Two years ago today, historic flooding devastated neighborhoods and displaced communities across San Diego.The destruction also left many arts and culture spaces in ruin.Thursday on Midday Edition, we sit down with two local arts groups — Graffiti Gardens and PASACAT — to talk about the hardships that came from the flooding and how they have rebuilt since.Then, Oscar nominations are out! Our Midday Movies critics share their reactions to everything, from new record-setting nominations to the biggest snubs of the year.Guests:Maxx Moses, graffiti artist, owner of Graffiti GardensAnamaria Labao Cabato, executive director, PASACATBeth Accomando, arts reporter, Cinema Junkie host, KPBSYazdi Pithavala, podcaster, Moviewallas

San Diego's Rady Children's Hospital this week announced that it will stop offering gender-affirming care under the threat of losing federal funding.The hospital is the only in San Diego County dedicated solely to pediatric care.On Midday Edition, we speak with the leader of a prominent transgender advocacy group ahead of a planned protest this weekend.Guest:Kathie Moehlig, founder and executive director, TransFamily Support Services

On Jan. 22, 2024, floods devastated San Diego neighborhoods in the Chollas Creek watershed.

Thousands of residents were forced out of their homes that day. Videos show cars completely submerged in water. Some escaped on kayaks, while others gathered on their rooftops.

On Midday Edition, we talk about San Diego's ongoing effort to fix its stormwater system. And, where litigation stands between the city and flood survivors.

We also check in with Jessica Calix, who continues fighting for her community two years after losing her Southcrest home.

Plus, the story of a flower shop that flooded again this month for the second time in less than two years.

• Maura Fox, communities reporter, The San Diego Union-Tribune
• Jessica Calix, survivor of the 2024 floods
• Meg Blancato, co-owner, Native Poppy

The U.S. government released new dietary guidelines earlier this month. The guidance adds greater emphasis on proteins and healthy fats, and limits processed and ultra-processed foods.

On Midday Edition Tuesday, we get reaction from health and food experts to the new guidelines, and what families should take away from them.

Guests:

• Cheryl Anderson, dean, professor, Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health & Human Longevity Science, UC San Diego
• Traci Roberts, nutritionist, UC San Diego Health

One year ago, Donald Trump was sworn into office for the second time.

Experts agree that his first term was largely unpredictable. But his second term has been marked by an even greater sense of volatility, unprecedented action and seismic shifts in both domestic and foreign policy.

We break down the major policies that defined the first year of Trump's second term. And, what we should expect heading into the midterms.

Then, we sit down with organizer of San Diego's "Free America" Walkout, joining a national demonstration protesting Trump's policies.

• Casey Dominguez, professor of political science and international relations, University of San Diego
• Lisa Doell, organizer, "Free America" Walkout San Diego

Each year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we look back at the reverend's legacy and how his fight for racial and economic justice resounds today.

But the holiday comes during a politically and socially turbulent time in the United States and amid recent efforts to undermine King's legacy — like the Trump administration's removal of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth as free entry days to national parks.

Monday on Midday Edition, we reflect on what we can learn from King's teachings and values in 2026, and how it continues to inspire community leaders in San Diego and beyond.

Guests:

• Montague Williams, professor of church, culture, and society; director of the Pilgrimage Innovation Hub, Point Loma Nazarene University; author of “Church in Color: Youth Ministry, Race, and the Theology of Martin Luther King Jr.”
• Leonard Thompson III, president and CEO, M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records
• Martin Luther King III, eldest son of Martin Luther King Jr., global human rights advocate

25 years ago, Point Loma’s Liberty Station began its transformation from military base to arts center.

It was renamed Arts District Liberty Station — and soon became a cultural hub for the city.

In fact, it was recently designated as a California Cultural District for its contribution to the arts.

Thursday on Midday Edition, we talk about the place Liberty Station has in San Diego's arts and culture scene.

Then, KPBS' Beth Accomando previews a documentary being screened at the 36th annual San Diego International Jewish Film Festival.

Then, the KPBS arts and culture podcast "The Finest" premieres its second season. We get a special sneak peek at what is to come — from risograph printing to hometown heroes.

• Lisa Johnson, president and CEO, Arts District Liberty Station
• Rachel Laing, assistant deputy director in economic development, city of San Diego
• Abby Ginzberg, filmmaker, "Labors of Love: The Life and Legacy of Henrietta Szold"
• Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest," KPBS

• Emerging Artist Residencies — Arts District Liberty Station

A local Indigenous-owned company is making waves in the beauty industry.

N8iV Beauty is a skincare brand that draws from ancestral traditions, infusing that knowledge and plant-based ingredients — like acorn oil — into its products.

Last year, the company won a 2025 “Best of Beauty” award from Allure, making them the first Indigenous-owned brand to receive that recognition.

Wednesday on Midday Edition, we hear from its founder about how N8iV Beauty is reclaiming space for Native representation in the beauty world.

Guest:

• Ruth-Ann Thorn, tribal member of Rincon Indian Band of Luiseño Indians, founder and CEO of N8iV Beauty