KPBS Midday Edition

This week, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria delivered his annual State of the City speech. We talk about where the city is and where it's headed.Plus, a former San Diego sailor is sentenced for selling Navy secrets to China.And, we check in on the state of San Diego sports ahead of San Diego FC's upcoming season.Guests:Andrew Bowen, metro reporter, KPBSMariana Martínez Barba, City Hall reporter, Voice of San DiegoAndrew Dyer, military and veteran affairs reporter, KPBSRyan Finley, sports editor, The San Diego Union-Tribune

25 years ago, Point Loma's Liberty Station began its transformation from military base to arts center.It was renamed Arts District Liberty Station — and soon became a cultural hub for the city.In fact, it was recently designated as a California Cultural District for its contribution to the arts.Thursday on Midday Edition, we talk about the place Liberty Station has in San Diego's arts and culture scene.Then, KPBS' Beth Accomando previews a documentary being screened at the 36th annual San Diego International Jewish Film Festival.Then, the KPBS arts and culture podcast "The Finest" premieres its second season. We get a special sneak peek at what is to come — from risograph printing to hometown heroes.Guests:Lisa Johnson, president and CEO, Arts District Liberty StationRachel Laing, assistant deputy director in economic development, city of San DiegoAbby Ginzberg, filmmaker, "Labors of Love: The Life and Legacy of Henrietta Szold"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBSResources:Emerging Artist Residencies — Arts District Liberty Station

A local Indigenous-owned company is making waves in the beauty industry.N8iV Beauty is a skincare brand that draws from ancestral traditions, infusing that knowledge and plant-based ingredients — like acorn oil — into its products.Last year, the company won a 2025 “Best of Beauty” award from Allure, making them the first Indigenous-owned brand to receive that recognition.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear from its founder about how N8iV Beauty is reclaiming space for Native representation in the beauty world.Guest:Ruth-Ann Thorn, tribal member of Rincon Indian Band of Luiseño Indians, founder and CEO of N8iV Beauty

Many parents worry about their kids talking to strangers on the internet. What if those strangers are not human, but bots?Concerns over kids' exposure to artificial intelligence have led to growing efforts to regulate that exposure. We sit down with one San Diego lawmaker who authored a law to put guardrails on toys with AI chatbot capabilities. Guest:State Sen. Steve Padilla, California's 18th District

It's been nearly two weeks since lawmakers returned to Capitol Hill, and a possible health care compromise is still on the table to bring federal health care subsidies back.Last week, the House passed a bipartisan proposal that could extend the subsidies.In the meantime, health care premiums are soaring for many Americans — including right here in California.This Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear about how rising health care premiums are impacting Californians and what you need to know if you're looking for coverage.Guests:Jessica Altman, executive director, Covered CaliforniaResources:Covered California main websiteFederal Changes to Your Health Insurance — Covered California

Child care providers are bracing for impact amid the Trump administration's efforts to freeze roughly $10 billion in child care and family assistance funding — $5 billion of which are allocated to California.This comes amid allegations from conservative activists of fraud in the child care industry.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear from two child care experts about the domino effect this could have on California's child care sector and what protections exist for both families and providers.Then, Somali child care providers are reporting incidents of harassment and surveillance by strangers — including right here in San Diego.Guests:Max Arias, chair person, Child Care Providers UnitedStacy Lee, chief learning officer and senior managing director of early childhood, Children NowKatie Hyson, racial Justice and social equity reporter, KPBS

Take a walk through Balboa Park, and you'll find dozens of historic cottages celebrating cultures around the world.The volunteer-driven "houses" are officially called the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. They promote education, community and cultural understanding.Now, the House of Somalia is joining them to become the first African country represented by the Balboa Park cottages. We talk about its significance and the Somali community in San Diego.Guest:Rahmo Abdi, president and co-founder, House of Somalia

In recent years, San Diego County jails have seen a sharp increase in overdose deaths. One recovery program in the Vista jail is trying to change that through medication-assisted treatment.More jails are embracing the approach amid the growing fentanyl crisis.We discuss the medication-assisted treatment program and what it could mean for drug rehabilitation in San Diego jails.Guest:Kelly Davis, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated guidelines for childhood vaccines last week. That advice, however, runs counter to recommendations from California and San Diego County public health officials. On Midday Edition Monday, we hear from a local infectious disease expert on the CDC's changes, and why guidance remains unchanged for families in San Diego County.Guest:Dr. Pia Pannaraj, infectious disease specialist, Rady Children's Hospital

Under a new state law, a statewide board has designated 31 California colleges as Black-Serving Institutions.Two San Diego community colleges made the list — San Diego City College and San Diego Mesa College.On Midday Edition, we sit down with the presidents of the two colleges to talk about what the designation means and how they're serving Black students in San Diego.Guests:Ashanti Hands, president of San Diego Mesa CollegeRicky Shabazz, president of San Diego City College

“Chaotic, dusty, loud—and perfect.”That's how writer Mariano Velez describes life in Calexico in his short story collection, “Mostly Made-Up Stories from a Small Town Nobody,” based on his own upbringing in the region during the 1970s and 1980s.Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear from Velez about the inspiration behind the book.Then, KPBS' Beth Accomando sits down with comics curator Caitlin McGurk to talk about her Eisner Award-winning book detailing the legacy of cartoonist Barbara Shermund.And finally, in your weekend preview, KPBS' Julia Dixon Evans shares her top event picks and pays tribute to San Diego musician Tim Lowman, who passed away late last year.Guests:Mariano Velez, author, “Mostly Made-Up Stories from a Small Town Nobody” Caitlin McGurk, curator of comics and cartoon art at the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum, author, "Tell Me a Story Where the Bad Girl Wins: The Life and Art of Barbara Shermund"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and "The Finest" host, KPBS

The city of San Diego is suing the federal government over their construction of wire fencing on city-owned land in Marron Valley, near the U.S.-Mexico border.The lawsuit accuses federal agencies of trespassing and causing environmental damage on protected land. "They are taking city property without telling us, without paying for it, without even communicating about it," said San Diego City Attorney Heather Ferbert. "They have to comply with the Constitution, even though they're the federal government. They're not exempt from that."On Midday Edition, we breakdown the lawsuit and the allegations.Guest: Tammy Murga, environment reporter, KPBS

Five years ago, insurrectionists stormed the U.S. Capitol.Four died during the attack, including Ashli Babbitt from San Diego. In the days and weeks that followed, five police officers died — some by suicide. Today House Democrats held a special hearing to observe what happened that day. They called for accountability and accused President Donald Trump and his supporters of attempting to "whitewash" history. "Even five years later, there are things that I can't shake," said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs, who represents San Diego's 51st District. "Thinking through what I could use as a weapon if I needed to: pens, my high heels. Being sure that the elevator doors were going to open and someone with a machine gun was going to be right there."On Midday Edition, we discuss the legacy of Jan. 6 and the lack of repercussions for insurrectionists. Plus, San Diego connections to the violence. Guests:Will Carless, USA Today reporter covering extremism and emerging issuesCarl Luna, professor emeritus of political science, San Diego Mesa College

For people who live and work near the Tijuana River, raw sewage-turned-airborne pollution is a facet of daily life.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear about a new reporting series from inewsource diving into the impact of the sewage crisis on more than 100 community members.Plus, what could Medi-Cal cuts mean for the San Diego healthcare system? We dig into the possible impacts.Guests:Philip Salata, energy and environment reporter, inewsourcePaul Sisson, healthcare reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune

With the new year comes new resolutions, from self-care and beauty to exercise — all of which feed into this broader idea of wellness. Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from a local yoga instructor and the founder of the Block Club to talk about their respective approaches to achieving wellness and how they are starting those conversations in the community.Guests: Sally Morgan, yoga instructor, founder of Seeking Satya La Raza Webb, co-founder and chief operating officer, The Block Club

Democratic Rep. Scott Peters, D-Calif., joined Midday Edition on Monday to discuss why he objects to recent U.S. military action in Venezuela, and what role he sees for Congress going forward.Guest:Rep. Scott Peters, D-Calif., 50th District

On the last day of 2025, we're taking a look back at some of our favorite conversations from the show this year.In this second episode of Midday Wrapped, KPBS Midday Edition host Jade Hindmon is joined by KPBS Roundtable host and Midday Edition producer Andrew Bracken to talk about a few of their favorite segments from the year.Guests:Andrew Bracken, Midday Edition producer and Roundtable host/producer

As 2025 comes to a close, the Midday Edition team is reflecting on some of our favorite conversations from the year — and we're splitting it into two parts.In this first episode of Midday Wrapped, producers Julianna Domingo and Ashley Rusch take listeners behind the scenes and share some of their favorite segments from 2025.Guests:Julianna Domingo, Midday Edition producer, KPBSAshley Rusch, Midday Edition producer, KPBS

For the past five years, crews have been dismantling the San Onofre Nuclear Plant — which was shut down in 2013.The plant is easily recognizable by its iconic twin domes along Interstate 5. But now, the domes' days are numbered, as crews prep to remove them.We discuss the decommissioning effort and what this all means for the San Diego County landmark.Guest:Alexander Nguyen, multimedia producer, KPBS

Slop. Rage bait. Gerrymandering. Aura farming.Those are just some of the top words of 2025, according to Merriam-Webster and the Oxford English Dictionary.Every December, these dictionaries release lists of the top words that defined the year. In 2025, terms related to technology and artificial intelligence took center stage.On Midday Edition, we talk with word expert Martha Barnette about the most popular phrases of 2025. And, the importance of touching grass.Guest:Martha Barnette, co-host of "A Way With Words" and author of "Friends with Words: Adventures in Languageland"

The Kumeyaay creation story is the subject of a new piece of sculpture art on San Diego State University's Imperial Valley campus.The piece is part of the university's "Living Land Acknowledgement" series, which brings the words of the Kumeyaay land acknowledgement to life through art.Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear from the artist behind the piece.Then, roll out the red carpet! Filmmakers and studios are campaigning for the chance to be recognized at awards ceremonies this year. Our Midday Movies critics share their favorites for your consideration.And finally, the holiday season is chockful of things to do and events to check out, especially in the arts. We share our top picks then celebrate the best of 2025, according to KPBS staff.Guests:Johnny Bear Contreras, public artist, founder of Eyaay Ahuun FoundationBeth Accomando, arts reporter, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, critic, Moviewalla podcastJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, host of "The Finest," KPBSResources:What made our year: KPBS 2025 staff picks

The holiday season is in full swing, and it's a time when everyone is expected to be jolly and celebrate.But some people may not feel that way. Maybe you are stressed, depressed or just thin on patience.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear from a local therapist about navigating all the stress that can come with the season.Guest:Jacob Sadan, associate marriage and family therapist, Sharp Mesa Vista

Last spring, California voters narrowly passed Proposition 1 to reform behavioral health care across the state.It calls for a $6.4 billion bond to fund behavioral health beds and housing, and hands more money to the state to focus on treating serious mental illnesses and addiction.Now, county officials say they've been forced to cancel 21 contracts with agencies that provide preventative services.We talk about what this means for behavioral health services and community members in San Diego County.Guest:Lisa Halverstadt, senior investigative reporter, Voice of San Diego

Last week, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved a $3.5 million increase to the sheriff's budget to phase out triple bed bunks.Tuesday on Midday Edition, we hear about the latest reporting on conditions in San Diego County jails and in-custody deaths across the region.Then, a new book explores the role coroners, death investigators and state institutions have played in covering up the circumstances around deaths in custody.Guests:Kelly Davis, investigative reporter, The San Diego Union-TribuneTerence Keel, author of "The Coroner's Silence: Death Records and the Hidden Victims of Police Violence," professor of Human Biology & Society, and African American Studies, UCLA

The media landscape in San Diego is changing.As broadcast giants Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group purchase American media outlets, conservative ownership is taking over local television in San Diego.Sinclair Broadcast Group is now bidding to buy E.W. Scripps, which owns 10News — San Diego's ABC affiliate.On Midday Edition, we discuss the implications of local news consolidation and how it impacts information access.Guest:Dean Nelson, professor of multimedia journalism, Point Loma Nazarene University

Since Donald Trump's reelection, hundreds of scholars have warned that the United States is sliding from a democracy toward some form of authoritarianism. Experts point to the erosion of democratic values, from civil liberties to free and fair elections.This is not the first time the United States has confronted authoritarianism on its own soil. Scholars argue that it is rooted in the racist policies of the Jim Crow era in the 19th and 20th centuries.On Midday Edition, we discuss the significance of that history and lessons for the present political moment. Plus, a San Diego trailblazer offers a personal perspective on the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing fight against racism and discrimination.Guests:T.J. Tallie, professor of history, University of San DiegoDee Sanford, board member for the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA, chair of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Human Dignity Award Breakfast

At least 15 people were killed during a Hanukkah celebration in Australia when two gunmen opened fire Sunday.In the wake of the attack, San Diego law enforcement are ramping up security measures at Hanukkah events and places of worship.Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from a local rabbi on how the recent attack in Australia is impacting him and his congregation.Guest:Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort, director, Chabad at La Costa and Coastal Chabads

Documentaries expose us to slices of history that may be overlooked by traditional media.Jordan Peele's new "High Horse: The Black Cowboy" docuseries explores the real history of Black cowboys in the American West.We talk about the significance of the series and defining influence of Black cowboys and cowgirls — from the rodeo to fashion and music. We also hear from one of the "Compton Cowboys" on keeping that legacy alive in Southern California.Then, we take a visit to Warwick's Bookstore in La Jolla, which has won Publishers Weekly's Bookstore of the Year award for playing an active role in the community through vibrant literary events.Plus, a preview of arts and culture events happening this weekend.Guests:Olutoyosi Aboderin, professor of History and Africana Studies, University of San DiegoRandy Savvy, founder and CEO of Compton CowboysNancy Warwick, owner, Warwick's BookstoreJulia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, KPBS

Every student has unique learning needs, and meeting those needs is key to success. That's especially true for students who receive special education services.In the San Diego Unified School District, 1 in 5 students use those services — one of the highest rates in California.This week, district leaders announced plans to address "systemic issues" in the district's special education program. That includes advocating for more funding from the state and federal government.We discuss the details with the superintendent of the district.Guest:Fabi Bagula, superintendent for the San Diego Unified School District

It's the holiday season, which is primetime for scam artists — especially those who target the elderly.San Diego County's Elder Justice Task Force found that over a one-year period, seniors in the county were scammed out of more than $130 million.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we sit down with San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan talk about her office's efforts to curb these scams and what seniors and their loved ones need to know.Guest:Summer Stephan, San Diego County District Attorney

The holiday season often means extra spending on gifts and travel. But amid rising costs, inflation and a weakening labor market, the financial stress can be a lot.Wednesday on Midday Edition, we zoom out and check in on the state of San Diego's economy. We discuss affordability, consumer spending during the holidays, health care costs and more.Guest:Daniel Enemark, chief economist, San Diego Regional Policy & Innovation Center

‘Tis the season for last-minute holiday shopping. For some of us, that means anxiously tracking online orders or rushing through department stores.But, this year, you might consider shopping local. It's a great way to support San Diego's vivid food, art and culture scenes.We talk about the KPBS gift guide filled with 31 local gift ideas showcasing the very best of San Diego.Plus, a third generation San Diegan is out with the third edition of "100 Things To Do In San Diego Before You Die." The author David Swanson will join us with a list of experiences you can "gift" loved ones.Guests:Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBSDavid Swanson, author of "100 Things To Do In San Diego Before You Die"

A 16-year-old boy was shot by police in downtown San Diego last January.Konoa Wilson was fleeing gunshots fired at him by another person when an officer fatally shot him, according to his family and a KPBS review of camera footage provided by the San Diego Police Department.This week, the San Diego City Council voted unanimously to pay $30 million to Wilson's family.It's considered one of the largest settlements over a police killing in U.S. history, surpassing the $27 million paid to the family of George Floyd.We discuss the details of Wilson's case and the significance of the settlement from a police accountability perspective.Guests:Andrew Bowen, metro reporter, KPBSShawn Fields, law professor at Cal Western School of LawChristy Lopez, professor of law at Georgetown Law

This past year has been marked by intensified immigration enforcement, as federal agents continue making violent arrests and targeted sweeps across the country.The act of deportation represents one of the most consequential parts of the Trump administration's immigration policy, and is the end goal for these aggressive raids.Monday on Midday Edition, a filmmaker and historian dive into the origins of deportation and how racism can influence modern immigration policy.Guests:Alex Rivera, filmmaker and associate professor, Arizona State University Sidney Poitier New American Film SchoolKelly Lytle Hernández, Thomas E. Lifka Endowed Chair in History, professor, University of California Los Angeles

Lawmakers in both chambers of Congress say they're concerned that ongoing operations against alleged "narco-terrorist" boats could be unlawful.Last week, two survivors of a Sept. 2 strike on an alleged drug trafficking boat were reportedly killed while clinging to debris in the water.We talk about where the investigation stands and how Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is responding.Guest:Andrew Dyer, military and veteran affairs reporter, KPBS

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