KPBS Midday Edition

Organized labor and community member support shifted to District 9 candidate Sean-Elo Rivera after opponent Kelvin Barrios suspended his campaign last month. Plus, in an ongoing series, KPBS is examining data tracked by the county to monitor coronavirus in the region, including community outbreaks. And our picks for arts and culture events this weekend include the San Diego International Film Festival, live music and drive-in jazz.

SANDAG has tallied up the total economic losses during the pandemic — and it’s not looking good. Plus, in an interview last week with Defend East County, Ammar Campa-Najjar, the Democrat running for Congress in the 50th District, said he’s not sure if he’ll vote for Biden or Trump. Also, COVID-19 can be found and tracked in sewage, but is there a risk to public health? Next, the new episode of “Port of Entry” podcast looks at the Black Lives Matter movement in Tijuana. And finally, Opera is back in San Diego — but at the drive-in.

The goal of the forum was to help voters understand who the candidates for San Diego mayor are, what they stand for and who best represents their interests and the interests of all San Diegans.

Both Senator Kamala Harris and Vice President Mike Pence dodged questions in last night's debate but drew sharp contrasts in the two parties’ agendas. Plus, the coronavirus pandemic derails California’s plan to deal with its homeless epidemic. Also, a KPBS investigation found Avocado Post Acute nursing homes provided far fewer hours of care from registered nurses than required while raking in millions in yearly profits. And, Republicans are hoping to take back the 49th Congressional District that got swept in the Blue Wave two years ago. Finally, a new book documents the history of surfing at San Onofre State Beach.

A recent poll by The San Diego Union-Tribune/10News SurveyUSA shows the race for San Diego mayor between Barbara Bry and Todd Gloria is neck and neck but it gives a hint of where voters are leaning on city ballot measures. Plus, Wednesday is Clean Air Day and the recent wildfires and the USS Bonhomme Richard fire gave heightened awareness on the effects of climate change on the air we breathe. Also, much of today’s political discourse lacks civility and an annual conference seeks to bring that back to American civic dialogue. In addition, regardless of who wins in the second district San Diego County Supervisor race, the East County will have a change in leadership for the first time in 28 years. Who will win depends on the candidate’s performance record. And, administrators at an East County nursing home waited eight days before reporting a resident’s sexual assault to police, advocates say the home’s handling of the case put residents at risk. Finally, listen to five songs to discover in October.

In addition to the state’s color-coded reopening tier, a new metric goes into effect Tuesday to require counties to reduce infection rates in communities harder hit by COVID-19. Plus, a look at the 53rd Congressional District race between Sara Jacobs and San Diego City Council President Georgette Gómez, both Democrats vying to replace outgoing Rep. Susan Davis. Also, Californians are asked to reexamine the cash bail system and the property tax loophole on the November ballot. A look at Propositions 15 and 25. In addition, KPBS general manager Tom Karlo is retiring after 47 years at the station. And, a new poetry collection by San Diego Poet Kazim Ali explores sound, time, history and fate.

Among the most consequential races in San Diego this election season is the race for San Diego mayor. Assemblymember Todd Gloria and City Councilmember Barbara Bry are both Democrats but their priorities are different. Plus, the November election is just around the corner, but polling sites will be different this year than in the past. We explain the ins and outs of voting. Also, California’s disastrous wildfire season is now one for the record books. Roughly 4 million acres have burned — the most in one season in modern California history. That is bringing attention to where California is building new homes and the fire safety measures required in that construction. And, a local filmmaker’s short horror comedy is being screened at L.A.’s Screamfest next week.

The 2020 Presidential Election may be unlike any other, but San Diego County Registrar of Voters Michael Vu and his staff seem to have prepared for all contingencies, from balloting to tabulating. Plus, KPBS is examining how data that shows the spread of coronavirus in San Diego County is collected from beginning to end. And infuse your weekend with some voting-themed art in San Diego this weekend in between checking the news.

Gov. Newsom signed a law setting a nine-member task force to come up with a plan for how the state could give reparations to Black Americans. Plus, the county is working on a Climate Action Plan that can satisfy the state and couts. Also, a 102-year-old San Diego law banning seditious language is no more. It has been disproportionately used in recent years to punish Black San Diegans. And, we break down both sides of the issue on Proposition 16, which is seeking to bring back affirmative action in California. Finally, a preview of the Italian Film Festival.

The San Diego Police Chief promises a full investigation of an officer's social media post about a fatal police shooting. Plus, President Trump ran roughshod over debate moderator Chris Wallace and his Democratic opponent Joe Biden — and crossed many lines in the process. And our partners at inewsource have created a guide on the major changes happening this upcoming election. Also, California kids can now use outdoor playgrounds after being closed for six months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, the newest episode of Rad Scientist focuses on scientist Kaylee Arnold who studies an insect called kissing bugs.

The first presidential debate is high stakes. Here are six questions ahead of the debate, to be moderated by Fox News Sunday host Chris Wallace beginning at 6 p.m. Plus, SUVs have been the largest cause of the increase in worldwide carbon emissions over the last decade. And COVID-19 continues to spread through our region, and contact tracers are only contacting on average 2.2 people for each person who tests positive. Also, Kelvin Barrios, former aide to City Council President Georgette Gómez is ending his campaign for her seat. Plus, San Diego's Historic Resources Board voted Thursday to designate the vacant Mission Hills Branch Library as a historic resource, likely derailing plans to redevelop the site into housing for the formerly homeless. Finally, G.I. Film Festival launches its Virtual Film Showcase this Thursday and Friday featuring six documentaries about military experiences.

Santa Ana winds are again bringing increased fire threat in an already tough fire season. Plus, some good news amid the bleak climate change forecast — restoring the climate could cost less than fighting COVID-19. Also, the silver lining for many bicyclists during the pandemic is that there are fewer accidents, but advocates want a new public policy to ensure the trend continues post coronavirus. And, the global health crisis has dramatically changed the sports world. How professional teams are handling the crisis. Finally, a Grammy-winning producer is turning the mic on his own family, making an album with his sister who has Down syndrome, and her companions with developmental disabilities at an adult care facility in Contra Costa County.

San Diego activists argue the database, known as CalGang, includes many people who are not actually gang members and unfairly targets people of color who live in lower-income communities. Plus, ROTC training has been mostly online but some cadets have resumed limited in-person training. And, our arts and culture picks for the weekend.

Shortly after a grand jury declined to indict any of the officers involved in Breonna Taylor’s killing, people took to the streets in San Diego to demand justice for her. Plus, California will ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035, a move that Gov. Gavin Newsom says will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 35%. Also, misinformations are swirling around social media on how the wildfires on the West Coast started and whether climate change played a role. PolitiFact California fact checks the claims. And, a mom of two autistic sons never expected to become a special education teacher. Her son’s early experiences plus the pandemic put her on a new path. In addition, an urban farm in City Heights is becoming anchor for the community during the pandemic, letting people pay what they can for fresh food. And on this weeks’ episode of Rad Scientist, an engineer who wants to understand how the brain helps us vocalize with the hopes of restoring speech for those who have lost the ability. Finally, Nan Sterman gives us a sneak peek of the latest season of “A Growing Passion.”

It was a welcomed surprise for many businesses in San Diego, the county remains in the red tier Tuesday under the state’s color-coded four-tier reopening plan. It was in danger of slipping into the state’s most restrictive tier. Plus, a local scientist says despite the CDC’s retracted guidance, there is evidence that COVID-19 can be transmitted through the air. Also, the coronavirus has slowed the wheels of justice, but starting next month jury trials are scheduled to begin again with safety measures in place. And, in response to Vanessa Guillen’s death, a newly introduced bill makes sexual harassment a crime under military law. Finally, a preview of this year’s One Book, One San Diego.

For many parents of young children, the pandemic has made childcare the most challenging issue of their lives. For some who have kept their kids home, caregiving has affected their ability to work. For others who don’t have the option to work at home the health risk posed by sending their child to day care has to be weighed against loss of income. And, the childcare centers and the people who operate them have lost income and are struggling to stay open. KPBS Investigative reporter Claire Trageser has been focusing on this issue and brings us this special program, “COVID-19 And The Childcare Crisis.”

The devastating wildfires around the state are causing environmental groups to lobby for California to move up its timetable for carbon-free energy. Plus, San Diego Zoo officials are changing the way they think about what’s involved when they step in to help endangered species. And this weekend’s arts events around town have a mix of in-person and virtual experiences.

San Diego State’s coronavirus cases will continue to be counted in the county’s total, the state said, because students can contribute to the spread of the disease. Plus, getting the facts right about California’s Senate Bill 145, signed into law by Governor Newsom, which will give judges expanded discretion to determine whether someone must register as a sex offender. Also, the Navy is looking into whether systemic racism is a part of the reason why only a handful of African Americans reach top jobs. In addition, the Trump administration may be pushing more expats living in Mexico to vote this year. And, after canceling in March, the San Diego Latino Film Festival relaunches today, virtually. Finally, as part of the last episode of this year’s Summer Music series, we present Indian K, a hip-hop artist who’s also a member of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians.

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on our public education system. All students and their families are experiencing learning challenges but, the public health emergency is shedding light on a pre-existing crisis in educational equity for vulnerable student groups.

On a trip to California to survey the devastation of the recent wildfires, President Donald Trump ignored the scientific consensus that climate change is playing a central role in West Coast infernos. Plus, California State Senate President Toni Atkins reflects on this year’s legislative session and what lawmakers accomplished and left on the table. Also, a KPBS analysis of the data released by the county found nightlife hotspots were also hotspots for community outbreaks of COVID-19. In addition, UC San Diego is one of two UC campuses rolling out a smartphone pilot program to warn people of COVID-19 exposure. And, a look into the document fabrication that was the basis of a now-retracted news report about a former city councilmember’s role in the troubled 101 Ash Street real estate deal. Finally, because of the pandemic, San Diego Repertory Theatre is turning the play. “A Weekend with Pablo Picasso,” into a film.

Historically, hate groups have targeted the armed forces, wanting access to the skills and the prestige associated with military service. That threat has been growing in the last couple of years.

The terrible toll of California's wildfires became more evident as 10 were reported dead and others missing. Plus, while much else in San Diego has been allowed to gradually reopen amid the pandemic, playgrounds appear to be closed indefinitely. And our weekend arts and culture picks include the San Diego Blues Fest and North Coast Rep's new production of “Necessary Sacrifices.”

Freak natural disasters — most with what scientists say likely have a climate change link — seem to be everywhere in 2020. But experts say natural disasters could get worse in the future. Plus, an audit of SANDAG alleges problems with hiring, promotions and upper management’s compensation. And a new report by SDSU’s Center for Health Economics and Policy Studies estimates 260,000 COVID-19 cases are linked to a motorcycle rally in South Dakota. Also, a virtual KPBS event delves into childcare challenges during the coronavirus pandemic. Finally, the Voices of Our City Choir is featured on KPBS’ Summer Music Series.

In total, the fire has destroyed 20 homes and 17 other structures and resulted in two minor injuries to firefighters CalFire said. Plus, State data released Tuesday shows San Diego County is regressing in its fight against COVID-19. The county is perilously close to slipping into the "widespread" tier like much of the rest of the state. And with the threat of blackouts back in the news, some people now have questions about whether it's worth getting solar panels and energy storage batteries. Plus, a group of VA psychologists across the country have formed race-based stress and trauma support groups for veterans of color. Finally, La Jolla Playhouse’s WOW, or Without Walls, Festival moves online with “Portaleza.”

The Valley Fire has burned thousands of acres and destroyed about a dozen homes as new evacuations have been ordered in eastern San Diego County. Also, San Diego State University is reporting hundreds of COVID-19 infections since August 24 and UC students and faculty are protesting the university’s plan to reopen its campus, local scientists are calling out the FDA commissioner saying he ‘cherry picked’ COVID-19 plasma data, the University of California has taken the lead on phasing out single-use plastics, and a guide to San Diego's first design week.

The Valley Fire in the Japatul Valley exploded over the weekend, jumping from just a few hundred acres to over 10,000 with only about 1% contained on Monday morning. And while prisoners have been able to join fire-fighting crews for years, many former prisoners still find it difficult to land a professional fire-fighting job. But last week, the California legislature passed a bill that would make it easier for them to get a job on the outside. Also, many Latino workers are finding it difficult to stay afloat financially and maintain housing security during the pandemic, and that could impact their ability to fill out the census. During fire season, smoke becomes a problem for everyone. But, some low-income communities of color could be more vulnerable to damaging smoke-filled air. And, what does fire season mean for California’s old state parks and centuries-old trees? A profile of Big Basin Redwoods State Park serves as a reminder of just how much Californians care about their local nature.

There have been 240 coronavirus outbreaks in San Diego County since the start of the pandemic, according to new information released by the county. But, the county is still keeping the specific locations of those outbreaks secret. Plus, the parts of San Diego County that have seen the highest rates of COVID-19 infection also contain the schools serving the vulnerable student groups who need in-person learning the most. And in San Diego art events this weekend, you'll find new plays by emerging and acclaimed voices in Latinx theater, a couple of in-person visual art experiences, and an instrumental rock performance live streamed from an empty venue.

All 200 of SDSU’s in-person classes — mostly lab work classes — would move online after 64 students tested positive for COVID-19. Students who live in campus housing may move out if they want. Plus, UC San Diego Health is recruiting participants for a national clinical trial as part of an effort to develop a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 by the end of the year. And as Mayor Kevin Faulconer gets close to signing a new deal with a private company, activists push for “municipalization,” which means the city takes over the power grid. Also, the number of people dying at home from complications of COVID-19 are climbing in San Diego County and some victims did not get the medical care they needed or received false negative test results. Finally, San Diego songwriter Al Howard has teamed up with his mother, the artist Marian Howard to create a multimedia project: He’s writing 100 songs each accompanied by her original watercolor painting.

In spite of unprecedented public support for police reform measures after the death of George Floyd, California legislators failed to pass a majority of the police reform bills up for a vote this week. Plus, plasma is being used to treat coronavirus patients here and across the country, with fresh encouragement from the FDA. But do plasma treatments work? Also, San Diego Police have released seven out of eight videos of police shootings since July 2019. But one video hasn't been released and it's not clear why. Finally, KPBS’ Rad Scientist podcast profiles Melonie Vaughn, a rising second year neuroscience PhD student at UC San Diego. Vaughn’s desire to study neurodevelopmental disorders stems from watching her austic brother struggle with school and social relationships.

On the last day of session Monday night, California lawmakers passed bills for eviction relief, police oversight and accountability and COVID-19 aid. These have been sent to Gov. Gavin Newsom for approval. Plus, some UC San Diego doctors and scientists are urging county officials to delay reopening more businesses. Also, a 2019 law mandates California police departments must release videos when an officer fires their weapon. However, the videos are edited and don't contain all of the footage. And South Bay teachers are trying to bridge the digital divide for English language learners as the school year begins with distance learning. Plus, the median home price in San Diego County is rising despite widespread unemployment. Finally, Horrible Imaginings Film Festival kicks off its online event tonight. The festival is dedicated to horror, sci-fi and fantasy genre films.

After receiving Gov. Newsom’s go-ahead, San Diego County is reopening indoor businesses like movie theaters, gyms and museums with required safety measures on Monday. Plus, parents, teachers and students are getting ready to resume in-person class Sept. 1 in some parts of San Diego County. Also, several veterans speak about the scope and impact of racial bias in the U.S. military.

San Diego Unified School District is preparing to start off the 2020-21 school year with remote learning. However, children with learning challenges may be offered in-person sessions. Plus, 1986’s “Top Gun” inspired a boom in military recruitment. Will its 2021 sequel, “Top Gun: Maverick,” do the same despite the changing perceptions of warfare today? Also, this weekend in San Diego art events includes San Diego Festival of Books, surf rock duo Puerto livestreaming from the Casbah’s stage, The Rosin Box’s August Series and a tapestry by Carlos Castro Arias.

In protest against systemic racism and the police shooting of Jacob Blake, players in the NBA, MLB, WNBA and MLS have refused to play to raise the social justice awareness. Plus, after the killing of George Floyd, the U.S. military is taking a look at how it is dealing with the issues surrounding race. KPBS military reporter Steve Walsh will moderate a panel discussion Thursday at 6 p.m. with leaders working with the U.S. military to address racial bias. Also, scientists know a lot more about the novel coronavirus than they did a few months ago. One infectious disease specialist answers KPBS listeners’ questions about COVID-19. And, on this week’s edition of our Summer Music Series, local soul trio Thee Sacred Souls use their voices for social change in the song, “Give Us Justice.”

As a result of the pandemic and its fallout on the local economy, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors Tuesday approved the county’s largest budget ever. Plus, Travis View, the San Diego-based host of podcast “QAnon Anonymous” breaks down the conspiracy theory. Also, flu shots can protect lung health during the coronavirus pandemic. In addition, a petition to add minority perspectives to Coronado school curriculum has gathered thousands of signatures and inspired a counter-petition. And, heat waves aren’t new to San Diego but the recent high humidity is. Finally, it’s been nearly 50 years since the Chicano activist group the Brown Berets camped out on Catalina Island for three weeks demanding that undeveloped land be turned into housing.

A new policy causing hours-long border wait times was meant to deter unnecessary crossings but it’s affecting essential workers who cross daily. Plus, Supervisor Jim Desmond, who represents a large part of North County, has questioned the county's COVID-19 restrictions. On his podcast, he's also invited controversial guests who have made false statements about the coronavirus without being challenged. Also, the first day of kindergarten is a rite of passage for children. But the inequities in how different families can approach virtual kindergarten could have some real life consequences for kids in the future. And, the San Diego Film Office is up and running again with new COVID-19 guidelines for filming in San Diego.

As the Republican National Convention starts, what voters can expect in contrast to the Democratic Convention. Plus, as the new school year begins, some students are returning to campus at San Diego State, will the university avoid the fate of other schools where young students ignored health warnings and socialized in mass gatherings? Also, a video produced 30 years ago showing a young Tony Krvaric, who is the chairman of the county Republican Party, with images of Adolf Hitler and Nazi imagery resurfaces. In addition, battling the many wildfires around the state is a tough enough job as it is and the pandemic is adding to the challenge. And, what happens to our brains when suddenly nothing is normal, such as in a pandemic? Hint: mostly our brains adapt. Finally, the plucky local roller-derby organization, Derby United, opened its outdoor, two-rink facilities just weeks before the pandemic forced them to shut down. Now, they’re pivoting to keep the skates rolling.

With the shortened census deadline approaching and fears about a possible undercount, the United Way of San Diego County organized a car caravan Friday to increase census participation in historically hard to count communities. Also, millions of older Californians live in wildfire prone areas and most are on their own. And, chamber music, a drive-in with a Disney film and a new cross-border mural project, it’s all happening this weekend.

San Diego has been off the state’s COVID-19 monitoring list for several days now but the state hasn’t provided the framework for businesses reopening. Plus, California firefighters are taxed the limit fighting the heat and wildfires. Also, when elder care homes aren't ready for a disaster, local first responders get the call for help but they're already overburdened, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. In addition, Uber and Lyft got a reprieve from the appeals court to continue operating in California pending their appeals of Assembly Bill 5. And, Veterans Village has a non-veteran at the helm for the first time. Finally, this week’s edition of the Summer Music Series features Jesus Gonzalez, known for his experimental style and looping techniques.

San Diego is now officially off the state’s coronavirus watch list but what that means for local businesses remains to be seen. Plus, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill by Assemblymember Shirley Weber (D-San Diego) that requires all students at California State University to take an ethnic studies course to graduate. Also, California’s power grid manager is in the hot seat after calling for the first rolling blackouts since 2001. In addition, as the new school year starts during the pandemic, the question of how to discipline students who are attending classes virtually is a challenge for teachers and administrators. And, many nursing homes are ill prepared for wildfire disasters, we examine the regulations that are supposed to protect residents. Finally, La Jolla Music Society Summer Fest is back — the musicians will be live but the audience will be virtual.

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy said that he will suspend controversial changes he made to the Postal Service to “avoid even the appearance of any impact on election mail.” Plus, a Black Lives Matter counter movement called “Defend East County” has swelled to more than 20,000 followers on Facebook and has contributed to the increasingly volatile faceoffs between protesters and counter protesters. Also, Gov. Gavin Newsom wants an investigation into why state power grid operators called for rolling blackouts amid the pandemic and heat wave. In addition, a new report urges local and state governments not to ignore the threat of sea-level rise during the COVID-19 crisis. And, a new law meant to help assisted living facilities in areas with a heightened risk to prepare wildfire is falling short. Finally, a new children’s book on the “spirit” of Chicano Park is being released on the 50th anniversary of the park’s founding.

A heat wave continues across California and Gov. Newsom is asking for an investigation into the weekend’s blackouts. The blackouts affected hundreds of thousands of households across the state as residents are being urged to stay home during the coronavirus pandemic. Plus, the head of San Diego County’s Democratic party weighs in on the Democratic National Convention, which starts tonight and runs through Thursday. Also, SANDAG presented its transportation plan for the next 30-year and it's a major departure from the status quo. Then, California is ill-prepared to protect elderly citizens living in areas where wildfires present a major threat. And, San Diego Public Library is now the permanent center for the study of poet Robert Frost’s works.

Scorching heat is expected everywhere except the coast in San Diego County Friday and a brutal stretch of temperatures is not expected to relent until the middle of next week. Also, medical professionals are not only battling the intractable coronavirus every day, they’re dealing with isolation, shifting guidelines and limited ways to recharge. Plus, author T. Jefferson Parker found inspiration for his new novel “Then She Vanished” in San Diego political scandals.

For the first time since early July, San Diego County case rate fell below the threshold to fall off the state’s monitoring list. Also, a new work by a local theater company honors and eulogizes the lives lost during the pandemic. Plus, President Trump said he is against providing funding to help the US Postal Service in order to sabotage efforts to expand mail-in voting. We discuss threats to the November election. In addition, military families are still stuck in limbo as the Navy tries to contain the coronavirus. And, the Oceanside International Film Festival had big plans for its 10th anniversary, now those plans are scrapped for a virtual experience. Finally, in this week’s Summer Music Series: The Greyboy Allstars releases its first studio album in seven years.

Sen. Kamala Harris made history by being the first woman of color on a major party presidential ticket. How local leaders react. Plus, despite a moratorium on evictions during the pandemic, more than 1,600 Californians have been evicted from their homes. Also, two new reports show not only that Black and Latino neighborhoods have the highest rate of COVID-19 infections, but also have a significant gap in access to testing and are hardest hit by unemployment. Finally, this year’s Tiki Oasis will virtually help you escape quarantine.

San Diego Unified had already planned to begin the new school year online because of the pandemic, but now the district says students may not return to the classroom for months. Plus, since March more than a quarter of American children tested positive for COVID-19. How vulnerable are children to getting this virus?. Also, census organizers are getting creative to reach hard-to-count communities during the pandemic. In addition, SDSU, UC San Diego and USD are delaying their fall sports seasons because of the pandemic. And, because we have been conserving water so well that water forecasters have radically overestimated the amount of water we would need in the future. Finally, “Hatemonger,” a new book by former KPBS border reporter Jean Guerrero, details how Stephen Miller became one of Trump’s most influential advisors.

SeaWorld Entertainment on Monday announced revenue and audience losses stemming from the coronavirus pandemic. Plus, UC San Diego neurointensivist Dr. Navaz Kanranjia explains how COVID-19 can impact the brain. And, Barbara Bry leads over Todd Gloria in campaign fundraising for the San Diego mayoral race, what’s behind the numbers? Finally, why the Museum of Man changed its name.

Figures showing California has slowed the rate of coronavirus infections may be in doubt because a technical problem has delayed reporting of test results. Plus, Colorado public health officials are finalizing the details of a wastewater testing program to help track the coronavirus pandemic. Also, diversity and inclusion in theatre are the focus of new KPBS TV show “Theater Corner.”

The deadly explosion in Beirut is hitting close to home for San Diego’s Lebanese community. Plus, 25% of the women who have lost a job during this pandemic say it is because of a lack of child care. Also, for weeks, members of the Kumeyaay Nation have been protesting border wall construction in San Diego, saying their cultural heritage sites are being destroyed. Now, human remains have been found. And, the deadline to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program is this Saturday. Billions are still available for small businesses. Finally, in this week’s edition of the Summer Music Series is Israel Maldonado, a Tijuana-born guitarist.

California's Attorney General Xavier Becerra and other attorneys general sent a letter asking the federal government to step in to increase the supply and decrease the cost of the COVID-19 drug remdesivir. Plus, the county is exploring outsourcing health care of jail inmates to private contractors. Also, KPBS partner inewsource is launching a series today called Veterans Voices. It will follow veterans as the San Diego VA removes them from a drug treatment they say has been effective in relieving their depression and suicidal thoughts. And, violence in Mexico hit an all-time high last year and major drug cartels are diversifying into international criminal enterprises — two disturbing findings in a report by University of San Diego. Finally, the San Diego Writers Festival wraps up with a focus on how to get published.

A Ramona gym owner was the first business owner to be criminally charged for flouting the county public health order. Plus, with the election three months away, some are worried about how the pandemic will affect the election process. Registrar of Voters Michael Vu answers your questions. Also, climate change is already putting California forests under stress, now a warming ocean is also threatening the underwater kelp forests. And, the pandemic has negatively affected restaurants, bars, hair and nail salons, but other smaller businesses are also feeling its effect, such as alterations and tailoring. Finally, with the economy struggling under COVID-19, advice from an expert on how to plan your personal finances.