KPBS Midday Edition

After a period of intense campaigning, the District 1 special election is finally coming to a close — and the results are in.Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre has come out on top, defeating Chula Vista Mayor John McCann in the special election for the county supervisor seat.Midday Edition Wednesday, we sit down with KPBS' South Bay reporter to talk more about this consequential election and what it could mean for the future of San Diego politics.Guest:Kori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBS

June is Men's Health Month. Life expectancy for men lags five years behind the life expectancy for women in the United States.Even though men face many specific health challenges, there's a lack of awareness and disease prevention early on. Researchers say there's a need for more attention to men's health.On today's show, we discuss how men can better care for their physical and mental health — and fight stigma.Guest:Kevin Maxwell, clinical associate professor of nursing at the University of San Diego

The local impacts of President Donald Trump's mass deportation plan are unfolding before our eyes.Immigration and Customs and Enforcement (ICE) agents are targeting anyone who is suspected of being in the country illegally.Over the weekend, a video went viral of a woman being arrested by ICE agents in a Mission Valley hotel parking lot.KPBS has also documented cases of a grandmother, a soccer coach and a disabled asylum seeker caught in the enforcement.On today's show, we sit down with award-winning journalist and former KPBS border reporter Jean Guerrero to get her analysis of recent immigration policies.Guest:Jean Guerrero, investigative journalist and author of "Hatemonger: Stephen Miller, Donald Trump, and the White Nationalist Agenda”

Binational artist collective AMBOS Project has been supporting migrant communities in our border region through arts and crafts programs and mutual aid.Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with AMBOS Executive Director Natalie Godinez to talk about how their art is building bridges on both sides of the border.Also, summer blockbuster season is in in full swing! We sit down with our Midday Movies critics to talk about some of the most highly anticipated films, as the first ever summer blockbuster celebrates its 50th birthday.Guests:Natalie Godinez, executive director, AMBOS ProjectBeth Accomando, arts reporter and host of Cinema Junkie podcast, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, host of Moviewallas podcastLinks mentioned in interview:AMBOS Project exhibit on June 27AMBOS Project store

The Supreme Court lifted a ban on sports betting in 2018. Since then, the industry has boomed, and much of that growth has come from online sports betting.Nearly half of American men under the age of 50 have an account with at least one online sports book.You can hardly watch a game, sports show or listen to a sports podcast today without hearing about overs, unders, props and other topics of sports betting culture.On Midday Edition, we discuss the rise of online sports betting culture and addiction, and the health risks that come with it.Guest:Robert Teel, licensed cynical psychologist in San Diego who focuses on digital addiction and online sports gambling

Under California law, police departments cannot share license plate data with federal authorities and other out-of-state agencies.But, that law has been routinely violated. In 2024, the San Diego Police Department shared data with federal agencies 62 times, according to the department’s annual surveillance report.SDPD stopped sharing data after state Attorney General Rob Bonta's office told the department it was likely violating state law. Meanwhile advocates are voicing their concerns about privacy and surveillance, especially amid President Trump’s mass deportation campaign. Today on Midday Edition, we spoke with two reporters covering this investigation at a local and statewide level.Guests:Gustavo Solis, investigative border reporter, KPBSKhari Johnson, technology reporter, CalMatters

Summer is here in San Diego and so are the tourists.With our near perfect weather and beaches, it's no surprise that our city is a big travel destination. But if you live here — it can be easy to take it all for granted.This summer, you might consider taking a staycation instead. From luxury hotels to beautiful campsites, San Diego has plenty of options for you to take a trip right here at home.This hour, we explore how to plan your perfect staycation in San Diego. Whether a hotel bed or sleeping bag is more your style, there's plenty of options out there.Plus, we talk about how to make the most out of traveling with kids.Guests:Jackie Bryant, business development strategist at San Diego MagazineShelby Stanger, host of REI podcast “Wild Ideas Worth Living"Jennifer Kolari, child and family therapist and founder of Connected ParentingJackie Bryant's staycation recommendations:Hotels/ResortsSeabird Resort - Oceanside (kid friendly/adult)Mission Pacific Resort - Oceanside (kid friendly/adult)Gaylord Pacific - Chula VistaAlila Marea Resort - EncinitasInn at Moonlight Beach - EncinitasHarrah’s Resort - Valley CenterLafayette Hotel - North Park (kid friendly)Town and Country Resort - Mission Valley - (kid friendly)Manchester Grand Hyatt - Downtown San Diego (kid friendly)Lazy H Ranch - Valley CenterCatamaran - Mission BayBahia Resort - Mission BayBianchi Pizza and PastaHotel Marisol - Coronado Read more on Jackie Bryant’s Guide to Local Spa and ResortsThe Hotel Del CoronadoRead Jackie Bryant’s Review on the hotel's renovationsNobuRead San Diego Magazine’s look into Coronado’s NobuVerandaRead San Diego Magazine’s look into Coronado’s VerandaFood and DrinkMerenda Wine Bar - https://www.sdcl.org/blogs/post/learn-a-language-with-rosetta-stone/Read Jackie Bryant’s Review on MerendaLittle Fox Cups and Cones - OceansideRead Jackie Bryant’s Review on Little Fox Cups and ConesWrench and Rodent - OceansideRead more in Jackie Bryant’s article on food trends in San Diego

The Trump administration has cut funding to programs that provide direct aid to communities affected by HIV and AIDS.That includes the dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which provides much of the funding to AIDS relief efforts abroad.Science Magazine Senior Correspondent Jon Cohen reported on how two countries in southern Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho, have been impacted by cuts so far, and how community members and health providers are navigating these challenges.San Diego is home to one of the leading HIV vaccine research efforts in the country, the Consortium for HIV/AIDS Vaccine Development, but its funding is now at risk due to the administration's spending cuts. We hear from one researcher about what that could mean for the future of a HIV vaccine.Guests:Jon Cohen, senior correspondent, ScienceDennis Burton, co-lead of the Consortium for HIV/AIDS Vaccine Development, professor, Scripps Research

You may know it as Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, Black Independence Day — or Juneteenth.On this day in 1865, word of liberation finally made its way to Galveston, Texas — where the last people still enslaved under the Confederacy were held.The news didn't come until two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.On today's show, we discuss the history and enduring significance of Juneteenth in 2025.We also get a glimpse into an upcoming celebration of Black joy, culture and freedom at Paddle for Peace's 5th annual Juneteenth barbecue.And, we preview the San Diego Black Artist Collective's annual Juneteenth Black Arts Festival — showcasing Black excellence across music, theatre, dance, poetry and visual art.Guests:T.J. Tallie, associate professor of history at the University of San DiegoRisa Bell, executive director and founder of Paddle for PeaceBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSJoy Yvonne Jones, president of the San Diego Black Artist CollectiveKelsey O’Daniels, artist and poet

Experts say there are several barriers that men face when accessing therapy and other mental health services. That includes stigma and bias — specifically around couples counseling.For Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, we speak with two San Diego psychologists about navigating men's issues in couples counseling and how they help men build healthier relationships with their partners.Guests:Dan Singley, psychologist, founder of The Center for Men's ExcellenceMax Maris, psychologist, Center for Men's Excellence

As the Trump administration continues its effort to cut back on science spending, researchers all over the country are sounding the alarm.Neuroscientist and biologist Ardem Patapoutian is one of those scientists working to raise awareness on the impact of these cuts. In 2021, he and his research partner David Julius earned the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine for discovering how humans sense touch.Patapoutian joined Midday Edition Wednesday to talk about how the Trump administration's spending cuts and policies are impacting him and his lab, and what he sees for the future of science at large.Guest: Ardem Patapoutian, neuroscientist, biologist and professor, Scripps Research, Nobel Prize winnerIMG_6411.jpg (4032x3024, AR: 1.3333333333333333)

After federal immigration agents raided a busy South Park restaurant in late May, a wide coalition of leaders spoke out — including faith leaders.Religious leaders across the country have vocalized opposition to the Trump administration's immigration policies. That includes the travel ban announced last week. It bars people from 12 countries from entering the U.S.Still others are working to keep houses of worship safe from immigration enforcement.On today's show, we invite a panel of local religious leaders — a pastor, a rabbi and an imam — to discuss how their faith implores them to fight for immigrant justice. And, the power of interfaith dialogue.Guests:Fr. Scott Santarosa, pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe parishImam Taha Hassane, imam of the Islamic Center of San DiegoRabbi Alexis Pearce, leader of Hinenu Havurah, a progressive Jewish collective in San Diego

Over the weekend, we saw "No King's Day" protests from San Diego to New York City. The demonstrations were part of a nationwide action against President Trump's military parade.In downtown San Diego, 60,000 people marched to protest President Trump's recent policies. Many were motivated by recent immigration raids throughout Southern California.On today's show, we sat down with two local attorneys to discuss the rights to free speech and due process for citizens and noncitizens. And, what federal threats to those rights could mean for democracy.Guests:David Loy, legal director at the First Amendment Coalition of San DiegoTammy Lin, professor of immigration and supervising attorney at the University of San Diego's Legal Immigration Clinic 

A new limited podcast series "Embedded: The Network" tells the story of how a community of women and activists worked to make abortion access easier and safer in Latin America.On Midday Edition Monday, podcast hosts Victoria Estrada and Marta Martínez give us a preview and share why they wanted to tell this particular story.Guests:Victoria Estrada, co-host, "Embedded: The Network"Marta Martínez, co-host, "Embedded: The Network"

When an eldest son is called home after his father's car accident, he finds his family in shambles — and his youngest brother in debt to dangerous criminals.It's the intriguing premise of "King of Ashes," the latest Southern crime thriller from bestselling author S.A. Cosby. He'll discuss and sign his book at the University of San Diego on Saturday. On Midday Edition, we sit down with the author to learn more.Then, dancer and choreographer Jenn Freeman explores her late in life Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis through a new documentary, "Room to Move." Beth Accomando speaks with Freeman to discuss the process.Plus, a celebration of Black joy, art, music, food and entrepreneurship is coming to Waterfront Park this Saturday for Kinfolk Fest. We find out whats in store from the organizer and art curator.Guests:S.A. Cosby, bestselling crime fiction authorJenn Freeman, dancer and choreographerLoren Cobbs, founder of SD MelaninJo-Jo Jones, artist curator for Kinfolk Fest and founder of the Black Liberated Artist Collectivekinfolk fest.jpg (5712x4284, AR: 1.3333333333333333)

Scenes of chaos erupted in recent days as immigrant-rights activists clashed with law enforcement following the Trump administration's immigration crackdown in Southern California. President Donald Trump has defied state and local officials by ordering National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles.We hear from San Diego Democratic Rep. Juan Vargas, who tells Midday Edition that Trump's actions are "impeachable." We discuss how he sees Congress' efforts to push back against the Trump administration.Guest:Rep. Juan Vargas, U.S. Congressmember, California's 52 District 

As dads get ready for Father's Day this weekend, Midday Edition features a conversation on fatherhood and its connection to humor.Mal Hall is a nationally-recognized stand-up comedian. He's also a father to three kids. Hall shares how his role as a dad has shaped his comedy, and why he doesn't always align with modern parenting approaches.Guest:Mal Hall, comedian

The San Diego County Fair is partnering with the San Diego Humane Society this year to celebrate a 'Summer Pet-tacular' for the fair's 145th anniversary.The theme is inspired by the connection between humans and pets. The Humane Society will bring adoptable dogs, cats and rabbits to the fair each day.We invited the Humane Society — along with Boy Boy, a Labrador Pit Bull mix — to the Midday Edition studio to learn more.The San Diego County Fair runs through July 6.Guests:Nina Thompson, director of public relations for the San Diego Humane SocietyJuliette Nash, community animal training manager for the San Diego Humane SocietyBoy Boy, Pit Bull Terrier and Labrador mixboy boy _portrait.jpg (4284x5712, AR: 0.75)

Immigration raids across the country and in San Diego are inciting fear, uncertainty and outrage in immigrant communities.Some LGBTQ+ groups say that migrants in the U.S. who have sought asylum from persecution due to their sexuality and gender identity could be at heightened risk.On Midday Edition Monday, we talk about the intersectionality of being a LGBTQ+ immigrant and what local LGBTQ+ groups are doing to help the community navigate these challenges.Also, this Sunday, local drag entertainers are organizing a march to advocate the rights of the transgender community, in the face of ongoing efforts to pass anti-trans legislation across the country.Guests:Gloria Cruz Cardenas, chief impact officer, San Diego LGBT Community CenterMax Disposti, executive director, North County LGBTQ Resource CenterAmber St. James, drag producer, community activist and educatorParis Sukomi Max, drag entertainer, community activist, business owner

All week, NPR is exploring solutions to the climate crisis through the lens of "Rethinking Home" — how our communities can be more resilient to climate change.On Midday Edition, we highlight ongoing efforts to fireproof our homes through the California Wildfire Mitigation Program. We hear from an expert whose home survived both the Station and Eaton fires in Los Angeles.Then, we zoom out to discuss how California should adapt its land development policies to respond to wildfire threats.Guests:J. Lopez, executive director of the California Wildfire Mitigation ProgramTom Corringham, economist at the Scripps Institute of OceanographyCary Lowe, retired land use lawyer and writer

Over the weekend, the Trump administration deployed the California National Guard to respond to Los Angeles protests over Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids.Meanwhile, President Trump's new travel ban takes effect today — blocking people from a dozen countries from entering the United States.President Trump says the ban will improve security vetting and prevent terrorist threats. But the policy will dramatically affect the lives of refugees, immigrants and U.S. citizens right here in San Diego.We discuss the latest actions on Midday Edition with a representative from a local refugee advocacy group.Guest:Homayra Yusufi, senior policy strategist for the Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA)RESOURCES:International Rescue CommitteeThe Coalition for Humane Immigrant RightsImmigrant Services - Catholic Charities Diocese of San DiegoSouthern California Immigrant ProjectJewish Family ServiceImmigration Center for Women and ChildrenImmigration Advocates Network

On Saturday, San Diego’s Little Saigon District is commemorating 50 years of the Vietnamese diaspora journey with a tribute concert.Many of those who fled Vietnam after the war 50 years ago came to San Diego and built the community as we know it today.On Midday Edition Thursday, we sit down with two of the organizers behind the concert to talk about their continued efforts to honor stories from the diaspora and revitalize the Little Saigon District.Also, musician Ben Model has made his career performing live music for silent movies. KPBS Cinema Junkie and arts reporter Beth Accomando speaks with Model about his new book "The Silent Film Universe" and the unique cinematic language behind the genre.And finally, the North Park Music Fest is this weekend. KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares all the details and her other event picks for the weekend, from dance performances to a summer reading program.Guests:Su Nguyen, founder of Little Saigon San DiegoTram Lam, management officer, Little Saigon San DiegoBen Model, musician and author of "The Silent Film Universe"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBS

Early voting for District 1’s runoff election is now underway.The race will decide who fills the county supervisor seat that represents much of San Diego’s South Bay. The candidates in this summer’s run-off are two South Bay mayors: Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre and Chula Vista Mayor John McCann.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we do a rundown of the race and where the candidates stand on issues like housing, immigration and the Tijuana River sewage crisis.Plus, a recent study from UC San Diego found that pollution from the Tijuana River is also making its way into the air. We hear about the most recent findings and what it could mean for the region.Guests:Kori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBSJonathan Slade, assistant professor of chemistry, UC San DiegoAdam Cooper, science and technology fellow, California Council on Science and Technology

A California high school graduation requirement for courses that teach about different cultures is now on the chopping block amid state budget cuts.Four years ago, California passed AB 101, which would require high schoolers to take an ethnic studies course before graduation.But the state's latest revised budget does not include funding for ethnic studies. Without funding, districts aren't required to enforce the requirement.A spokesperson for the California Department of Finance said in a statement to the L.A. Times, "the state has limited available ongoing resources" to support ethnic studies as a graduation requirement.Now, school districts are in limbo as they navigate the next steps. Many ethnic studies courses were set to start this fall.On Midday Edition, we speak with a local scholar and school administrator about the types of lessons ethnic studies brings to high school classrooms.Guests:James Fabionar, associate professor and associate chair in the Department of Learning and Teaching at the University of San DiegoWendy Ranck-Buhr, senior director of Equity, Access, and Opportunity for the San Diego Unified School District

In 2021, new rules allowing college athletes to be paid for the use of their name, image and likeness have transformed college sports. But many in college athletics are anxiously waiting for a finalized legal settlement to clarify NIL rules for colleges and their athletes.Guest:Kimya Massey, executive director of athletics, University of San Diego

As the Trump administration rolls out policy after policy, world renowned academics are sounding the alarm. From science to economics, experts are concerned for the future of their disciplines.One local expert argues that America is losing its ability to innovate. And, that China will reap the benefits.Guest:David Victor, professor of innovation and public policy at UC San Diego's School of Global Policy and Strategy 

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on Friday made multiple arrests at Buona Forchetta, a popular Italian restaurant in San Diego's South Park neighborhood.During a press conference Monday morning, Congressional representatives and other local leaders criticized the raid and expressed their support for the affected workers, highlighting the impact on the San Diego community.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear the latest and what this could all mean for the state of immigration enforcement in our region.Guest:Gustavo Solis, investigative border reporter, KPBS

A new comedy at the Old Globe, "One of the Good Ones," takes audiences into the home of one Latino family where a showdown is set to ensue.Yoli is seen as the perfect Latina daughter. But when she brings her boyfriend home for the first time, generational and cultural differences collide.This is veteran comedy writer Gloria Calderón Kellett's first full-length play. She is best known for her Netflix TV series, “One Day at a Time."Kellett joined Midday Edition on Thursday to talk about exploring Latino identity and family dynamics in her work as well as her San Diego roots.Our Midday Movies critics then talk about their favorite Japanese films and directors ahead of a series premiering at Digital Gym Cinema in June.And finally, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans chats with local author Kevin Kearney about his latest book and a reading series he founded for the San Diego writer community. Plus, her top artistic event picks for the weekend.Guests:Gloria Calderón Kellett, playwright of "One of the Good Ones" and TV writerBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcaster, MoviewallasKevin Kearney, author of "Freelance"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

After years of rising overdose deaths led by opioids like fentanyl, the U.S. saw its steepest drop in overdose deaths ever in 2024. Here in San Diego County, drug overdose deaths declined by nearly 28% in 2024 compared to 2023, with opioid-related deaths dropping by almost 35%, according to county officials.On Midday Edition Wednesday, we hear about what public health strategies have worked to lower the high number of deaths in the county, and what challenges remain going forward.Guests:Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan, public health officer, County of San DiegoDr. Erik Berg, assistant medical director for epidemiology and immunization services, County of San DiegoDr. James Dunford, medical director, McAlister Institute

Is social media making kids depressed? It is a question many parents and researchers have been asking in recent years.A new study has found a connection between social media use and an increase in depressive symptoms in children.On Midday Edition Wednesday, we hear more about the study's findings, as well as the impact cyberbullying has on youth mental health.Guest:Dr. Jason Nagata, researcher and associate professor of adolescent and young adult medicine, UC San FranciscoResources:stopbullying.govAAP’s Family Media Plan

Our celebration and exploration of AAPI Heritage Month takes us to San Diego’s Chinese community, which has a long history tracing back to the 1850s.In fact, San Diego once had a thriving Chinatown that was eight blocks long. That area is now known as the Asian Pacific Thematic Historic District, which is located in downtown San Diego and overlaps with the Gaslamp Quarter.CCBA.jpg (3000x2832, AR: 1.0593220338983051)On Tuesday's Midday Edition, we hear about the history of San Diego's historic Chinatown and ongoing efforts to revitalize the district it once existed in.Guest:Jacinta Wong, former executive director of the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum

As San Diego marks Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI), we're highlighting arts organizations and artists who are amplifying AAPI stories and voices throughout the region.Curator Carmela Prudencio has put together many arts spaces, exhibits and films to celebrate AAPI heritage and identity in San Diego.Midday Edition Tuesday, we talk about her work with Pacific Arts Movement, also known as Pac Arts, and how she has built community in the arts.Guest:Carmela Prudencio, director of marketing and communications at Pacific Arts Movement

Many dance organizations in San Diego are feeling the pressure from funding cuts and other changes to the arts landscape.On Midday Edition on Thursday, we hear from two leaders in the local dance community who are navigating these challenges, and what it could all mean for San Diego’s dance scene.Plus, Oceanside Theatre Company is putting on its production of "Latin History for Morons." Originally a one-man show by actor John Leguizamo, the play recaps 3,000 years of Latin history with a comedic twist. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews the play.And finally, the Tony Award-winning play "Jaja's African Hair Braiding" is currently on stage at the La Jolla Playhouse. KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans chats with the playwright about the West African hair braiding shops in Harlem that inspired her, and bringing the production out of New York.Guests:Matt Carney, executive director, San Diego BalletZaquia Mahler Salinas, founder, Disco RiotHerbert Sigüenza, director, "Latin History for Morons"Jocelyn Bioh, playwright, "Jaja's African Hair Braiding"

For many women, menopause — in all of its phases — draws a big question mark.While most women will experience this phase of life, it can be a challenge getting answers to questions and finding appropriate care.Right now, state lawmakers are pushing legislation to make menopause care more accessible. And, to spread awareness about the transition.We sit down with a panel of local physicians to discuss the proposed legislation. They also answer listener questions about menopause.Guests:Cynthia Stuenkel, clinical professor of medicine at UC San DiegoKathryn Macaulay, clinical professor of medicine, OBGYN and director of the menopause program at UC San DiegoLisa Lipschitz, OBGYN with Sharp Grossmont Hospital

The Supreme Court recently cleared the way for the Trump administration to ban transgender troops from serving in the military.The administration has now set a deadline for trans active duty personnel to “separate voluntarily.” That date is set for early next month.Following the deadline, trans troops are expected to be forcibly removed, and the ban on future enlistments is also expected to take effect.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear from a San Diego sailor who is experiencing the impacts of the ban firsthand, and what it could mean for trans servicemembers and aspiring recruits locally.Guest:Paulo Batista, active duty sailor, board member of SPARTA Pride and Trans Family Support Services

The results from the annual Point-in-Time Count are in.The count, conducted in January, is census of how many people are experiencing homelessness in our region in a single day.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we break down the results, where progress is being made and some of the biggest takeaways.Guest:Tamera Kohler, CEO of the Regional Task Force on Homelessness

Here on Midday Edition, there's a few local experts that we consider regulars on our show. One of them, without a doubt, is Dr. Eric Topol.He’s given us real, practical information about COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic.Now, Dr. Topol is out with a new book. It’s called “Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity.” We discuss the book and hear his advice on how to expand longevity through science-backed methods.Guest:Dr. Eric Topol, professor of medicine and executive vice president, Scripps Research Translational Institute

California Attorney General Rob Bonta is investigating San Diego County juvenile halls for alleged civil rights abuses.The county has two of those facilities: the East Mesa Juvenile Detention Facility in Otay Mesa and the Youth Transition Campus in Kearny Mesa.Reporting in The San Diego Union-Tribune has highlighted longstanding problems within the facilities. We discuss the investigation with a member of the U-T's watchdog team.Guest:Kelly Davis, reporter with The San Diego Union- Tribune's watchdog team

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently announced it will terminate Temporary Protected Status for Afghanistan, effective July 12.It's putting thousands of evacuated Afghans at risk of being deported back to their motherland, which is still under Taliban rule.One of the leading organizations that helped during the withdrawal from Afghanistan has ties to San Diego. On Midday Edition, we hear the reaction from #AfghanEvac's founder and president.Guest:Shawn VanDiver, president and founder of #AfghanEvac

The rich and vibrant history of Filipino food culture in San Diego, and the community that has shaped it, are the subjects of a new exhibit, “Taste San Diego: Filipino Culinary Journeys.”Then, the San Diego International Fringe Festival kicks off with 45 shows from local, national and international artists. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews one show from an Australian comedian and storyteller.And finally, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares her top weekend arts picks, from live theater to live music.Guests:Tina Zarpour, vice president of community engagement, education and collections, San Diego History CenterJoe Mazares, president of the Council of Philippine American Organizations (COPAO)Matt Harvey, comedian, "Wage Against the Machine"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

On Midday Edition Wednesday, we talk to Paul Parker about his memoir, "In the Shadows of Death: Writing Life’s Final Chapter." It dives into his career in death investigation and reveals Parker’s journey through alcohol addiction and depression.Plus, we speak to psychotherapist Ben Yalom about his new book “Hour of the Heart: Connecting in the Here and Now.” It digs into vulnerability from therapists during sessions with clients and looks to see what's possible in just a single, 60-minute session.Guests:Paul Parker, former medical death investigatorBen Yalom, psychotherapist and co-author of “Hour of the Heart: Connecting in the Here and Now”

Local author Mac Crane's latest book, "A Sharp Endless Need," is an LGBTQ+ coming-of-age story about the competitive world of high school girls' basketball.It follows Mackenzie Morris, a star high school point guard with dozens of Division I college recruitment offers, as they contend with a blossoming first love and a world turned upside down.Tuesday on Midday Edition, Crane sat down with KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans to discuss the book and their approach to writing about grief, identity and sports.Guest:Mac Crane, author of "A Sharp Endless Need"

We’re diving deeper into the rich history of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in San Diego as the region marks AAPI Heritage Month.Many of the first Japanese immigrants coming into San Diego and Imperial Counties were railroad workers, farmers and fishermen. But the incarceration of more than 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II had a widespread impact on many families and local institutions in San Diego. Still, the community continued to rebuild.IMG_6140.jpg (2761x2761, AR: 1.0)Many Japanese Americans in San Diego continue to explore their family history, unraveling their roots and reflections in the current moment.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear from a San Diegan whose family ties go back to the region for four generations, and the parallels they see between their past and the current moment.Guest:a.t. Furuya, board member of the Japanese American Historical Society, educator and LGBTQ+ advocate

No matter your age or ability, sports can be for everyone. Whether it's Olympic skateboarding or walking soccer, you won't have trouble finding something your speed in San Diego.On Midday Edition, we highlight several local programs building accessibility, inclusion and connection through sports.We also discuss how sports fuel social change and connect communities across a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds.Guests:Neftalie Williams, director of San Diego State University's Center for Skateboarding, Action Sports, and Social Change; professor of sociologyBasma Oshiba, co-founder of Kicks and Giggles soccer programChelsea Scholes, co-founder of Kicks and Giggles soccer program

For the past 10 years, the GI Film Festival has highlighted movies for, by and about active duty service members and veterans.The narrative short “Doldrums" is among the films having its San Diego premiere Friday. It follows a Vietnam War veteran haunted by memories of the soldiers he led and the Viet Cong medic who saved his life."Doldrums" will be screened at 7:30 p.m. at the Museum of Photographic Arts at the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.Also, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews Park Opera, which takes its own twist on the operatic form and combines it with the natural sounds of Balboa Park.And then, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares her top arts picks for the weekend, from the musical phenomenon "Hamilton" to visual art inspired by dreams.Guests:Le Chau, director of "Doldrums"Keshia Javis-Jones, advisory committee member, GI Film FestivalLeslie Leytham, artistic director, Project [BLANK]Wojtek Blecharz, composer, Park OperaJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

Ahead of Mother’s Day, we're bringing attention to challenges faced by Black mothers in the workplace — from inadequate paid maternity leave to lactation barriers.We discuss a new report from the San Diego Black Worker Center outlining those challenges and possible solutions.Then, we sit down with a local therapist to discuss strategies for coping with grief and loss on Mother's Day. Plus, how to honor the memories of late loved ones.Guests:Brisa Johnson, executive director of the San Diego Black Worker CenterAlana Dillette, associate professor of hospitality at San Diego State University and co-founder of Collaborating on Dialogue and EquityLori Rappaport, licensed clinical psychologist in Carmel Valley

Hundreds of political scientists in the United States think the country is moving from democracy toward authoritarianism, according to the Bright Line Watch survey.Respondents looked at indicators such as interference with the press and the punishment of political opponents, among other factors.On Midday Edition, we've gathered a panel of local political experts to assess the state of our democracy, and what can be done about it.Guests:Casey Dominguez, professor of political science at the University of San DiegoBrian Adams, professor of political science at San Diego State UniversityLindsey Lupo, professor of political science at Point Loma Nazarene University

President Trump recently completed his first 100 days in office for his second term. His administration has spend that time upending many pillars of government and society and the impacts are now being felt here in San Diego. Some argue the root of Trump's actions is planted in a policy blueprint called Project 2025.A new reporting series from KPBS looks into how Project 2025 is changing policy and society in San Diego.Guest:Amita Sharma, investigative reporter, KPBS

Paul Downey started working with the San Diego nonprofit Serving Seniors as a reluctant volunteer. Thirty years later, he is retiring from his position as its president and CEO.Downey sat down with KPBS Midday Edition producer Andrew Bracken to talk about his work and how he's seen the needs of vulnerable, at-risk seniors change over time.Guest: Paul Downey, retiring president and CEO, Serving Seniors

Words like cryptocurrency, the blockchain and bitcoin have taken hold in our collective vocabulary.But understanding the meaning and the digital mechanics behind these words can prove difficult.KPBS Midday Edition sits down with a local financial expert for basic tips on making sense of crypto, avoiding scams and getting started.Guest:Timothy O'Donovan, professor of finance, and the University of San Diego