KPBS Midday Edition

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.

The FDA has authorized Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for children 12 to 15 years old — a move that is seen as getting us closer to returning to normalcy. Plus, what California Attorney General Rob Bonta hopes to accomplish in his new role. Also, COVID-19 testing is supposed to be covered by insurance, but some people are still paying hundreds of dollars for tests. And, some San Diego City Council members are calling for a comprehensive analysis of how the police budget could be changed and funding priorities shifted. In addition, the Port of San Diego is considering a plan that aims to reduce the amount of pollution portside businesses put in the air. Still, the policy, however, isn’t getting a warm reception from community advocates. Finally, as those of Asian heritage are dealing with an increase in outbursts of racism, a new novel explores what it was like for Vietnam War refugees to resettle in the U.S.

It is unclear when San Diego's largest health care provider will gain control over its patient files, medical systems and ability to communicate with its patients. Plus, San Diego County ended a controversial program that allowed county workers to perform unannounced home inspections in an effort to prevent welfare fraud. Also, a look into Project Homekey, the state program that allows cities and counties to purchase buildings and then convert them into long-term homeless housing. In addition, the board of supervisors recently rescinded policies that prevented local tribes from expanding their reservation. And, UC San Diego researchers have spelled out the math that explains how pelicans can fly for miles along the coast while barely flapping their wings. Then, last year “Mythic Quest” produced a Quarantine Episode that cleverly used Zoom. This year, the AppleTV series returns for a second season. Finally, an excerpt of the latest episode of “The Parker Edison Project” podcast delves into the connection between religion and rap.

San Diego crosses another milestone in its vaccination effort — 3 million COVID-19 vaccination doses administered, but across the state vaccination has slowed. Plus, a historic building in the heart of the Gaslamp District is on the verge of shutting down for good if it doesn’t get financial help. And, a preview of the weekend arts scene includes art made by construction equipment, a virtual baroque concert and more.

Supervisor Nora Vargas discusses the county board’s action to extend the temporary moratorium on evictions in San Diego County. Plus, local climate activists are questioning whether or not the region is doing the work necessary to achieve its climate action goals. Also, a Poway dog attack highlights the importance of leash laws. And, financial activism can be used as a means for economic and racial justice. Finally, as the TCM Classic Film Festival kicks off, we talk to two Oscar winners about their panel on uncovering the secrets of old movie magic.

A case of the coronavirus variant that led to a major outbreak in India has been detected in San Diego. Plus, a growing group of vaccine skeptics, appear to be changing their minds and getting the shot. Also, President Biden announced his administration would raise the nation’s refugee cap to 62,500 individuals after facing a blowback for his delay in lifting Trump’s 15,000 limit. And, as the first class of female Marines is set to graduate boot camp, they and their instructors say the time has come for continued co-ed training on the West Coast. In addition, we talk to one of the three educators within San Diego Unified who were honored for their excellence in teaching throughout a year of unprecedented change. Finally, it’s tough for kids with learning disabilities to get the help they need at school, and that the pandemic has made things even harder for them.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expected to authorize Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for kids ages 12 to 15 by next week, setting up shots for many before the beginning of the next school year. Plus, a cyber attack that shut down Scripps Health's systems over the weekend is still causing problems. Also, the Biden administration is starting to reunite families separated at the U.S.-Mexico border during the Trump administration. In addition, the Pentagon is trying to make some of the nation's most crucial military bases less vulnerable to the effects of climate change. And, the Southern Fire is now 65% contained and evacuated people were able to return home; but when the fire started on Saturday, it took off with frightening speed, doubling in size overnight. Then, NASA scientists got their first glimpse of a neutron star, a class of stars that's on the verge of collapsing into a black hole. Finally, California's underwater kelp forests are in trouble, but in the Monterey Peninsula, there's a kelp forest guardian — sea otters.

Authorities are investigating a suspected human-smuggling operation involving a 40-foot cabin cruiser that overturned in coastal waters near Point Loma, killing four people and injuring more than two dozen. Plus, even as San Diego County COVID-19 vaccination crosses the 50% mark, public health officials are seeing a slow down in people getting vaccinated and that has them concerned. Also, in the Central Valley some people are hesitant about getting the vaccine and some of their reasons have nothing to do with the vaccine itself. And, part of the federal government’s response to the pandemic for businesses was a massive cash infusion called the Paycheck Protection Program, or PPP, but there was a vast disparity on how the money was distributed, often favoring businesses in wealthy, white areas. In addition, a wind farm project on the Campo Indian Reservation that would provide clean energy for 70,000 homes is in jeopardy because neighbors have sued to stop it from happening. And, KPBS film critic Beth Accomando has a preview of the second home edition of TCM Classic Film Festival that’s starting this Thursday.

There are still millions in rent relief available for county residents and officials are trying to figure out why some renters are not taking advantage of the offer. Plus, the political attitudes toward marijuana have been shifting for years thanks in part through spending on local elections by the cannabis industry. And, this weekend in the arts, new dance film, last chance to see works from 30 artists living in the border region and works by emerging artists.

President Joe Biden outlined a bold economic agenda during his first major address to Congress, earning praise from fellow Democrats but many in the party are urging the president to pursue more ambitious progressive policies in office. The Republicans, however, attacked Biden’s agenda as too expensive and too socialist. Plus, marine scientists say they have found what they believe to be more than 25,000 barrels that possibly contain DDT dumped off the Southern California coast near Catalina Island. Also, the Children’s Zoo is set to reopen at the San Diego Zoo and its new hummingbird and komodo dragon exhibits highlight the latest in technology and species management. And, a look at medical tourism, which is booming right now. First, the tragic story of a California woman who died on a Tijuana operating table after crossing the border for a cosmetic procedure. Then, our “Port of Entry” podcast is beginning a series on medical tourism, starting with the story of a San Diego woman who crosses the border for alternative cancer treatments.

To make the COVID-19 vaccine available to more people and to encourage people to get vaccinated, San Diego County is offering walk-up, no-appointment-needed vaccinations at some of its county-run sites. Plus, San Diego prosecutors want to remove about 350 people who have turned their lives from the gang injunction list that San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria called “outdated” and longer serves “their alleged purpose.” Also, California will lose a congressional seat for the first time in the state’s history and many are now wondering what this means for their voice in Washington. In addition, San Diego police are sounding the alarm on what they say is the rise in ghost guns, homemade, unserialized firearms that are almost impossible to trace. A decade after Don’t Ask Don’t Tell ended, one of Naval Avaition’s few openly gay pilots says that wasn’t enough to save his career. And, video footage played a key role in both the Rodney King and George Floyd trials, but the outcomes were vastly different. What changed? Finally, a new album by Silent, a Mexicali-based band, tackles the toxicity of hate with a powerful goth-punk beauty.

The CDC updated its guidelines and mask wearing and now says people who are fully vaccinated don't need to wear a mask when they're outdoors, unless they're in a crowd. Plus, organizers of the recall effort against Gov. Gavin Newsom have collected enough valid signatures to qualify for the ballot, California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber announced Monday. Also, critics cast doubt on San Diego Gas & Electric’s plan to produce carbon neutral energy by 2045, saying fossil fuel natural gas remains a big part of the utility’s portfolio. In addition, a nonprofit is helping veterans find a new purpose following their careers in the military. And, who is considered Arab American as the nation recognizes National Arab American Heritage Month for the first time on a federal level. Finally, an excerpt from the “Parker Edison Project” podcast looks at the history of radio in San Diego and how Black DJs had to go to Mexico to broadcast in the U.S.

The conviction of Derek Chauvin in the murder of George Floyd underscores similarities in the 2019 San Diego death of Angel Hernandez. Also, a new report shows an increase in people experiencing homelessness for the first time. Plus, plans are moving forward to connect San Diego's public transit with the airport. And a new book examines how the death of Rebecca Zahau continues to puzzle people. Lastly, the recently formed Turnkey Theatre released its first interactive audio production.

As the public continues to focus a critical eye on police departments across the nation, there are at least 10 related bills currently working their way through the California legislature to affect change in policing. Plus, local unions have lobbied lawmakers to grant eligibility to their members, secured separate supplies of vaccines and launched outreach campaigns. And after a year of pandemic lockdown, the Oscars will go ahead this Sunday - this time with a much different format.

Some scientists are now saying the only way to achieve a limit to global temperature rise is to pair emission reduction efforts with a massive investment in carbon capture technology. Plus, with a guilty verdict handed down to Derek Chauvin on all counts in the death of George Floyd, legal experts now are now analyzing what the conviction will mean for the former Minneapolis police officer's sentence. And the Tijuana River Valley is frequently swamped with sewage-tainted water, but those cross-border flows also carry trash into an ecologically sensitive region. Then in Southeast San Diego, community art spaces are few and far between. One resident is looking to remedy that with the opening of a new center in Chollas View. Finally, the Old Globe brings the politics, family sagas, ghosts and that epic sword fight in Shakespeare's "Hamlet" to radio audiences.

San Diego's community leaders react to what many see as a turning point for equality following guilty verdicts for former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in the murder of George Floyd.

The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System announced Monday that a $5.5 million settlement has been reached with the family of man who died after being restrained with knees in his back and on his neck by Transit law enforcement. Plus, two San Diego researchers hope a new peer-reviewed article helps them convince federal officials to change their opinion of how COVID-19 spreads. And with consecutive years of record high temperatures and scarce rainfall, some climate researchers are hinting at the possibility California has actually been in a protracted “mega drought. Then, people often look to their faith leaders for guidance on big decisions. These days, parishioners are asking: Should I get a COVID-19 vaccine? Plus, as thousands of migrant families cross into the United States, many are being flown to San Diego and then removed to Mexico, without any of their belongings. Finally, San Diego Opera is staging two outdoor drive-in shows this month: the first is its annual One Amazing Night concert and the second is the comic opera "The Barber of Seville."

Asian American mental health care providers in California are seeing an increase in demand for services in the wake of surging anti-Asian hate incidents.

Nonprofit and small business loans, building "sexy" streets, reducing police overtime, investing in the city's Climate Equity Fund and a focus on supporting the San Diego Convention Center are among the highlights of Mayor Todd Gloria's $4.6 billion proposed budget. Plus, a preview of the California Report’s series honoring Californians lost to COVID-19. This week’s remembrance is about Eric Warner, who died last July in San Quentin Prison. Then, our weekend arts picks include a musical tribute to legendary San Diego flautist Holly Hofmann, a new contemporary painting installation, and a conversation with the poet-in-residence at Art Produce, Julia Alvarez, author of "How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents."

Hundreds of thousands of San Diegans become eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccines Thursday when the state expands eligibility to everyone age 16 and over. Plus, The United States will withdraw all remaining troops from Afghanistan by the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, President Biden announced Wednesday. Then, if you have a medical emergency in San Diego and call 911, a new ambulance company will be taking you to the hospital. Plus, COVID-19 was great for dogs and cats, but not all pets fared as well and local animal advocates hope to keep those animals in the spotlight. Finally, San Diego jazz pianist Joshua White shares a playlist of songs that have been influential on him.

Mayor Todd Gloria on Monday announced an empowerment policy plan for San Diego's Black community. Plus, California Department of Public Health investigators knew that certified nursing assistant Matthew Fluckiger had been accused of sex crimes by women at multiple nursing homes in El Cajon and La Mesa. Yet, the agency waited years to revoke his license. And the cost of housing, gas and food have been increasing, bringing San Diego’s inflation rate to one of the highest in the nation. Then, a decades-old policy that places a number of barriers on the region's tribes ability to acquire land will be revisited next month by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors. Plus, critics lambast Substack over the “pro” program for big-name writers. Finally, in a new Port of Entry podcast episode, a Chula Vista family shares their battle with COVID-19 in hopes that their story might help others.

San Diego County is pausing use of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. The announcement comes as the CDC and FDA are reviewing reports of a “rare and severe type of blood clot” that occurred in six people days after receiving the vaccine. Plus, a series of reports in the San Diego Union Tribune has been exploring bias in policing in San Diego. And ArcLight Cinemas and Pacific Theaters say they are closing all of their roughly 300 screens, including several locations in San Diego County. Then, SDSU’s Department of Sociology and Center for Community Research and Engagement will hold a talk on Acts of Hate, Immigration and the Pandemic. And community members in the Central Valley are offering street vendors patrolling and other services to help them feel less vulnerable. Finally, the San Diego Symphony is preparing to open its spectacular new waterfront venue, The Shell.

San Diego Unified, San Diego County's largest school district, welcomed students back to campus Monday. About half of the district's students opted to return to the classroom, while the other half will continue learning remotely.

A large area around the Pechanga Arena, commonly known as the Sports Arena, is slated to become a new entertainment district, with a new arena, parks, retail and housing. But guidelines implementing a new state law seem to put the city’s plans in limbo. Plus, the Pentagon ordered all service branches to conduct a stand down to discuss racial extremism. They were supposed to be done by the beginning of April and within the past couple weeks, there’s been a rush to complete them. Then, this weekend, the arts world is testing the waters of in-person live events. There's an art exhibition opening reception and live theatrical performances in a beautiful outdoor setting. But, there’s still plenty of virtual options too.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection reports 19,000 unaccompanied children and teenagers entered the U.S. last month, the largest monthly total ever. Plus, KPBS reporter Tania Thorne looks into some of the barriers preventing the Latino community from seeking mental health help. And across California, more than 200 people have died of COVID-19 in state prisons. R.J. Donovan prison in Otay Mesa has been among the most deadly. Then, for over a year, school has been online. To get a glimpse into what it’s been like for teachers, we asked a high school teacher to record an audio journal for a week. Finally, the San Diego Asian Film Festival is holding a virtual launch party for its upcoming Spring Showcase. KPBS Arts Reporter Beth Accomando got a preview of the line up.

La Mesa City Councilwoman Dr. Akilah Weber was close to being elected to the 79th Assembly District seat on Wednesday, a position previously held by her mother, Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber. Plus, how California’s restaurants are preparing for a June 15 reopening.. And California will soon allow indoor live performances and events in counties outside the state's most-restrictive reopening tier. Also, the City Council on Tuesday voted to go ahead with Measure C, a March 2020 ballot measure that seeks to fund an expansion through increased hotel taxes even though it didn’t quite garner approval from two-thirds of city voters. Then, a new state law, which allows tenants and nonprofits a 45-day window to match any bid made at a foreclosure auction, provides no money to fund the purchases. Finally, new music from San Diego bands and musicians.

On June 15 California will do away with the color-coded COVID-19 safety system and plans to fully reopen the state, as long as the vaccine supply holds and infection rates remain low. Plus, the March 2 tragedy in Imperial Valley where 13 people were killed in an human smuggling attempt is a tragic consequence of the humanitarian crisis at the southern border. Also, San Diego County schools are expecting close to $1 billion in stimulus money from the third COVID-19 federal relief package with the biggest chunk going to San Diego Unified. In addition, the family of a man who died after sheriff’s deputies forcibly removed him from a jail cell received a $3.5 million settlement from the county. And, some California cities are doing away with single-family home zoning to encourage high-density housing, but will it make a dent in the state’s housing and affordability shortage? Finally, as the state moves toward reopening for live, in-person events, what does that mean for organizations that have a long lead time for their events, such as the San Diego Opera?

According to the San Diego County Health & Human Services Agency, 1,022,026 San Diegans — or 38% — have received at least one dose of the two doses Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. Plus, the president's $2 trillion infrastructure plan would invest heavily in public transit and intercity rail. And the San Diego Commission On Police Practices submitted 19 proposed changes involving SDPD's policy on how officers respond to and interact with protestors. Then, on Wednesday the Supreme Court heard arguments over whether or not NCAA compensation limits for student athletes violates antitrust laws. Plus, getting a COVID-19 vaccine shot can be very emotional. Some people cry with relief. For those who survived HIV the newfound freedom is something they’ve felt before. Finally, Harvey Shields used to work with professional athletes but now, during the pandemic, Shields has been helping people with lingering COVID-19 symptoms.

The first week of witness testimony in the Derek Chauvin trial and repeated showings of the video of the former police officer kneeling on the neck of George Floyd have been retraumatizing for many people. Plus, the public agency that manages the tidelands around San Diego Bay is considering adjusting the way it does business to include environmental justice. And, a look at the art events for this weekend in SanSan Diego County.

People 50 and older are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine in San Diego. But, the state still faces supply shortages. Also, opening day kicked off in San Diego with the Padres facing the Arizona Diamonds. In Tijuana, Haitian asylum-seekers say they face racism and descrimination on both sides of the border. San Diego Pride will once again go virtual due to the pandemic and a preview of “The Great Khan” that will close out San Diego REP's Black Voices 2021 Play Reading Series.

Nearly 30 years after César Chávez's death, a key part of his legacy is in jeopardy.The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing arguments in a case surrounding a 1975 California law that affords union organizers limited access to farms to organize workers. Plus, nearly three-quarters of all inmates in California have not been convicted of any crimes and are sitting in jail waiting for their day in court. Also, it's well-known that "gang life" isn't easy. Often it leads to jail time, substance abuse or even death. How one organization is helping at-risk youth overcome their involvement. And, as more people get vaccinated against COVID-19, one company is asking for stool samples to study how the vaccine interacts with our bodies. Finally, in an excerpt of “Port of Entry” podcast, why one woman left her life in the U.S. behind to help take care of orphaned kids in Tijuana.

In the past week, coronavirus cases have risen by as much as 12% nationwide. Will a rise happen in California too? Plus, the California Supreme court ruled that keeping people behind bars simply because they cannot pay a set bail amount is unconstitutional. And, thousands of people across the county get CalFresh, commonly known as food stamps, to help them buy food. But a KPBS investigative report found the program regularly pushes out people who are still eligible for the extra money. Then, there’s a push at the highest levels of state government to change how California goes about procuring and updating its technology. Plus, the city of San Diego and the county set aside $40 million in rental assistance last year to help low-income families. But some renters weren’t helped because their landlords didn’t take the money. Finally, a project created by a San Diego woman is recruiting the family stories from people of color who got left out of history.

The first 500 teenage girls arrived at the convention center Saturday night. Services for the teens, such as family reunification, education and health care, will be provided by a mix of government agencies and local nonprofit organizations. Plus, data gathered by The San Diego Union-Tribune revealed that police officers and sheriff’s deputies disproportionately target minorities for stops, searches, arrests and use of force. And though the Marine Corps has now integrated its two boot camps, that's just one of several hurdles it faces to fully embrace women. Then, the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, the latest attempt to stabilize the agricultural workforce, passed in the House last week. Plus, the San Diego Public Library Foundation wants the community to think about the future of its libraries. Finally, the newest episode of “The Parker Edison Project” examines sex and dating on the West Coast.

California is expanding vaccine eligibility to anyone 50 and over starting April 1, and anyone 16 and up on April 15. Plus, San Diego Unified students will return to campus either two or four days a week in April, depending on the number of families who want to participate in in-person instruction. And in San Diego weekend arts: SDMA’s Young Art exhibition, a virtual piano concert, Coronado Playhouse’s latest production, The Black Iris Project, “Contralto” and “A Shimmer of Strings.”

The Brazilian variant of COVID-19, which caused a deadly spike in cases in that country, has been found in San Diego. Plus, California assemblyman Rob Bonta has been chosen to become the state’s next attorney general. Upon his appointment, Bonta would be the first Filipino American to occupy the position. And some doctors are seeing a disturbing spike in lethal alcoholic liver disease, especially among young women. Then, the pandemic has restricted the number of clinical placements available to nursing students in hospitals, forcing them to practice their skills instead on mannequins, virtual patients, or at home with relatives and even stuffed animals. Plus, "Contralto," is a groundbreaking work of experimental documentary filmmaking and music by composer and UC San Diego music alum Sarah Hennies. Finally, a new summertime anthem about Southeast San Diego was just released called “Southeast Summers.”

San Diego Unified School District Superintendent Cindy Marten was questioned by senators in a confirmation hearing for the position of deputy U.S. Secretary of Education Wednesday morning. Meanwhile, a group back in San Diego protested her nomination. Plus, UCSD Assistant Professor Christen Sasaki, Ph.D., joined Midday Edition to talk about the intersection of racism and sexism against Asian American women. And five candidates are now vying for the 79th Assembly District seat. Then, as public health authorities try to convince reluctant Californians to get a COVID-19 vaccination, powerful allies in that effort could be religious leaders. Plus, a recent audit of the Industrial Wastewater Control Program suggests that outdated methods and staffing concerns are the key reasons behind a failure to properly identify polluters. Finally, the podcast “Blood on Gold Mountain” tells the story of the 1871 L.A. Chinatown Massacre through the eyes of a young female Chinese refugee.

As the nation mourns another mass shooting less than a week, we ask a mass shooting survivor about the psychological consequences on a nation already in the midst of a mental health crisis. Plus, the San Diego Convention Center will be used to temporarily house unaccompanied migrant children seeking asylum in the U.S. Also, a South Bay health care leader is being recognized for her work during the pandemic during Women’s History Month. In addition, a new exhibit at the San Diego History Center shows how archaeology played a role in learning about the life of San Diego's first Black homesteader, Nathan Harrison, and is challenging ideas about local history. And, activists are again demanding the removal of former San Diego Mayor and California Gov. Pete Wilson’s statue in downtown San Diego, citing his support of anti-immigrant legislation and his stand against gay rights as the reasons. Finally, how a cross-border love story has endured despite extended separations because of the pandemic in an excerpt from the latest episode of KPBS' “Port of Entry” podcast.

San Diego State will open a COVID-19 vaccination site at Viejas Arena Tuesday. Plus, Jacumba Hot Springs residents are fighting back against a solar panel installation project that would take up 650 acres at the edge of town. And lawmakers are considering ending protections for the critically endangered vaquita porpoise after an altercation between conservationists and fishermen turned fatal. Then, a proposed legal settlement will force the Army to review the discharges of recent veterans with mental health issues. Plus, San Diego master gardener Maria Mata joined Midday Edition to answer questions about growing your own food. Finally, a new Institute of Contemporary Art has formed in San Diego, merging the San Diego Art Institute in Balboa Park with the Lux Art Institute in Encinitas.

Researchers at UC San Diego estimate that the SARS-CoV-2 virus was likely circulating undetected for at most two months before the first human cases of COVID-19. Plus, distance learning during the pandemic has only worsened students' achievement gap from marginalized communities and those growing up in privilege. But could there be some long-term benefits to this experience? And this weekend in the arts: Cauleen Smith at the San Diego Museum of Art, outdoor Afro-Cuban jazz at Queen Bee’s, a year of virtual civic organ concerts and "There's Something About the Weather of This Place," at Best Practice gallery in Barrio Logan.