue and where to get help. Finally, in a “Cinema Junkie” podcast excerpt, how Hollywood moved away from negative Asian stereotypes to the heroics of Bruce Lee and Shang-Chi.

Come November travel restrictions on foreign travellers will be lifted for those who are vaccinated, what will that mean for San Diego tourism? Plus, a recent analysis shows disparities in COVID testing across San Diego Unified schools. Also, summer ends today, but the weather is still warm and many kids don't have places to swim because the city of San Diego has drastically cut back on weekend pool hours since 2019. Then, from the archive, many people don’t know how local government works, so they hit a brick wall when it comes to having community issues addressed. A book by two Encinitas residents seeks to demystify the process. And, the return of an all-California Michelin guide sees the addition of several San Diego restaurants. Finally, a new song from Oakland-based artist Fantastic Negrito reflects the zany vibe of California and explores the dissonance between the California Dream and the reality of living in the Golden State today.

Pfizer on Monday said its COVID-19 vaccine is safe for children ages 5 to 11 and plans to seek authorization for the age group soon. Plus, tensions appear to be rising between city leaders and the San Diego Housing Commision, as a recent conflict-of-interest case has come to light. Also, one man thought he was doing the right thing to become a permanent resident of the United States, but because of the Trump administration’s “public charge” rule, he’s been separated from his family for two years. Then, the state's efforts to boost food recycling as a way to fight climate change are on full display. And, in the depths of a basement of a library on the CSU San Marcos campus lies an archive rich with the history of San Diego’s craft brew industry. Finally, SDSU is using comics to teach students about critical thinking at a time when such skills are most needed.

A federal judge has ruled the government must stop using a public health order to refuse entry to immigrant families at the border. Plus, critical race theory is now front and center in the ongoing culture war over what our children are learning in K-12 schools. And, this weekend in the arts: the Broadway musical that inspired “The Birdcage,” “The Rebellious Miss Breed” reopens the downtown library’s art gallery, and three solo exhibitions are on display at the Oceanside Museum of Art.

Infectious disease specialist Dr. Mark Sawyer joins us for an update on COVID in San Diego County. Plus, the board of supervisors approved beginning the process to allow people to legally sell food from their home kitchens here in San Diego County. Then, Governor Gavin Newsom has until October 10 to decide whether to sign a bill that softens production quotas for warehouse workers. And, a new generation of fans are being introduced to the tradition of lucha libre, Mexican wrestling, at events held at a Logan Heights brewery. Also, KPBS film critic Beth Accomando unpacks some of the layers of meaning in the reimagined “Candyman” movie by filmmaker Nia Da Costa. Lastly, the KPBS Summer Music series continues and this week features the San Diego-based experimental duo Skrapez, who make curious, creative and chaotic walls of sound.

Gov. Gavin Newsom racked up a major win in the recall, with more than 60% of voters supporting the Governor. The question remains: what will Newsom do with this show of support and what happens to his recall challengers? Plus, as the nation grapples with a rise in hateful rhetoric and activity within its own borders, law enforcement and intelligence agencies are beginning to acknowledge domestic terrosism as one of our top national security threats. Also, a recent study of the planet’s warming climate predicts working outside will become riskier as communities endure more extreme heat days more often, and that has implications for the nation’s economy. And, a recent report finds one in four of San Diego’s homeless adults is over the age of 55, and more than 40% of them are experiencing homelessness for the first time in their lives. What needs to be done about it? Finally, high veterinary costs helped one woman launch a business picking up pets in San Diego and crossing them into Tijuana for more affordable care, in this excerpt from a bonus episode of the “Port of Entry” podcast.

Today is Election Day in San Diego County and the last chance for voters to choose whether they want Gov. Gavin Newsom recalled from office. Plus, an employment expert weighs in on what protections are in place for workers experiencing mental illness and what workplaces can do to help those experiencing mental health challenges. Also, the redistricting process is happening right now and some UC San Diego students want to move into a district that more closely represents their interests, and out of the district that represents La Jolla. And, a new book recounts the experiences of Navy SEAL Eddie Gallagher's unit, as well as the ensuing investigation of Gallagher’s actions, and Gallagher’s trial and the controversy over the verdict. Finally, from the archives, scientists have been studying a small group of East Pacific green sea turtles who seem to have found an ocean home off La Jolla Shores.

Despite a federal and state mandate that health care workers get vaccinated against COVID-19, an estimated 3% of San Diego hospital staff still aren’t persuaded to get vaccinated and are requesting exemptions. Plus, whether Gov. Gavin Newsom wins or loses on Tuesday, the recall election's outcome is likely to have big impacts on public health policies and the balance of power in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. Also, how San Diego County is using technology to prepare for a potentially potent fire season. And, with wildfires come lawyers, but victims of previous wildfires have a message for those affected by the recent wildfires: buyer beware. Finally, how San Diego State alum Destin Cretton developed from a student filmmaker to director of Marvel's “Shang-Chi” in this excerpt from the “Cinema Junkie” podcast.

President Joe Biden announced a new COVID-19 vaccine and testing mandate yesterday, for private businesses with 100 or more employees. We talk to legal analyst Dan Eaton about the legal ramifications. Then, KPBS’s Amita Sharma explores the collective trauma of 9/11 and how it might inform this moment in our history. And, San Diego Design Week continues with a region-wide celebration of all things design, The Old Globe opens the world premiere production of "The Gardens of Anuncia," and contemporary dancers interpret the hyperrealistic drawings of Ana de Alvear.

While cases of the mu variant continue to be documented across California, health officials say that the delta variant is still the primary cause for concern as the pandemic continues. Plus, the threat of wildfire is increasingly leading insurers to drop the policies of San Diego homeowners, a trend most prominent in the county’s rural areas but also affecting some city neighborhoods. Then, on Saturday it will be 20 years since 9/11. Some San Diego firefighters joined scores of other emergency personnel who went to Manhattan to help following the attacks. And, we discuss the wave of hate and harassment directed at Muslims across the U.S. following 9/11. Later, FilmOut San Diego’s LGBTQ Film Festival returns to in-person events with a co-production from Estonia and Great Britain called “Firebird.” Finally, this week on the KPBS Summer Music Series: a local supergroup embodies the San Diego-Tijuana region with a fresh cumbia sound and danceable songs in a forthcoming new album.

Scripps Health recorded its highest daily COVID-19 death count over the weekend, while new cases seem to be slowing. Are we nearing the end of the delta wave? Plus, San Diego’s eviction ban ended in mid-August and despite the statewide moratorium still in place, some San Diegans are still getting pushed out as investors look to capitalize on the area’s rising rents. Also, Chula Vista officials say they are working on a citywide privacy policy to guard against violations by police drone surveillance, license plate readers and other forms of data collection. And, as the 20th anniversary for 9/11 approaches, we take a look back on how American media has changed its coverage of one of the most complex armed conflicts of the 21st century. Finally, an excerpt from the latest “Port of Entry” podcast about how Drew Deckman, a chef in Valle de Guadalupe, weathered the pandemic storm.

With one week left for voters to weigh in on whether or not Gov. Gavin Newsom will complete his term, we talk to UCSD Political Science Professor Thad Kousser about the current outlook. Plus, in Imperial Valley, the mostly Latino electorate swung for Donald Trump in the last election, what does that mean for Newsom’s recall election? Plus, land-use planners from Southern California and Tijuana are holding a conference on how a changing climate will determine future development. Also, San Diego is supposed to move away from car-centric planning, but two recent street projects show the city often works against its own objectives. And, three San Diego nonprofits have launched California’s first grant-based home buying assistance program specifically for Black people using $1.25 million in seed money. Finally, an excerpt from the second part of Cinema Junkie's tribute to Indian Cinema, Hooray for Bollywood.

Debate over what is called "critical race theory" continues to be a charged topic at school board meetings across the country. There are even bans that limit what can be taught in some classrooms across the country about the history of racism in America. The term has been hijacked, rebranded and weaponized as a political boogeyman. So today we will cut through myths with facts about what critical race theory is, why it’s suddenly become so controversial and what's actually being taught in schools.

#AfghanEvac, a private group of veterans who served in Afghanistan, continues to help get former interpreters and allies out of the country, despite the U.S. withdrawal. We speak to the founder of the group, San Diegan Shawn VanDiver. Plus, the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park reopens to the public this weekend after a significant remodel. And, Nicolas Valdez's play "Conjunto Blues" will be performed at this year's Latinx new play festival, online and in person starting today and running through the weekend.

As the more transmissible delta variant continues to spread, San Diego County’s death toll from COVID nearly doubled in one week. We bring you an update on the impact the virus is having in San Diego County. Plus, one of the most contentious housing measures to come out of the California legislature is now on it’s way to the Governor’s desk — Senate Bill 9, which allows up to four units to be built on lots zoned for single family houses. And, San Diego County students with special needs faced extra challenges in virtual learning. Now they're making up for lost time back in class. Then, Supervisor Nora Vargas joins Midday Edition to discuss what the new county arts and culture council would look like and how it might work. And, the KPBS Summer Music Series continues with DJ Artistic, considered an architect of the local hip-hop scene who curates and produces events, makes space for emerging artists and is a four-time SDMA winner.

The recall election of Gov. Gavin Newsom is set for Sept. 14, and mail-in ballots are already out. Though California is an overwhelmingly blue state, it's not a certainty Newsom will survive the recall. Reasons abound, including apathy and a lack of awareness that many predict could lead to a low voter turn out. So, how did we get here? And what could a Newsom recall mean for the state? Midday Edition brings you a special from our partner station KPCC in Los Angeles to answer those questions and more. They'll explain the stakes, what's on the ballot, and what could happen after the election, regardless of the outcome. Host Austin Cross speaks with political observers and reporters from California public radio newsrooms for this in-depth discussion.

Ten of the 13 service members killed in a suicide bombing at the Kabul airport were based at Camp Pendleton. It was the largest mass casualty event for personnel based at Pendleton during the entire Afghan war. Plus, it’s the first day of class for San Diego Unified students and the district says it has implemented a host of COVID-19 policies and guidelines. Also, as kids zip up their backpacks and get their pencils sharpened, how can parents best support them during this time? A child psychologist weighs in. In addition, San Diego officials are taking more steps to address chronic homelessness with plans underway to open harm-reduction model shelters — something that hasn’t been done here yet. And, Oceanside’s beachfront has been undergoing renovations. Now attention is shifting to the city’s 102-year old amphitheatre and a nearby community center named for the late Junior Seau. His family has started a petition to keep the facilities intact. Finally, the first Afro-Con or Afrofuturism Convention will be held Saturday and Sunday at the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA.

Humanitarian groups in San Diego are preparing resettlement efforts as refugees continue to pour out of war-torn Afghanistan. We speak with one of those local groups. Plus, veterans coalitions are helping to evacuate Afghans who worked for the Americans. On a lighter note, this weekend in the arts features a three-day outdoor festival of music in Carlsbad, a contemporary dance company's first performance since March 2020 and a new exhibition of art made from plastics found in the ocean.

Many Americans are left with questions about the vaccines, the status of their approval, and their long-term efficacy. We pose these questions to the director of Scripps Research Translational Institute, Dr. Eric Topol. Also, housing prices in San Diego are getting higher and analysts say it’s not out of the question for the median price to reach $1 million by this time next year. Plus, the last time California had a Republican governor was when Arnold Schwarzenegger was in office. Was his tenure a win for the GOP? In addition, smoke from the massive fire in Northern California is making its way down to San Diego, just as a heat wave is hitting the region. And, Jeeyoon Kim, an award-winning concert pianist, educator and podcast host, is releasing a self-help book based on insights from her life experiences. Finally, Rachel Lynett on her play, "Black Mexican," that is premiering in a staged reading at San Diego Rep’s Latinx New Play Festival.

One law expert weighs in on how the FDA approval will impact vaccine mandates in the workplace. Plus, images of chaos in Afghanistan have deeply resonated with veterans from another long war: Vietnam. Also, the recall campaign now aimed at Governor Gavin Newsom was fueled in part by parents who were angry with how he handled public school closures during the worst months of the pandemic. Then, Kim Desmond, San Diego’s first chief race and equity officer on what we can expect from the city’s Office of Race and Equity. In addition, competing interests battle over a proposed plan to restore marshland habitat in Mission Bay. And, after the pandemic restrictions lifted in San Diego, there’s a run on new cars with some going for more than the sticker price. Finally, the Vista’s Viking Festival is going virtual again this year.

The FDA on Monday gave full approval to the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for those 16 and older. A physician breaks down what this means for San Diego’s vaccination effort. Plus, a look at the top four candidates looking to replace Gov. Newsom if he’s recalled. Larry Elder is the leading Republican candidate, but critics say his ideology is a threat to California. Also, as in-person learning resumes at SDSU, local residents worry about the off-campus party scene. In addition, more Latinos identified as multiracial or "some other race" in the 2020 Census than in 2010, a change that reflects shifting understandings of race and the limits of the U.S. Census categories. And, the California Privacy Protection Agency is starting to get set up and running, we hear from the new head of the agency. Finally, the Studio Door’s exhibit San Diego Drag Icons and its companion fundraiser, highlight the connection between drag and activism.

The U.S. government is extending a ban on nonessential travel along the borders with Canada and Mexico to slow the spread of COVID-19. And, a preview of arts events this weekend in San Diego, including Yo-Yo Ma coming to the Shell and TwainFest in Old Town.

A recent San Diego County Board of Supervisors meeting turned ugly as some protestors became upset at members of the board over proposed masking and testing requirements for workplaces, schools and hospitals. Plus, the San Diego Unified School District will be one of the first districts in the state to roll out a transitional kindergarten program this fall. Then, how remote working has changed San Diego’s rush hour. Later, a news study finds poor air quality from wildfire smoke worsens COVID-19 cases and deaths. And, academic boot camps ease the transition to the classroom for veterans starting college. Locally, the creative community shares remembrances of Matt Hoyt, owner of Starlite, filmmaker, musician, artist and collaborator. Lastly, as part of our Summer Music Series we welcome a musician who’s been making Barrio Logan move to the music for more than 17 years.

We talk to La Jolla Institute of Immunology’s Dr. Shane Crotty about health officials recommending that vaccinated people get a COVID-19 booster shot. Plus, with the school year starting, we talk about the latest guidance on what to do when a student tests positive for COVID-19. And, the binational Friendship Park has its 50th anniversary today, but is stil not fully reopened. A group of activists on both sides of the border is working to change that.

Now that the Taliban has virtually seized full control of Afghanistan, the lingering threat of international terror is on the minds of many Americans. Plus, a new program in California is offering stipends to volunteers, in an effort to bring climate change solutions to urban and rural communities throughout the state, including here in San Diego. Also, a sewage testing program at UCSD could be key to helping identify COVID-19 outbreaks when students return to school in the fall. And, we highlight Daniella De Jesús, one of the playwrights in the fifth annual San Diego Repertory Theatre's Latinx New Play Festival happening next month. Finally, from the archives, a summertime anthem about Southeast San Diego.

The scenes from Kabul, of people clinging to U.S. military planes in a desperate effort to escape the approaching Taliban, echo the end of another failed U.S. war. The end of the Vietnam War created the same kind of chaos in Saigon. Now, many Americans, both in and out of the military are asking, “how could this have happened again?” Plus, San Diego's hospitals are struggling to keep up with a high volume of both COVID and non-COVID-related hospitalizations. Also, stopping the spread of a deadly citrus tree bug found in North County is crucial to protecting trees belonging to both backyard growers and San Diego’s commercial citrus industry. And, the rules surrounding the Sept. 14 recall election are complicated and confusing. We break it down for you.

As coronavirus infections increase in San Diego, so are related hospitalizations and health officials are hoping to see some relief for tired staff soon. Plus, what to know about the Gubernatorial Recall Election on Sept. 14. And, a preview of the arts events around town, including: a pop-up version of La Jolla Playhouse’s Without Walls Festival, SummerFest and outdoor art fun.

The CDC is urging all pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The advice comes as hospitals in hot spots around the U.S. see disturbing numbers of unvaccinated mothers-to-be seriously ill with the virus. Plus, the family of a Vista man who died by suicide while in county jail is suing the county for wrongful death. Also, one year after Joseph DeAngelo was sentenced to life in prison for committing a string of rapes and murders in the 1970s and 1980s, survivors of his crimes are speaking up and inviting others to do the same. In addition, more and more arts and live performance venues are requiring patrons to either have proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to attend, we take a look at how restrictions might be enforced. And, from the archives, a look back at the history of San Onofre, one of the legendary surf beaches of the world. Finally, KPBS’ Summer Music Series continues with the downtempo dub sounds of Boostive.

California will become the first state in the nation to require all teachers and school staff to get vaccinated or undergo weekly COVID-19 testing. Plus, a new city official is now in charge of finding solutions to the city’s chronic homelessness problem. Also, the first ever Olympic “park skateboarding” event was dominated by skaters who either live in San Diego, were born here, trained here or all of the above. And, in honor of Indian Independence Day, Aug. 15, Cinema Junkie decided to dedicate this month's podcasts to celebrating Bollywood Cinema. We’ll bring you an excerpt from the first part of the two part series. Finally, San Diego synth pop band Glass Spells just released a new album — written and recorded during the pandemic. The band will host an album release show at Soda Bar this Saturday

We talk with an infectious disease specialist about vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers. Plus, is it a good idea for a fully vaccinated person to get an extra dose of vaccine to boost immunity to the Delta variant? Then, the effort to recall Governor Gavin Newsom is shaping up to be more of a battle than previously thought. Later, dozens of charrerías across the country offer spectators a look at the living history of Mexico’s proud ranching culture. And, the Old Globe Theatre returns to in-person performances with a newly mounted production of the 1967 rock musical “Hair.”

Cutting emissions now and in the near future could still save humanity from climate catastrophe, but it won’t save us from the climate changes we’re already experiencing, according to a new United Nations report. Plus, author Amanda Ripley talks about how certain issues, such as climate change, become politicized and can lead to discussion surrounding those issues becoming toxic. And, owners of sport fishing boats say an effort to improve the state’s air quality could cost them their businesses. Also, Brian Burrows, who grew up in Fallbrook, talks about winning the bronze medal in trap shooting. Finally, an outdoor film series will feature the best screwball comedy sparring matches.