Mayor Jerry Sanders released his proposed budget for the 2007 fiscal year on Friday. Before the council reviews the document this afternoon, Mayor Sanders discusses the key elements of the budget with These Days host Dwane Brown.

A recent report indicates San Diego is safer today than it was 25 years ago. Overall there are less major crimes and the violent crime rate has reached an all time low. What behind San Diego's good fortune?

A new report says California is leading the nation in denying college aid to students with drug convictions. Now the American Civil Liberties Union is getting involved. KPBS reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

Famous autistic Temple Grandin talks about her book Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior.

A bill that would prohibit doctors from taking part in an execution has passed its first hurdle in the California Assembly. The measure is prompted by a recent court decision requiring licensed medical professionals to assist in the execution of a convicted murderer. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

Host Tom Fudge speaks with two university professors about the internal dynamics of terrorist organizations, why people join, and the economics that drive it.

California is suffering from an acute shortage of registered nurses. There's an especially high demand for nurses who are bilingual. A unique program at Grossmont College is trying to fill some of that need, by tapping into an unusual source: foreign-trained doctors. KPBS Health Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

Host Tom Fudge speaks to Author Eric Blehm about his new book, The Last Season, which documents the mysterious disappearance of legendary backcountry ranger Randy Morgenson. Blehm tells us about Morgenson, and the challenges associated with finding the truth about his mysterious disappearance.

Mayor Jerry Sanders' first budget proposal as strong mayor received a generally favorable reaction from the city council today. It was the first in a series of hearings that will include public input over the next three weeks. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.