Imagine a war between the Crips and the Bloods played out as a samurai spaghetti Western set in ancient Japan with all the Asian actors delivering their lines in halting English and you'll begin to have an idea of what iconoclastic director Takashi Miike's "Sukiyaki Western Django" is like.

Though most people know exactly who they’ll vote for as president, the focus on national politics has left many voters uninformed about the races closer to home. KPBS reporter Alison St John, has more.

Residents from San Ysidro to Escondido will decide on a number of multimillion dollar school bond measures tomorrow. That's because there are seven initiatives countywide. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

Opponents of the parental notification measure known as Prop 4 are banking on TV ads to convince Californians to vote no. In fact, opponents have spent 43 times more than supporters on their TV campaign. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

Heath officials say five seventh graders at King-Chavez Prep School have come down with chicken pox. It's the 12th outbreak of the disease this year in San Diego County. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

The presidential race is finally coming to an end, with the general election taking place next Tuesday. Plus, the two hot-button social initiatives on the statewide ballot are propositions 4 and 8. And, the San Diego City Council will look very different after Tuesday's election.

Kristen Scott Thomas is turning into a far more interesting actress than I ever thought she would be. I first noticed her when she did "Four Weddings and a Funeral" and "The English Patient" because those films were such hits. She was good in those films, but not particularly interesting. Yet now that she's in her late 40s, she is taking on more interesting roles in foreign films -- not unlike what fellow British actress Charlotte Rampling has done. This year she had a supporting role in the thriller "Tell No One" and she has a starring role in "I've Loved You So Long."

Two of San Diego Unified's school board members are up for reelection this year. But only one of them is getting help from the local teachers union. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has the details.

Though most voters are focused on the Presidential election, one San Diego election that has attracted attention is the city attorney’s race. Incumbent Mike Aguirre has become a lightening rod for controversy. He is facing a strong challenge from Jan Goldsmith, a former judge and state assemblyman, who says he wants to purge the city attorney’s office of political agendas. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

The University of San Diego has won a three-million dollar grant to study perinatal (pear-ee-NAY-tal) depression, a condition that affects women during pregnancy and after birth. It's the largest research award in the school's history. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

Supporters of San Diego Unified's multibillion dollar school bond measure say the economic downturn has affected their fundraising efforts. Even so, they've managed to raise more than $800,000. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

The outlook continues to be gloomy for San Diego's economy in the first part of next year. The University of San Diego index of leading economic indicators dropped again last month. USD Economist Alan Gin says the index fell eight tenth's of a percent in September. He says the major area of concern is the decline in the number of local jobs.

The state said Thursday it would cut water deliveries to their second lowest level ever, prompting warnings of water rationing for cities and less planting by farmers.

You've probably heard about what you need to do to prepare your family for a disaster, but what about your pets? How do you prepare your pets for a natural disaster? In the 2007 wildfire, many pets were left abandoned or ran away from their homes. What pet-related lessons did we learn from the 2007 wildfires? And, what kind of cautions should you take with your pets on Halloween? Host Tom Fudge speaks to a pair of local vets about disaster preparedness, and general cautions for Halloween.

What's the deal with Proposition B? Could passage of Prop. B mean that the 10th Avenue Marine Terminal site will be the new home for the Chargers? Why are so many local officials voicing their opposition to the ballot measure? Host Tom Fudge speaks to KPBS News Reporter Alison St. John about the bayfront redevelopment initiative.

Mariachi Champaña Nevín has played traditional mariachi music as well as symphonic music by Mexican composers for 10 years. The group will perform a concert for Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, at Copley Symphony Hall. The Day of the Dead is a holiday that focuses on gatherings of family and friends to remember friends and relatives who have died.

San Diego Unified school officials say there's a problem in the way they're handling complaints in the district. Some people are concerned they're not being responsive enough. But the district wants to change that. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

California Proposition 7 on the November ballot is intended to reduce greenhouse gases. The measure would require utilities to use more wind, solar and other renewable resources to generate electricity. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce says Prop. 7 would give California the nation's most aggressive renewable-energy mandate.

San Diego’s congressional representatives from both sides of the isle gathered at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal downtown to oppose Prop. B on next week’s ballot. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Officials broke ground today on a new campus for Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego’s East Village.

A candlelight vigil will be held in downtown San Diego tonight to honor all of the local children who've died from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The condition describes the sudden, unforeseen, and unexplainable death of an infant under one year of age. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

San Diego County's top election official expects more than a million people in San Diego County will vote in next week's election. Registrar of Voters Deborah Seiler says her offices are busy as voters cast ballots ahead of November 4th. She says the number of absentee voters will probably grow as the voter turnout grows. However, Seiler says the percentage of the absentee vote will likely shrink as turnout gets larger.

The new Clint Eastwood movie starring Angelina Jolie opens in theaters this weekend, as does a new Kevin Smith comedy. Mike Leigh creates a character who is endlessly happy and Charlie Kaufmann creates one that is endlessly depressed. We'll talk about the work of all of these directors on this Film Club of the Air.

With Halloween right around the corner, I wanted to highlight a horror sub-genre that I'm particularly fond of - the zombie film. Those lumbering, vacant-eyed undead have become a horror staple since the 1930s, and they seem to be gaining popularity with recent films such as "Shaun of the Dead." So this Halloween I have suggestions for some undead titles you can check out. I've also consulted with author Glenn Kay who just wrote "Zombie Movies: The Ultimate Guide." To put me in the proper mood for all this, I headed over to the World Zombie Walk on Sunday in downtown San Diego and met up with some of the undead hordes.

The new Clint Eastwood movie starring Angelina Jolie opens in theaters this weekend, as does a new Kevin Smith comedy. Mike Leigh creates a character who is endlessly happy and Charlie Kaufmann creates one that is endlessly depressed. We'll talk about the work of all of these directors on this Film Club of the Air.

A new California rule requiring all eighth grade students take Alegbra regardless of their skill level has been put on-hold.

When California voters approved Prop 36 eight years ago, the state began an experiment: it offered treatment to non-violent drug offenders instead of jail. Since then, more than 200,000 people have taken advantage of the opportunity. Prop 5 on the November ballot aims to expand this program to more drug offenders. KPBS Health Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

San Diego Unified will begin serving school meals on recycled lunch trays at all of its elementary schools. The school board approved a contract with a Santa-Ana based company that would do the recycling for free. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

KPBS film critic Beth Accomando delves into the murky, quirky and downright scary world of zombie films.

The San Diego Unified School District will pay a statistical consultant $80,000 to design a plan which could shed light on how teachers influence a student's performance. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

Election day is one week away in one of the most historic races in American politics. How will Americans end up voting in the Presidential race? We'll ask one of the KPBS Citizen Voices bloggers what she heard in her community. And we'll get analysis from SDSU Political Science professor Brian Adams on the undecided voters.

Instability in the Middle East is one of the most important international issues facing the world today. The rivalry between Iran and Israel is one of the biggest reasons for the lack of stability in the modern Middle East. What are the key factors that fuel this heated rivalry between Israel and Iran? What can the United States do to improve relations between Iran and Israel? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Trita Parsi about his new book "Treacherous Alliance - The Secret Dealings of Iran, Israel and the United States".

A measure on Tuesdays ballot would permanently bar alcohol at all beaches and coastal parks in the city of San Diego. KPBS Morning Edition hears from both sides of this issue this morning. Scott Chipman has lived in Pacific Beach for 33 years. He's with the Yes on Proposition D campaign and Safe Beaches San Diego. Jake Pyle is with the No on Proposition D campaign and a member of the Pacific Beach Town Council. He has been a resident of Pacific Beach for 12 years.

Education leaders say Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is warning them to expect major cuts to education due to California's worsening financial situation. And they say the governor plans to call for a state sales tax hike to help fill the growing shortfall.

The housing meltdown has prompted some unusual questions for state and county elections officials. Some Californians who have recently lost their homes to foreclosure aren't sure where to vote next week. California Secretary of State Debra Bowen says those who have moved to temporary housing can still cast ballots.

April Boling and Marti Emerald, the candidates vying to replace city councilman Jim Madaffer in District 7, faced off on KPBS radio’s "These Days" this morning. They took very different positions on outsourcing city jobs. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

San Diego State University has created a machine that can simulate a 9.0 earthquake. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce tells us what's shaking and why it's important.

The California legislature will return to Sacramento next week to grapple with yet another multi-billion dollar budget deficit. Community clinic operators are hoping lawmakers won't ask for more healthcare cuts. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

Americans don't select their president directly. They vote for president through the Electoral College - electors who in practice pledge to vote for the candidate based on how the voters decided. A candidates needs to win at least 270 of the 538 electoral votes to win. However, a movement to elect the president through the popular vote of the public is gaining ground.

For the third time in four years, Californians will be asked to vote on a parental notification measure for teenagers seeking an abortion. Prop 4 would amend the state Constitution to require a physician to notify a minor's parent or other adult family member 48 hours before performing an abortion.

These Days legal analyst Dan Eaton talks about the kind of Supreme Court justices candidates Barack Obama and John McCain are likely to choose, if they are elected President.

A U.S. citizen held at a border immigration center for 15 days has been released after an American Civil Liberties Union lawyer showed a birth certificate to federal authorities.

Who should be the next representative for the 7th Council District in the City of San Diego? Host Tom Fudge speaks to candidates Marti Emerald and April Boling about their goals for District 7, and the City of San Diego. We also discuss San Diego's pension debt, and ways to ensure an adequate water supply for the future.

It looks like California state lawmakers will be coming back after the election to tackle the state's growing budget deficit. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has said he will call for a special session of the legislature November 5th -- the day after the election.

If you want to avoid what may be some long lines at the polls next week, you still have time to sign up to vote by mail in the general election. Today is the last day to request those ballots.

San Diego city councilwoman Donna Frye and councilman-elect Carl DeMaio presented more than a dozen proposed reforms, that they say are aimed at strengthening the city council. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

The world's largest gathering of public health professionals is taking place at the San Diego Convention Center this week. The theme of the conference is "Public Health Without Borders". KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

A federal judge is ordering the state to pay $250-million for improving medical care in prisons by next week. If California doesn't pay by November 5th the Governor and State Controller John Chiang could face contempt of court charges.

The City of San Diego’s pension fund is falling, along with every other pension fund in the nation. City attorney Mike Aguirre wants to make sure the growing deficit does not escape anyone’s notice. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

For the third time in the last four years, California voters are being asked to weigh-in on teen abortions. Prop 4 on the November ballot would require doctors to notify parents at least 48 hours before performing an abortion on a minor. KPBS Health Reporter Kenny Goldberg checks in with some teenage girls to see what they think about it.

San Diego gasoline prices dropped significantly over the weekend. The Utility Consumer's Action Network reports that the average price of a gallon of gas has fallen a dime since Friday. U-CAN's Charles Langley says the average price is now $3.06. He says prices are dropping faster than he predicted just week ago.

Are you having trouble deciding which way to vote on propositions 7 and 10? Host Tom Fudge speaks to KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce about the two alternative energy propositions on the statewide ballot. We discuss who's for and against propositions 7 and 10, and the impact those measure will have on California if passed.

Prop S on the November ballot is a San Diego Unified School District bond that would raise $2.1 billion to fix and renovate the district's aging schools.

Prop A, the fire tax measure, is the only local proposition on the November ballot that all county residents will be asked to vote on. The proposition would create a yearly tax of $52 for most property owners in San Diego County. The money would go to support a regional fire agency.

A wood-eating bug is having its way with oak trees in backcountry areas of San Diego County. Cleveland National Forest officials say the dead oaks increase the risk for wildfires. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

Proposition 8 is the most talked-about intitiative on California's November ballot. It would define marriage in California as a union between a man and a woman, essentially banning same-sex marriage in the state. This same proposition passed in California in the year 2,000, but was overturned by the California Supreme Court. Prop 8, if it passes next week, would overrule the Supreme Court by making the statutory language, passed in 2,000, an amendment to the State Constitution. We'll hear from both sides on Prop 8.

The San Diego Unified School District says it will cost $2.1 billion to fix and renovate all of its aging schools. The district doesn't have the money to pay for repairs. That's why San Diego school officials are pushing Proposition S on the November ballot. The question is whether taxpayers are in the mood to support a $2.1 billion fix-it list. KPBS Education Reporter Ana Tintocalis takes a closer look.

The San Diego Chargers have a long flight home today after a painful loss far from home. They have around 5500 miles to dwell on their three and five record. We're joined on Morning Edition by North County Times sports columnist Jay Paris.

An environmental group says a proposal by the California Department of Transportation to convert the state's 674 changeable digital road signs into commercial billboards is a bad idea. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

Mexican authorities have captured a man suspected to be a major player in Tijuana’s Arellano Felix drug cartel. Eduardo Arellano Felix's arrest is the latest in a series of arrests of high ranking cartel members during the last few years. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

San Diego city councilwoman Donna Frye and councilman elect Carl Demaio are calling for reforms to make city government more responsive to the people. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

The latest campaign disclosure statements show most of the 6 candidates running for 3 San Diego city council seats have raised well over 200 thousand dollars each for their campaigns. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

A concert tonight in San Diego hopes to raise money for victims of last October's wildfires in the county. Slow ticket sales have caused promoters to slash prices. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

The 2008 general election is less than two weeks away, and two of the most intriguing local ballot measures are propositions A and B. Plus, the campaign for San Diego City Attorney has garnered interest throughout the election season. And, the race for president is coming to an end.

San Diego Councilwoman Toni Atkins is termed out. So the city's third district council seat is up for grabs. We'll speak with the two Democratic Candidates who are vying for it.

Supporters of Prop 1A are looking for support in San Diego. A panel assembled for a town hall meeting at UCSD yesterday. The high-speed rail ballot measure would borrow nearly $10 billion to build the first phase of a high speed rail project.

A concert Friday night in San Diego is billed as a benefit party to promote healing from last October's wildfires. The money will benefit the Rancho Bernardo Recovery Center. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

A year ago this week, San Diego County was the scene of deadly fires. Next month, county voters will be asked to approve a new tax to improve firefighting resources. The campaign to pass Prop. A is cash strapped and barely visible. KPBS Reporter Amita Sharma has details.

The latest campaign disclosure figures show candidate Jan Goldsmith’s campaign war chest is more than three time bigger than San Diego city attorney, Mike Aguirre’s . KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Leaders of the campaign to outlaw same-sex marriage in California are warning businesses that have given money to the state's largest gay rights group they will be publicly identified as opponents of traditional unions unless they contribute to the gay marriage ban, too.

Yiddish is a High German language that began in the 10th century which is still spoken by Jews around the world. Though few young Jewish Americans today know Yiddish, Yiddish clubs around the U.S. are striving to keep the colorful language and culture alive.

Beautiful Boy: A Father's Journey Through His Son's Addiction is renowned journalist David Sheff's harrowing struggle to help his son Nic overcome his meth addiction. David's son, Nic, has his own memoir for younger readers, Tweak: Growing Up on Methamphetamines, which chronicles his addiction, multiple relapses, and finally his road to recovery. David and Nic Sheff join us to talk about their experiences.

The San Diego Repertory Theatre presents Culture Clash's award-winning play "WATER & POWER." The provocative and witty Latino theatre troupe delves into California politics in a drama that highlights the ambitions and tensions of twin brothers, Water and Power, on the eve of a critical election.

Are you struggling to make ends meet in San Diego? Have you experienced a cost-of-living increase over the last couple years? Does the dream of owning a home in this region appear out of reach for your family? If your answer to those questions is "yes", you are not alone. Host Tom Fudge sits down with Reporter Joanne Faryon, and Producer Megan Burke about the latest Envision San Diego TV special, "Getting By".

This week marks the one-year anniversary of the 2007 wildfires in San Diego County. After one year, are we better prepared for wildfires this year? What's been done to assure people living in the city will be alerted ahead of the next big fire and how can we still improve?

California Democrats are angling to pick off a few legislative seats now held by Republicans. They say it could even change the balance of power in the legislature. But, the state GOP says it'll never happen. Marianne Russ reports.

California hasn't seen much of Senators Barack Obama or John McCain since Super Tuesday back in February. But, the two senators have continued to use the Golden State as a campaign piggy bank. As Ben Adler reports, both presidential candidates have raised more money from California than any other state.

The agency that supplies most of San Diego County's water is mapping out strategies to keep that supply flowing over the next 20 years. Local officials have some ideas of how to do that, as KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce explains.

Fewer than one in ten of the homes that burned down last October have been rebuilt, and a common reason is that the homeowners found they were under-insured. A group of under-insured homeowners is calling on California’s Insurance Commissioner to take action. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Republican Congressmen Darrell Issa and Brian Bilbray want Congress to create a bipartisan commission to investigate the financial crisis. Just as Congress responded by creating the 9/11 commission, he is proposing the Financial Oversight Commission.

One year ago today, San Diego County was engulfed in flames. The 2007 wildfires eventually killed ten people. Many more suffered serious burns. Since then, San Diego County's only burn center has purchased a new piece of equipment. It's designed to improve recovery for people who suffer facial and neck burns. KPBS Health Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

Cygnet Theater's latest play is called Dying City and was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. It tells the story of three people who cope with violence, death, and personal relationships. We'll talk with Cygnet Associate Artistic Director Francis Gercke and the two actors in the play.

Sherri Lightner and Phil Thalheimer are vying for Scott Peters' seat on the San Diego City Council. Phil Thalheimer is the president of San Diego Flight Training International and a Republican. Sherri Lightner is a retired mechanical engineer and a Democrat. District 1 is an area where the party affiliation is pretty evenly split. Neither candidate has held major elective office before.

The seals can linger a little longer at Children's Pool beach in La Jolla. A judge held a hearing Tuesday without issuing a ruling in the case pitting seals against beach-goers that has been in the courts for three years.

It's more likely that mandatory water restrictions will come to San Diego County next year. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger plans to call lawmakers back into session before the end of November to deal with California's ballooning deficit.

Fewer people in San Diego are getting by financially because of the mortgage meltdown, lack of good paying jobs, rising cost of food, gas and rent. In fact, it takes people in San Diego County twice as long as the rest of the country to double their standard of living. Four percent of the people in the county make 20 percent of all the money, the bottom 20 percent make four percent of all the money. KPBS reporter Joanne Faryon has more.

On the anniversary of fires that sent half a million San Diegans fleeing from their homes, voters will be asked to consider paying a dollar a week for more fire protection. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders marked the one-year anniversary of the devastating wildfires of 2007 with a trip to Rancho Bernardo where he visited the newly-rebuilt home of Neil and Barbara Levine. They had just finished a two-year remodeling project on their home when the fire destroyed it.

This November California voters are being asked to issue close to ten billion dollars in bonds to build a statewide high-speed rail system. Some believe this is a visionary plan to improve transportation and get people out of their cars. Critics say it's a waste of money we simply can't afford, and the projections for fare costs and ridership are highly suspect. We'll hear from both sides on Prop 1A.

With foreclosures at an all-time high, the unemployment rate increasing and the credit crunch squeezing pocketbooks, it’s not surprising that Americans are getting stressed out. In fact, mental health professionals in San Diego are seeing an increase in their business because of the troubled economy. SDSU Backpack Journalist Amanda Strouse has the story.

As San Diegans hear negative news about the economy almost daily, investors large and small are wondering how they should best spend and save the money that still is coming into their pockets. SDSU Backpack Journalist Brandon Stone spoke with local economic experts to get some answers.

Although the economy is in a slump, America is still a sanctuary to 30 to 50 thousand of the world's refugees each year, according to the U.S. State Department. To smooth the transition, the International Rescue Committee provides limited financial support to newly arriving refugees and asylees from around the world. But, at a time when many San Diego residents are struggling to make ends meet, how do recent immigrants get by? SDSU Backpack Journalist Steven Bartholow has the story.

Greg Evans is the author of the new musical Luann: Scenes from a Teen's Life based on his nationally syndicated comic strip Luann.

On November 4, Californians will vote on Proposition 2 - Standards for Confining Farm Animals. The measure would regulate the treatment of farm animals in terms of their confinement.

What are the main arguments for and against redrawing the state's legislative districts? Host Tom Fudge speaks to representatives from both sides of the Proposition 11 debate. We learn how California's legislative districts are currently drawn, and how this proposal will change that system.

For the past month, we've been working on a 30-minute documentary about how people are struggling to get by in San Diego. Getting By will air this Thursday Oct. 23 on KPBS-TV, followed by a half-hour of discussion with local civic leaders. You can ask questions as a part of the studio audience.

Home sales in San Diego County jumped by more than 56 percent in September compared to the same month a year ago. A real estate information service says prices during the same period dropped more than 30 percent. Dataquick's Andrew LePage says the the numbers relect a positivenote for a real estate market that's been dragging. However, he says the good news is tempered by the nation's financial problems.

California's unemployment rate is at a 12 year high. Governor Schwarzenegger is directing two million dollars for job assistance to workers in Southern California who lost their jobs in the recent wildfires. The federal money will help the unemployed with job searches and training. From Sacrament, Marianne Russ has more.

The wave of violence south of the border continues. A dozen people were murdered in Tijuana and Rosarito this weekend. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

A new report from UCLA shows the number of California children who are overweight has declined. But researchers say other health indicators for California kids aren't so good. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

San Diego city council votes this afternoon on amendments to the city’s Living Wage Ordinance. The city adopted the ordinance in 2005, but it is not consistently enforced. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

How do Barack Obama and John McCain plan to tackle the nation's current financial crisis? Does either candidate have a specific plan that addresses the root causes of the United States' economic problems? As the fourth installment in our "Getting By" series, Host Tom Fudge speaks to Economics Professor James Hamilton about what the presidential candidates are saying, and whether they have a realistic strategy for fixing the core problems in the U.S. economy.

Are the Chargers a Super Bowl contender or a pretender? Are the Padres really interested in trading pitching ace Jake Peavy? If so, why? Does the World Series match-up between the Rays and the Phillies have the makings of another fall classic? Host Tom Fudge speaks to long-time local sports talk-show host Lee "Hacksaw" Hamilton about the hot sports stories in the news this week.

How are San Diego's small businesses getting by in this tough economy? What are some things that local entrepreneurs can do to survive during the current financial crisis? Host Tom Fudge speaks to the local and national leaders of SCORE, which is an association that gives free advice to small businesses. We also discuss the resources available through SCORE, and effective strategies for small business success.

Percussionist Lukas Ligeti talks about the influence of African music on his compositions and about his father, the influential Hungarian composer Gyorgi Ligeti. Tonight, Ligeti will be honored as part of the NWEAMO International Festival of Electro-Acoustic Music.

Federal officials visit the Imperial Valley this week to break ground on a new reservoir project designed to save Colorado River Water. The Colorado is also a major source of water for San Diego County. KPBS Reporter Erik Anderson has more.

City officials have filed a lawsuit against two companies it had hired to clear debris from home sites ravaged by last year's wildfires, alleging they falsified records and knowingly overcharged by at least $2 million.

Today is the deadline to get your voter registration cards turned into the San Diego County Registrar of Voters. The office in Kearny Mesa is open until midnight. The general election is just two weeks from Tuesday. And as Marianne Russ reports state election officials are anticipating a record turnout.

The city of Santee has filed suit against the County of San Diego, in an attempt to block the expansion of the Las Colinas women’s jail.

When voter registration closes at the end of today, analysts will see how San Diego’s political stripes have changed. Problems reported in voter registrations by the group “Acorn” will have little impact on the overall trend: the Republican lead over Democratic registered voters is narrowing. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

A break for some San Diego County residents who lost their homes in last October's wildfires. Fire survivors don't have to move out of temporary shelter on their property next week. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

The Mission Bay Aquatic Center is going solar. The center unveiled its new system this afternoon. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

Legal experts don't think much of the idea. But San Diego County officials say they'll ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review their challenge to California's medical marijuana law. The decision comes after the state Supreme Court refused to hear the case. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

The 2008 presidential debates are now history. Barack Obama and John McCain are heading into the final leg of their race for the White House. Plus, Mayor Jerry Sanders revealed that the City of San Diego is facing a $43 million budget deficit this fiscal year. And, a port redevelopment proposition on the local ballot could dramatically change the look of the San Diego waterfront if it is passed.

Proposition B, the plan to build a Stadium or Convention Center expansion on top of San Diego’s Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal, is meeting heavy opposition.KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Despite massive interest in the upcoming election, many of the dozen ballot propositions may not be resonating with voters. That's the word from Public Policy Institute of California President Mark Baldassare. He says the number one issue in this election is the economy - and voters may feel that the slew of ballot measures has missed the mark.

California's highest court has approved the issuance of government medical marijuana identification cards by refusing to consider a legal challenge to the law.

State Treasurer Bill Lockyer says California has raised enough money to avert an immediate cash crisis. Lockyer today announced the state had sold $5 billion in short-term notes that will be used to keep education, health care and other state services running. He says he's heartened by the response from individual and institutional investors.

The San Ysidro border crossing has a new x-ray machine to help screen for contraband coming from Mexico. Customs and Border Protection officials say its the first machine of its kind at the border. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has more.

One out of five San Diego County residents was treated in a local emergency room last year. A new report from Community Health Improvement Partners shows many of these patients could have been treated in a doctor's office. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

Wealth is something that happens to some of the fortunate members of our society. But what should society do with great personal wealth? That's one of the questions raised by James Goldsborough in his new book "Misfortunes of Wealth." Goldsborough comes from a rich Pennsylvania steel family who saw the effect that money had on several generations of his tribe. His book is a memoire and a comment on how America should regard great wealth.

Wayne Wang is a Chinese film maker who's spent many years building a reputation. His most successful films have explored cultural tensions. His two new movies explore that theme as it relates to different generations of national and ethnic Chinese. Beth Accomando talks about "1,000 Years of Good Prayers" and "Princess of Nebraska".

Why does San Diego City Attorney Mike Aguirre think he deserves re-election? Host Tom Fudge sits down with Aguirre for a one-on-one interview about the role of the city attorney, his accomplishments in the office, and his goals for the City of San Diego. We also discuss San Diego's pension deficit, and potential changes on the City Council.

Why does Judge Jan Goldsmith think he's the best candidate for San Diego City Attorney? Host Tom Fudge sits down with Goldsmith for a one-on-one interview about the role of the city attorney, his background as a judge, and his goals for the City of San Diego. We also discuss San Diego's pension deficit, and potential changes on the City Council.

UC San Diego researchers have published a new analysis that suggests the essential building blocks of life may have come from volcanic eruptions. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

A study by an environmental group shows temperatures in California are getting hotter especially in the Central Valley. The study done by Environment California blames global warming.

It could be the last waltz for the popular Dancing Waters feature welcoming tourists to the Gaslamp District near the San Diego Convention Center.

Faced with a $43 million budget shortfall, members of San Diego city’s budget committee want Development Corporations to pay back some of their multi million dollar redevelopment loans. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Fire officials say they have the fire that scorched four thousand acres on Camp Pendleton, 75 percent contained. The blaze led to the evacuation of more than 1,500 homes in Oceanside. Those people were allowed to return home yesterday. A nearby 110 acre fire that shut down interstate five yesterday is largely out and completely surrounded.

The Port of San Diego is moving forward with a plan to clear the air around its cruise ship terminal. The port hopes a shore power system for ships will be operating within two years. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

San Diego city’s budget committee got a full picture this morning of how the bad financial news is hitting the city’s bottom line. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

What can we expect from the candidates in the final presidential debate? What strategies will Barack Obama and John McCain use to try to appeal to those remaining undecided voters? And, what are the latest electoral vote projections? Host Tom Fudge speaks to NPR's "Political Junkie" Ken Rudin about the final weeks in the race to become the 44th President of the United States.

As wildfires rage in Southern California, Governor Schwarzenegger is calling again for an increase in homeowner's insurance fees to help pay for more fire equipment.

Meteorologist Richard Somerville talks about the science and the politics of global warming.

Authorities say some military personnel and their family members remain in emergency shelters at Camp Pendleton because of a wildfire still burning near one of base housing areas.

San Diego Unified school board members have decided its 'OK' for them to publicly criticize the superintendent and his staff. That overturns a decision they made on the topic last month. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders is warning of a major mid-year budget cut for the city, due to the financial crisis. But in an address to the Taxpayers Association Tuesday, he also promised to push for major projects to stimulate the economy. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

The sunshine tax has long been our justification for higher prices and lower wages here in San Diego County. It’s nearly always 70 degrees and sunny – so you pay more to live here and you get paid less.

San Diego County's new super scooper firefighting planes have shown their muscle during the last two weeks. However, fire officials say the aircraft have limitations. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

The San Diego region's ability to fight wildfires by air has improved since last year's fire storm. However, many fire fighting aircraft can't fly in windy or dark conditions. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has more.

Two wildfires that began at Camp Pendleton have merged. Authorities have lifted an evacuation order for about 1,000 homes but say another 500 homes along the border of the Marine base remain vacated. The Marines say the Camp Pendleton fire has scorched more than 3,000 acres and is about 25 percent contained. The fires started yesterday on base training ranges. CAL-FIRE's Roxanne Provaznik says local fire crews remain on alert.

A wildfire evacuation order has been lifted for about 300 homes in San Diego County near the U.S.-Mexico border. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more on the Shockey fire near Campo.

Authorities say a small brush fire has started in a suburban San Diego neighborhood that was the scene of some of the biggest devastation caused by the October 2007 wildfires.

Blues, Gospel, and R&B singer Earl Thomas talks about his music and performs with Ike Turner's old band, Kings of Rhythm.

San Diego-based Sempra energy spent a billion dollars to build a plant on the coast of Baja California to convert liquid national gas from Asia back into gas to be sold to American markets. But is it clean, and is it something that American consumers want to buy? We'll hear about a KPBS investigative report.

Is there anything you've ever wanted to ask a Mexican? If so, you're in luck. We are joined by Gustavo Arellano, who writes the column "Ask a Mexican". The nation's foremost expert on Mexicans explains to us why Mexicans love dwarves, why they go swimming in their clothes, and why they park in their front yards.

Two years ago San Diegans voted down a proposal to create a civilian airport on the site of Miramar Air Station. Since then the air travel industry in the U.S. has contacted, due to the high cost of fuel and economic recession. Economist Richard Carson tells us what he thinks recent trends mean for the future of air travel, and airport facilities, in San Diego.

How will the recent problems on Wall Street impact the San Diego region? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Economics Professor Alan Gin about the financial crisis that has dominated the news in recent weeks. We discuss the market rebound that happened on Monday, and try to look ahead to what's the next turn on the stock market rollercoaster ride.

Authorities have lifted an evacuation order for about 1,000 homes threatened by a wildfire on Camp Pendleton but say another 500 homes sitting on the border with the Marine base are to remain vacated.

KPBS reporter Ed Joyce is watching the Juliet Fire that is burning at Camp Pendleton and Oceanside.

A fast-moving wildfire that raged along both side of Highway 94 and forced the evacuation of some 1,500 homes in the Campo area, was 50 percent contained as of 7:15 a.m., a CalFire spokesman said.

San Diego National Weather Service forecaster Stan Wasowski explains how weather will affect fires in the county this coming week.

A brush fire charred about 3,000 acres in the southeastern reaches of Camp Pendleton by early today, forcing evacuations of thousands of people from base housing and neighborhoods in nearby Oceanside.

Cal Fire officials says that 60 structures are currently being threatened by the Shockey Fire in Campo.

Sempra Energy begins to import foreign liquefied natural gas next year. Foreign LNG costs more than domestic natural gas. Sempra says price should not be the only consideration. This week California regulators will decide how much price matters. KPBS Reporter Amita Sharma has more.

San Diego and most of Southern California already violate federal clean air standards. Agencies responsible for monitoring air quality fear Sempra’s plan to import liquefied natural gas from overseas will increase pollution and jeopardize public health. They want an environmental review but so far regulators have resisted. KPBS Reporter Amita Sharma has more.

More than a thousand people living in Oceanside near the border of Camp Pendleton got reverse 911 calls telling them to evacuate. KPBS reporter Alison St John was at the evacuation center.

A brush fire, dubbed the Juliet Fire, has charred 1,500 acres near Camp Pendleton, forcing evacuations of thousands of people from base housing and neighborhoods in nearby Oceanside.

Charter school officials at Helix High School in La Mesa are likely to approve a policy today that seeks to prevent teachers from having sexual relations with their students. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

San Diego County officials say there's been a 13 percent drop in reported cases of domestic violence over the last five years. Officials made the announcement to mark the fifth anniversary of the County's Domestic Violence Hotline. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

Two wildfires driven by strong Santa Ana winds threatened neighborhoods on the edges of the San Fernando Valley on Monday, killing one person, destroying several dozen mobile homes and forcing evacuations.

Solar power will be the topic of discussion at a large conference this week in San Diego. Today, Tom Fudge speaks to a panel of guests about the work UC San Diego is doing to educate the green industry workers of the future, and about the alternative energy advances that have been made on the university campus. We also discuss recent innovations in the solar industry, and the future of green industries in our region.

How will global climate change impact our planet's water resources? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Dr. Peter Gleick, president of the Pacific Institute, about the potential impact of global warming on the planet's water supply. Gleick details how global warming will lead to rising sea levels, larger storms, more droughts, and a reduction in water quality and quantity all over the globe.

Are you concerned about what's happening on Wall Street right now? What kind of investment strategies should you adopt in this bear market? Is now the time to look for some good stock bargains? As part of our "Getting By" series on These Days, Host Tom Fudge speaks to a couple local financial advisors about the latest news on our nation's financial crisis.

Mexico's President and the CEO of the San Diego energy company Sempra tout Sempra's new liquified natural gas plant as a new clean energy source for Baja and Southern California. The plant sits just north of Ensenada, on what was the last stretch of pristine coastline between that city and Los Angeles. The plant has fueled concern that Mexico and Sempra have gambled on LNG to the detriment of the region. KPBS Border Reporter Amy Isackson brings us the first report of four on liquefied natural gas.

Southern California has some of the dirtiest air in the country. And air quality monitors say if San Diego-based Sempra Energy moves ahead with plans to import liquefied natural gas, the air will be even more polluted. They say public health and the environment are at risk. In the second of KPBS’s four-part series on the effects of Sempra’s push to bring in foreign natural gas, Reporter Amita Sharma has more.

The California Public Utilities Commission is holding a public meeting on the October 2007 wildfires in San Diego County. The agency wants to find out what residents know about San Diego Gas and Electric's tree trimming and other actions related to powerlines. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

The Girls Scouts of San Diego County is turning its attention away from cookies and campouts and focusing on online safety and cyberbullies. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has this report.

The City of San Diego’s Fire Prevention Committee meets this morning to decide whether to support a new parcel tax to raise money for fire prevention. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Neighborhood groups disturbed by how redevelopment is managed in the city of San Diego will meet tonight to define their priorities. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

A couple hundred students from San Diego County and Tijuana came together at La Jolla Cove for World Water Monitoring Day today. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

One of the new bills signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger at the end of the legislative session would provide allow agencies to provide assistance to homeless veterans.

There's new financial assistance available for San Diego County homeowners who have subprime home mortgages. The refinancing assistance is part of a flurry of bills approved at the end of the legislative session. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

The nation's financial crisis is having an impact all over the globe this week. Plus, rising unemployment and decreasing consumer confidence are the main causes of a lower economic outlook for San Diego County. And, the races for San Diego City Council are starting to heat up.

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is taking to the radio airwaves -- this time with a pitch to potential investors. The state treasurer is preparing to sell about four-billion dollars in short term notes next week to bring in some cash.

Dangerous fire weather is predicted for the next several days in Southern California. And San Diego, federal and state fire officials are taking no chances. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

San Diego City Attorney Mike Aguirre and his opponent Jan Goldsmith faced off Thursday in a ballroom packed with San Diego’s movers and shakers. The Rotary Club forum was one of only a few remaining debates, before voters will have to chose between two very different candidates for city attorney. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

San Diego city attorney Mike Aguirre and his challenger, Jan Goldsmith, sparred today at a forum convened by the Rotary Club of San Diego. KPBS reporter Alison St John was there.

Federal, state and San Diego fire officials have moved equipment and staff into the county in anticipation of dangerous fire conditions. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

A wildfire that burned up to 1,900 acres on a Marine Corps explosives range was contained Thursday without causing any injuries or damage to buildings on the base.

A wildfire that burned up to 1,900 acres on a Marine Corps explosives range was contained Thursday without causing any injuries or damage to buildings on the base, officials said.

Academy Award winning director Jessica Yu brings her first feature film to the San Diego Asian Film Festival for their opening night celebration. We'll talk with Yu and Jimmy Tsai, the lead actor in her movie Ping Pong Playa. We'll also talk with Lee Ann Kim, Executive Director of the festival, about some of the other films being shown.

How is the Republican presidential ticket currently presenting and positioning itself in order to win the election? John McCain and Sarah Palin have been ramping up their attacks on Barack Obama's character and, by extension, his values. Will this work? Chris Reed, blogger and editorial writer for the San Diego Union Tribune, examines the McCain-Palin strategy and whether or not they can appeal to undecided voters.

Violent crime in San Diego County was at a 25-year low in 2007. However, gang and youth violence is on the rise, especially in urban centers. We'll talk with the San Diego Police Chief and a local priest about their efforts to keep youth off the street and on the path to productive lives.

Pulitzer-Prize winning composer Roger Reynolds and the UCSD percussion ensemble red fish, blue fish bring Reynold's work Sanctuary to life in the serene and minimal space of the Salk Institute in La Jolla. Reynolds joins us to talk about his composition and Ross Karre, a member of red fish, blue fish, talks about the challenges of performing Sanctuary.

Early voting began this week for the November election. The Secretary of State says there's now more than 16 million people now registered for the historic November election. Joining us on Morning Edition is San Diego County Registrar of Voters Deborah Seiler.

A taxpayers' group is suing a California state organization overseeing plans for a bullet train in California for failing to prepare its business plan as required by law.

Voters in the City of San Diego decide next month how much of the money generated in Mission Bay Park will be used for park improvements. The city brings in about $30 million a year from leasing land to SeaWorld, hotels and other businesses in the park. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

A fire on the Camp Pendleton Marine Base has burned more than 1,000 acres. Camp Pendleton reported no structures were threatened, though the base’s golf course was evacuated. No injuries have been reported.

A federal judge ordered California officials to come up with plan to pay 250-million dollars for improvements to prison medical care. This order is an interim step. The judge wants to see a plan that will explicitly explain how and when California will pay 250-million dollars to fix prison medical care.

The Navy has chosen San Diego to open its “Shore Force Training Center,” The Center will use emergency management training and war games to prepare personnel for natural disasters at home. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

A UC San Diego researcher is sharing a Nobel Prize in chemistry with two other researchers. Roger Tsien was honored for developing colorful dyes called Green Fluorescent Protein. Tsien is using GFPs in the fight against cancer.

San Diego City voters decide next month how much of the money generated by Mission Bay Park leases should be spent on park improvements. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

Governor Schwarzenegger is calling legislative leaders back to the Capitol this afternoon to address California's mounting financial problems.

In our monthly food segment, we'll explore the ins and outs of beef. We'll talk about what to look for when purchasing beef and different ways to prepare it. And we'll explore the growing interest in grass-fed cattle.

What did we learn from the second presidential debate? How did Obama and McCain perform? Did they live up to the public's expectations? Gloria Penner, Michael Smolens, and Peter Andersen join us in the studio to discuss their views on the debate and political communication. They share their expertise on candidate standpoints, strategies, and leadership images relating to the presidential race.

Voters in Encinitas decide next month whether to approve a tax on short-term vacation rentals. The money would pay for projects to put sand back on the city's beaches. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more on Proposition K.

Did you know that average wages in 1972 were 30 percent higher in the county than the nation? A SANDAG study revealed that local wages haven't kept up with inflation. In 2005, the county average was only five percent higher than the national average. And to top it all off, San Diego County is one of the most expensive places to live in the country.

The Navy will extend the public comment period on the environmental impacts of its new Bay front headquarters until November 2nd. San Diego Congressman Susan Davis supports those who say the Navy should rethink its decision to build in the middle of downtown. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Governor Schwarzenegger has cut funding to a program local communities use to investigate problems at nursing homes. Critics say the cut will cripple the ombudsman programs statewide. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

What would the story of the American West be without the contribution of the horse? What makes America's wild horse, the mustang, unique and the subject of so much folklore? Where do the mustangs live today, and why are their numbers dwindling every year? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Deanne Stillman about her new book Mustang: The Saga of the Wild Horse of the American West.

Photographer Herman Leonard has photographed some of the most beloved jazz musicians in history, including Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Thelonius Monk and Billie Holiday. The Morrison Hotel Gallery is hosting an exhibit called "Jazz Giants,” which follows Leonard’s photographic journey through the golden years of the jazz, blues and bebop eras.

How should Congress attack our nation's financial crisis over the next couple years? What should the U.S. do in Iraq? What can be done to increase wildfire preparedness in San Diego's East County? Host Tom Fudge moderates a discussion with the top candidates for the 52nd Congressional District, Duncan D. Hunter and Mike Lumpkin.

Dozens of bodies have been found around Tijuana over the past week or so. KPBS border reporter Amy Isackson helps analyze what's going on and has the latest information.

California's budget mess ended last month, but believe it or not budget negotiations may re-open budget negotiations! We're joined on Morning Edition by independent Sacramento political consultant Leo McElroy who explains why the governor would actually re-open budget negotiations.

As the unemployment rate continues to increase in California, the state's unemployment fund is on the way to going broke. And state lawmakers are holding a special committee hearing Tuesday to talk about the problem. Marianne Russ reports.

Mike Aguirre and Jan Goldsmith are fighting a campaign based on very different ideas about the role of the city attorney. The latest issue to highlight their different approaches is the foreclosure crisis. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

A case that pitted four San Diego County firefighters against the City of San Diego has ended in a mistrial. The men say they were sexually harassed after being forced to participate in a gay pride parade last year. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

San Diego Police are still looking for the suspects who allegedly stabbed a college student to death on the campus of San Diego State University over the weekend. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has the latest.

Why is the cost of living in San Diego County so high? Why have local home prices risen much faster than wages over the last couple decades? What can be done to increase the region's economic prosperity? Host Tom Fudge speaks to reporter Joanne Faryon, and economist Marney Cox about why it is so hard for many people to make economic ends meet in San Diego.

Cyberbullying - bullying done using the Internet, cell phones, etc - is on the rise. We'll talk with a leading expert on cyberbullying and what parents can do to protect their kids from mean-spirited attacks.

George Lakoff is a professor of cognitive linguistics from UC Berkeley who studies how metaphor is central to human thinking and politics. He has argued that liberals have had difficulties winning elections since the 1980s because they have been generally unaware of their own guiding metaphors. He also has said that they have passively accepted conservative terminology, such as the terms partial birth abortion and tax relief, and have therefore allowed conservatives to frame the debate on their terms. He will talk about how the Democrats are using metaphor and how their marketing efforts are going.

What happens when pop culture mixes with politics? What effects can celebrities have on the way we look at political candidates? Host Tom Fudge speaks to James Fowler and Timothy Moore about the role of political satire shows and celebrity endorsements in election campaigns.

Some San Diego homeowners are going to great lengths to make sure their property is equipped in everyway to withstand wildfires, like the one that burned 16 hundred homes last October. KPBS reporter Alison St John visited a homeowner in Fallbrook who did a lot of research before building her new house on a scenic backcountry hillside.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed a bill he says will improve emergency response in California. Under the measure, the state Office of Emergency Services and Homeland Security department will now be merged.

The San Diego Chargers traveled to South Florida and lost to the tricky Miami Dolphins 17-to-10. We're joined on Morning Edition by North County Times sports columnist Jay Paris.

California state water officials want to get public input on an ambitious proposal to save threatened fish in the Delta. The gates would help state water officials control the movement of smelt - those tiny fish that were getting killed in the pumps used to move Delta water to Southern California. Steve Milne explains.

San Diego city council will vote today on whether to raise campaign contribution limits for candidates in city elections, starting next year. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

The San Diego Unified School District is gearing up to open its first virtual high school next month. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has the details.

Local activists will rally at the Boy Scouts' Balboa Park compound this weekend, hoping to end the group's exclusionary practices. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has the details.

Governor Schwarzenegger signed agreements in San Diego today that officials say will improve the state's response to emergencies and natural disasters. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

The Senate passed a $700 billion financial bailout proposal late Wednesday night, and now the financial rescue plan moves on to the House for a Friday vote. Plus, the first and only vice presidential debate was held this week. And, changes are afoot at the San Diego Union-Tribune. Copely Press recently announced that it would like to sell the newspaper, and there has been considerable downsizing in the U-T newsroom over the last couple years.

The news from Tijuana recently has been negative, but a big art festival this weekend may provide a welcome distraction.

A handful of California state employees misused state vehicles and got pay they weren't entitled to and it cost the state roughly $200,000. Those are the findings of a new report by the Bureau of State Audits. Marianne Russ reports.

There may be a backlash over the record number of bills Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed this year. Democrats are mad and some are calling for lawmakers to override the vetoes. From Sacramento, Marianne Russ reports.

Responsible journalism is in the eye of the beholder. On the national stage, candidates John McCain and Sarah Palin have complained about unfair questions and "gotcha journalism," while the media community defend the interviews as asking the tough questions. At the local level, we joined the ranks of media outlets across the country to find ourselves under attack.

It's getting to be that time of year when all the sunny days run together, creating a blur of unidentifiable days and weeks, rolled into forgotten months. I am always on the verge of buying air conditioning this time of year, and yet I know cloudy, cooler, rainier days are on the way. They're just out of reach.

A New York businessman has been sentenced to five years probation and 1,000 hours community service on charges stemming from the corruption case against former Congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham.

As the anniversary of last year's wildfires approaches, San Diego County is urging homeowners to take action to protect themselves and their own property against fire. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Nick Reynolds, a founding member of the popular 1960s folk group The Kingston Trio, died Wednesday in San Diego.

Governor Schwarzenegger has vetoed a bill aimed at providing job protection for medical marijuana users. The measure would have prohibited employees from being fired for testing positive for marijuana they used with a doctor's approval. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

Why do some people have rhythm and some don't? Why are some people tone deaf? Is it genetic? We talk with two neuroscientists about how our brains process music.

A new law in California seeks to reduce the spread of wildfires. It includes changes to the way people clear brush from around their homes. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

Investigators say it's clear from the wreckage of Steve Fossett's plane that he must have "died instantly."They spotted the wreckage late yesterday in California's rugged Sierra Nevada, just over a year after the wealthy adventurer vanished on a solo flight.

California Senator Barbara Boxer says she supports the $700 billion financial bailout package. The Senate is debating a revised package before taking a vote later on the bill.

Tijuana authorities woke up to nine more corpses Thursday morning. Authorities say that raises number of dead in Tijuana to more than 30 since Sunday.

Officials in the San Diego area are praising legislation designed to ease congestion at the Otay Mesa border crossing.

The U.S.'s changing demographics may alter the direction of American politics forever. As Barack Obama battles it out in a close race with John McCain, we'll explore how race is a factor in this year's historic presidential election.

The San Diego Women's Film Festival kicks off its 6th season at the Reading Gaslamp Theaters downtown with the San Diego premiere of Rachel Getting Married as its opening night feature. The festival is Southern California's longest running women film festival. This year it plays host to 50 films including five features. The goal of the Festival is to empower young women through positive film media and promote women filmmakers and their films

The U.S Supreme Court will reconvene next Monday for its new term. What are some of the most interesting cases on the court's docket? Host Tom Fudge speaks to constitutional law professor Glenn Smith about what cases the Supreme Court will take on this term. This year, the court is set take on cases that deal with the use of sonar off the California coast, the FCC's regulation of foul language on broadcast TV, and whether members of the presidents' cabinet are immune from lawsuits.

San Diego School Superintendent Terry Grier is downplaying a new district policy preventing school board members from publicly criticizing him and his staff. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

The State Treasurer is warning California may run out of cash if Congress fails to adopt an economic recovery plan. Bill Lockyer says for the last ten days state and local governments have been closed out of financial markets and help from the federal government is necessary.

The financial crisis threatens the retirement savings of every San Diegan invested in Wall Street. But a market downturn would be a double whammy for San Diego taxpayers, who are on the hook to make good on guaranteed public employee pension funds. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has set a new veto record. He's rejected more than 35-percent of the bills that reached his desk this year. This year Schwarzenegger rejected a total of 415 bills and signed 775.

Governor Schwarzenegger has signed a measure that supporters say will improve end-of-life care in California. The bill requires doctors upon request to tell terminally ill patients about all of their options. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

San Diego School Superintendent Terry Grier admits the district overreacted when it sent layoff notices and pink slips to teachers over the summer break. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

For the past couple of weeks, we've been working on a project called Getting By . It's a look at the local economy and how people are coping, given the market crash, the foreclosure mess, and the rising cost of rent, gas and food.

San Diego Unified School District Superintendent Terry Grier has been on the job for a little over six months. We'll talk with him about his plans to improve San Diego city schools as well as relations between administration and teachers. And we'll discuss the cost of education today.

On Monday, Congress failed to pass the $700 billion bailout package for America's financial institutions. Concern and confusion remain as to the best approach to fixing the ailing U.S. economy. We'll talk about whether taxpayers have a responsibility to fix the problem with SDSU finance professor Dan Seiver.

San Diego Democratic Congressman Bob Filner says the $700 billion financial bailout package is not the best way to stabilize the economy. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

Doug Myrland, general manager of KPBS, a public service of San Diego State University, will retire at the end of the year. As a result, a nationwide search for a new general manager will begin immediately, the university announced today.

How did a letter written in the mid-1600s help to create the concept of mathematical probability? What kind of impact did this realization have on the world? How is the concept of probability being used by our government to form a strategy for tackling the nation's current financial crisis? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Keith Devlin about the importance of probability theory in modern society.

Why do so many Mexicans want to migrate to America? And do they find the economic, political and social freedom that they are seeking once they get here? We'll talk with author Sam Quinones about Mexican migration and what it means for the U.S.

Only one in three people in San Diego County who qualify for food stamps actually receives them. The county has the lowest participation rate in the country, according to a report by a non-profit group in Washington, D.C. The Food Research and Action Center looked at food stamp participation in 24 urban centers in the country. Joanne Faryon has more.