KPBS Midday Edition

Last Tuesday, the city of San Diego recognized 10 local women for their leadership and service, as part of its “Women of Distinction” event.Mayor Todd Gloria named immigration attorney Maria Chavez as this year's citywide honoree.Monday on Midday Edition, we sit down with Chavez to talk about the recognition, her career journey and how current policies and immigration enforcement are impacting her work today.Guest:Maria Chavez, immigration legal director, Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans

Back in January, the City of San Diego implemented paid parking in Balboa Park, incurring both anger and confusion from residents and organizations based out of the park.The city responded with a grace period followed by reductions in fees for city residents and free parking in certain lots.KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando checked in with arts organizations in the park about how the parking policies are affecting them.Guests:Tim Shields, managing director, Old Globe TheatreMichael Warburton, executive director, San Diego Model Railroad MuseumPeter Comiskey, executive director, Balboa Park Cultural Partnership

Gov. Gavin Newsom last week announced the latest allocation of more than $1 billion for mental health treatment projects and shelter beds.The funding comes through Proposition 1. Passed in 2024, the measure created a $6.4 billion bond to remake California's behavioral health system and expand the availability of treatment beds statewide.A CalMatters report, however, found that none of the programs expected in 2025 under that measure have opened yet.On Midday Edition Monday, we hear about that and about some of the San Diego projects expanding mental health and substance abuse care through Prop. 1.Guest:Marisa Kendall, homelessness reporter, CalMatters

What does it mean to reconnect to one's ancestral homeland?Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear from the director of a new documentary, "Dear Alaska," which explores reconnection and interconnection through the lens of the Indigenous Tlingit people of the Pacific Northwest and San Diego's Native community.Then, the Old Globe is currently staging a new adaptation of Herman Melville's 1853 short story "Bartleby, the Scrivener." KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando sits down with the playwrights.Guests:Moriah Hayes/Keeyées Tláa, director, "Dear Alaska"Noah Brody, playwright, Fiasco TheaterPaul L. Coffey, playwright, Fiasco Theater

The federal government is requiring the California DMV to cancel commercial drivers licenses for roughly 13,000 truck drivers without permanent legal status.That includes drivers with some work visas, refugee or asylum status, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) — among other work authorizations.The DMV says it's allowing affected drivers to submit new license applications, but the federal government is barring them from being processed.On Midday Edition, we talk about how the policy is impacting immigrant drivers who are unable to work and anxious about their livelihoods.Guest:Gurvinder Singh, International Humanitarian Aid Director, UNITED SIKHSResources:UNITED SIKHSFreedom Drivers CoalitionSikh CoalitonAsian Law Caucus

You might have seen the social media buzz over Korean beauty products, also known as K-Beauty. It remains a booming industry — South Korea exported a record $11 billion in cosmetics in 2025.Now, K-Beauty has a new hub in San Diego: the skincare store Seoul Glow Lab.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we sit down with the founder of Seoul Glow Lab and one of its estheticians to talk about the boom in Korean beauty, along with the community and education building around it locally.Guests:Katie Hernandez, founder, Seoul Glow LabSabrina Kim, esthetician, Seoul Glow Lab, founder, Soul Care Standard

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Tuesday over access to the Otay Mesa Detention Center.Last month, federal and county officials were turned away when they tried to inspect the center. They issued an ultimatum to DHS last week — let them into the facility, or face legal action.We discuss where the lawsuit stands and what happens next.Guests: Terra Lawson-Remer, San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chair

What does it take to heal from the past and build a life and future you actually want?Licensed therapist and author Katherine Woodward Thomas digs into personal transformation, manifestation and more in her most recent book, “What's True About You: 7 Steps to Move Beyond Your Painful Past and Manifest Your Brightest Future.”Thomas will be at the San Diego Writer's Festival later this month. She joined Midday Edition on Wednesday to discuss the book and what it takes to achieve a more authentic self.Guest:Katherine Woodward Thomas, therapist and author of “What's True About You: 7 Steps to Move Beyond Your Painful Past and Manifest Your Brightest Future”

As the Iran war stretches into its second week, concerns are growing around the impact the conflict will have for the global economy. Much of that attention has been on energy prices — particularly, the price of oil and gas. But its impacts can go far deeper.Plus, processing the news and reality of war in the Middle East and immigration enforcement here in the U.S. can weigh on anyone's psyche.For children, consuming media about war without guardrails can be dangerous.We talk about thoughtful ways parents can approach conversations with their kids about the news in today's world.Guests:Daniel Enemark, chief economist, Policy & Innovation CenterKimberly Macias, licensed professional clinical counselor, Thrive Therapy StudioResources for processing the news with kids:BBC NewsroundDOGO NewsNational Geographic KidsTIME for KidsNational Child Traumatic Stress Network

UC San Diego is hosting the 25th Annual Kyoto Prize Symposium this week. The esteemed award is given for lifetime achievement in the fields of technology, science and the arts.One of this year's honorees is Carol Gilligan. Her groundbreaking work highlights how women and girls were excluded in psychological research. In books such as "In a Different Voice," Gilligan explored women's and girls' identity and morality, and developed the concept of "the ethic of care.""I was standing with all women and girls in receiving this prize," she said in an interview with Midday Edition. "And our voices were being recognized."Gilligan joined Midday Edition Tuesday to reflect on what she's learned about the lives of women and girls over the course of her career and share her reaction to receiving the Kyoto Prize.Guest:Carol Gilligan, professor, researcher, author, New York UniversityLinks:Registration for the 25th Annual Kyoto Prize Symposium Laureate Presentations, UC San Diego, March 11-12

The American-Israeli war on Iran has entered its second week.More than 1,300 people have been killed in Iran, according to the Iranian Red Crescent Society.Many fear this could be another "forever war," like the U.S. invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan. We speak to a local professor who recently published an op-ed exploring that question.He also outlines San Diego's connections to the war.Plus, reports emerged last week alleging that military commanders are framing this war as part of "God's plan" and invoking Christian "end times" rhetoric.We discuss the relationship between Christian nationalist theology and U.S. politics, and what that looks like today.Guests:Ibrahim Al-Marashi, associate professor of Middle East History, Cal State San Marcos; visiting lecturer in journalism and media studies, San Diego State UniversityRebecca Bartel, associate professor of religion, San Diego State University

Longtime Rep. Darrell Issa announced Friday he will not seek reelection in 2026 after serving in Congress for more than two decades. San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond also announced last week that he will run for Issa's seat in the 48th Congressional District, reshaping a race with national implications.Voice of San Diego's Scott Lewis joins Midday Edition Monday to talk about the role new congressional maps played in Issa's decision, and to reflect on his political legacy as a Republican leader in Southern California.Guest:Scott Lewis, CEO, editor-in-chief, Voice of San Diego

Each year, the San Diego Public Library honors former children's librarian Clara Breed's legacy through its annual Clara Breed Civil Liberties lecture.Breed is known for advocating for Japanese American youth who were incarcerated during World War II.Author Maggie Tokuda-Hall will be delivering this year's address. She joined Midday Edition Thursday to talk about exploring the history of Japanese American incarceration through the lens of her family's experience and the state of book bans and censorship today.Then, a new play looks back to the night the United States launched the Vietnam War draft lottery. KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando brings us a preview.And finally, looking for things to do this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares her top arts and culture picks for the weekend — plus, a preview of the latest episode of "The Finest."

As fighting in Iran and beyond continues into its fifth day, many military families in San Diego are grappling with new stress and uncertainty. On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear more about the impacts on local military families.Then, the Department of Veterans Affairs released new data last month on veteran suicides. Though the report did see a minor decline in deaths by suicide between 2022 and 2023, the numbers remain high.Over 17 veteran suicide deaths were reported on average each day in 2023.We take a look into how one local military clinic approaches providing mental health care for veterans, military members and their families.Guests:Maggie Meza, executive director, the San Diego Chapter of Blue Star FamiliesShuna Ball, regional clinic director, The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics at VVSDResources:Blue Star Families Food Insecurity ResourcesBlue Star Families Deployment ResourcesVeterans Crisis Line988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

San Diego's population continues to grow older. That demographic shift brings concerns over how to best help seniors thrive in their later years. Exercise remains an essential element to maintaining health as we age.In his book "Move for Life," San Diego personal trainer Damien A. Joyner shares advice for older adults on ways to stay active and strong, and have fun while exercising.Guest:Damien A. Joyner, fitness expert, author, "Move for Life"

For many in San Diego's Muslim community, Ramadan is a time to pray, fast and reflect on one's faith.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we talk about the cultural and spiritual significance of Ramadan and how it is being honored locally.Guest:Imam Taha Hassane, imam of the Islamic Center of San Diego

A U.S. Supreme Court ruling Monday has put a California state law on gender privacy in schools on hold.The SAFETY Act, passed into law in 2024, prohibits schools from sharing information on student gender identity without student approval.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear more about what the ruling means for California schools, students and parents.Guest:Katie Anastas, education reporter, KPBS

Israel and Iran continued to trade airstrikes Tuesday, four days into a war that U.S. President Donald Trump would last several weeks but perhaps longer.Iranians in San Diego are grappling with mixed emotions as they celebrate the death of Ayotallah Ali Khamenei while processing what may come next.On Midday Edition, we sit down with one Iranian organizer who helps us put this week's events in historical context.We also talk about his hopes for Iran moving forward.Guest:Shahram Homayounfar, organizer with the Coalition for Democracy and Human Rights in Iran

Despite recent record-high temperatures across the San Diego region this weekend, the official start of spring is still weeks away.Gardening expert Nan Sterman joins Midday Edition Monday to talk about planting for spring in the wake of our warmer winter.Sterman gives tips on everything from how to choose the right citrus tree to plant, to how to help young children develop a passion for gardening.Guest:Nan Sterman, host, KPBS, "A Growing Passion"Resources:Waterwise Gardener Upcoming EventsWaterwise Gardener How To VideosBooks by Nan Sterman

The Epstein files include the names of many of the world's most rich and powerful.One of them is a prominent figure in San Diego: bestselling author and wellness guru Deepak Chopra. He's mentioned in the files more than 4,000 times.UC San Diego told CNN that Chopra's association with Epstein was "regrettable" and said his affiliation with the school will end at the end of June.“UC San Diego is aware that Deepak Chopra, MD, has been mentioned in files that were recently released by the Department of Justice. Dr. Chopra currently has a Voluntary Clinical Professor (without salary) appointment in the School of Medicine's Department of Family Medicine with an expected job end date of 6/30/26,” UC San Diego told CNN.“While we are not able to comment further on personnel matters, the crimes Jeffrey Epstein committed were horrific, and any association with him is regrettable.”We discuss recent reporting that outlines Chopra's relationship and correspondence with Epstein over the years. And, UC San Diego's decision to end Chopra's affiliation with the school.Also, another revelation that Epstein provided funding for a UC San Diego lab within the department of psychology.Guest:Jakob McWhinney, education reporter, Voice of San Diego

The United States and Israel's coordinated attacks on Iran that started over the weekend continue to escalate.Among the ships involved in strikes include a San Diego-based aircraft carrier — the USS Abraham Lincoln.At least four American soldiers have died in the conflict so far. President Donald Trump says the conflict could take four to five weeks, or far longer.On Midday Edition, we break down the latest news out of Iran with an expert on war, peace and international politics.We also talk about what the war could mean for San Diegans.Guest:Erik Gartzke, professor of political science and director of The Center for Peace and Security Studies at UC San Diego

Olympic bobsledder Kaillie Humphries is coming home to Carlsbad with two new medals after the Milan-Cortina Olympic Games, bringing six medals total.She's widely considered one of the best bobsledders in the history of the sport.We sit down with Humphries to hear more about her journey through the sport and motherhood.Plus, a local student magazine highlighting arts and culture reports back after covering New York Fashion Week — one of the biggest events in the industry.Then, our Midday Movies critics sing the praises of Hong Kong director John Woo and celebrates his impactful work in the world of action cinema.Guests:Kaillie Humphries, Olympic bobsledder and six-time medalistErin Seitzler, editor-in-chief, The Look MagazineBeth Accomando, arts reporter, Cinema Junkie host, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcaster, Moviewallas

Acclaimed writer George Saunders is one of the featured authors at this week's 31st annual Writer's Symposium by the Sea in Point Loma.Known for groundbreaking works like "Lincoln in the Bardo" and "Tenth of December," Saunders joined Midday Edition Wednesday to reflect on his writing process, and how he approaches teaching the art of writing to a new generation.Guest:George Saunders, author, "Vigil", "Lincoln in the Bardo"Link:31st Annual Writer's Symposium by the Sea event with George Saunders on Feb. 27

Nearly 50% of all cancer deaths are considered preventable, according to the American Association for Cancer Research.However, there remains a general lack of awareness about early detection and screening.This Cancer Prevention Month, doctors are spreading the word about how to be more proactive about your health. We talk to one local researcher to hear more.Guest:Dr. Svasti Haricharan, professor of biology at San Diego State University, member of UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, research grantee at American Cancer Society

We hear reaction from local Congressmember Mike Levin following President Donald Trump's State of the Union address.

This Black History Month, we're celebrating local Black leaders across every field — from art, to community organizing and wellness.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we feature two Black women making waves in San Diego's education and food justice scenes.We hear about their lifelong commitments to social justice and equity and the philosophies that motivate them to continue their work.Guests:Ashanti T. Hands, president, San Diego Mesa CollegeDiane Moss, founder and managing director, Project New Village

Officials say at least 62 people have died in Mexico, but none in Tijuana or elsewhere in Baja California.On Midday Edition, we discuss where the violence stands now and what the operation says about the state of U.S.-Mexico relations.Guest:Ev Meade, director of Proceso Pacífico, a peace building group in Culiacán

In commemoration of Black History Month, we are continuing to sit down with local Black trailblazers who are continuing to leave their mark on the community.Brisa Johnson has spent much of her life advocating for social justice in many different capacities, from leading civic engagement initiatives to spearheading the creation of the San Diego Black Worker Center.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from Johnson about her journey to where she is today and what it means to fight for workers' justice in 2026.Guest:Brisa Johnson, executive director, San Diego Black Worker Center

Voice of San Diego has released its annual Parent's Guide to San Diego Schools. The 2026 guide, available in both English and Spanish, reviews San Diego private schools, in addition to public and charter schools in the region.On Midday Edition Monday, we hear more about what new information is included in this year's guide, and advice for parents on how to best use it.Then, California has expanded public education to children as young as four years old. What impact is it having on private preschools' ability to keep their doors open?Guests:Jakob McWhinney, education reporter, Voice of San DiegoAndrea Sanchez-Villafaña, managing editor, Voice of San DiegoJeanne Kuang, Capitol reporter, CalMatters

There's a lot to worry about when you're in sixth grade. But what happens when you're asked to represent an entire religion and culture?That's the main struggle for Mariam, the protagonist of the new middle grade book, "Hail Mariam." When she's transferred to a local Catholic school, she worries that being the only Muslim American girl will put her at odds with her peers.Thursday on KPBS Midday Edition, we sit down with the author of "Hail Mariam" to talk about how she drew on her own experiences for this story, navigating religious differences as a young person and the beauty in finding common ground.Then, the Oceanside International Film Festival launches its 15th year with a day of surf films at the Brooks Theater. KPBS Cinema Junkie Beth Accomando previews the festival — and the challenges it faces this year.And finally, curious about what to do this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans has you covered. We talk about the arts and culture events to check out and preview the latest episode of "The Finest."Guests:Huda Al-Marashi, author, "Hail Mariam"Lou Niles, executive director, Oceanside International Film FestivalCarly Starr Brullo Niles, artistic director and co-director of programming, Oceanside International Film FestivalJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBSLinks:Feb. 24 - "Hail Mariam" book launch event

Federal officials said Americans are projected to receive larger tax refunds this season.That's after several changes to the tax code under what the White House calls the "One Big Beautiful Bill."How much you get back will depend on many factors, though. We break down what to expect and how to navigate your taxes this season.Guest:Mary Beth Storjohann, financial planner and CEO, Allora Wealth

What does it take to live a happier, healthier and longer life?The city of San Marcos is exploring that question through its recent partnership with the Blue Zones project. The term "Blue Zone" refers to a community where residents live longer.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear from a San Marcos-based physician about what the initiative entails, what it means to be a "Blue Zone" community and what this approach could mean for wellness and care.Guest:Dr. Jorge Otañez, associate chief medical officer, TrueCare San MarcosLinks:March 17 - Blue Zones Ignite San Marcos Community Keynote Event

February is Black History Month.This year, there's even more reason to celebrate — as we recognize 100 years of commemoration.Black History Month began in 1926 when Black historian Carter G. Woodson created a week to celebrate the vast achievements of Black men and women.That week eventually grew into the monthlong celebration we know today.On Midday Edition, we discuss the evolution and perseverance of Black History Month over 10 decades. And, the importance of celebrating Black history in 2026.Guest:Olutoyosi "Toyo" Aboderin, professor of History and Africana Studies at the University of San Diego

Across the globe, more than one billion people are celebrating Lunar New Year — ushering in the Year of the Fire Horse with good food and good company.We discuss local celebrations including the upcoming San Diego Tết Festival, featuring traditional performances and cultural activities.Also, we sit down with two restaurateurs to learn about the culinary traditions of Lunar New Year from a Vietnamese and Chinese perspective.Guests:Tri Luu, board director and chair of partnerships, Vietnamese American Youth AllianceVan Nguyen, 2025 Miss Vietnam San Diego pageant queenKim Phan, owner of Kingfisher, Crab Hut and Phở Gà Go restaurantsAllen Chan, owner of Jasmine Seafood Restaurant

Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson died Tuesday at the age of 84.Over his decades long career in activism and politics, Jackson advocated for disenfranchised communities across a range of issues, building an inclusive "rainbow coalition" in the process.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we take a look back at Jackson's memorable visit to the San Diego-Tijuana border in the summer of 1984, and how issues he highlighted decades ago remain relevant in 2026.Guest:Seth Mallios, professor of anthropology, Kit and Karen Sickels Endowed Chair in University Heritage and Community Engagement, San Diego State University

President Donald Trump last week announced the repeal of a major Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulation on greenhouse gasses — the 2009 "Endangerment Finding."For the past 16 years, the scientific conclusions that: greenhouse gases in the atmosphere threaten public health and greenhouse gases from motor vehicles contribute to pollution threatening public health, have guided EPA emission standards under the Clean Air Act. Now, scientists and environmental groups warn that removing the finding could have grave implications for public health.One of the scientific foundations of that policy is rooted in San Diego research dating back to 1958. We outline the connection and why local scientists are concerned.Guest:Tammy Murga, environment reporter, KPBS

Throughout Black History Month, we are profiling Black trailblazers with San Diego ties who have made an impact in their respective fields.Monday on Midday Edition, we sit down with a community leader who is fighting for racial and economic justice through her work at the San Diego nonprofit, Center on Policy Initiatives.Then, photographer Atiba Jefferson has captured some of the biggest cultural icons and moments in skateboarding, sports and music.On Feb. 18, he will speak at San Diego State University for a retrospective on his career. We hear from both Jefferson and SDSU professor Neftalie Williams aboutJefferson's legacy in skateboarding, and how his work has permeated into other parts of culture.Guests:Kyra Greene, executive director, Center on Policy InitiativesAtiba Jefferson, skateboard photographerNeftalie Williams, professor, director, SDSU Center for Skateboarding, Action Sports, and Social Change

The city of San Diego has officially recognized Feb. 13 as Sew Loka Day.Founded in 2013, the sewing shop and studio has been at the helm of San Diego's growing slow fashion movement.Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with Sew Loka's founder to talk about the significance behind the recognition, what Sew Loka means to the community, and her own journey through fashion.Then, Black Comix Day returns this weekend. Since 2018, it has celebrated Black creators and artists working in the comics industry. KPBS' Beth Accomando previews the event.Guests:Claudia Rodríguez-Biezunski, founder, Sew LokaKeithan Jones, comic artist, founder of Black Comix DayBryttney Mischele, artist

The psychological impacts of President Donald Trump's mass deportation campaign are far and wide. On our Wellness Wednesday show, we hear from a local psychologist on the mental health impacts she is seeing in immigrant communities.Then, a recently filed lawsuit alleges Costco misled shoppers about ingredients used in its popular rotisserie chickens. We hear more about what people need to know to better understand what's in their food.Plus, last month's release of Chat GPT Health kickstarted a new era of AI chatbots as a tool for health care. We hear more about the ways artificial intelligence is changing how we get medical advice and treatment.Guest:Mariela Shibley, clinical psychologist, founder, Immigration Psychology PartnershipsAaron Gross, professor, University of San Diego; director of USD's The Center for Food Systems TransformationEric Topol, director and founder, Scripps Research Translational Institute

The 2026 midterm elections are nine months away.President Donald Trump has repeatedly said the federal government should "nationalize" or "take over" some state elections.California officials are resisting those calls. They say they're ready to fight back.We sit down with California Secretary of State Shirley Weber to hear about state officials' plans to counter federal interference.Guest:Shirley Weber, California Secretary of State

Writer Jamaica Kincaid joins Midday Edition Tuesday to talk about her work, and how her childhood in Antigua continues to impact her writing. She will be appearing at the 31st annual Writer's Symposium by the Sea on Feb. 26.

Each year, the Prebys Foundation recognizes local leaders who are making a lasting impact on the community, from arts and culture and youth success to health and wellbeing.Monday on Midday Edition, we sit down with Carmen Chavez, executive director of the nonprofit Casa Cornelia Law Center and one of the 2026 Prebys Leadership Award recipients. She talks about her work providing legal aid to those who have suffered human rights and civil rights abuses.Guest:Carmen Chavez, executive director, Casa Cornelia Law CenterResources:All in for San Diego: 2026 Prebys Leadership Awards Celebration

Bad Bunny's historic Super Bowl halftime show brought us 13 minutes of lively music, bold dancing, vibrant storytelling — and even an actual wedding.The performance provided a history lesson of his home, Puerto Rico. It was also a celebration of all Americans, beyond borders.We break down the significance of the show and what it means in today's political climate with Jean Guerrero, award winning journalist and author.Guest:Jean Guerrero, investigative journalist and author of "Hatemonger: Stephen Miller, Donald Trump, and the White Nationalist Agenda”

In November, a whistleblower within the San Diego Association of Governments — or SANDAG — was awarded millions of dollars after being fired in 2023.Lauren Warrem was a former finance official who raised questions about flaws in SANDAG's toll collection system. Now, SANDAG is being ordered to pay Warrem's attorneys more than $1.7 million.We break down the latest in the toll collection saga and what it means for SANDAG moving forward.Guest:Jeff McDonald, investigative reporter, San Diego-Union Tribune

The convention Indigi-Con is returning for its second year, with a focus on connecting Native creators and celebrating Indigenous-led stories past, present and future.Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear about how Indigi-Con is amplifying Indigenous stories across all disciplines and bringing together tradition and futurism.Then, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews The Old Globe Theatre's latest iteration of the play Hedda Gabler, starring Katie Holmes in the eponymous role.And finally, curious about what's going on in the arts this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans has you covered. We also preview the latest episode of "The Finest" featuring hometown hero Jessica Sanchez.Guests:Johnny Bear Contreras, public artist, founder of Eyaay Ahuun FoundationChag Lowry, executive director of Indigenous Futures Institute, comic book creator and publisherBarry Edelstein, artistic director, The Old GlobeJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, host of "The Finest" podcastLinks:2026 Indigi-Con programming2026 Indigi-Con registration