KPBS Midday Edition

Summer is here in San Diego and so are the tourists. With our near perfect weather and beaches, it's no surprise that our city is a big travel destination. But if you live here — it can be easy to take it all for granted. This summer, you might consider taking a staycation instead. From luxury hotels to beautiful campsites, San Diego has plenty of options for you to take a trip right here at home. This hour, we explore how to plan your perfect staycation in San Diego. Whether a hotel bed or sleeping bag is more your style, there's plenty of options out there. Plus, we talk about how to make the most out of traveling with kids. Guests: Jackie Bryant, business development strategist at San Diego Magazine Shelby Stanger, host of REI podcast “Wild Ideas Worth Living" Jennifer Kolari, child and family therapist and founder of Connected Parenting Jackie Bryant's staycation recommendations: Hotels/Resorts Seabird Resort - Oceanside (kid friendly/adult) Mission Pacific Resort - Oceanside (kid friendly/adult) Gaylord Pacific - Chula Vista Alila Marea Resort - Encinitas Inn at Moonlight Beach - Encinitas Harrah's Resort - Valley Center Lafayette Hotel - North Park (kid friendly) Town and Country Resort - Mission Valley - (kid friendly) Manchester Grand Hyatt - Downtown San Diego (kid friendly) Lazy H Ranch - Valley Center Catamaran - Mission Bay Bahia Resort - Mission Bay Bianchi Pizza and Pasta Hotel Marisol - Coronado  Read more on Jackie Bryant's Guide to Local Spa and Resorts The Hotel Del Coronado Read Jackie Bryant's Review on the hotel's renovations Nobu Read San Diego Magazine's look into Coronado's Nobu Veranda Read San Diego Magazine's look into Coronado's Veranda Food and Drink Merenda Wine Bar - https://www.sdcl.org/blogs/post/learn-a-language-with-rosetta-stone/ Read Jackie Bryant's Review on Merenda Little Fox Cups and Cones - Oceanside Read Jackie Bryant's Review on Little Fox Cups and Cones Wrench and Rodent - Oceanside Read more in Jackie Bryant's article on food trends in San Diego

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

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

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

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

A pastor, a rabbi and an imam discuss how their faith implores them to fight for immigrant and refugee communities.

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 Diego Tammy 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 author Jenn Freeman, dancer and choreographer Loren Cobbs, founder of SD Melanin Jo-Jo Jones, artist curator for Kinfolk Fest and founder of the Black Liberated Artist Collective

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 Society Juliette Nash, community animal training manager for the San Diego Humane Society Boy Boy, Pit Bull Terrier and Labrador mix

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 Center Max Disposti, executive director, North County LGBTQ Resource Center Amber St. James, drag producer, community activist and educator Paris 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 Program Tom Corringham, economist at the Scripps Institute of Oceanography Cary 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)

Little Saigon San Diego will hold a tribute concert that retraces the path of the Vietnamese diaspora over the 50 years. Also, what makes silent films unique? And finally, we dive into the North Park Music Fest and more in your weekend arts preview.

Early voting for the District 1 runoff election is underway. We break down the race and where the candidates stand on some of the top issues. Plus, what a new UCSD study reveals about air pollution from the Tijuana River.

Four years ago, the state of California mandated that all public high school students take an ethnic studies course to graduate. Now, the Governor is pausing funding — leaving districts in limbo.

New rules allowing college athletes to be paid for use of their name, image, and likeness have transformed college sports in recent years. But many in college athletics anxiously await a finalized legal settlement to clarify rules for colleges and their athletes.

Local scholar David Victor warns that President Donald Trump is "killing innovation," and China will reap the benefits.

Congressional representatives and other local leaders are responding to last Friday's immigration raid at Buona Forchetta, a restaurant in the South Park neighborhood. We break down the latest.

"One of the Good Ones" is writer Gloria Calderón Kellett's first full-length play and will run at The Old Globe through June 22. Plus, our Midday Movies critics celebrate independent cinema and an upcoming Japanese film series. And finally, your weekend arts preview.

After years of rising overdose deaths led by opiods like fentanyl, the U.S. recorded its steepest drop in overdose deaths ever in 2024. What has led to the big decline in overdose deaths in the country, and here in San Diego County?

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.

San Diego once had a bustling Chinatown with roots that go all the way back to the 1850's and 1860's. We dive into the history behind San Diego's historic Chinatown, and efforts to revitalize the district it once existed in.

Carmela Prudencio works at Pacific Arts Movement or Pac Arts, which highlights Asian American and Pacific Islander stories through media arts.

Leaders from two local dance organizations talk about how they are navigating financial challenges and a changing arts landscape. Plus, two plays onstage this week that showcase culture and history.

California state lawmakers are pushing forward legislation to make menopause care more accessible and spread awareness about the process. We discuss the details with local physicians.

Transgender troops are facing the Trump administration's ban on their service. We hear from Paulo Batista, an active duty sailor and leading advocate in the trans military community, about how he's experiencing the impacts firsthand.

The latest data from the annual Point-in-Time Count reveals that homelessness dropped 7% in the region. We dig into the numbers and what approaches worked — and didn't.

Dr. Eric Topol is out with a new book all about healthy aging, with the help of new treatments and technologies.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta is investigating San Diego County juvenile halls for alleged civil rights abuses.

The Department of Homeland Security has announced it will terminate Temporary Protected Status for Afghanistan, effective July 12. We get the reaction from a leading organization helping Afghan refugees in San Diego.

The exhibit, "Taste San Diego: Filipino Culinary Journeys" explores Filipino American history and identity and its deep connections to San Diego.

On Midday Edition, we speak to former death investigator Paul Parker about his book,"In the Shadows of Death: Writing Life's Final Chapter.” We also speak with local psychotherapist Ben Yalom about the book he co-authored, “Hour of the Heart: Connecting in the Here and Now.”

Local author Mac Crane's latest book "A Sharp Endless Need" draws from their own experience as a former Division I basketball player.

We walk through the history of the Japanese American community in San Diego and Imperial Counties through one family's story of migration and incarceration during World War II.

No matter your ability, sports can be for everyone. On Midday Edition, we discuss local initiatives to promote accessibility and inclusion through sports.

One of the short films, "Doldrums" will have 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.

Ahead of Mother's Day, we're bringing awareness to challenges faced by Black working mothers. Plus, how to navigate feelings of grief and loss tied to Mother's Day.

Some political experts warn the U.S. is swiftly moving toward authoritarianism — or that we're already there.

Some political experts warn the U.S. is swiftly moving toward authoritarianism — or that we're already there.

A new KPBS report looks at how President Trump's policies are affecting San Diego, from schools and science, to criminal justice and libraries.

Paul Downey, CEO and president of the San Diego nonprofit Serving Seniors, has spent much of his career fighting for the needs of older adults across the region.

We give you a basic lesson in cryptocurrency, from the blockchain to Bitcoin.