A man who was kidnapped in Chula Vista last year is an owner of the Tijuana restaurant where authorities found three trash barrels filled with what they believe are human remains.

The number of registered Democrats in the city of San Diego is outpacing Republicans, and the democratic lead has widened significantly since the beginning of the year. But the trend is not being reflected in the candidates winning public office. KPBS reporter Alison St John looks at what’s behind this phenomenon.

New research shows the San Diego Unified School District is experiencing a turnaround in student enrollment this academic year. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has the details.

A new report released today finds UC San Diego is doing its part to keep California's economy afloat. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

A new Field Poll shows most voters who've heard about a 980-million dollar bond measure for Children's Hospitals are in favor of it. But the poll also reveals only 18 percent of likely voters are familiar with the proposition. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

Implementation of a California state law to protect fragile marine areas has reached the waters off San Diego. Studies have shown the reserves help build up fish populations. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce explains.

When the automobile became commonplace, cities were redesigned allowing for all of the conveniences the automobile afforded. Today, we are paying the price for those decisions. It's impossible to go without a car in many cities and that has an environmental cost. What kind of decisions are we making today around emerging technology that will have long term effects? We'll explore this issue with a philosopher of technology.

The corpses are more casualties in Mexico's drug war. They raise Tijuana's body count to 30 in the last two days.

What have been the biggest water conflicts in California's history? How is the growth of California's cities tied in with expansion of the state's water systems? What have been some the biggest mistakes made in California's water planning decisions? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Rita Schmidt Sudman, from the Water Education Foundation, about the history of water in the West. We also speak to Sudman about what California needs to do to ensure it has a sustainable water supply for the future.

Should San Diego pass a permanent ban on alcohol at the city's coastal parks and beaches? How has the environment at San Diego beaches changed since the City Council voted to a pass a one-year alcohol ban last January? What will happen if Proposition D is defeated in November? Host Tom Fudge speaks with advocates for and against Proposition D.

Local author Patricia Santana explores what it is like growing up as a Chicana in San Diego in the 1970s in her new novel "Ghosts of El Grullo."

Now that a state budget has been passed, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has turned his attention to signing -- and vetoing -- hundreds of bills. But he's not doing it from Sacramento. We're joined on Morning Edition by independent Sacramento political consultant Leo McElroy.

San Diego's representatives split on the landmark financial bailout package. The package was supposed to be bipartisan, but all of the San Diego area Republicans opposed the legislation. Peter Granitz reports from Capitol Hill.

Baja California law enforcement officials have confirmed that organized crime is behind the murders of 16 people in Tijuana. Police found the bodies dumped around the city early Monday morning. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has details.

The Navy held a public hearing last night on the proposed Navy Broad way Complex on the downtown waterfront. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Attorney General Michael Mukasey named a special prosecutor to look into why nine U.S. Attorneys including San Diego's Carol Lam were fired 18 months ago. The Justice Department's investigation found politics played a role in some of the sackings. KPBS Reporter Amita Sharma has more.

Federal immigration authorities report they arrested more than 1,150 people in a three-week enforcement action in California.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will grant the city of San Diego $9.4 million to help restore neighborhoods blighted by foreclosures. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Tijuana's cultural center has gone square. A new gallery space nicknamed "The Cube" opened there this weekend and is equipped to house museum quality shows. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has details.

The Centre City Development Corporation was created in 1975 when downtown San Diego was a dump. Now that's no longer the case, and much credit is due the CCDC. But what has its mission become, and do we still need it? Two people who are involved with shaping our urban environment join me to talk about the future of building downtown, now that the CCDC is looking for new leadership.

Government plays a large role in scientific research through funding. But how does politics get in the way of scientific research and discovery? As part of our continuing series Exploring Ethics with the Ethics Center, we'll talk about the politics of science and the presidential race.

Over 4 million Iraqis have been displaced since the start of the current war with the U.S. Yet fewer than 15,000 refugees have been resettled in this country. San Diego is home to a large community of Iraqis, including approximately 2,000 refugees from the war. We'll talk about the need to resettle refugees and how they are making it in San Diego.

It wasn't pretty, but the San Diego Chargers came away with a big division win yesterday. They had a nightmare of a first half in Oakland yesterday, but were able to turn it around. We're joined on Morning Edition by North County Times sports columnist Jay Paris to talk about the game.

From re-vamping California's courthouses to creating a new license plate, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger continues to wade though the hundreds of bills on his desk. From Sacramento, Marianne Russ has a roundup.

One fee increase that didn't make it into the record-late California state budget would have helped the state fight wildfires and other disasters. What does that mean for the state's fire-fighting agency? Marianne Russ reports from Sacramento.

The Sweetwater Union High School District reigns supreme in San Diego's South Bay. It serves 42,000 students from National City to San Ysidro. Its also the largest high school district in the country. The man in charge is a straight-talking, Texas-born native named Jesus Gandara. He's known for turning around border-city school districts with large numbers of poor, Spanish-speaking students. Now he's trying to do the same in Sweetwater. KPBS Education Reporter Ana Tintocalis his this profile.

San Diego County officials say they'll start another round of treatments to eradicate Oriental fruit flies today in Carlsbad. The flies can damage fruits, vegetables and plants. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

Ocean water quality testing at 58 locations in San Diego County has been suspended. County officials say the suspension is a direct result of a veto by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

Two environmental groups have filed another lawsuit over the approval of the Carlsbad Desalination Project.

California hospitals will soon be required to do more to combat potentially fatal infections. Governor Schwarzenegger has signed two measures aimed at curbing the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections in hospitals. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

Two Tijuana policemen have been killed and five injured in a series of attacks that began yesterday evening. Police have detained seven people in connection with this mornings' shooting. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has details.

Leaders in Congress can't reach an agreement on how to fix the nation's financial crisis. Plus, John McCain says he's suspending his campaign so he can help the government fix Wall Street, and he is asking to delay the presidential debate scheduled for Friday night. And, the San Diego Convention Center will soon announce plans for expansion.

Genomic researchers in San Diego are looking to America's "healthy elderly" to help them unlock the genetic secrets of lifelong health.

Governor Schwarzenegger signed six mortgage relief bills Thursday. The measures will help homeowners facing foreclosure, but as KPCC's Julie Small reports -- the governor vetoed one bill that would have cracked down on California lenders.

San Diego environmental groups are upset with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's line-item veto eliminating all state funding for beach water quality monitoring. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

San Diego County’s identity as predominantly republican territory is eroding. The latest voter registration numbers show the gap between the number of red and blue voters is narrowing. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Environmental groups say a decision by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to eliminate all state funding for beach water quality monitoring could endanger public health. The Governor's line-item veto means San Diego County will have to pick up the cost for the monitoring. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

A bill aimed at making H-I-V screening a routine part of medical care is awaiting a decision by Governor Schwarzenegger. The measure would require California insurers to cover H-I-V tests. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

An environmental group says all of the 92 monitored beaches in San Diego County received top marks for water quality this summer. A big reason is the continued drought. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

Continued dry weather this year has given California beach-goers another record summer of clean water, according to an annual report released Thursday. Heal the Bay, a clean water group based in Santa Monica, found that about 91 percent of the beaches tracked statewide had very good to excellent water quality.

Jamaica is famous for producing musicians Bob Marley and jazz pianist Monty Alexander. Alexander has a career spanning four decades and he's recorded over 60 albums. In recent years, Alexander has gone back to his Jamaican roots, recording two albums of jazz interpretations of Bob Marley's canon.

What's causing the middle class to shrink in San Diego? Host Tom Fudge speaks to reporter and producer Joanne Faryon about the next Envision San Diego TV special "The Incredible Shrinking Middle Class". We also speak to two representatives from the San Diego Workforce Partnership about a new report that takes a detailed look at the current supply and demand for labor in our county. We will also discuss the importance of the middle class in our economy, and talk about steps that can be taken in the future to ensure San Diego has a healthy middle class workforce.

What's it like being on the campaign trail with John McCain? Why won't vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin be made available to reporters? What can we expect to hear from the candidates in the upcoming presidential debates? Host Tom Fudge speaks to NPR Correspondent Scott Horsley about covering the McCain-Palin ticket.

You can add text messaging to the list of things you can't do behind the wheel in California. Governor Schwarzenegger has signed a bill into law that bans the use of text messaging devices while driving.

It's been about nine months since UC San Diego's Preuss School was rocked by a grade tampering scandal. The news sent shockwaves throughout the country because Preuss has a national reputation for getting disadvantaged students into college. Now a new report finds the campus is making progress with reforms, but there's still room for improvement. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

A new study says a high-speed train system in California would bring jobs to San Diego. The study also says it would ease freeway gridlock in the region. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

The boldest step San Diego leaders have taken to boost fire protection since last October was to put Prop A on the ballot. Prop A would raise $50 million for fire fighting resources though a new parcel tax. But so far there’s little evidence of a campaign to fight for the measure. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

San Diego Democratic Congressman Bob Filner is on his fellow lawmakers to keep working until they craft emergency legislation for the economy that works from the bottom up - not the top down. Tanya Snyder reports from Washington.

Community clinics in the region can breathe a little easier now that the new state budget has been signed. That's because clinics will finally get paid for all of the Medi-Cal services they've provided over the last two months. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

A new study says a high-speed train system in California would generate more than 45,000 jobs in San Diego and ease traffic congestion in the region. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

The National Weather Service says some of the most dangerous fire weather in Southern California comes this time of year. The service says continued drought makes conditions ripe for wildfires. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

America is a wealthy nation and a world leader in medical science, technology and care. Yet 45 million Americans do not have health insurance, including more than 600,000 in San Diego. With healthcare costs rising at a rapid pace, more and more people are being squeezed out of access to quality, affordable care. And many working families are making tough decisions between seeing a doctor and putting food on the table. We'll explore the problems and possible solutions in a special live broadcast from the Logan Heights Family Health Center.

The Scripps Institution of Oceanography research vessel Melville returned to San Diego after a two-and-one-half year expedition. Nearly 50 research projects in the western Pacific Ocean were completed in that time. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce was onboard the vessel as it docked in Point Loma.

Federal prosecutors are dropping contempt charges against two Camp Pendleton marines who repeated refused to testify against their squad leader in a federal court. All three are linked to the deaths of Iraqi detainees. KPBS Reporter Erik Anderson has details.

The state budget isn't the only thing Governor Schwarzenegger will be signing this week. His press Secretary says the Governor has 875 bills sitting on his desk.

Even though California finally has a budget, many of the ten-thousand state workers who were laid off during the stalemate may not get their jobs back.

The waterfront around San Diego Bay is some of the most valuable real estate in Southern California. Which is why there's a growing tension between the industrial working waterfront and the commercial dreams of developers. Now developers have put their dreams on the ballot, with a proposal to build a deck above the existing Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal. They want to make the space available for a convention center or even a foot ball stadium on top. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more on whether the idea is technically feasible.

Preliminary numbers show San Diego Unified public schools attracted more students this year compared to local charter schools -- setting a precedent for the district. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

San Diego city council has agreed on a location for this year’s emergency winter shelter, but not without some grumbling. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more .

The nation's third largest health insurer, Aetna, says it will let an independent panel of doctors decide whether to cancel a member's coverage. Health insurance companies have been under fire for terminating policies after people get sick. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

Vicki Estrada used to be Steve Estrada, who came on These Days in July 2005 to announce that he intended to become a woman. He had gender reassignment surgery a year later, and since then she's lived life as a woman. Vicki joins us in studio to talk about how life has been, whether her business has continued to thrive, and whether she has any regrets about the decision to make such a dramatic change.

Jean Isaacs San Diego Dance Theater celebrates 10 years of Trolley Dances. We'll explore how its changed over the years and what's in store for audiences this year.

What is San Diego's carbon footprint? How much greenhouse gas is produced by cars on our local roads and freeways? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Scott Anders, with USD's Energy Policy Initiative Center, about a groundbreaking report on local greenhouse gas emissions. We also speak to Susan Freedman, with SANDAG, about how this report will be used by local governments.

Why did it take so long for California to pass it's budget this year? What are the key elements of the 2008 state budget? Host Tom Fudge speaks to John Myers, from "The California Report", about the record-long budget debate. Myers also gives us a sneak preview for a special election that the governor and Legislature are considering for next year.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is expected to sign the nearly three-month overdue state budget today, but not everyone is happy about the details of the spending plan. Critics of the budget say it doesn't do anything to address the imbalance between revenues and expenditures.

The fate of a controversial toll road project is now in the hands of the Commerce Secretary. The federal agency took testimony on the issue during a public hearing Monday in Del Mar that brought out more than a thousand people. KPBS Reporter Environmental Ed Joyce has details.

Santee school officials say they're fiercely opposed to a county plan that would triple the size of a women's jail in the area. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

Last month, producer Megan Burke and I were trying to figure out how we were going to tell the story of the local job market for this month's episode of our newly revamped public affairs show, Envision San Diego . We knew things were tough out there -- the unemployment rate is the highest it's been in more than a decade. The challenge really was to make all the statistics meaningful. We decided we would profile unemployed people -- it seemed like a no-brainer.

The fall semester begins at UC San Diego this week -- and the campus welcomes a record-breaking number of students. However only a small portion is black or Latino. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

Nearly 40 percent of San Diegans don’t earn enough money to live here, according to a new report. San Diego is the 11th most expensive city in the United States. The County’s unemployment rate is at a 13-year high -- 6.4 per cent, and 100,000 people are looking for work. KPBS reveals why this is happening in a new documentary, The Incredible Shrinking Middle-Class. Learn how much you need to earn to live here, who makes all the money, and where the good jobs and the not so good jobs are. KPBS reporter Joanne Faryon has the story.

An increase in the number of seniors in San Diego County will likely lead to a shortage of hospital beds by the year 2030. A new report from the California HealthCare Foundation says aging boomers will put a strain on the system. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

More than 1,000 people turned out today at a public hearing over a proposed toll road that would cut through San Onofre State Beach. The California Coastal Commission rejected the plan. But the decision was appealed to a federal agency. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

San Diego's architectural heritage is a combination of many styles. And deciding what has value, from the standpoint of local history, is key to determining what should be preserved. We'll get an architectural history lesson and talk about the buildings and landscapes we should appreciate and should fight to maintain.

America faces a financial meltdown. Set up by the deregulation of the 1990s and precipitated by the sub-prime mortgage crisis, large and venerable investment banks -- Lehman Brothers, Bear Sterns, Merrill Lynch -- have disappeared, and the mortgage finance companies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have been taken over by the government. What happened and why? And what can be done about it?

San Diego is home to many architectural treasures. In the new KPBS Television series "San Diego's Historic Places," we'll look at the community of Burlingame and some of its historically significant homes.

What is life like for gay teens growing up in America? Why do 33% of gay youth attempt suicide? How is the debate over same-sex marriage impacting gay teens? We'll talk with an author about his compilation of stories of growing up gay in America.

As the California state budget impasse dragged on for months, several Democratic legislators called for an end to the two-thirds vote requirement for a spending plan. They want to take the idea to the ballot. Jenny O'Mara reports.

A new four-and-a-half-mile expansion of I-15 opens this morning, but it's not your typical freeway project. This project features ramps, a movable median, and express lanes in the middle of the freeway. Joining us on Morning Edition is Steve Saville, director of legislative and public affairs at Caltrans.

Monday Night Football comes to San Diego tonight as the Chargers take on Brett Favre and the New York Jets at the Q. We're joined on Morning Edition by North County Times sports columnist Jay Paris.

More than 3,000 people are expected to show up at a hearing in Del Mar today. The Commerce Department will hear what people from San Diego think about building a six-lane toll road through San Onofre State Park. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

Graduation. Once a triumphant celebration, most seniors are now dreading the horrific shove into the damaged economy and dwindling work force. Just don’t tell them they’re over-reacting.

Public vocational schools are preparing students for careers ranging from biotech to construction – jobs that don’t necessarily require a college degree. SDSU backpack journalist Brandon Stone has the story.

San Diego city council will consider this week where to put the emergency winter shelter for the homeless. Efforts to find a permanent location have not yet materialized. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Enrollment is booming in California's two-year higher education programs. Officials expect a five to 16 percent increase as more adults return to school to continue their education or train for industries that offer more job opportunities. SDSU backpack journalist Steven Bartholow has the story.

A new financial analysis suggests redeveloping San Diego’s City Hall would not save millions of dollars. The city’s downtown development corporation, CCDC, had suggested it would save $60 million over 15 years. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Critics say California's new budget makes a number of painful cuts to healthcare programs. And critics fear the budget could make things worse in future years. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

Two environmental groups have filed a lawsuit against the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board. The suit charges the board didn't properly study how a Carlsbad desalination plant would harm marine life. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

The California Legislature finally reached a compromise on the state budget this week, but Governor Schwarzenegger quickly threatened to veto the $146 billion budget proposal. Plus, the Dow Jones industrial average dropped by more than 800 points earlier this week, following a string of government bailouts to struggling financial institutions. And, the median home price in San Diego has reached a 5 1/2 year low.

The governor and state legislative leaders have reached an agreement on a budget deal. That will avoid Schwarzenegger's threatened veto. Governor Schwarzenegger and legislative leaders met twice Thursday to work out an agreement that will end the state's nearly three-month long budget stalemate.

California lawmakers and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger have finally compromised on a budget deal. The Assembly and Senate are scheduled to vote on the compromise plan later today. Joining us on Morning Edition is Democratic Assemblymember Lori Saldaña. She represents California's 76th Assembly District here in San Diego.

California state Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner says he supports the federal bailout of insurance giant American International Group and says California consumers shouldn't be too concerned.

San Diego County officials say several popular recreation areas in Mission Bay will remain closed today because of high bacterial levels in the water. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

School districts in the South Bay are considering a plan to make all public school kids in the area start and end the year school on the same day. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

A new report finds San Diego County needs to hire more than 5,500 teachers in the next seven years. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

San Diego County officials don't know who dumped raw sewage in Mission Bay. The county closed several popular recreation areas because of contaminated waters. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce has this update.

A University of San Diego study may be used as a guide to reduce the county's greenhouse gas emissions. Those emissions have been linked to climate change. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

A spokesman at the US Consulate in Tijuana would not release the names of the dead and injured US citizens, nor other personal details about the trio.

Three high ranking Baja California prison officials are in custody for yesterday's deadly riot at the La Mesa prison in Tijuana. It’s the second riot at the prison in just three days. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

Although most of the media speak about vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin as an evangelical, she actually belongs to a Pentecostal church. What is the difference? What do Pentecostals believe, and how might those beliefs affect their politics?

With the presidential election less than two months away, we'll check in with some KPBS Citizen Voices bloggers to get their reaction to the vice presidential picks, and how the economy may influence their votes.

There's not a restaurant in the region that serves more food than San Diego City Schools. Monday through Friday in the district, school kitchens churn out some 120,000 meals and snacks a day. KPBS Health Reporter Kenny Goldberg takes a look at what goes on at one of the district's busy kitchens.

What can you do to get an out of control dog to behave? What causes a dog to act aggressively towards other dogs? Why does your dog go crazy every time you leave the house? Host Tom Fudge speaks to a local veterinarian and a local dog trainer about the causes of, and solutions for the most common pet behavioral problems. We also discuss the most common behavioral issues that cat owners run into.

On this edition of Film Club of the Air, we'll talk about the Coen brothers' new comedy and the screen match-up between Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro in Righteous Kill. A little indie film about love in Los Angeles gets our attention, as does the latest adaptation of a Chuck Palahniuk novel. And, finally, we'll leave you with a fun-filled Japanese homage to spaghetti westerns.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger says he'll meet with legislative leaders today to discuss the budget. He says the spending plan approved by the state legislature punishes taxpayers and includes fake budget reforms.

California air regulators say the state's greenhouse gas emissions law will help, not hurt, California's economy. The analysis also shows some unexpected benefits. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce explains.

Baja California's Director of Public Security says 19 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a riot at Tijuana's La Mesa prison yesterday afternoon. It is the second riot at the facility in just three days. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

The Navy has canceled invitations to private meetings with Admiral Len Hering to discuss the proposed Navy Broadway Complex development. Now, the Navy denies those meetings were ever scheduled. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

San Diego city attorney Mike Aguirre wants the city’s pension plan to reveal how the crisis on Wall Street has affected the city’s pension fund. He says the market downturn bolsters his case that millions in pension benefits should be rolled back. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

The California Air Resources Board says efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions over the next 12 years ultimately will benefit the state's economy and save residents money. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

Baja California law enforcement officials say rioting has broken out again at the La Mesa penitentiary in Tijuana. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has details.

Researchers at U-C-S-D say brief one-on-one counseling sessions can reduce the rate of risky behavior among female sex workers in Mexico. Researchers say the method was successful in lowering the rate of sexually transmitted diseases by 40 percent. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

On this edition of Film Club of the Air, we'll talk about the Coen brothers' new comedy and the screen match-up between Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro in Righteous Kill. A little indie film about love in Los Angeles gets our attention, as does the latest adaptation of a Chuck Palahniuk novel. And, finally, we'll leave you with a fun-filled Japanese homage to spaghetti westerns.

On Monday, the U.S. stock market took a nose dive, which in turned led markets in Europe and Asia to tumble as well. How will the state of the economy impact the election in November? We'll take a look at how a struggle financial sector may determine the outcome of San Diego's school bond measures with KPBS Political Correspondent Gloria Penner.

Wildfires can strike the region at any time. But fall is a particularly hazardous time for fires. The hot, dry summer months coupled with Santa Ana winds create conditions for a perfect fire storm. We'll talk about how to keep your family and property safe during the next wild fires.

Many people see the ocean as a sea of serenity. Simply staring at the ocean brings peace and calm. But for creatures living under the water, it's anything but peace and quiet. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce tells us noise pollution from cargo ships and oil tankers is deafening.

The state's top rail safety regulator is seeking an emergency order banning train operators from using cell phones. The order was spurred by Friday's deadly train collision in the San Fernando Valley near Los Angeles. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

UC San Diego scientists say it's too late to stop the effects of global warming. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

The operator of seven community clinics in San Diego and Riverside Counties says it may be forced to close one or more of its sites. The Borrego Community Health Foundation says unless state money flows again soon, it can't continue as is. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.

The two candidates for San Diego’s 3rd District city council seat are both Democrats, but they have different views on what to do about the city’s development corporations. Steven Whitburn and Todd Gloria are vying to take over the seat currently held by Toni Atkins, who is termed out. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

What's the latest news on the San Diego Chargers search for a new stadium? Is the team still talking to Chula Vista about building a stadium along that city's bayfront? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Chargers stadium point-man Mark Fabiani about the teams search for a new home. We also ask Fabiani if the team is interested in playing in a stadium at the 10th Avenue Marine Terminal, which is a proposal that will appear on the November ballot.

How can we ensure that there will be enough water for us in the future? As the global population continues to increase, the supply of fresh water continues to decrease. Host Tom Fudge speaks to Dr. Maude Barlow about her book "Blue Covenant: The Global Water Crisis and the Coming Battle for the Right to Water". We speak to Dr. Barlow about why she says the world is in a water crisis, how the fight for fresh water could lead to international conflicts, and her suggestions for preserving the earth's fresh water supply.

For the first time in history, one in 100 American adults is behind bars. That's close to 2.38 million people. Women represent the fastest growing segment of the prison population. We'll talk about women doing time with a photojournalist who spent several years visiting women behind bars in California. And we'll talk with a former addict and prostitute about her jail time.

California state lawmakers worked through the night to finally approve a budget. It's been two-and-a-half months overdue. But, whether the governor will sign it is still up in the air. Jenny O'Mara reports.

California's record-long budget deadlock is over. The state Assembly and Senate approved the plan earlier this morning, but the governor may not sign the bill. Furthermore the compromise plan depends on "accelerated revenues" and Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle admit the plan would not solve California's long-term fiscal problems. Get the answers from this conversation on Morning Edition with independent Sacramento political consultant Leo McElroy.

A new UC San Diego study claims global warming will lead to biodiversity loss and glacial melt. The lead author believes the Earth will warm more than two-degrees Celsius even if humans take steps to be more responsible.

San Diego city council members question why regular city audits didn’t catch the generous bonuses that staff awarded themselves at the Southeastern Economic Development Corporation. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Two top Tijuana prison officials are wanted in connection with a murder that sparked a deadly riot at a Tijuana prison. Three people were killed and dozens were injured. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

Sweetwater High School in National City is one of only two high school campuses in California that got-off a federal list of failing schools. The principal hopes federal education officials take notice. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

Three people are dead and dozens more injured after a riot at a state prison in Tijuana. The death of an inmate sparked the riot which lasted 12 hours. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has more.

California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner, a wealthy Silicon Valley entrepreneur with a centrist political style, took an initial step Monday toward seeking the Republican nomination for governor in 2010.

Composer Matthew Lien performs in studio and talks about his latest album "A Journey of Water." Over the course of two years, and using water as his guide, Lien conducted field recordings throughout Taiwan in an effort to chart its landscape and culture. Those recordings became the basis of his musical compositions on "A Journey of Water."

What if you could tap thermal energy reserves in the ocean and the atmosphere and turn it into energy? Essentially you would be recycling energy, and creating a clean source of energy that is boundless. Too good to be true? Yes... or that's what we've always thought, because it would require us to rewrite the laws of physics. But some researchers today believe that it may be possible. Well hear from USD physicist Daniel Sheehan, who explains why this could be plausible. He'll also talk about the dramatic effect on our lives and our economies that would result from the ultimate alternative energy source.

Michael Smolens, the politics editor of the San Diego Union Tribune, joins us for a look at the Presidential race and the state budget logjam.

Local author and Kafka Project Director Kathi Diamant joins us for an update on her Magical Mystery Literary History Tour through Eastern Europe this summer to search for the final writings of Franz Kafka.

Legislative leaders say they finally have a deal on a California state budget that's two-and-a-half months overdue. Democrats say they'll put the spending plan up for a vote today. But, the Governor has expressed concerns. Jenny O'Mara reports.

Lawmakers say they've come to a tentative agreement on a California state budget. But the lengthy impasse has meant some extra cash in their pockets -- in the form of "per diem" pay. Jenny O'Mara reports.

California legislative leaders say they've come to agreement on the state budget that's two-and-one-half months overdue. Four San Diego health clinics face closures or reductions in staff due to the California budget crisis. Joining us on Morning Edition is Gary Rotto, director of health policy and fund development for Council of Community Clinics.

The San Diego Chargers lost another heart breaker yesterday, losing to the Denver Broncos 39-to-38. We're joined on Morning Edition by North County Times sports columnist Jay Paris to talk about the Charges and SDSU, San Diego's other football team with a losing record.

At least ten people have been injured in a riot at a state prison, called La Mesa, in Tijuana. Authorities still did not have full control of the facility early Monday morning.

The Navy will release a new environmental assessment this week on plans to build a multi million dollar headquarters on one of the most scenic sites in San Diego. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Elementary school kids at Francis Parker School in Mission Hills are teaching grown-ups a thing or two about the country's national anthem. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

UCSD researchers say they've successfully designed and tested microscopic devices that can deliver anti-cancer drugs to tumors. While researchers have used the technology only in mice, they believe it could work in humans. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

One of California's largest health insurers has agreed to give new policies to hundreds of people whose coverage was improperly canceled. Health Net will also pay 25 million dollars in reimbursements and penalties for terminating policies after people got sick. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

A redevelopment deal for neighborhoods east of Qualcomm Stadium is now under scrutiny at the state level. California Senator Christine Kehoe wants the State Attorney General to investigate why redevelopment funds will be used for projects outside the development area KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

The San Diego County agriculture department plans a trip to Florida to keep pests from hurting local crops. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce explains.

A children's literature expert at San Diego State University says fewer kids are reading for fun. He says a one-million-dollar gift to the university will help researchers try to reverse that trend. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

San Diego Mesa College officials watched construction crews place the last steel beam atop a structure yesterday that will be home to students studying to be health technicians.

Two plays at the Old Globe have our reviewers attention, as does a play called Dying City at Cygnet Theater. We'll talk theater on this edition of the Weekend Preview.

John McCain's selection of Sarah Palin as his vice presidential nominee was first met with skepticism and criticism, but now many political experts are praising the pick as a smart move. Plus, the City Council agreed to send out notices to San Diego ratepayers about two more pending water rate increases. And, the CCDC and SEDC scandals came to a head this week, with significant news happening in both stories.

As the state budget impasse drags on, the public opinion of California lawmakers has plunged to a new low. Jenny O'Mara reports. The new Field Poll says only 15-percent of voters in the state approve of the legislature's job performance. That's compared to 27-percent who felt that way-just back in July. It's the lowest approval rating ever recorded for the state legislature by the Field Poll over the past 25 years.

The state budget impasse is causing the first community health clinics in the state to shut their doors. That includes a San Diego area network of community clinics that will temporarily close or cut back services at up to seven of its facilities. And, more closures are expected. From Sacramento, reporter Kelley Weiss reports.

Two male Oriental fruit flies found in the North County have the San Diego County farm industry concerned. Agriculture officials are now working to eradicate the destructive pest before it damages one of our county's biggest industries.

National transportation officials in Washington don’t like an initiative on San Diego’s ballot: the proposal to build a deck over the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal. Developers say it’s feasible to build a Chargers stadium on top of the deck, without threatening cargo operations below. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Military officials say the U.S. Navy has begun awarding death benefits electronically after a grieving father of a dead sailor was mistakenly jailed on fraudulent check charges.

State and federal authorities have placed part of southern San Diego County under quarantine to regulate the movement of citrus and citrus-related plants in and out of the area.

California voters will be asked to approve a 980-million bond measure for Children's Hospitals in November. Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego will be eligible for 98-million dollars if Prop 3 passes. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

Americans love Chinese food. But one American moved to China and fell so much in love with the art of Chinese food and culture that she went on to cooking school, and eventually opened her own cooking school. We'll talk with former San Diegan Jen Lin-Liu about her new book "Serve the People: A Stir-fried Journey Through China."

Another agricultural pest has been found in San Diego County. Two male Oriental fruit flies were trapped in the La Costa area in Carlsbad.

The Encinitas City Council voted last night to ban the use of all single-use plastic shopping bags within the city. KPBS Environmental Reporter Ed Joyce tells us the plastic bag ban could spread to other cities in the county.

Steven Pinker's new book about language is called "The Stuff of Thought." The relation between language and thought is clear, but controversial. Is language the stuff of thought, or is thought the stuff of language? Pinker tells us what came first, the word or the thought. We'll also talk about why so much of our language depends on metaphor, why we use profanity, what's in a name and why some words catch on and others don't.

Why did the CCDC ultimately decide to drop the 7th and Market development project that was clouded in controversy following the departure of the board's president, Nancy Graham? CCDC board member Bob McNeely speaks to host Tom Fudge about the status of several downtown redevelopment projects, and about the efforts to find a new CCDC president. We also speak to McNeely about how the City can improve oversight of its redevelopment agencies. We also get an update from KPBS reporter Alison St. John on the recently released audit into the SEDC's compensation practices.

While hundreds of thousands of people to evacuate ahead of Hurricane Ike, volunteers are heading to the area to help with the expected relief effort including some from San Diego. Joining us on Morning Edition is Chris Marek, Director of Development and Communications for the Red Cross of San Diego and Imperial Counties.

People who provide state-funded child care and pre-school services to low income Californians are among those being hit hardest by the budget stand off. As the impasse drags into its third month, some of those providers are wondering how long they can hold on.

Many San Diego public school teachers who got pink slips over the summer are back in district classrooms. But the local teachers union is still not satisfied. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis explains.

California lawmakers questioned homeland security officials over delays and cost overruns on construction of fences along the US-Mexico border. Sara Sciammacco reports from Washington.

As Hurricane Ike heads towards Texas, the state of California is sending help.The Governor's Office of Emergency Services has sent more than 300 emergency responders to Texas to help officials there prepare for the hurricane. Kelly Huston is the deputy director of the state agency. He says many of those sent were already in the region.

Authorities say 10 Marines have been injured in a truck rollover at Camp Pendleton.

A long-awaited city audit of San Diego’s Southern Economic Development Corporation concludes the generous bonuses that top staff awarded themselves amount to fraud. Mayor Jerry Sanders says he will ask the District Attorney whether the fraud is criminal. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

San Diego’s downtown development corporation decided today to scrap a $400 million project in downtown, because of former President Nancy Graham’s undisclosed conflict of interest. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Some board members of North County's Tri-City Medical Center say they'd be open to selling the hospital to get enough money to modernize the facility. The hospital district has failed three times to get voters to approve a bond measure to finance the upgrades. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

Agents at the San Ysidro border crossing who aren't used to a new computer system are causing delays for people driving across, especially in Sentri lanes. Federal officials say things should return to normal next week. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

A man who was kidnapped in Chula Vista a year ago is now himself accused of kidnapping in Mexico. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

How do we talk about serious diseases like cancer? Host Maureen Cavanaugh speaks to a cancer survivor and a professor who studies how families, patients, and doctors talk to each about cancer and disease. They explain how their research at the Moores UCSD Cancer Center in San Diego can help people become better communicators when dealing with difficult health problems.

The presidential race went into high gear with the conclusion of the Democratic and Republican national conventions. We'll get some analysis of the events these past two weeks from KPBS Political Correspondent Gloria Penner.

SDSU has initiated a ban on alcohol for the first five weeks of the 2008-09 school year for fraternities. (Sororities are already dry per national policy.) Fraternity recruitment was already alcohol free, but the ban now includes the two weeks leading up to recruitment, traditionally a time for considerable alcohol consumption, culminating in several cases of alcohol poisoning and sexual assaults. We find out why the ban was enacted, how it's working, and how this policy compares with other California schools.

Are you frustrated with the way the San Diego City Council does business? Do you have ideas for how you would like to change San Diego City government? Carl DeMaio, and Donna Frye want to hear your input. Host Tom Fudge speaks to Councilman-elect Carl DeMaio about an effort he is leading, along with Frye, to reform the policies at City Hall. Frye and DeMaio plan to unveil the reform proposals when the new City Council takes office on December 8, 2008.

Last week, the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) hosted a Drought Summit where state, federal and local officials met to discuss ways to deal with the state's water supply shortage that has resulted from ongoing dry weather conditions. One of the most significant actions to come out of the summit, was the creation of the 2009 Drought Water Bank. Host Tom Fudge speaks to Wendy Martin with the DWR about how the Drought Water Bank will work, and what kind of impact it will have on the state's water supply.

A San Diego federal judge has upheld the free speech claim of a Christian math teacher asked to take down classroom banners with the words "God" and "Creator."

The price of crude oil dropped below $104 for the first time since April, but that didn't last too long. Prices are back up this morning as news broke OPEC would decrease output. We're joined on Morning Edition by Phil Flynn, a Senior Market Analyst at Alaron Trading in Chicago.

State Assembly Democrats voted against a Republican budget proposal. It does not raise taxes, but adds more spending cuts than proposed by Democrats or Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Legislation that would pave the way for the expansion of solar energy in California will be decided by Governor Schwarzenegger. Two bills give tax breaks to homeowners and commercial solar facilities. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

The San Diego Unified School District saw an uptick in the number of seniors who passed California's high school exit exam this year. Test results also show San Diego is doing better compared to the state as a whole. Even so, the district will launch a series of reforms in hopes of getting all students to pass the test with flying colors. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

The U-C-S-D School of Medicine will spearhead a nationwide study to look into the prevention and treatment of traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress disorder. The Department of Defense is funding the 60-million dollar research program. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

People who want to cross the border more quickly on foot have a new option. Federal officials opened a new fast-pass lane for pedestrians at San Ysidro. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has details.

The United States leads the world in prisoners and the trend continues to spiral upward. In 1970, fewer than 200,000 people were in federal and state prisons. Today, there are more than 1.5 million people in prison with an additional 750,000 in local jails. America spends $60 billion per year on corrections. Have the past three decades of tough-crime policies made America's cities safer? A recent report by the JFA Institute says no. We'll explore the economic and social costs of America's current incarceration policies.

Experts say research on high school dropouts tends to focus on what causes them to give up on school. But a new study sheds light on what happens to dropouts who return to school. Reporter Ana Tintocalis has the details.

A grifter is a petty swindler. In Debra Ginsberg's new novel, "The Grift," the main character, Marina, pretends to be psychic by way of keen observation of people. But she doesn't believe in psychic ability. Not until she awakes one day to find that she in fact does have "the gift" to see into the future. Intrigue and murder follow...

The world's energy needs are increasing rapidly, yet the U.S. still relies primarily on finite fossil fuels like oil and coal. The subject of nuclear energy, pretty much dead in America for the last 30 years, is starting to arise again. We examine the current role and status of nuclear energy in the U.S. and California, whether new nuclear plants are in our future and how they are different from Generation II plants like San Onofre.

People with drug and alcohol problems often times have unhealthy sex lives. Many engage in unsafe sex while under the influence. Kenny Goldberg talks about a local recovery program that teaches healthy sexual behavior along with dealing with addiction.

California senators had the chance to end the 71 day budget impasse yesterday by approving a Republican proposal but it was rejected by Democrats. It called for closing the state's $15.2 billion deficit without raising taxes. Also, the governor, who was elected during a recall, is now facing one himself.

San Diego is passing on the County Water Authority’s water rate hike to its ratepayers. But unlike other cities in the region, San Diego is asking residents for an extra increase, which some see as a long term investment. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

A new study out says California's farmers can save billions of gallons of water by changing what they plant and how they water it. KPBS Reporter Erik Anderson has details.

A couple of California education groups are suing the State Board of Education over its decision to require all students to take Algebra in the eighth grade. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

The Navy has punished six sailors for their roles in a fire that caused $70 million in damage to the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington.

Programs that help people recover from drug and alcohol addictions don't usually spend a lot of time teaching healthy sexual behavior. Yet that's a vital part of a recovery program in San Diego called Stepping Stone. KPBS Health Reporter Kenny Goldberg has a look, in this second part in our series on sex education.

Members of the city of San Diego’s audit committee are frustrated by how long it’s taken to get an official audit of the South East Development Corporation. The Corporation is under scrutiny since reports surfaced that top executives awarded themselves hefty bonuses . KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

The fight over same-sex marriage in California, and across the country, is part of a larger discussion of what marriage has become and what it ought to be. Marriage in California is now accessible to couples who, by definition, do not sexually reproduce together. Does this mean that having and raising children is no longer central to the experience and the purpose of marriage? And if so, what IS the purpose of marriage? Joining us to talk about marriage and what we should expect from it is a woman who has studied the history of marriage, Stephanie Coontz. Also, attorney Charles Kim comments on whether same-sex marriages, performed in California, will be recognized in other states.

Fall is right around the corner, which means its time to charge course in your garden. We'll talk about what to plant now, and how to amend your soil to get the most out of our garden.

By the time American teens turn 18 years old, 55 percent have had sexual intercourse. And for the first time in 15 years, teen pregnancy rates went up in 2006, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The U.S. still has one of the highest teen pregnancy rates in the developed world. Is better, more comprehensive sex education in schools the answer to preventing teen pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted disease? San Diego schools are grabbling with exactly what to teach and when to start.

A couple of California education groups are suing the State Board of Education over its decision to require all eighth students to take Algebra. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

After years of debate, the California Board of Education adopted a series of sex education guidelines which will be phased-in this year. They require public schools to begin teaching "the birds and bees" when students are just 10 years old. In a two-part series on sex education, KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis explains how local schools are grappling with the issue.

One health care provider in danger of closing is accusing lawmakers of criminal negligence for not passing a spending plan.

There's a lengthy list of people being hurt by the record-long California budget stalemate. And if it continues much longer, there could be another name to add to that list -- Republican presidential nominee, John McCain. From Sacramento Jenny O'Mara reports.

The San Diego Chargers lost their first game of the season on a last-second touchdown pass. The Chargers lost a heart-breaker yesterday at the Q, but the team never really seemed to get it going against the Carolina Panthers yesterday. Was the upset loss just a fluke, or should the Charger faithful be worried?

A coastal lagoon project in Del Mar millions of people drive by every day is now filled with millions of fish. Scientists say the restoration project is so successful it could be a model for others across the country. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

The results of investigations into two troubled San Diego City Development Corporations are expected to be made public this week. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

A new report from the U-C-L-A Center for Health Policy Research reveals more than half of all California adults are overweight or obese. The report is based on a survey of more than 140-thousand people. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

California water officials are working on plans to deal with a continued drought. One of those plans could benefit San Diego County farmers. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

July 21, 2008 — Calexico Bulldog football can be heard live across the Imperial Valley this upcoming season on KQVO 97.7 FM.The high school games will be announced by veteran hosts John Moreno and Vic Carrillo starting September 5. Moreno, the vice-principal of Calexico High School, says he’s excited about this season.

July 21, 2008 — Calexico Bulldog football can be heard live across the Imperial Valley this upcoming season on KQVO 97.7 FM. The high school games will be announced by veteran hosts John Moreno and Vic Carrillo starting September 5. Moreno, the vice-principal of Calexico High School, says he’s excited about this season.

The Labor Council of San Diego and Imperial Counties has decided to withhold its endorsement from both candidates in the San Diego city attorney’s race. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Teachers unions across California are staging a variety of protests today to oppose the state's budget deadlock. Public school teachers in San Diego are dialing up their local legislators. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has this report.

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin received high marks for her prime-time speech at the Republican National Convention. Plus, the CCDC re-appointed three board members, while the SEDC added four new faces to its board of directors. And, residents in the Imperial Valley and the North County are battling it out over the rights to the 760 area code.

Well, it's over - the Republican National Convention adjourned last night, sending its nominees for president and vice president into campaign mode to the tune of "Go Johnny Go."

The Democratic and Republican National Conventions of 2008 are history now. Thousands of delegates, guests, and the media are heading back home.

It was an overflow crowd at a State public hearing in Carlsbad on San Diego’s 760 area code. Residents protested a decision to change North County’s phone code to 442 and let the Inland Empire keep 760. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

California water officials are preparing for another dry year. A two year drought shows no signs of letting up. A state agency is creating a water bank next year. It's one way San Diego might get more water. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

We'll talk about the new restaurants and cafes popping up all around San Diego with City Search editor Erin Chambers.

There's a wide gap in breastfeeding rates among new mothers discharged from various San Diego area hospitals. A new report reveals most local mothers start breastfeeding in the hospital, but less than six out of ten exclusively breastfeed when they're discharged. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

California water officials are making plans to deal with severe drought conditions that show no signs of changing anytime soon. One plan would ship water from the north to San Diego and other areas of the state. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has more.

How big of a deal is high school football in the Imperial County? Host Tom Fudge speaks to John Moreno and Victor Carrillo about the popularity of high school football in the Imperial Valley. We also talk to John and Vic about the Calexico High School Bulldogs' upcoming football season, which will be broadcast live on KPBS' sister station, 97.7 FM KQVO in Calexico.

Is this a make a break year for the Chargers' Super Bowl dreams? What will it take for the Bolts to take the next step, and earn a berth in the NFL's championship game? What other teams look to be strong in the NFL this season? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Lee "Hacksaw" Hamilton about the upcoming NFL season. We also talk to "Hacksaw" about the Aztecs' football team, and their game against Notre Dame this weekend.

San Diego Chargers kicker Nate Kaeding is one of the top players in the NFL at his position. Kaeding has hit 91 of 105 field goal tries, and has hit 175 consecutive PATs since being drafted by the team in 2004. Host Tom Fudge speaks to Kaeding about his roots in Iowa City, his interests off the football field, and the Chargers upcoming season. We also speak to Kaeding about what it's like to kick a field goal with a fractured left leg, which he did four times in last year's AFC Championship Game in frigid New England.

What are the hot topics in the Imperial County? Host Tom Fudge speaks to Brad Jennings, editor of the Imperial Valley Press, about why Imperial County business leaders are fighting to keep the 760 area code. We also talk to Jennings about how IV residents will deal with water rationing in 2009, and why off-roaders are kicking up dust over a plan to protect 70,000 acres of land Northeast of Glamis.

U.S. authorities say they intercepted two boats off San Diego's coast with a total of 24 illegal immigrants aboard.

Are girls less aggressive than boys? Not according to research which shows that girls can be just as aggressive as boys but they do it differently. While boys tend to engage in physical fights, girls use words and body language when aggressive. And researchers think the results can be very damaging for girls.

It's been back to back presidential nominating conventions for the past two weeks. But things are winding down. KPBS political correspondent Gloria Penner is on her final day at the Republican National Convention.

Governor Schwarzenegger requested a meeting with Republican lawmakers in the Senate and the Assembly to talk about the record late state budget. The GOP governor has been at-odds with legislators in his party over how to fill the state's 15-billion-dollar budget gap.

The Republican Convention moves into its final day today with the highlight planned as the acceptance speech by Senator John McCain.

Governor Schwarzenegger pounded on lawmakers for attending their party conventions and failing to pass a budget. He said legislators are not being held accountable for the record-long budget impasse

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin excited the Republican faithful last night with her first major speech on a national stage. After the speech, KPBS spoke with San Diego delegates.

Last week the KPBS radio newsroom received two phone calls from the Navy and an e-mail, informing us of the decommissioning of the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk. They wanted us to cover the story.

A California appeals court has ruled that San Diego County’s Registrar of Voters does not have to manually count 10% of the vote in close races. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Despite the record breaking late budget, some state GOP lawmakers are attending their national convention. Jenny O'Mara reports.

A jury has found San Diego Gas & Electric negligent in the deaths of four Marines who were killed when their helicopter hit an unlit utility tower on Camp Pendleton in 2004.

Doctors, hospitals, and other providers in San Diego are urging state lawmakers to pass a budget that minimizes cuts to healthcare programs. Providers say our local safety net is already at risk. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

State lawmakers were busy passing hundreds of bills over the holiday weekend. But, unless they reach a budget deal by the end of the month, the Governor promises he'll veto all of them. Sacramento reporter Marianne Russ has a round-up of the bills in jeopardy.

The development boom along Baja California's coast has slowed dramatically during the last few years. Developers say the U-S mortgage crisis and the economic downturn have deflated sales. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

When New York Times journalist Lily Koppel climbed into a dumpster outside her apartment building, she didn't know the extent of the treasures that lay inside. What came of it was a book based on a 75-year-old diary kept by a young New York woman in the 1930s. We'll talk with the author about finding the diary's owner, now 93 years old, and unraveling the hopes and dreams that we all possess.

We all will die someday...it is unavoidable. But how do we deal with and prepare for death? How has the Western approach to death evolved over the years? And is there a 'right' way to prepare for the end of our lives? We'll talk about death and dying and the role that hospice and palliative care play in the process.

Human beings have fretted about traffic since they started to do something other than walk. The advent of horses, carts, carriages, bicycles, automobiles and skateboards have all caused annoyance and accidents and a re-figuring of the complex dance we engage in trying to get from one place to another. A new book examines why we drive the way we do, what that says about us and why we are worse drivers than we think we are.

The national Republican convention got underway this week in St. Paul, Minnesota but the mood has been dampened by Hurricane Gustav. We'll talk with KPBS Political Correspondent Gloria Penner, who is at the convention, about the atmosphere, the speeches and the Republican plan to keep control of the White House.

The city attorney's office has dropped a civil lawsuit against a San Diego police officer whose police dog died when he left it in a hot patrol car with the windows closed.

State regulators on Tuesday blamed two companies for violating power line regulations and causing three of the deadly fires that swept through San Diego County last fall.

The Republican National Convention in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is half over. Last night's speeches set the stage for the main events. Tonight, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin will address the convention in preparation for her nomination. Joining us on Morning Edition is KPBS Political Correspondent Gloria Penner. She is watching the action and meeting with San Diego delegates in Saint Paul.

With Hurricane Gustav no longer a threat to the Gulf Coast, last night the Republican National Convention resumed its full schedule of speeches. KPBS Political Correspondent Gloria Penner has been covering both conventions and is now in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

The San Diego city council got an earful from citizens demanding changes in the way the city oversees its development corporations. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

San Diego’s democratic faithful are divided over the city attorney’s race. Republican Jan Goldsmith, who’s challenging Mike Aguirre for the city attorney’s job, has won the endorsement of several prominent state democrats. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

San Diego School Superintendent Terry Grier says he's pleased with the opening of school yesterday. This is the first time Grier is presiding over the district when school is in session. He says among the changes this year is the opening of a one-of-a-kind music magnet school. He hopes it will help the district compete with private and charter schools. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

The election is two months away, and we are entering a period of intense political campaigning as politicians and advocates make their case to voters. Some people have already made up their minds. But public opinion is still in flux when it comes to the Presidential election and local elections. Besides, California's November ballot will be so lengthy that voter fatigue and attention deficit will surely affect the results. We'll hear from three professional pollsters who'll talk about public opinion now and how it's likely to change between now and election day.

Baja California police have discovered a sophisticated smuggling tunnel about 120 miles east of San Diego in the Mexican border town Mexicali. Authorities say organized crime groups planned to sneak drugs, people and weapons through the tunnel. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson has the story.

San Diego School Superintendent Terry Grier says there have been no major problems on the first day of the new school year. This despite a number of new challenges. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.

California's budget impasse is putting enormous financial pressure on nursing homes and other providers that depend on Medi-Cal payments. The state ran out of Medi-Cal funds on July 24th. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

There's a new pest attacking oak trees in San Diego County. Officials are concerned because the insect has infested up to 70-percent of the oak trees in Alpine and Julian. KPBS Reporter Ed Joyce has details.

How far would you go to win a tennis match or bike race? If you knew your competitors were using steroids, would you as well? Does the end justify the means? With the 2008 Summer Olympic games behind us, we'll examine the ethical questions of sports and technology. We'll look at the physical and social costs of pushing athletes to be stronger and faster than ever before.

What have been the biggest accomplishments to come out of the San Diego Zoo's Giant Panda Conservation Unit? Over the last decade, the zoo's pandas have given birth to four healthy cubs, and entertained millions of visitors. Host Tom Fudge speaks to Dr. Ron Swaisgood, from the Giant Panda Conservation Unit, about the scientific breakthroughs that have been achieved as a result of the zoo's panda program. We also speak to Kathy Hawk, a San Diego Zoo senior keeper who has worked with the panda's since they arrived in 1996.

Yesterday was the first day of the Republican National Convention. It was a short first session because of the threat of hurricane Gustav to the gulf coast. KPBS political correspondent Gloria Penner is in St. Paul, Minnesota, covering the convention.

The Republicans kicked-off their convention yesterday. KPBS has three staffers in Saint Paul blogging, tweeting, flickring, and reporting on the GOP's launching of their nominees for president and vice president. Joining us on Morning Edition is KPBS political correspondent Gloria Penner.

For the first time ever, a California state budget hasn't been passed by September First. We're joined on Morning Edition by independent Sacramento political consultant Leo McElroy.

SAN DIEGO – Sept. 1, 2008 – To recognize outstanding leaders who have made a difference within the Latino community, Union Bank of California and KPBS are honoring six San Diego Latinos with Local Hero of the Year Awards.

As the fourth in the line of what has become San Diego’s royal family, the Giant Panda cub Zhen Zhen’s opening year of life was marked by not only her milestones, but those of her siblings, as well as the massive earthquake in China that devastated the Giant Panda breeding center closely tied to the San Diego Zoo’s conservation efforts.

We may or may not be in a recession, but for many Californians, it feels like one. That's the upshot of two new studies this labor day.

The chairman of the state republican party is from San Diego. He says Senator John McCain's presidential campaign is getting the attention of undecided and independent voters in California. But the state's most well known Republican --Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, cancelled plans to speak today and remains on the sidelines. From Sacramento, Steve Shadley reports.