San Diegans voted yes on Measure B last month to allow the city to charge for trash collection that many have been enjoying for free, but it’ll be a while until they see any bills. In other news, a new report breaks down the improvements needed at Balboa Park. Plus, children in Liberia are set to have a merrier Christmas this year, thanks to a woman from Del Mar.

Striking University of California academic workers have put their picket lines on hold for the winter break, after agreeing to mediation with university negotiators. In other news, California utility regulators moved this month to prepare for the state’s transition away from natural gas. Plus, we have details on some of the most popular holiday light displays in San Diego County.

The Pentagon is finishing a review of its policies regarding suicide, and although the number of military suicides declined slightly last year, it remains a major problem. In other news, a legal expert talked to KPBS about what may have led to the San Diego County District Attorney’s decision to not charge three former Aztec football players for an alleged gang rape off campus. Plus, we have some weekend arts events worth checking out.

Hundreds of families signed up for a chance at a brand new affordable home in Escondido, but only 10 of the applicants will get a new set of house keys. In other news, flu and COVID-19 cases are being tracked through wastewater, as hospitals deal with surges in both viruses. Plus, longtime San Diego LGBTQ activist, Nicole Murray Ramirez is honored with a street sign.

A North County family helps a Russian relative escape the war against Ukraine. In other news, Barrio Logan residents may be getting relief from pungent odors coming from a biofuels plant on Newton Avenue. Plus, property owners in North Park this year approved a new tax on themselves to fund extra cleanups, landscaping and other improvements on streets and storefronts.

A local biologist's own experience gives him a deep understanding of the science and culture of deafness. In other news, the city of San Diego's ambulance provider, Falck, is offering sign-on bonuses as it faces staffing shortages ahead of an expected busy season for hospitals.

Chula Vista officials claim a new policy bans the sale of data picked up by police surveillance tools, but privacy advocates warn most personal information could still lawfully be sold. In other news, Southwestern College and San Diego State University have just received grants to support more Hispanic students in healthcare careers. Plus, sea lions have made themselves quite at home at the Oceanside Harbor, and boat owners there don’t like it.

Solar backers rallied here and across California as utility regulators consider new rules for the solar industry. In other news, December Nights returns to all of Balboa Park Friday, after three years. Plus, Diversionary Theatre debuts Charles Ludlum’s 1984 play, “The Mystery of Irma Vep.”

The U.S. Department of Education is asking local school systems to better meet the needs of military children with disabilities. In other news, San Diego police are going to start enforcing the city’s street vending law in some areas this weekend. Plus, the city of San Diego’s electric street sweeper officially has a name.

Mexico deployed hundreds of National Guard troops in Tijuana to combat violent crime, but data shows that crime hasn’t decreased. In other news, the first Regional Task Force on Homelessness Conference is Wednesday and Thursday. Plus, a new study finds Americans would rather hurt the political cause they believe in than support the one they don’t.