KPBS Midday Edition

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

For the second year in a row, San Diego’s own Tara Monsod is a finalist for Best Chef in California by the esteemed James Beard Awards for her work at local restaurants Animae and Le Coq. Chef Tara sat down with Midday Edition to talk about her recent accolades and what drives her culinary creations.Plus, our Midday Movies critics share their breakdown of the genre-defying blockbuster hit, "Sinners."Then, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares her top weekend arts picks from visual art to live music.Guests:Tara Monsod, executive chef, Animae and Le CoqBeth Accomando, arts reporter and host of "Cinema Junkie," KPBSYazdi Pithavala, host of Moviewallas podcastJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBS

Cover - GOLD COAST DILEMMA.jpg (1399x2173, AR: 0.6438104003681546)It's easy to get lost in a good romance book. From the classic "enemies to lovers" trope, to workplace rivals — there's a little something for everyone.The clash between cultural expectations and forbidden love are at the center of San Diego-based author Nana Malone's new book, "Gold Coast Dilemma."On Midday Edition, we discuss the book and the importance of representation in the romance genre.Guest:Nana Malone, bestselling romance author

Today, April 30, marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Sàigòn when thousands of Vietnamese fled political persecution, then millions more in the following years.San Diego was one of the first points of entry for many Vietnamese refugees escaping the communist government.A new KPBS video series, Fall of Sàigòn at 50: Stories of loss, legacy & identity, takes a look back at the events half a century ago, reexamining the historical moment and how it has reverberated across generations in the Vietnamese diaspora, including here in San Diego.Guest:Alexander Nguyen, North County reporter, KPBS

April marks Jazz Appreciation Month. On Midday Edition Monday, we get to know the artists behind the jazz scene in our binational region.From an acclaimed jazz singer to a soulful saxophonist, join us as we celebrate jazz with the folks keeping it alive and well from San Diego to Tijuana.Guests:Leonard Patton, professional singer, musician, actor, composerHolly Hofmann, jazz flutistNatalia Velázquez, founder and director of the Tijuana Jazz SocietyRichard Aulbert IV ("Riva"), saxophonist and composer

Black Americans’ relationship to the Pacific Ocean between the 16th and 20th centuries is the focus of a new exhibit on display at the Central Library in downtown San Diego.It's called "Take Me to the Water: Histories of the Black Pacific." On Midday Edition, we talk about the exhibit with the curator behind the project.Then, we get a preview of the Without Walls Festival, featuring interactive and nontraditional theater on the UC San Diego campus.Plus, we preview this year's San Diego Book Crawl, coinciding with Independent Bookstore Day. We'll hear from a panel of local booksellers.Guests:Caroline Collins, assistant professor of social and spatial justice at UC San DiegoShahrokh Yadegari, composerHugo Williams, Pony Cam ensemble memberAnika Omark, co-owner of Hey Books!Matthew Hein, co-owner of Hey Books!John Evans, co-owner of Camino BooksSPL Professional Image (1).jpg (2016x1512, AR: 1.3333333333333333)

The past five years have been a period of transformation, changing how San Diego County treats San Diegans struggling with mental illness, substance abuse and homelessness.Now, a leading figure behind that transformation is stepping down. Luke Bergmann is the outgoing director of behavioral health services for San Diego County.Bergmann joins Midday Edition on Wednesday to talk about the current state of mental health services, how it will be affected by budget deficits and what led to his decision to leave the role.Then, we sit down with Cathryn Nacario, the CEO of the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), to talk about how the organization's programs serve the community and the upcoming fundraiser that helps support those programs.Guests:Luke Bergmann, former director of Behavioral Health Services for San Diego County Cathryn Nacario, CEO, NAMI San Diego & Imperial CountiesResources:NAMI's Warmline: 619-295-1055, available seven days a week 3:30 p.m.-11 p.m. (except major holidays) Behavioral Health Services, county of San Diego

This Earth Day, we discuss what federal attacks on environmental nonprofits could mean for local efforts.As the Trump administration considers removing the nonprofit status of environmental groups nationwide, local nonprofit leaders predict far-reaching impacts for San Diego’s environmental projects and protections.We meet with three local leaders to dive into work stoppages, environmental justice and the changes we may see in our neighborhoods.Guests:Luis Olmedo, Comite Civico del ValleFranco Garcia, Environmental Health CoalitionNicole Capretz, Climate Action Campaign

The first annual Southern California Indigenous Culture and Art Festival is this weekend in Escondido, featuring everything from storytelling to fashion with Indigenous designs. We discuss the importance of highlighting Indigenous art with two artists involved in the festival.Then, Pacific Arts Movement will host the 14th edition of their Spring Showcase next week. We get the details from the artistic director and a featured filmmaker.Plus, the weekend preview with arts and culture happenings around San Diego.Guests:Johnny Bear Contreras, Kumeyaay sculptor and cultural bearer of the San Pasqual Band of Mission IndiansSiyowin Peters, Indigenous artist bringing awareness to missing and murdered Indigenous peopleBeth Accomando, KPBS Cinema JunkieBrian Hu, artistic director for Pacific Arts MovementJota Mun, filmmakerJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBSEmu - Orion's Belt.JPG (640x640, AR: 1.0)

This Saturday is the 55th annual Chicano Park Day commemoration. Organized by the Chicano Park Steering Committee, it commemorates the activists and community members who fought for the park to be built, and the younger generations who are picking up the fight.Also, what does it mean to be Chicana? The anthology, "Somos Xicanas" edited by Luz Schweig, explores the breadth of the Chicana experience by featuring stories and written work from over 80 writers from across the country — including two San Diego poets, who will be reading their own work at this year's Chicano Park Day commemoration.GuestsJosephine Talamantez, co-founder of Chicano Park and the Chicano Park Steering Committee, founder of the Chicano Park Museum and Cultural CenterBrenda Vaca, writer and founder of Riot of Roses Publishing HouseNatalia Rivas, poetGaby Moreno, poet and hip-hop artist

By many metrics, young men today are struggling — in school, in the workforce and with their mental health. The share of young men attending college is in decline, while the share of men participating in the workforce is also decreasing. Men also face greater risk of death from overdose and suicide.Meanwhile, many young men are being exposed to content online that often presents a very specific, often toxic, view of masculinity.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we feature a conversation on the challenges young men face today and the important role mentorship can play in their success.Guest:Joe Sigurdson, co-founder, Boys to Men Mentoring

On Monday, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake shook San Diego. The epicenter was located about 2 miles south of Julian.It didn't cause major damage and no injuries were reported.But, it was the biggest earthquake in our region since the 2010 earthquake near Guadalupe Victoria, which was a 7.2 magnitude earthquake.On Midday Edition, we make sense of the earthquake with a seismologist. Plus, we hear some practical tips on how to prepare for the next quake, whether or not it's "The Big One."Guests:Alice Gabriel, seismologist and associate professor at UCSD's Scripps Institution of OceanographyJacob Margolis, science reporter for LAist and host of "The Big One: Your Survival Guide"