KPBS Midday Edition

We look at the history of renewable energy in the Imperial County and why lithium might be different. Plus, efforts to bring more electric vehicle chargers to the region.

May is labor history month. To wrap up the month, we discuss the rich legacy of labor organizing across California and locally in San Diego with Dolores Huerta.

A writer and documentarian shared James Hubbell's impact on the San Diego region. We also get a peek into a new KPBS podcast about local activism and some recommendations for arts events to check out over the weekend.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Local leaders and experts unpack the state of mental health resources and housing support in San Diego County, after the passage of Proposition 1.

The Biden administration is officially moving to reclassify cannabis from a Schedule I drug to Schedule III. We talk about how it will impact research and the industry. Plus, what the future holds for cannabis equity in San Diego.

Theologians discuss the political influence of Christian nationalism. Plus, the wave of "ex-vangelicals" who are disowning the evangelical movement.

Two local artists reflect on Đẹp, a recent exhibit in the Mingei, which challenges Vietnamese beauty standards.

A climate activist and local professor discuss climate policy and what it could take for elected officials to work across party lines.

Thursday, May 16 is Bike Anywhere Day. To celebrate, we hear about the state of bike infrastructure in the San Diego region, as well as provide safety tips for cyclists and drivers.

Author Christopher Marquis' latest book, "The Profiteers," investigates how many companies evade social responsibility and what other businesses are doing about it.

Foraging — the practice of gathering plants, fruit and fungi — is gaining more widespread interest. But it's an age-old practice.

San Diego County has one of the highest jail death rates in California. On Midday Edition Monday, impacted family members discuss their grief, frustration and activism.

The San Diego Lowrider Archival Project documents the historical and cultural significance of lowriders through photographs, memorabilia, art and more.

The documentary feature "Interpreters Wanted" follows brothers Saifullah and Ismail Haqmal, who served as interpreters alongside U.S. Forces in Afghanistan for over a decade.

KPBS listeners and guests open up about how they find community, entertainment and educational opportunities in San Diego's third spaces.

In a new book, a San Diego professor highlights the struggle for care, class inequality and the meaning of client choice in Los Angeles' mental health care system.

On Midday Edition Monday, we discussed the significance of Pro-Palestinian demonstrations and how they compare to major student movements throughout history.

A pioneer in the field of trauma therapy talks about his new memoir. Also, a new exhibit will highlight stories and feature artwork by incarcerated women. And finally, NPR launches a new podcast that is part-interview, part-game show.

Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias take a heavy toll on individuals and their caregivers. New medications offer hope, but raise accessibility concerns.

Library advocates speak on the potential impacts of proposed budget cuts to the city of San Diego's library system, and college librarians adapt to AI technology across campuses.

The seventh annual San Diego Book Crawl is back to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day. Also, an action-packed Midday Movies. And your weekend arts preview.

KPBS Midday Edition speaks with author Ieva Jusionyte about her book "Exit Wounds" that traces the impacts of cross-border gun smuggling.

Local surfers coast through the history, activism and artistry of surfing in San Diego.

Environmental advocates share local efforts to make the earth a healthier place on Earth Day and year round.

Local author Rachael Cohen will host a succulent art workshop in celebration of her book, "Self-Care for Eco-Anxiety." Also, we discuss two upcoming film festivals. And we have your weekend arts preview.