Good morning, San Diego 🌤️

Here’s what we have for you today:

  • A new episode of the San Diego Politics Show breaks down Measure A —a proposed tax on empty second homes — and talks to an opponent, local activist Shane Harris.
  • And, how sound therapy is treating everything from stress to strokes for San Diegans.

Tessa Balc

Audience engagement producer


Top story

Venturing under the radar for National Burger Day on May 28

There are few things in this world that wield the power of a good burger. One bite can bring on nostalgia — take you back to some summer barbecue. Occasionally it can redeem a day, other times it can elevate an already amazing one.

Whether you prefer it juicy or greasy, made of beef or beans, burgers are a staple of the American diet. So, get ready because this Thursday is National Burger Day, and to help you prepare we have the rundown of some patties worth trying that one might consider off the beaten path.

Of course there are many burger spots in San Diego, well known to locals. Take The Friendly, Rocky’s Crown Pub or Hodad’s, opinions on those joints aside, they tend to get a good amount of attention. So our favorite Foodie, Frank Sabatini Jr., took it upon himself to venture to some spots and menu items that have flown somewhat under-the-radar.

And, burger haters, if you made it through the entire patty propaganda, just know you can relax now. 

We have some other stories you can chew on today, like a window into the next live-recorded album coming out from the Sure Fire Soul Ensemble. The jazz-funk group will be at Lou Lou’s this weekend, laying down their second live album. Fans can expect a mix of already released songs, and some never before heard.


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Stories you should know about

🚓 San Diego Police Officer charged with multiple counts of sexual exploitation of minors and possession of child pornography: Officer Brandon McGibbon, a six-year veteran of the department, was indicted on May 20 for allegedly sexually enticing girls as young as 13 years old online.

🏗️ State land-use law looming over La Mesa’s transit corridors: On July 1, Senate Bill 79, the “Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act,” will become state law. We take a look at how La Mesa is preparing.

🎼 Sure Fire Soul Ensemble will record a live album at upcoming show – but expect a party too: Three years after “Live at Panama 66” – recorded at the Balboa Park restaurant and bar in the album’s name – the band will make its next live album the last weekend in May.

🚫 San Diego Politics Show: The case against the vacant homes tax: Shane Harris, the spokesman for the No on Measure A campaign, was the guest on this week’s episode.

💰‘A huge loss.’ San Diegans brace for Trump’s second run at gutting homelessness programs: The ongoing uncertainty is causing some local providers to proactively wind down programs they don’t think will be funded long term. 

🎓 Opinion: After college graduation, a life of purpose is what really matters: Our region depends on people who are ready not only to contribute professionally, but to lead, serve and respond to real challenges in their communities.


Times of San Diego thanks our corporate sponsors. Find out more about sponsorships and advertising opportunities here.


Step back in time…

Can you guess what the name of the area this photo was taken in? The first person to reply correct to get a shoutout in tomorrow’s newsletter!