San Diego News Now
San Diego news; when you want it, where you want it. Get local stories on politics, education, health, environment, the border and more. New episodes are ready weekday mornings. Hosted by Anica Colbert and produced by KPBS, San Diego and the Imperial County's NPR and PBS station.
Long voting lines on college campuses could signify an uptick in youth voters
First, it’s too early for actual turnout numbers, but long voting lines on college campuses could signify an uptick in the youth vote. Next, we bring you the latest results on the 48th Congressional District, Measure A and Measure B, while votes are still being counted. Also, part 3 of a special series profiling famed Southeastern San Diego athletes. And, our Cinema Junkie previews “Godzilla Minus Zero.”
California’s re-drawn 48th Congressional District is leaning blue
First, local election results. Then, ten local organizations are helping to prevent overdoses after receiving funds from the state. Also, a condition impacting newborns may be preventable. Next, part 2 of our series on athletes out of Southeastern San Diego. And, a one-day symposium is targeted at anyone interested in the art of storytelling.
County’s top election official expects an influx of poll watchers today
First, the county’s top election official says there should be no harassment or intimidation today at the polls and has contingencies in place if an observer tries to overstep boundaries. Next, one city councilmember is calling for increased transparency around local police cooperating with ICE. Then, students at Cal State San Marcos are raising money for a good cause. And, in part one of a multi-part series, we shine a light on the athletes that Southeastern San Diego has produced.
Voted yet? Our KPBS Voter Hub will help simplify the process
First, in an interview with our Digital Editor we chronicle the history behind KPBS’s Voter Hub and a recently launched WhatsApp for Spanish speakers. Then, a breakdown of Measure B. Next, SDPD has largely rejected its oversight board's recommendation to limit its use of pretext traffic stops. And, a local guitar maker has transformed how the industry sources one type of wood.
Who's been spending big money on midterm races?
First, the Public Matters campaign finance project looks into who the biggest midterm spenders are. Then, a vigil was held to honor the man who recently died at the Otay Mesa Detention facility. Also, there is a new affordable housing development using eco-friendly materials. And, some weekend events happening across the county that you and yours can take part in.
Famed labor leader, feminist and civil rights icon Dolores Huerta has died
First, we take a look into famed civil rights icon, feminist and activist Dolores Huerta’s legacy. Then, family members of a man who died at the Otay Mesa Detention center say ICE misidentified him. Also, San Diego County leads the nation in federal defense spending and there’s a renewed effort to keep it that way. And, with Halloween around the corner we discuss some spooky ways you can spend the vastly-approaching holiday.
The next mayor of National City will have to navigate a roughly $13 Million dollar budget deficit
First, our South Bay reporter breaks down what hurdles the next mayor of National City will have to tackle. Then, our Public Matters reporter helps us sort through a handful of justices on the California supreme court and a state court of appeals Also, we check in on how cleanup is going at Mission Bay after Monday’s flooding. And, our Arts & Culture reporter takes us to a rehearsal for The Rosin Box’s annual offering.
ICE’s Detainee Locator System is causing concern for families and attorneys
First, we look into why ICE detainees with final removal orders are not showing up on the Detainee Locator System. Then, whoever is the next mayor of Imperial Beach will inherit ongoing issues surrounding the Tijuana River sewage crisis. Also, we take a deeper dive into Measure A. Next, National City is fighting to turn a freeway exit into a neighborhood. And, we’ll tell you the impact that warmer weather is having on mosquitos in our area.
With Election Day just over a week away … in-person voting centers are now open
First, we pay a visit to the county’s election office to learn more as voting centers across the county are now open. Also, conspiracies and controversial views are coming to a boil in a San Dieguito Unified High School District race. Next, how convenient or safe is it to bike across San Diego county? Then, an in-depth interview with CalMatter’s Higher Education reporter about SAT’s. And, a fossil at one local museum could help between animals living in water and modern insects.
Democrats are trying to flip District 40 in the State Senate
First, we’ll tell you about the State Senate District 40 race. Also, a solar and battery project in East County is now facing a lawsuit. Then, a new ruling states that Rady Children’s can limit gender-affirming care to some new patients. Next, a settlement agreement reverses a recent decision made by the Grossmont Union School District. And, a local strip club is now home to the “Something Spooky Show.
City council committee votes to end the use of Automated License Plate Readers
First, as opposition to the tech is mounting, a San Diego City Council committee voted to end the use of ALPR’s. Also, we’ll tell you about Proposition 43, which will be on your upcoming November ballot. Next, Father Joe’s Villages has a new day center. Then, an interview with the new birding expert at the San Diego History Museum. And, there’s a new art exhibit curated by the San Diego poet laureate.
SDSU students are calling on the Cal State system to end its OpenAI contract
First, students at SDSU are calling on the CSU system to put an end to its current OpenAI contract. Then, ICE arrested a Lemon Grove nail salon employee over the weekend. Next, we spoke to some college students about navigating voting for the first time. And, more than a dozen neighborhood groups have now joined forces under a new name to oppose housing developments.
Breaking down Prop 41 & 42 as Election Day approaches
First, we take a closer look into billionaire-backed Propositions 41 and 42. Then, the Justice Department announced criminal charges against four people with San Diego County connections. Also, the San Diego City College student that was detained by ICE near his school has now been released. Then, an interview with Physics Girl. And, one tiny creature is making a huge comeback.
Will the Navy’s NAVWAR site be revitalized into a data center?
San Diego developer Doug Manchester has been involved with the Navy’s efforts to revitalize its NAVWAR property in the Midway area. Hear about the latest controversial proposal for the site. Then, there’s news in the case of a San Diego City College student arrested by ICE last month. And which affluent North County coastal city is working to send some of its unhoused residents to a National City shelter? Then inewsource reporter Cody Dulaney joins the podcast to talk about his reporting into a legal loophole landlords are exploiting to obtain short-term rental licenses after illegally evicting regular tena...
As election day approaches … we break down Prop 45
First, we present the argument for and against Proposition 45. Then, a Point Loma High School civics project had an unexpected outcome. Also, Mayor Todd Gloria hires a new COO. Next, an interview with a woman swimming off the coast of San Diego County. Plus , the county’s new animal shelter in Santee is now open following delays. And, some weekend events happening around the county that you and yours can take part in.
State officials say they’re prepared to defend election integrity when ballots are counted
First, state officials say they are prepared for any perceived election interference coming from the Trump Administration. Then, a lack of EV vehicles is making it difficult to find affordable options. Also, the Port of San Diego has an ambitious plan to reduce pollution in neighborhoods surrounding the port. Next, this week marks the 60th anniversary of the Black Panther Party. And, one local nonprofit is stepping up to help the Navy get enough shipyard and Maritime workers.
This week’s Santa Ana winds will bring increased irritation for allergy and asthma sufferers
First, we’ll tell you how Santa Ana winds in this week's forecast will impact allergy and asthma sufferers. Then, San Diego City Councilmembers will weigh in on the Midway Rising redevelopment project this week. Also, a breakdown of Proposition 40 ahead of the November election. And, a local 5K looks to help raise funds for breast cancer research and care.
Activists say they’ve seen an increase in immigration enforcement
First, this comes as the Washington Examiner reported that the Trump administration is increasing immigration enforcement in the state, starting here in San Diego. Also, the Governor recently signed a package of bills aimed at protecting immigrant communities, but they could face legal challenges. Next, we’ll tell you about the two Democrats vying for the San Diego City Council District 8 seat. Then, we’ll tell you how vacation rentals are impacting another city council race. And, flu hospitalization rates are higher this year in comparison to last year.
Lawmaker pushes for oversight hearings over conditions at Donovan State Prison
First, a state lawmaker is calling for oversight hearings over conditions at Donovan State Prison during last month’s heat wave. Also, Cal State San Marcos students are speaking out following multiple reports of rape and sexual assaults. Then, a proposed Escondido skating rink seems to be getting the cold shoulder from residents. And, October’s Museum A Month feature takes us to La Jolla.
The USS Abraham Lincoln is home
First, people gathered at multiple locations across San Diego to welcome the USS Abraham Lincoln’s return, while some protested the conditions sailors experienced while aboard the ship. Then, the race to represent San Diego’s Fourth District is heating up. Next, a zoning change has been approved for Carlsbad’s last vacant coastal piece of land. Also, we’ll tell you why turning to social media for a majority of your health advice could be dangerous. And, some weekend event ideas happening across the county this weekend.
Grossmont Union trustee accused of leaking confidential information
The Grossmont Union High School District Board is deciding whether to censure one of its members for leaking confidential information. And, the USS Lincoln is expected to return to San Diego today after more than 300 days at sea. Plus, a hotly contested San Diego City Council race is playing out in District 2.
Local leaders condemn Trump’s comment that Iran could ‘take out’ San Diego
First, we take a look at how local leaders are responding to President Trump’s comments thatIran could “take out” Los Angeles and San Diego. Then, the San Diego City Council delays a vote on a new water rate structure. And, the City Council declares a state of emergency ahead of the upcoming El Niño season. Plus, a peek into a concert beneath the starlight. And, we take you into an outdoor venue bringing ghost stories to El Cajon Boulevard throughout October.
Heat-related 911 calls are on the rise across the county
First, heat-related 911 calls in the first 9 months of the year have already exceeded last year’s total and that's before this current heat wave. Next, we break down some of the signs of heat-related illness. Also, advocates and lawmakers have been sounding the alarm on heat-risks inside one of our state prisons. And, Attorney General Rob Bonta is assuring Californians that their mail-in ballots will be counted.
San Diego Climate Week goes through Thursday
First, clean water advocates are calling for action as part of the 2nd annual San Diego Climate Week. Next, experts say persistent stereotypes of veterans struggling with mental health can discourage others from seeking help. Then, an interview with the executive director of Centro Cultural de la Raza. And, we’ll tell you why the city is threatening to terminate its relationship with the Gaslamp Quarter Association.
There’s now a statewide guide for teaching Native American History and Culture
First, California now has a statewide guide on how to teach Native American history and culture. Next, we’ll tell you about a ballot measure that’s being pitched as a way to bring more accountability to our county’s government. Then, a bill was signed that makes compact, balcony solar panels legal. Also, another lawsuit has been filed against a proposed development in Emerald Hills. And, some weekend event ideas for you and yours happening around the county this weekend.
Midway Rising is officially one step closer to becoming a reality
First, the Midway Rising project will add two-thousand new affordable homes, a new entertainment center and acres of open space to the Sport’s Arena property. Also, a local group is suing the city of San Diego and the San Diego Police Department over automated license plate readers. . Then, we talked with a doctor about a recent mumps outbreak at SDSU. Next, we speak with the CEO behind a new line of male dolls.
Tiny tech leads to big award for UCSD researche
First, find out why a UC San Diego scientist is one of this year’s recipients of the MacArthur “genius” grant. And, how a $50 million gift is going to help build 500 affordable housing units downtown. Then, how the California Wolf Center in Julian is expanding its effort to protect gray wolves. And finally, hear how a new California law could help cancer patients keep their hair.
How an elementary school is preparing for El Niño
First, come with us as we pay a visit to a Spring Valley elementary school with a past history of flooding as it braces for El Niño. Also, Santee residents are set to vote on a proposed one percent sales tax increase. Next, an update on the Mayor’s Conference that was in town over the weekend. And, a look at the RUTH, Remember Us The Holocaust, exhibit at San Diego’s Central Library
Multiple service members attached to the USS Abraham Lincoln attempted suicide
First, the Acting Navy Secretary said eight service members attached to the USS Abraham Lincoln attempted suicide during their ongoing deployment. Then, we’ll tell you why dozens gathered in protest outside of Escondido’s City Hall. Next, our resident Cinema Junkie Beth Accomando reviews the film “Primetime.” And, a film photography lab in Chula Vista has also become a gathering place for artists and photographers alike.
Park in Barrio Logan is the latest to remove Cesar E. Chavez’s name
First, San Diego’s Board of Port Commissioners votes to rename a park in Barrio Logan in a continued effort to remove Cesar E. Chavez’s likeness. Next, officials gathered in Mission Trails Regional Park to share progress on a multi-year effort. Then, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is closing for several months. And, we caught up with a San Diego based oil painter.
Could SANDAG actually be adding a public transit connection at SD International?
First, SANDAG’s considering adding a public transit connection to San Diego International Airport … but there’s a catch. Also, a new executive order looks to help evaluate AI safety regulations. Next, Oceanside's only public access channel is at risk. And, one lady’s tribute to her dog turned into something more meaningful.
California cracks down on data centers
Gov. Gavin Newsom signs new legislation imposing more regulations on datacenters. And a First Amendment expert talks about government efforts to restrict press access. Then, we take you inside Father Joe’s Villages' new dorm-style apartments. Next meet one retired reporter on a quest to share stories of kindness. Finally, Beth Accomando has a preview of a new songbird-soundtracked play about birders.
Trump Administration now proposing Head Start program to be “English only”
First, the federal government is now proposing that the Head Start program exclusively feature “English only” instruction. Also, we check in with members of our local Haitian community as they navigate having their Temporary Protected Status removed. Then, we’ll tell you why several bike and pedestrian projects across the county are facing delays. And, a look into a new Padres partnership.
Navy officials offer to relocate sailors during heat waves following KPBS report
First, following reporting from our Military and Veteran Reporter Andrew Dyer, Navy officials are now offering to relocate sailors during heat waves. Next, the San Diego City College student detained by ICE denied bail, but support for him remains. Also, a solar and battery storage project was unanimously approved by the board of supervisors despite the community’s opposition. And, some weekend events happening across the county that you and yours could take part in.
A bill on plug-in solar panels currently sits on the governor’s desk
First, we spoke with a local homeowner already using plug-in solar panels. Then, there are new rules in the Imperial Valley regarding data centers and blackouts. Next, a profile on the two candidates vying to be California’s next Insurance Commissioner. And, a local non-profit that focuses on the growing number of women veterans in the United States.
UC San Diego study shows declining trust in elections across party lines
First, reporter Jake Gotta looks into why trust in elections is declining. Then, migrants being detained for longer than they should be is now on the radar of a federal judge. Next, we’ll tell you the financial impact cross-border pollution is having on the region. And, an update on 101 Ash Street.
District Attorney: No charges for officer who fatally shot 16-year-old
First, the DA’s office will not charge the officer involved in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old. Then, concerns over regulations to Artificial Intelligence are sparking a national debate. Also, the San Diego City Council is looking to slow down on just how many autonomous vehicles are on our roads. And, cruise season is beginning in America’s Finest city.
How contaminated is the Tijuana River? San Diego Coastkeeper researchers have answers
First, researchers have gathered enough information to put figures behind contamination levels at the Tijuana River. Also, the county just launched its largest public works project ever: solving the Tijuana River sewage crisis. Then, La Mesa City Council appointed a new interim city treasurer. And, get to know KPBS’s new Science & Technology reporter.
Dozens gather for peaceful demonstration against ICE arrest of City College student
First, dozens gathered downtown as a form of peaceful protest to a recent ICE arrest. Then, a new study shows how even the slightest changes in our breathing can impact our brain’s activity. Also, we spoke with some locals about the owner of a market in Logan Heights after his passing. And, we share some events happening across the county this weekend.
San Diego City College students host rally denouncing ICE arrest of a Haitian student
First, an update on the ICE arrest near San Diego City College. Also, next summer La Mesa plans to host its first ever Pride event. Then, what impact does this extreme heat have on our power grid? And, San Diego City College is working to support its students that are parents.