KPBS Midday Edition

Writer and journalist Sam Quinones, known for his reporting on America's opioid epidemic, turns to a new subject in his book “The Perfect Tuba.” It's a celebration of the often-overlooked instrument and the musicians and band leaders he met across the country.Plus, with the holidays approaching, arts reporter and KPBS Cinema Junkie Beth Accomando shares a perfect gift idea for the cinephile in your life.And arts and culture reporter Julia Dixon Evans joins us with a look at this weekend's holiday events, from December Nights and SoNoFest to the Winter Wonderland Festival in Escondido.Guests:Sam Quinones, author and journalist, "The Perfect Tuba"Danny Reid, author, "Pre-Code Essentials: Must-See Cinema from Hollywood's Untamed Era, 1930-1934"Kim Luperi, author, "Pre-Code Essentials: Must-See Cinema from Hollywood's Untamed Era, 1930-1934"Julia Dixon Evans, arts and culture reporter, KPBS

About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. It's the second-leading cause of cancer-related death for American men, behind lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we invite Jerry McCormick to tell the story of his own diagnosis and his efforts to spread awareness of the disease.Then, we get a medical perspective on prostate cancer, from getting screened to available treatments.Guests:Jerry McCormick, prostate cancer awareness advocateDr. Ramdev Konijeti, director of the Genitourinary Oncology Program at Scripps Cancer Center, surgeon with Scripps Clinic

The Trump administration announced Tuesday that it will withhold administrative SNAP funding from more than 20 Democratic-led states if they do not provide data on people receiving assistance.It is another threat facing the largest anti-hunger program in the United States.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we talk about what you need to know about these changing eligibility requirements and the state of food insecurity in San Diego.Guests:Alondra Alvarado, president and CEO, San Diego Hunger CoalitionBenyamin Chao, policy manager for health and public benefits, California Immigrant Policy Center

Latina writers and readers will gather for the first Latina Authors Book Fair & Showcase at KPBS on Wednesday, Dec. 3.Responding to an industry where Latinas/os represent only 8% of published authors, the event will highlight Latina authors' journeys and encourage others to publish their own.On KPBS Midday Edition, we sit down with the co-hosts of the event, authors Elsa Sevilla and Erica Alfaro.Guests: Elsa Sevilla, host of Historic Places with Elsa Sevilla and author of Camera Ready: From Hardship to SpotlightErica Alfaro, author of Harvesting Dreams

For 30 years, Chula Vista leaders have sought to bring a new four-year public university to San Diego's South County. Now, that dream is closer to becoming a reality.

December marks the start of flu and COVID-19 season.Experts are worried about low vaccination rates this year. Only about 1 in 5 eligible residents have received their flu shots so far, according to recent data.We discuss what to expect for the upcoming flu and COVID-19 season. Plus, tips for staying healthy beyond vaccines.Guest:Dr. Pia Pannaraj, infectious disease specialist at Rady Children's Hospital

As San Diego's senior population continues to grow, so does the need to care for them. Many seniors are facing challenges from Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Often, that responsibility falls to family members.California has over 7 million family caregivers. It's a role that comes with low pay, no sick days, and additional mental stress. On Midday Edition Monday, we have a conversation about some of the challenges that family caregivers face.Guests:Martha Rañón, vice president, Southern Caregiver Resource CenterShannon Patel, social worker, George G. Glenner Alzheimer's Family CentersLilly Ribner, family caretakerResources mentioned:Southern Caregiver Resource CenterGeorge G. Glenner Alzheimer's Family CentersSan Diego County's Family Caregiver Support Program

Last month, 14-year-old Mikey Jimenez was driving in a restaurant parking lot in El Centro when police officers opened fire on the vehicle, killing him.Now, his family is calling for an outside, independent investigation.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we talk more about the ongoing investigation and how Jimenez's death has reverberated in the community.Guest:Kori Suzuki, South Bay and Imperial Valley reporter, KPBS

It's that time of year: time to figure out what you're bringing to Thanksgiving dinner. For many of us, that decision can feel overwhelming.If you've been putting that off, we've got you covered with some last-minute Thanksgiving shortcuts — in effort, not flavor.Sam the Cooking Guy joins us to answer audience questions and give us a live, in-studio cooking demonstration.And, if all else fails — you can always go out to eat. We sit down with lifestyle journalist Jackie Bryant to get her recommendations for restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner.Guests:Samuel Zien (Sam the Cooking Guy), cookbook author, restaurateur and YouTuberJackie Bryant, lifestyle journalist and journalism professor at San Diego State University

Thanksgiving is a time to express gratitude, and it's an opportunity to give back to community, and spend time with family.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear from a local group using mutual aid to address food insecurity in San Diego.Then, a conversation with a local leadership coach about how to make the most of family time this holiday season.Guests:Nica MaryJane Hermosillo-Vanella, founder and CEO, Feeding DaygoLorri Sulpizio, director, Conscious Leadership Academy, University of San DiegoResources mentioned:Amor al ValleFeeding Daygo LinktreeMutual Aid Hub

November marks National Hip-Hop History Month, and San Diego has a thriving hip-hop community and make its mark on the culture.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we sit down with a local hip-hop veteran to talk about San Diego's ever-evolving hip-hop scene, his own artistry, and how he continues to shine a light on artists, both up-and-coming and established.Guest:Ric Scales, hip-hop artist, curator, promoterResources mentioned:Slappin' Hands showcaseSoul Disciples"F**k Ric Scales" album

Every November, we recognize Native American Heritage Month — honoring the history and contributions of Indigenous people in the United States.But for many leaders, honoring this history is a year-long commitment. That includes educating the next generation and teaching the public the truth about the past.We sit down with two Kumeyaay leaders dedicated to preserving the language and spreading awareness about their cultural heritage.Then, we learn about local efforts to spread awareness about missing and murdered Indigenous people (MMIP) in the San Diego region. We also discuss what resources are available for community members.Guests:Stan Rodriguez, director of Kumeyaay Community College and chair of the Kumeyaay Studies department at Cuyamaca CollegeNicholas Calaway Smith, ‘Iipay-Kumeyaay educator and language preservation advocateDanielle Bush, program director, MMIP San DiegoSummer Elliott, housing services liaison, Strong Hearted Native Women's CoalitionResources:Feather AlertMMIP San Diego Resource Center

About a dozen police agencies in San Diego County use automated license plate readers.A new KPBS investigation found those agencies are also searching cameras owned by private businesses — with limited oversight.Plus, almost all requests for shelter have failed since San Diego began clearing freeway camps. We talk about problems within the shelter system and why it's so hard to secure a spot.And, we talk about why residents in Jacumba are pushing back on a 600-acre solar project that would surround the town.Guests: Scott Rodd, investigative reporter, KPBSGustavo Solis, investigative border reporter, KPBSBlake Nelson, homelessness reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneElaine Alfaro, East County reporter, KPBS

Over the past 30 years, Point Loma Nazarene University professor Dean Nelson has sat down with some of the most prominent writers in the literary world to talk about their craft.He compiles the insights from those conversations into two new books, "Talking to Writers" — one focused on fiction, the other nonfiction.Then, our Midday Movies critics unpack the concept of "tactical frivolity" and discuss films that use satire, humor and theatricality to respond to the political moment.And finally, it's another busy weekend in the arts. KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares her top picks for things to do.Guests:Dean Nelson, author, director of Point Loma Nazarene University's Journalism Program, founder of Writer's Symposium By the SeaBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcast host, MoviewallasJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

For many parents today, managing kids' screen time and technology use often feels like a full-time job.Growing evidence shows a correlation between excessive screen use and mental health issues, as families struggle to establish rules and guidelines around technology.We speak with Jean Twenge, a local researcher and author, about "10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High-Tech World."Guest:Jean Twenge, professor of psychology at San Diego State University, author of "10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High-Tech World"

Don't put away your umbrellas just yet.San Diego County is expecting another rainstorm late Thursday, after heavy rainfall earlier in the week. We break down the forecast.Plus, we take a look into progress being made at this year's United Nations climate conference in Belém, Brazil — also known at COP30. We also unpack why the United States is skipping the conference this year.Guest:Alex Tardy, former National Weather Service meteorologist, founder of Weather EchoDavid Victor, professor of innovation and public policy at UC San Diego's School of Global Policy and Strategy

When a police officer is found dead in her home, who investigates?Ciara Estrada's death in 2018 was quickly ruled a suicide by the San Diego Police Department. Investigators — who were her colleagues — made no arrests. No suspects were identified.Her family says there's more to what happened that night. A new KPBS podcast explores Ciara's story.We take a listen to the first episode and sit down with Katie Hyson, the reporter and producer behind "One of Their Own."Guest:Katie Hyson, racial justice and social equity reporter, KPBS

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced last week that it would remove the “black box” warning labels on hormone therapy for menopause.These labels, which show up on medication packaging, warn of the risks of heart attack, breast cancer, stroke and blood clots. But the FDA now says these risks are based on outdated science.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear what this could mean for menopause treatment going forward, and what to know about hormone therapy more broadly.Guest:Dr. Kathryn Macaulay, clinical professor, OB-GYN, director of UC San Diego Menopause Health programResources mentioned:The Menopause Society

Earlier this month, the city of San Diego formally recognized the second Sunday of November as "Slow Fashion Day."Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with two of the organizers behind this effort to talk about the role of slow fashion in promoting sustainability, creativity and community.Then, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando sits down with Christopher Ashley, outgoing artistic director at the La Jolla Playhouse, as he reflects on his 18-year tenure at the theater.And finally, looking for things to do this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans returns with her recommendations for arts events to check out this weekend, from a 'doom metal' concert to bookish events.Guests:Claudia Rodríguez-Biezunski, founder, Sew LokaChristopher Carson, founder, The Homegrown ProjectChristopher Ashley, artistic director, La Jolla PlayhouseJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

The signing of the 1965 Voting Rights Act symbolized a turning point for American democracy.It wasn't until then that discrimination in voting was banned. It meant outlawing policies like literacy tests and poll taxes. It meant racial gerrymandering could be challenged in court.But now, the Supreme Court is questioning whether to keep Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act — which prohibits discrimination in voting practices and procedures. We discuss the potential implications.Plus, a scholarship for Black students at UC San Diego has been rebranded for all students after a lawsuit by a right-leaning nonprofit. We hear an analysis from a scholar of race and law.Then, we sit down with long-time San Diego civil rights icon Harold (Hal) K. Brown to hear his message for the moment.Guests:Casey Dominguez, professor of political science at the University of San DiegoKhiara Bridges, professor of law at UC BerkeleyHarold "Hal" K. Brown, co-founder and previous chair of the San Diego chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), co-developer of the SDSU Afro-American Studies Program/Black Studies (now the Department of Africana Studies), civil rights leader and educatorIMG_4331.jpg (3632x2909, AR: 1.2485390168442765)UT85_D9955-1 Hale - Brown - C.O.R.E's march and Protest - 196 (3000x3000, AR: 1.0)San Diego History Center DO NOT COPY, STORE, OR REPRODUCE THIS IMAGE WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE SAN DIEGO HISTORY CENTE

Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP in San Diego County received their benefits Friday, after a delay due to the government shutdown.Of the about 400,000 people in the region who use SNAP, nearly one-fourth are older adults.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from two local organizations about the impacts the uncertainty is having on the county's senior community.Guests:Brent Wakefield, president and CEO, Meals on Wheels San Diego CountyDeborah Martin, executive director and CEO, ElderHelpResources mentioned:Meals on Wheels San Diego CountyElderHelpSan Diego Food BankFeeding San Diego211 San Diego

Scientists at Scripps Research recently launched a new clinical trial that will test if a repurposed GLP-1 drug, tirzepatide, can provide possible relief for long COVID symptoms.Monday on Midday Edition, we sit down with Dr. Eric Topol to hear more about the trial and the state of long COVID research and treatment today.Guest:Dr. Eric Topol, executive vice president, Scripps Research Translational InstituteResources: Long COVID Treatment Trial — Scripps Research

An upcoming film screening highlights personal documentary films that explore family history, memory and connection across generations.On Midday Edition Thursday, we hear from San Diego filmmaker Ari Ali about her film "Ben Between Africa," which explores the life and mysterious death of her uncle. She shares how boxes of family letters found in an attic led her to learn more about her own family's intergenerational trauma.The film is being featured as part of "Framing Memories," an event being held at the Museum of Photographic Arts on Thursday, Nov. 13.Then, a new book profiles over 65 skateboarding icons who are shaping the action sports scene and culture. We dive into inclusion in the sport and the impact of skateboarding on popular culture today.And finally, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando previews the 26th annual San Diego Asian Film Festival.Guests:Ari Ali, director, "Ben Between Africa"Neftalie Williams, director of SDSU Center for Skateboarding, Action Sports, and Social Change, author of “The Skateboard Life”Brian Hu, artistic director, San Diego Asian Film Festival

In today's fast-paced world, and with all that's happening around us, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Feelings of stress and burnout, though common, can also have long-term impacts on our health.On Midday Edition Wednesday, we hear from Portia Preston, author of the book "Hustle, Flow, or Let it Go?," about her shame-free and inclusive approach to wellness.Guest:Portia Preston, author, "Hustle, Flow, or Let it Go?"

For private defense attorneys in San Diego and across the country, the ongoing government shutdown has exacerbated their funding situation and left many — specifically those with the Criminal Justice Act (CJA) program — without pay for more than four months.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we dig into how CJA attorneys and other experts are navigating a precarious funding situation and the impacts on the court system at large.Guest:Alex Riggins, federal courts and federal law enforcement reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

The results are in: California voters have passed Proposition 50. The measure will allow the state to redraw its congressional districts to open up more seats for Democrats, countering Republican moves in Texas.Reactions are pouring in from California Democrats and Republicans. Some call the effort a partisan campaign, while others say its a step toward preserving democracy.We discuss the details and what Democrats need to do to connect with voters prior to the midterms.Guest:Scott Shafer, senior editor with the politics and government desk, KQED

One-third of San Diego households don't earn enough to cover basic needs, like housing food and transportation.For a lot of people, money is a constant source of anxiety — especially during challenging economic times. We sit down with a financial planner to talk about how to stretch your dollar where it counts. Plus, local community leaders outline how they're showing up to nurture, feed, and protect one another when government systems fail to deliver. We also discuss the power of mutual aid and resource sharing amid delayed paychecks and funding cuts.Guests: Mary Beth Storjohann, financial planner and CEO, Allora WealthDiane Moss, founder and CEO, Project New VillageBrisa Johnson, executive director, San Diego Black Worker CenterAndrea Guerrero, executive director, Alliance San Diego

The special election for Proposition 50 is underway.If passed, the measure could change several Congressional districts in California, flipping five U.S. House seats from Republican to Democratic control.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we preview the potential impact of Proposition 50 on districts in San Diego and what else voters need to know.Guest:Jake Gotta, social media host and reporter, KPBSResources:KPBS Voter Hub

The federal government shutdown is now in its second month, and may become the longest in history later this week.On Midday Edition Monday, we hear about how it is impacting food aid and public health.Guests:Andrea Caldwell, director of government affairs and advocacy, San Diego Food BankRichard Garfein, PhD, Professor, Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, UC San Diego

In October, San Diego State University senior and student athlete Alicia Guerrero stepped up to the podium twice at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, winning bronze in discus and shot put.For the past year, Guerrero has trained with SDSU's Adapted Athletics program. It is the first elite collegiate adaptive sports program in California.Monday on Midday Edition, Guerrero talks about her own journey through adaptive sports and her road to the Paralympics.Guest:Alicia Guerrero, student athlete, Adapted Athletics

Artificial intelligence is everywhere — from our office buildings, to schools and government agencies.The Chula Vista Police Department is joining cities to use AI to write police reports. Several San Diego County police departments also use AI-powered drones to support their work.Civil liberties advocates are concerned about privacy, safety and surveillance.On Midday Edition, we sit down with an expert in AI ethics to discuss the philosophical questions of responsible AI.Guest:David Danks, professor of data science, philosophy and policy at UC San Diego

On Día de Muertos, the ofrenda — or altar — honors loved ones who have passed away.In Tijuana, one group is raising awareness with a special ofrenda honoring journalists who have been killed from Mexico to Gaza. The ofrenda is on display now at CEART Tijuana. We discuss the details with a long-time Tijuana journalist.Then, we check in with our resident film critics for a special Halloween edition of Midday Movies.Guests:Vicente Calderón, journalist, Tijuanapress.comBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcaster, Moviewallas

Spooky stories aren't all about the fear factor. They often teach us something about our region's history, too.This Halloween season, Midday Edition revisits an archive episode exploring the history behind some of the places considered to be the most haunted in San Diego County, from The Whaley House to the Hotel del Coronado. We also learn about the ghosts rumored to live there.Then, a paranormal expert shares his fascination with the spirit world.Guests:Victor Santana, operations manager for The Whaley House MuseumGina Petrone, heritage manager for the Hotel Del CoronadoDavid Hanson, founder of the San Diego Ghost and Paranormal Group

Three Palestinian American alumni and students from UC San Diego will share their family stories and close connections to Gaza in a panel, "We Are Tritons: From Gaza to UCSD," Tuesday evening.On Midday Edition, we sit down with two of the panelists to hear about their roots in the region, how they stayed connected to Palestinian culture and identity, and how war has impacted their families.Guests:Dania Zanaid, alum, UC San DiegoAli Elfarra, third-year student, UC San Diego

The cheapest housing option in San Diego has long been dorm-style rooms.Those single-occupancy units, or SROs, can be life-changing — for the tenants lucky enough to get placed in them.But they're rapidly disappearing, and the city can't seem to turn that around.Guest:Katie Hyson, racial justice and social equity reporter, KPBS

CalFresh recipients will not be getting their November benefits on time. The delays for California's food assistance program are a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown, which is now nearing the 30 day mark. The delays also come as the region has seen a rise in food insecurity.On Midday Edition Tuesday, we hear how the delays will impact the nearly 400,000 San Diegans who depend on food benefits, and provide resources for those imapacted.Guest:Joseph Kendrick, research manager, San Diego Hunger CoalitionResources:San Diego Hunger Coalition's food assistance resources2-1-1 San DiegoFeeding San DiegoSan Diego Food BankServing SeniorsSalvation Army

October is Filipino American History Month.Monday on Midday Edition, we dive into Filipino American activism and how local community organizers are applying lessons from the past to meet the current political moment.Then, we sit down with a local arts leader with strong ties in San Diego to learn about the thriving Philippine performing arts scene and its rich history.Guests:Amanda Solomon Amorao, director of Dimensions of Culture Program at Thurgood Marshall College, director of Asian American Pacific Islander studies program, UC San DiegoSoul Salas, organizer, Anakbayan San DiegoIan M. Seruelo, attorney and activistAnamaria Labao Cabato, executive director, PASACAT

California voters have until next Tuesday, Nov. 4, to vote on Proposition 50 — which would allow the state to temporarily redraw its congressional maps.With about a week to go before voting is done, we check in on where the race stands and how fundraising is going on both sides.Guest:Jeanne Kuang, capitol reporter for CalMatters

This Saturday, Latino authors from all over the world will converge in San Diego for the 27th annual International Latino Book Awards.Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with its co-founder and a renowned author to talk about the significance of the awards and what they see for the future of Latino literature.Plus, the La Jolla Playhouse is debuting a musical adaptation of the 1988 hit film "Working Girl" with original music by Cyndi Lauper. KPBS' Beth Accomando spoke with the team behind the musical — including Lauper — and their love for Broadway.And finally, looking to tap into San Diego's arts and culture scene? In your weekend preview, KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans talks about a new fair focused on unconventional art, Día de Muertos events and some live music to check out.Guests:Kirk Whisler, co-founder, Empowering Latino FuturesVictor Villaseñor, writer, "Guarding StarDust"Cyndi Lauper, singer, composer, lyricist, "Working Girl"Christopher Ashley, director, "Working Girl"Theresa Rebeck, book writer, "Working Girl"Cat Gunn, artist and curator, Harvest & GatherJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and "The Finest" host, KPBS

The popular podcast "Hidden Brain" is celebrating its 10th anniversary of telling stories about how our minds influence our actions and decisions.Host Shankar Vedantam joined Midday Edition Wednesday to talk about how the show has evolved over the years, and what makes the human mind such a fascinating subject.Guest:Shankar Vedantam, host/ executive editor, "Hidden Brain"

What if you could go back and relive past regrets? That's the premise behind Mitch Albom's latest book "Twice."Albom is a bestselling author known for the celebrated bestselling memoir "Tuesdays with Morrie," "The Five People You Meet in Heaven," and "The Little Liar."He joined Midday Edition Wednesday to talk about his work and the life lessons he's picked up during his career as an author, sportswriter and philanthropist.Albom also shared what he has planned for his upcoming event in San Diego at Point Loma Nazarene University on Monday, Oct. 27.Guest:Mitch Albom, author

The city and county of San Diego are ramping up their efforts to limit local cooperation with immigration enforcement in the region.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we dive into the San Diego City Council's latest vote to restrict cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).Guest:Andrew Bowen, KPBS, metro reporter

Solitary confinement is the focus of a new court filing in a class-action lawsuit against San Diego County and the Sheriff's Office.A request for a preliminary injunction was filed in federal court last week asking a federal judge to limit how long people can be held in solitary confinement.More than a dozen people have described inhumane conditions inside separation cells in San Diego jails.We sit down with two reporters to discuss the details of the latest lawsuit and how we got here.Guests:Kelly Davis, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneJeff McDonald, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

Reports of anti-Jewish bias statewide have doubled between 2021 and 2024, according to the California Department of Justice.Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a bill aiming to tackle antisemitism in schools — igniting questions over whether the government should be involved in defining antisemitism in educational settings.And, how legislators should balance the needs of Jewish communities alongside concerns about censorship.On Midday Edition, we discuss the bill's journey through the legislature and what it says about the broader conversation around antisemitism in the United States.Guests: Yue Stella Yu, politics reporter, CalMattersMikhail Zinshteyn, higher education reporter, CalMatters

Dozens of American medical workers have volunteered in the Gaza Strip since 2023. That includes local emergency room nurse Amanda Nasser. She traveled to Gaza in August and treated patients at Nasser Hospital, one of the few functioning hospitals in the region.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear about Nasser's experiences on the ground and how she is reflecting on her journey since returning from Gaza in September.Guest:Amanda Nasser, nurse practitioner