Illicit or unsavory sex committed by public political figures is not a modern or strictly American phenomenon. But there’s something about what’s going on with U.S. politicians recently that feels more disturbing than simply caving into carnal temptations.

The new special features new songs and audience favorites, and showcases a more mature, dynamic group. Damian McGinty, the youngest member - now in deeper voice and standing one foot-and-a-half taller - performs "Happy Birthday Sweet 16" and "Breaking Up is Hard to Do" like a young Neil Sedaka or Frankie Valli. Ryan Kelly's dark destroyer persona emerges during his rendition of The Police's "Every Breath You Take." George Donaldson's charisma and humor shines through during his energetic delivery of The Proclaimers' hit "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)," and Paul Byrom reaches new vocal heights with "You Raise Me Up." Blonde surfer hunk Keith Harkin is set to steal more hearts singing Don McLean's "Castles in the Air," during which he also plays guitar. Powerful ensemble numbers include "Working Man," "Take Me Home" and an a cappella rendition of "Danny Boy."

San Diego’s Ethics Commission lost a bid to get more power Wednesday at a city council committee verb. The committee heard the arguments but did not act on the issue.

About 800 members of the California Hospital Association met in Sacramento Tuesday to prepare for a possible swine flu epidemic this fall. One key issue the state’s hospitals face is how to protect their workers from contracting the virus as they treat sick patients.

UC San Diego and the San Diego Unified School District are working together to broaden the teaching of science. The goal is to provide hands-on science training to help educate the next generation of environmental leaders.

U.S. federal officials say smuggling groups are recruiting teenagers on school campuses in San Diego and Imperial Counties to carry drugs across the U.S.-Mexico border.

Local mid-century art enthusiast, curator, and collector Dave Hampton shares his thoughts on the passing of Jim Carroll, punk rocker, poet, and author of the autobiography "The Basketball Diaries."

Former New York Times restaurant critic Frank Bruni talks about his battle with food in his new book "Born Round: The Secret History of a Full-Time Eater."

The movement to openly carry unloaded firearms in public places in San Diego County is centered in Escondido. Escondido Open Carry will appear at 19 events this month. We look at what's been happening, why they do it, and find out what law enforcement thinks about it.

An Orange County Assemblyman is the latest politician to lose his career over an illicit affair. KPBS Political Correspondent Gloria Penner discusses the sex scandals of the summer and why politicians keep misbehaving.

Will the legislation that was passed by the State Senate and Assembly do enough to fix the problems in the California prison system? We speak to a reporter and a sociology professor about the biggest problems in the state corrections system, and to get their thoughts on the latest legislation.

About 800 members of the California Hospital Association met in Sacramento on Tuesday to prepare for a possible swine flu epidemic this fall. One key issue the state’s hospitals face is how to protect their workers from contracting the virus as they treat sick patients.

Drug smugglers along the U.S. Mexico border are using a new tactic to sneak their contraband into the United States. They're recruiting junior high and high school students, some as young as thirteen years old.