Midday Edition

Despite recent record-high temperatures across the San Diego region this weekend, the official start of spring is still weeks away.

Gardening expert Nan Sterman joins Midday Edition Monday to talk about planting for spring in the wake of our warmer winter.

Sterman gives tips on everything from how to choose the right citrus tree to plant, to how to help young children develop a passion for gardening.

Guest:

Nan Sterman, host, KPBS, "A Growing Passion"

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The Epstein files include the names of many of the world's most rich and powerful.

One of them is a prominent figure in San Diego: bestselling author and wellness guru Deepak Chopra. He's mentioned in the files more than 4,000 times.

UC San Diego told CNN that Chopra's association with Epstein was "regrettable" and said his affiliation with the school will end at the end of June.

“UC San Diego is aware that Deepak Chopra, MD, has been mentioned in files that were recently released by the Department of Justice. Dr. Chopra currently has a Voluntary Clinical Professor (without salary) appointment in the School of Medicine’s Department of Family Medicine with an expected job end date of 6/30/26,” UC San Diego told CNN.

“While we are not able to comment further on personnel matters, the crimes Jeffrey Epstein committed were horrific, and any association with him is regrettable.”

We discuss recent reporting that outlines Chopra's relationship and correspondence with Epstein over the years. And, UC San Diego's decision to end Chopra's affiliation with the school.

Also, another revelation that Epstein provided funding for a UC San Diego lab within the department of psychology.

Guest:

• Jakob McWhinney, education reporter, Voice of San Diego

The United States and Israel's coordinated attacks on Iran that started over the weekend continue to escalate.

Among the ships involved in strikes include a San Diego-based aircraft carrier — the USS Abraham Lincoln.

At least four American soldiers have died in the conflict so far. President Donald Trump says the conflict could take four to five weeks, or far longer.

On Midday Edition, we break down the latest news out of Iran with an expert on war, peace and international politics.

We also talk about what the war could mean for San Diegans.

Guest:

• Erik Gartzke, professor of political science and director of The Center for Peace and Security Studies at UC San Diego

Acclaimed writer George Saunders is one of the featured authors at this week's 31st annual Writer's Symposium by the Sea in Point Loma.

Known for groundbreaking works like "Lincoln in the Bardo" and "Tenth of December," Saunders joined Midday Edition Wednesday to reflect on his writing process, and how he approaches teaching the art of writing to a new generation.

Guest:

George Saunders, author, "Vigil", "Lincoln in the Bardo"

Link:

31st Annual Writer's Symposium by the Sea event with George Saunders on Feb. 27

Nearly 50% of all cancer deaths are considered preventable, according to the American Association for Cancer Research.

However, there remains a general lack of awareness about early detection and screening.

This Cancer Prevention Month, doctors are spreading the word about how to be more proactive about your health. We talk to one local researcher to hear more.

Guest:

• Dr. Svasti Haricharan, professor of biology at San Diego State University, member of UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, research grantee at American Cancer Society

This Black History Month, we're celebrating local Black leaders across every field — from art, to community organizing and wellness.

On Midday Edition Tuesday, we feature two Black women making waves in San Diego's education and food justice scenes.

We hear about their lifelong commitments to social justice and equity and the philosophies that motivate them to continue their work.

Guests:

• Ashanti T. Hands, president, San Diego Mesa College
• Diane Moss, founder and managing director, Project New Village

Officials say at least 62 people have died in Mexico, but none in Tijuana or elsewhere in Baja California.

On Midday Edition, we discuss where the violence stands now and what the operation says about the state of U.S.-Mexico relations.

Guest:

• Ev Meade, director of Proceso Pacífico, a peace building group in Culiacán

In commemoration of Black History Month, we are continuing to sit down with local Black trailblazers who are continuing to leave their mark on the community.

Brisa Johnson has spent much of her life advocating for social justice in many different capacities, from leading civic engagement initiatives to spearheading the creation of the San Diego Black Worker Center.

Monday on Midday Edition, we hear from Johnson about her journey to where she is today and what it means to fight for workers' justice in 2026.

Guest:

• Brisa Johnson, executive director, San Diego Black Worker Center