Midday Edition

Contentions over COVID-19 mandates have school boards dealing with increased hostility to the point where Attorney General Merrick Garland ordered the FBI to look into these incidents. Plus, child and teen obesity is believed to have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, what should be done to address it? Also, Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a law intended to address racial disparities in maternal and infant health. Meanwhile, increased wildfires due to climate change are destroying ancient sequoia trees. And, in the California Report’s latest Hidden Gem: a tiny treat shop that sells hand-made mochi. Finally, KPBS arts reporter Beth Accomando has a preview of the San Diego Italian Film Festival, which is returning to in-person tomorrow.

Much of San Diego experienced hours of thunder, lightning and pouring rain, less than 24 hours after a mild Santa Ana. Another rainstorm may be on its way at the end of the week. Plus, the oil spill in Orange County could have an environmental impact for years. Also, San Diego Nobel Prize-winner Ardem Patapoutian talks about the journey that brought him to the U.S. and a career in science. In addition, how will the new sweeping laws on policing affect law enforcement and the people they serve? Meanwhile, as parts of the United States, such as Texas, are restricting access to abortion, in Mexico, things seem to be headed in the other direction. And, while the military has become more racially diverse, a recent survey found Black, Latino, and Asian service members don’t always feel welcome off-base. Finally, the Haunted Hotel reopens to scare people in person after being closed last year because of the pandemic. Owner Greg DeFatta speaks to KPBS Arts Reporter Beth Accomando about what to expect.

Scripps Research scientist Ardem Patapoutian and his partner David Julius at UCSF won the award for their work in discovering how skin receptors allow people to sense temperature and touch. Plus, San Diego State receives a $15 million grant to research Latinx health disparities across San Diego and Imperial counties. Also, the military often falls short in recognizing how the “wounds of war” can lead to incidents of misconduct. How one Marine won a rare victory against the system. Meanwhile, now that California’s statewide eviction moratorium has expired, many tenants are looking for rent relief and legal guidance. And, the effort to establish the city’s first Black Arts and Culture District to bring resources and revitalization to a long-ignored Encanto neighborhood. Finally, if you've lived in California for long enough, you’ve probably seen one of those iconic yellow bumper stickers that say "mystery spot." But do you actually know what the 81-year-old roadside attraction called "The Mystery Spot" is all about?

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday announced the nation's first coronavirus vaccine mandate for schoolchildren once they received final approval from the FDA for various grade levels. Plus, legal scholars are calling for the disbarment of a law professor who worked to keep Donald Trump in office after his election loss. And a preview of the arts happenings this weekend.

Health care workers have until today to be vaccinated, but many are not. Plus, an independent investigation into the incident at Valhalla High School where a staff member placed his knee on the neck of a Black student has concluded. The school district is moving forward with the recommendations. Also, “The Wrap” device that the Medical Examiner’s Office said contributed to Earl McNeil’s death continues to be used by law enforcement, raising questions about police tactics that officers continue to use across the country. Meanwhile, in the continuing investigation, we look at how some Californians are coping with the smoke created by wildfires, and why the smoke hits some parts of the state harder than others. And, a recent survey found most Americans greatly overestimate how many veterans have PTSD. In addition, a preview of the Gaslight Steampunk Expo as it returns in-person at the Mission Valley Marriott Hotel. Finally, five songs to highlight Latinx musicians as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

The San Diego Unified school board voted to require COVID-19 vaccinations for school district staff and students 16 and older beginning on Dec. 20. Plus, we speak to Dr. Eric Topol about variants, testing and vaccines. Then, we bring you an interview with San Diego's independent budget analyst, Andrea Tevlin, who announced her retirement this month after working at the city for 16 years. Her office was established by voters in 2004 as an independent check on the mayor. Also, a KQED investigative project shows that children are especially affected by wildfire smoke. And, La Mesa’s Oktoberfest is resuming in person this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, after going virtual last year due to the pandemic. Lastly, a “Port of Entry” interview with the famed animator Jorge Gutierrez about his new show and his cross-border influences between Tijuana and San Diego.

While many Americans are eager to bolster their immunity against COVID-19, questions remain about who’s exactly eligible to receive the booster shot. Meanwhile, time and money is running out for San Diego’s rental assistance program. Plus, while San Diego was spared from the recent wildfires, smoke from western wildfires is causing air pollution problems and health issues far away from fire zones. Also, despite lofty expectations, and a high-priced roster, the Padres were eliminated from the postseason. Where does the team go from here? And, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has hatched an Egyptian vulture. It’s the first time the species has reproduced in captivity in North America. Finally, from the archive, the story of Sally Ride, America’s first woman in space, is being told, along with the stories of other inspiring women in a series of young adult books called “She Persisted.”

Parents of children enrolled in the San Marcos Unified School District were given cause for alarm after being informed that some students had been “attending school with known COVID-19 positive test results.” Meanwhile, COVID-19 outbreaks at schools are having big impacts on families, especially those in rural communities. Plus, both the city and county of San Diego want to right the wrongs from the “War of Drugs,” but plans for a cannabis social equity program are still not in place. Also, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria is pushing for more protected bike lanes in San Diego, but for some families, these changes haven’t come soon enough. And, Encinitas is saying no to gas, natural gas that is. City leaders say the building electrification ordinance is part of the city’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gases. Finally, from the California Report, a hidden gem in Joshua Tree and it’s not the striking scenery from the National Park. It’s a salon that’s an oasis of style in this small desert community.

After a year of virtual classes, UC San Diego came roaring back this week in-person, welcoming what could be the largest number of fall semester students in its history. Plus, The biggest professional tennis tournament in San Diego history is being served up next week. And, this weekend in the arts: a 21st birthday party (and exhibition) for Art Produce, Bodhi Tree Concerts, art meets science at La Jolla Historical Society, “The Garden” and Burn All Books + Teros.

The FDA and a CDC panel approved a third dose of the Pfizer vaccine for seniors and high-risk groups. Plus, care workers who visit people’s homes are not required by the state to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Then, a private prison in Downtown San Diego remains open despite an executive order by President Joe Biden. Also, the San Diego City Council cleared the way for another attempt to revitalize the city’s Midway district. And, The California Creative Workforce Act is the first of its kind: it aims to grow and diversify the arts workforce and provide a living wage to artists. Lastly, a decades-old San Diego community choir shares the history, trauma, encouragement and rejoicing found in gospel music.