KPBS Midday Edition

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