KPBS Midday Edition

Restrictions on non-essential travel at the United States-Mexico border will continue for at least another month. Then, the median price for a home in San Diego County reached $750,000 in June, that’s another record. Plus, state law requires Coronado to plan for nearly 1,000 new homes to accommodate its workforce, but the city voted on a downsized plan. And, surfing’s debut at the Summer Olympics resurfaces issues over native Hawaiian cultural appropriation. And Cinema Junkie, KPBS' longest running podcast, returned from quarantine break last week with an episode on Marvel and a party on YouTube.

San Diego is seeing a steady increase in COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations due to the Delta variant. Plus, California is poised to become the first state in the nation to experiment with providing residents a guaranteed basic income. Then, an inside look at how one San Diego hospital system is expanding operations to deal with growing numbers of high-risk pregnancies. And, a former employee at the San Diego Museum of Art alleges that museum management fostered a culture that allowed sexual harassment to occur and is discriminatory against women of color employees. And, a new bilingual show produced by The San Diego Union Tribune and Los Angeles Times will cover news, entertainment and sports targeted to the region’s Latino community.

The Biden administration is planning on appealing a Texas judge’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program that has allowed young people who were brought illegally to the U.S., or overstayed their visas, to live and work here. Plus, a 50-year tradition of counting bighorn sheep in Anza-Borrego was canceled after a volunteer died from the extreme heat. Also, people in eastern Colorado depend on a system of pumps to deliver water from the Colorado river, but this year there’s less of it to go around. And, as California pursues a zero-carbon emission energy future, there’s a momentum to develop renewable energy projects in San Diego’s backcountry, sometimes pitting residents' interests against developers. And, Comic-Con is forced for a second time to go online. We have a preview of the show happening Friday through Sunday.

In the face of steadily increasing COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, Los Angeles County residents will again be required to wear masks in indoor public settings beginning Saturday night. San Diego has seen its daily case rate double in recent weeks, but officials say they are sticking with state and CDC guidelines which don’t require masks for the fully vaccinated. Plus, gay bars have re-opened and are again providing safe havens for many in the LGBTQ community as Pride Week is set to kick off in San Diego County. And, a look ahead to some weekend arts events, including the North Park Book Fair, Sidro Saturdays and an exhibition at the Front, Pride, Guillermo Galindo's found object sonic devices and the iPalpiti Festival.

Californians are facing what could be another historic wildfire season. From the North State to Southern California, the Central Valley and the Sierra Nevada, this special broadcast show will answer your most pressing questions about wildfires, explore solutions and look at ways to keep safe.

San Diego county health officials announced 355 new infections on Monday and the likely culprit is the more contagious Delta variant of the virus. Plus, a new survey finds that 54% of unvaccinated San Diego County residents are unlikely to get vaccinated. The group most unlikely are white, educated and have higher incomes. And, as America's war in Afghanistan winds down, one San Diego couple is still coping with the loss of their son in a helicopter crash there 15 years ago. Also, California is in the grip of a drought and some experts think regional water restrictions might be a good idea to allow for a targeted approach to water waste. And, an infectious disease expert weighs in on masking in schools. Finally, San Diego author Anisha Bhatia talks about writing about culture. She will be part of the San Diego Writers Festival this weekend.

Last year was a record-breaking year in terms of wildfire. So far, 2021 is on track to break that record and officials say climate change is a huge factor. In addition, San Diego has an ambitious climate change plan but an audit shows the city isn’t doing a good job at tracking its progress. Plus, as climate change heats up cities, a new study finds that low-income and neighborhoods with higher Black, Hispanic and Asian populations experience significantly more summer heat. Also, veteran homelessness has many causes and few solutions, but Kansas City is hoping tiny homes might be one solution. And, childhood obesity is an epidemic in this country and Latinx children are affected the most. A new study suggests childhood trauma might be to blame. Finally, the All-Star Game is happening Tuesday and two-way player Shohei Ohtani is being compared to Babe Ruth — some even going as far as saying he’s better than the Great Bambino himself.

Father Joe Carroll, a San Diego icon for his work helping the unsheltered, died this weekend at 80. Plus, the pandemic impacted the Latinas workforce harder than any other groups and a new report highlights the inequities that San Diego Latinas face in the workplace. Also, the Colorado River is tapped out. A prolonged warming and drying trend has pushed the nation’s two largest reservoirs to record lows. In addition, a newly completed rock barrier through the Delta in Contra Costa County is expected to help preserve water for millions as drought conditions worsen in the state. And, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued new guidelines that he hopes will strengthen accountability and transparency in investigations of shootings involving law enforcement. Finally, a preview of the relaunched “Cinema Junkie” podcast, which took a quarantine break.

Gov. Gavin Newsom called on residents to voluntarily cut back on their water consumption by 15% as California continues to face unseasonably high summer temperatures. Plus, more than a year into the COVID-19 crisis, seven million tenants across the country are behind on rent and many small landlords are struggling to pay their bills as well. And this weekend in the arts: the culmination of a pandemic-era program from the city's Commission for Arts and Culture, live performances of a haunting dance production, an outdoor music, art and food festival in Oceanside and it’s the closing weekend of a very timely virtual play.

As the delta variant of the coronavirus becomes the dominant strain in the U.S., 54 cases have been reported in San Diego County. Plus, the results come despite California losing a congressional seat for the first time in history due to slow population growth and some high-profile technology companies and billionaires leaving the state. And increasing numbers of asylum seekers are being allowed to enter the United States. But with the asylum system still severely curtailed, thousands remain stuck in dangerous conditions in Tijuana. Finally, “Say Their Names” is a new memorial exhibit coming to San Diego honoring Black Lives lost to police brutality and systemic racism.

Scientists are using data from Apple Watches and Fitbits to measure the impacts of COVID-19 on the body. Plus, San Diego saw a sharp increase in fentanyl-related deaths during the region's COVID lockdowns. And with the passing of the state budget on June 28, UC San Diego, UCLA and UC Berkeley are going to have to cut back on out-of-state student admissions. Then, San Diego County Supervisors voted to create an office of environmental and climate justice by fall. District 1 supervisor Nora Vargas pushed to make that happen. Also, a recent report by the American Planning Association and Scripps Institution of Oceanography emphasizes the need for better coordination from the region's institutions in preparing for worsening climate change. Plus, Sandbox VR opened shortly before the pandemic hit and has now fully reopened. The VR gaming facility allows groups of players fight zombies, alien bugs or each other. Finally, five songs to discover in July from Jelani Aryeh, Julianna Zachariou, Irenie, SD State of Mind anthology and Rain on Fridays.

Substantial, long-term funding has eluded local public health departments and with a spotlight on the pandemic, some argue now is the time to change that. Then, San Diego County supervisors last week approved a $7.2 billion budget with funding for mental health services and the pandemic recovery. And for the first time, an Indigenous woman has been appointed to serve on California’s Commission on the Status of Women and Girls. Plus, a national homelessness expert says San Diego needs to coordinate efforts among agencies and find more permanent housing solutions if it wants to see fewer unsheltered people on the streets. Finally, a new arts campaign intended to boost vaccination rates among Latinos in California’s Central Valley.

Hate crime in California reached its highest reported level in more than a decade last year. Plus, a group of peer counselors in City Heights are trying to heal the community, by both connecting people to much needed resources and mental health services. And as we celebrate Independence Day this weekend, we’re going to take a closer look at some art exhibitions in San Diego that tell the wider story of who we consider to be American and what it means to have an identity linked with the land.

The city of San Diego announced Tuesday that it is suing to void its lease-to-own agreements in the 101 Ash Street and Civic Center Plaza building deals due to an advisor allegedly receiving millions in undisclosed compensation for negotiating the transactions in violation of state law. And, the new state budget removes the asset rule that restricted Medi-Cal eligibility for older and disabled Californians. Plus, a Carlsbad community member is stepping up to run and fund a shelter in a motel for people experiencing homelessness. Then, a new city parks proposal to revitalize the city's overlooked parks also will incentivize developers to build more affordable housing in the process. Finally, in the season finale of KPBS podcast the Parker Edison Project, host Parker Edison explores how family legacy contributes to culture.

Health officials in Los Angeles county are urging people to wear masks indoors, regardless of their vaccination status. Plus, one way for urban areas to beat the heat is to consider the power of shade. However, there’s an unequal distribution of shady, tree-lined streets in our cities, including here in San Diego. And fireworks could be returning to La Jolla on July Fourth, if organizers can overcome a legal challenge from people concerned about sea lions. Then, in 2019, San Diego County approved a $1.5 million program to help homeowners pay for vent retrofits to cut down on wildfire risk. But now that program has been abandoned and the money diverted elsewhere. Also, a recent study says San Diego has some of the most cost burdened homeowners in the U.S. Plus, one of California’s most well-known LGBTQ voices is Harvey Milk. KQED spoke to some young San Franciscans about what he means to them today. Finally, Rosebud’s Cafe in Jackson, California has become a refuge for people that don’t always feel accepted, including those in the LGBTQ+ communities.

Sweltering conditions will persist in the San Diego County mountains and deserts Monday, but cooler weather is expected the rest of the week, according to the National Weather Service. Plus, many people have been working remotely for the past year or so and now that things are opening back up, only 10% of surveyed San Diego businesses expect the bulk of their staff to work remotely three or more days a week. And Afghans that worked with Americans are in danger of retribution as U.S. troops leave their country. The White House and Congress are vowing to help them. Then, former San Diego mayor Kevin Faulconer is seen by many political observers as the most formidable opponent in the recall election of Gov. Gavin Newsom. He explains why he believes he's the right person for the job. Finally, self-described geeks Matthew Klickstein and Christopher Tyler created a new podcast about the origin story of Comic-Con.

Following strong outcry over a number of loopholes and potential red flags, the San Diego City Council’s Public Safety & Land Use Committee has agreed to send its new ordinance on police practices back to the drawing board. Plus, while early pandemic predictions of a tsunami of evictions seem unlikely, advocates are worried that there could still be a steady stream. And this weekend in the arts: Kelsey Brookes and Nicholas Galanin at Quint, drag artist Jaye Piper Rosewell, a City Heights music festival, and outdoor music at The Old Globe.

A championship San Diego County high school basketball game-turned tortilla hurling fracas continues to make national headlines. It’s what happened after the game that continues to dumbfound observers. Plus, the San Diego Unified School Board voted unanimously to fund an expansion of ethnic studies and anti-racism training, prompting some debate in the community over how much racism should be confronted in the classroom. And a joint effort by the city and county of San Diego to address homelessness is set to begin next week. Then, while early pandemic predictions of a tsunami of evictions seem unlikely, advocates are worried that there could still be a steady stream. Finally, Madrid-based contemporary artist Ana de Alvear’s colored-pencil drawings call reality into question at San Diego Museum of Art.

At issue in the case was a California law that allows union organizers to enter farms to speak to workers during non-working hours for a set number of days each year. Plus, the Coronado Unified School Board voted unanimously to fire its head basketball coach just days after an incident where tortillas were thrown at players from a rival, predominantly Latino school. And AB-104, a bill that aims to address learning loss suffered by students during the pandemic, is now awaiting Governor Newsom’s signature. Then, a case against one of California’s gun reform laws - which could be a bellwether for the fate of many such laws - was heard by the full panel of judges of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals Tuesday. Also, Newsom signed a sweeping executive order that he said would overhaul the state's approach to wildfire prevention in 2019. But, did it? Plus, a little slice of classic Southern California habitat is getting long-term protection in San Diego’s North County. Finally, Phil Beaumont, the director of the Museum school in San Diego, is stepping down to focus on music full time. On KPBS' border podcast, Port of Entry, host Alan Lilienthal taps into border region music that’s inspiring Beaumont’s new cross border projects.

Saturday's game between Coronado and Escondido's Orange Glen High School reportedly ended with unidentified people throwing tortillas at the Orange Glen team, which is predominantly Latino. Plus, Democratic lawmakers in California unveiled legislation this month that would fast track the normally lengthy process to prepare for a recall election. And a new Biden administration policy gives hope for protection from deportation to undocumented immigrants waiting for U visas to be processed. Then, as San Diego Community College District Chancellor Constance Carroll prepares for retirement at the end of the month, she looks ahead to some of the key issues that face community colleges. Also, a report finds many California students were counted present and engaged when they did little more than log-in during remote learning. Plus, in just two years, Not Me SD has helped 320 women become gun owners and that number is expected to grow. Finally, a San Diego author turned his Facebook posts into a book during quarantine.

The Supreme Court has decided unanimously that the NCAA cannot enforce rules limiting education-related benefits that colleges offer to student athletes — things like computers and paid internships. Plus, San Diego affordable housing advocates are applauding Mayor Todd Gloria's decision this week to restart the process of redeveloping the Pechanga Arena in the Midway District. And the KPBS Investigates podcast explores the difficulties San Diego businesses faced accessing the loans and resources aimed at helping them survive the brutal cycles of shutdowns and reopenings.

A report released Thursday by a Yale University-based research organization found distinct racial disparities in police contacts — including searches, traffic stops and arrests — over a recent five-year period in San Diego. Plus, identities are complicated, messy and often incredibly personal. San Diegans weigh in on how they identify and their thoughts on the term Latinx. And this weekend in the arts: classical music honors the planet, a fictional band comes to life (live!), SDMA gets the floral treatment, a new San Ysidro art crawl and a Black playwright’s world premiere on Juneteenth.

President Biden on Thursday signed a bill to recognize Juneteenth — the celebration to commemorate the end of chattel slavery in the United States — as a federal holiday. Plus, in a victory for survivors of domestic and gang violence seeking asylum in the U.S., the Department of Justice on Wednesday vacated the controversial Trump-era decisions. And San Diego climate scientist Ram Ramanathan was given two distinguished international awards this week honoring his pioneering work on climate change. Then, it’s been painful to lose so many of our elderly to COVID-19. But there are also many families, especially Latinx families, grieving the deaths of those who are younger. Also, San Diego Catholic schools saw an uptick in demand because of their in-person options. Finally, Angelika Film Center at Carmel Mountain, like all cinemas, reopened Wednesday at full capacity under the new relaxed pandemic guidelines from the state. We’ll tell you what to expect if you go to the movies.

Following the end of most of the state’s COVID-19 restrictions, many Californians are beginning to drop their masks as they go about their daily lives. But the threat of COVID-19 still remains. Plus, the city of San Diego will soon have a new resource for families to turn to for support. City Councilmember Raul Campillo talks about the goals of the new Office of Child and Youth Services. And after more than 160 years Black independence day, otherwise known as Juneteenth, is on its way to becoming a Federal holiday. How San Diego is commemorating the day that the last enslaved Americans learned they were free. Then, how has the San Diego County sports landscape fared since the Chargers left San Diego in 2016? Also, tips to help your dog adjust as you head back into the office after remote working. Finally, “In the Heights” opened last week. It serves up a rare commodity: a big budget Hollywood musical created by a Puerto Rican American, directed by an Asian American and featuring a racially diverse cast. Could this herald a change in Hollywood?

The state is officially back open on Tuesday, with most Covid-19 restrictions gone -- for now, at least. We take a survey of the new rules and the new situation. Plus, while many have chosen to not get a COVID-19 vaccine, there are a few among us who desperately want to be vaccinated, but can’t due to medical issues. And the San Diego city Council Monday voted unanimously to pass Mayor Todd Gloria’s $4.6 billion budget for the next fiscal year. Then, some critics claim critical race theory advocates discriminating against white people. Where does that idea come from and how is the understanding of this curriculum so vastly different among people? Also, we look at the transition back to in-person arts events, new challenges as venues start welcoming audiences back, and whether or not you'll be seeing masks on the people next to you. And, we hear from some San Diegans on whether they will be going to in person concerts, plays and other arts events in the coming weeks and months.

A detailed report from The San Diego Union-Tribune has revealed a pervasive culture of sexual harassment and discrimination among some of the county's largest employers. Plus, Rady Children's Hospital officials are reporting 25% increase in mental health visits to their emergency room of children experiencing mental health issues. And over the past several decades, hundreds or maybe thousands of U.S. military veterans have been deported after being convicted of crimes, sometimes decades after they left the service. Then, for some Asian women who were on the fence about buying guns for protection, the racist violence of the past year pushed them over the edge. Finally, OnStage Playhouse reopened last week for in-person performances. And the first play at the Chula Vista-based company is timely. "Sheepdog." deals with race and policing issues.

California’s workplace regulators have withdrawn a controversial pending mask regulation while they consider a rule that more closely aligns with Gov. Gavin Newsom’s promise that the state will fully reopen from the pandemic on Tuesday. Plus, a recent study found minority students are underrepresented when members of Congress nominate people to attend the nation’s elite military academies. Advocates are calling on Congress to make the 200-year-old nomination system more equitable for students of color. And the arts world is taking advantage of this perfect weather with plenty of performances beneath the stars, and the start of a week-long Juneteenth festival celebrating Black theater, poetry and music.

California Appeals San Diego Judge’s Ruling Overturning Assault Weapon Ban Description: State leaders announced Thursday that an appeal has been filed in response to a San Diego federal judge's ruling that overturned California's three-decade-old ban on assault weapons. Plus, the San Diego Unified School District announced on Tuesday a new principal for Lincoln High. Melissa Agudelo will serve as co-principal with the current principal, Stephanie Brown. And while parents await further guidance on vaccinating children under 12, many are wondering what social precautions must be taken as California prepares to reopen on June 15. Then, the loss of taste and smell is now widely known as a telltale sign of COVID-19. But fewer people are aware of another potential lingering side effect: when scents and flavors become distorted. Also, more than 12,000 American Legion posts closed for at least part of the pandemic. Those closures left some posts in financial trouble. Finally, in a new episode of the KPBS Explore podcast, "The Parker Edison Project," we talk with a photographer who's worked on everything from album covers to popular movies like "Friday" and "Exit Through the Gift Shop."

San Diego County is officially in the yellow tier as of today, thanks to big drops in the rate of new COVID-19 infections. Plus, a San Diego-based FBI-led operation was centered around the creation of an encrypted phone company. And Breakfast Block, a grassroots San Diego group founded early this year, works to feed, clothe and provide other essential items to San Diego's growing unsheltered population. Then, the city council approves changes to the city’s housing plan after the state asks for tweaks. Also, while most climate news is bleak, UC San Diego scientists point to niches like electric vehicles, batteries and the solar and wind industries that are seeding a decarbonization revolution. Finally, a story about a plus-size model who’s proud of her body, but has health issues that lead her to undergo weight-loss surgery in Tijuana, where it's more affordable.

While children continue to come to the U.S. unaccompanied, the Biden Administration announced it has accounted for 3,900 children separated during the Trump administration's zero-tolerance policy on illegal crossings. Plus, the San Diego Police department has unveiled a new list of procedures for its interactions with transgender and non-binary individuals. And the move to close a North County group home for foster children has put a spotlight on foster care in San Diego County. KPBS looks at how the system is changing. Then, two small water districts in North County think they can get water cheaper by breaking away from San Diego County Water Authority. Also, some teenagers stuck at home during COVID-19 reflected on traumatic experiences in highschool, with hundreds sharing their stories on social media. Finally, has “cancel culture” gotten away from accountability and is it being used as a weapon? A San Diego Union Tribune columnist says it’s time to retire the phrase.

A unanimous Supreme Court ruled Monday that thousands of people living in the U.S. for humanitarian reasons are ineligible to apply to become permanent residents. Plus, new data shows that grades went down and absenteeism was up with about 14% of San Diego Unified students skipping a significant number of online classes. And San Diego city Councilmember Monica Montgomery Steppe is a member of California’s newly formed Reparations Task Force. She spoke to Midday Edition about what she hopes to accomplish. Then, the county's Building Industry Association, which represents developers, is in a transition — to a new CEO. Lori Holt Pfeiler will be taking over that job on July 6. Plus, the California Senate passed a bill last week that would dramatically change the way bottle recycling works in the state. Finally, Ed Vodrazka captured some of his most exceptional experiences and stories from his fellow lifeguards as a testament to life on the beach in a new book, “Stories from Sea Level: The Heroic and Humorous Adventures of California's Ocean Lifeguards.”

California employees will soon be able to skip masks in the workplace, but only if every employee in the room is fully vaccinated against the coronavirus. Plus, CapRadio’s PolitiFact California reporter Chris Nichols fact-checked Kamala Harris’ statements on small business closures. And this weekend in the arts: Cataphant at Swish Projects, Word Up in-person, cello virtuoso Zlatomir Fung livestream, a folk performance from the Philippines, Trolley Dances and Omar Pimienta at Lux.

California’s net metering regulations, which determine how residential solar users are paid, are the subject of a bill in the Assembly. Plus, San Diego County started a pilot program to increase access to free tampons and pads to address "period poverty" — a person's inability to access or pay for menstrual products. And a Honduran family flew a Biden 2020 flag at the migrant encampment, saying it gave them hope. Now they're safely in the United States. Then, inspector vacancies at the state agency in charge of protecting workers from health and safety hazards only increased during the pandemic, crippling the agency’s ability to protect millions of workers who faced new risks from COVID-19. Plus, "_____ While Black" interrogates the fraught notion of Black identity in San Diego through the firsthand testimony of several San Diegans. Finally, the San Diego Arab Film Festival kicks off in-person and online events Saturday, opening with Palestinian drama "Between Heaven and Earth.”

Scripps said it was working to notify 147,267 people so they can take steps to protect their information, though there's no indication at present that any data has been used to commit fraud. Plus, UC San Diego’s RIMAC arena vaccination superstation has delivered its last dose. The superstation closed its doors on Tuesday. And state officials are considering changing the watchdog role of nursing home inspectors. Critics argue it would weaken oversight by turning the state’s inspectors into consultants. Then, a new report from The San Diego Union-Tribune's Social Justice Reporting Project explores the role colorism has played within communities of color. Plus, San Diego is in the process of rolling out a whole extra layer of waste pickup — food waste will soon need to be combined with yard waste and placed in new green bins. Finally, discover new music from bands in the region, including 10-19 and the Number Men, Accidents, The Verigolds, Maura Rosa and Satanic Puppeteer Orchestra.

As thousands of asylum seekers await their chance to argue why they should be allowed to stay in the U.S., a unanimous decision by the U.S. Supreme Court Tuesday could impact the outcome of some of their cases. Plus, out of the $200 million in rental relief San Diego received, only 2% of the money was spent as of May 2021. And California may see bigger, more destructive wildfires earlier in the summer because of the extreme drought hitting the state right now. Then, why the Racial Justice Coalition of San Diego feels their hard work has been erased by the city and county as they move to make police reforms in light of George Floyd’s murder and summer protests. Plus, some police reform advocates think Senate Bill 2 is a chance to hold police accountable. And, in continuing coverage of The San Diego Union-Tribunes Social Justice Reporting Project, we hear some of the stories from what the migrant caravan that traveled from Central America through Mexico in 2018. Finally, Arnett Moore is launching a one-man campaign: to get his aunt, the actress Juanita Moore, a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Memorial Day ceremonies at Fort Rosecrans and Miramar National Cemeteries were again paired down this year due to COVID-19 restrictions. And, the National Parks Service has issued new guidance on how best to prioritize conservation efforts in the face of intensifying climate change. Plus, details continue to surface about the gunman who killed nine people at a Valley Transportation Authority light rail yard in San Jose on Wednesday. Then, a North County San Diego farming family of Japanese descent has overcome legal barriers, internment camps, and most recently, the pandemic. Also, a new multimedia series by The San Diego Union-Tribune spotlights social justice reporting across San Diego. Finally, a La Mesa author releases her debut novel in a post-catastrophic world where human memories are erased every four years to preserve peace.

Memorial Day ceremonies at Fort Rosecrans and Miramar National Cemeteries were again paired down this year. The state is beginning to reopen due to a decrease in COVID-19 cases and an increase in the number of people vaccinated statewide.

Californians will be eligible for $116.5 million in prize money for getting coronavirus shots, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Thursday. We talk to a behavioral scientist about whether or not it could help get millions more vaccinated before California fully reopens next month. Plus, days before Memorial Day, the Department of Veterans Affairs is easing restrictions at the cemeteries it manages. And our weekend arts picks: Malashock Dance, a new Indian film, an AAPI group show, and La Jolla Playhouse’s POP Tour.

How do we prevent mass shootings like yesterday’s in San Jose? Gun violence restraining orders could be part of the solution. Plus, a Southwest Airlines flight attendant lost two teeth when she was attacked by a passenger this weekend, and the president of her union calls it part of a disturbing increase in unruly passengers. And the city of San Diego has approved hundreds of outdoor dining permits since the pandemic began. Yet despite causing a big loss in parking across the city, the program appears to have widespread support. Finally, to the pleasant surprise of marine biologists, a group of highly social turtles has been discovered living year-round off the coast of La Jolla.

President Joe Biden on Wednesday asked U.S. intelligence officials to “redouble” their efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus, activists had been pushing the San Diego city Council to reject a franchise agreement with San Diego Gas & Electric, which they said do not do enough to hold the utility accountable. But supporters said they were the best compromise the city could get. And increasing numbers of asylum-seekers have been allowed to enter the United States. But with the asylum system still severely curtailed, thousands remain stuck in dangerous conditions. Then, a Q&A about reproductive health and the COVID-19 virus and vaccine. Finally, the “Port of Entry” podcast talks to a California couple that crossed the border to get fertility treatment in Tijuana.

As California sinks deeper into drought the wildfire risk in the state is intensifying. The danger has prompted Gov. Gavin Newsom to propose spending a record $2 billion on wildfire mitigation. Plus, a special radio documentary marking the one year anniversary of the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer looks at what progress has been made. And we look at the police reform that’s taken place in San Diego in the last year. We end the show on a happier note, "Star Wars" fans recount memories to celebrate May 25, the day George Lucas' "Star Wars" opened in 1977 and changed the movie landscape forever.

Scripps Health, one of San Diego County's largest healthcare providers, is about to enter the fourth week of a cyberattack which froze all their digital services. Plus, a letter written by a San Diego City Council member addressed to San Diego Unified leadership has raised concerns over a number of issues Lincoln High School. And a look at Thanh Tinh Chay, a Vietnamese restaurant that serves only vegan and vegetarian fare, and the impact of the pandemic on restaurants in City Heights. Then, some Black Air Force members say a skin condition makes it's hard for them to shave their faces daily and get ahead in the military. Plus, San Diego’s craft brew industry responds after an Instagram page about sexism in the industry goes viral. Finally, "The Parker Edison Project" podcast goes deep into the minds of two San Diego-based directors, Ben Johnson and Bill Perrine, and discusses host Parker Edison's longtime love of film. Web: Lara

San Diego County is taking steps to make the drug overdose reversal medication, Naloxone (Narcan), more readily available without a prescription. Plus, it’s election time in Mexico, and Baja California will soon get a new governor. A look at some of the candidates and how this election impacts San Diego. And our weekend arts picks include outdoor performances by San Diego Dance Theater and SD Master Chorale, only a week remains to view an exhibition by Lux Art Institute’s regional artist, A Spring Garden concert at The Shell and Coronado Playhouse presents, "Constellations."

One person died and 15 people were in custody Thursday morning after a suspected smuggling boat dropped its passengers off the coast of La Jolla, authorities said. Plus, we hear from a public health expert who says lifting the mask requirement at this time could result in further risk of infection for the most vulnerable among us. And San Diego County Supervisors vote to pay more attention to climate and environmental justice. Then, women lost 1 million more jobs than men last year, what will it take to get them back to the workplace? Plus, workers across the grocery delivery business have been trying to unionize to get more protections and benefits since the pandemic began. Last month, delivery workers at Imperfect Foods succeeded. And event businesses along Third Avenue in Chula Vista have had a brutal year, but they're starting to see a turnaround as the county returns to some normalcy. Finally, after a lengthy preparation, including enacting new outdoor lighting ordinances, Julian received a designation from the International Dark Sky Association.

The Biden administration has agreed to let about 250 people a day through border crossings with Mexico to seek refuge in the U.S., part of negotiations to settle a lawsuit over pandemic-related powers that deny migrants a right to apply for asylum. Plus, the House of Representatives passed a bill Tuesday to address the increase in hate crimes and violence against Asian Americans during the coronavirus pandemic. And troops were expelled for being gay before Congress changed the law in 2011. Though many still don't qualify for federal veterans benefits, they now can receive state benefits in New York, Colorado, and other states. Plus, the San Diego Humane Society has ramped up its controversial policy of releasing cats back to the streets, despite a lawsuit from animal rights activists challenging the practice. And the GI Film Festival is underway this week in San Diego, bringing with it a host of films that present a diverse spectrum of perspectives from within the military experience. Finally, the Port of Entry podcast continues its series on medical tourism with a story about two women who go on a journey to find more affordable insulin across the border in Tijuana.

San Diego County will follow the state's lead and wait until June 15 to align with federal guidance that no longer requires people fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to wear face coverings. Plus, after Oceanside voters invalidated the North River Farms development in last November’s election it wound up in court. A San Diego Superior Court judge’s ruling in the case could have statewide implications for citizen’s ballot initiatives. And the campaign to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom will put current Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis front and center. Then, the Marine Corps is still under a congressional deadline to end gender segregation while one group of female marines graduate boot camp in San Diego. Plus, after more than a year of distanced learning and social isolation, more students are in need of emotional support and psychological help. Finally, Celedonio Romero’s musical legacy lives on in the legendary guitar quartet he formed with his sons Celin, Pepe and Angel, and continues today with grandsons Celino and Lito.

Many say that in the Latinx culture, there are taboos that keep issues like depression, substance abuse and domestic violence in the shadows. Now, members of the Latinx community say that silence hurts the community and they are eager to start a conversation about treatment and prevention of mental health issues.

The CDC’s announcement on masking Thursday was met with much enthusiasm, until people realized it was not clear when and how it applied. Plus, the year of distance learning has been tough on all students. Though academic loss might be front-of-mind for parents and teachers, experts say test scores are only part of the picture. And, coming up this weekend: a new exhibition at the Athenaeum, a virtual ballet and an arts-themed vendor fair.

The CDC issued new guidance that says fully vaccinated people can ditch masks indoors, in all but the most crowded settings. This follows Gov. Gavin Newsom’s announcement that the state’s mask mandate would end on June 15 though there will still be some rules about masks indoors. Plus, a massive affordable-housing apartment complex sale is prompting concern that the properties won’t remain affordable. And, Warwick’s bookstore in La Jolla has been in business for 125 years, but after the building it’s located in was sold, its future was uncertain until the community stepped in. Finally, discover new music for May from San Diego acts.

Gov. Gavin Newsom is proposing $12 billion in new funding to get more people experiencing homelessness into housing. Plus, San Diego County has gone from having a vaccine shortage to a vaccine glut, but that might not be good news. Also, last month, San Diego County's District Attorney’s office put an end to gang injunctions, but healing from the damage done to neighborhoods will be a long process. Then, so much of American identity is rooted in traditions passed down from one generation to another and is a major theme of a children’s book exploring how traditions fit into the modern way of life and what it means to truly embrace one’s heritage and history. And, e-sports, competitive video gaming, is gaining popularity on California college campuses and is leading to professional opportunities. Finally, this Friday, the virtual Shorts Fest will highlight the best short films made by local filmmakers during the pandemic for the 48 Hour Film Project.