AirTalk

Guest host Jon Beaupre discusses the end of the "Cash for Clunkers" program. And as students return to class, how are schools and universities preparing for H1N1 flu? Then, do students perform better with online instruction or in conventional classrooms? Finally, are the chances of finding life on distant planets getting better?

Larry Mantle talks with San Francisco mayor Gavin Newsom about his bid for governor. Next, when should prisoners be given compassionate release? Then, it's FilmWeek on AirTalk. Larry and film critics Jean Oppenheimer and Wade Major discuss the week's new releases, including Inglourious Basterds, Shorts, My One and Only, and Post Grad, among others. Later, Larry discusses the films of Quentin Tarantino with critics and listeners.

Larry Mantle gets an overview of the CA Legislature's vote on prison reform. Then, a discussion of LA County's criteria for evaluating child abuse. Afterward, how do health insurance co-ops work? And a look at the popularity of fantasy sports.

On Wednesday: plans to reopen inpatient services at MLK Jr. Hospital, good news and bad news at Green Dot Schools, renting California's assets to private investors, a cure for old age, and religion meets Twitter.

Larry Mantle looks at Governor Schwarzenegger's plan to overhaul California's pension system. Then, from giant sunshades to cloud-making ships, he explores the fanciful proposals to fight global warming. Finally, Larry discusses the history of Chinatowns across America.

Tax Weed? The question of legalizing pot comes up all the time. But if it is legalized some day, should it be taxed? And if so, how much? Then... Larry talks to writer K.C. Cole about her book “Something Incredibly Wonderful Happens: Frank Oppenheimer and the World He Made Up"

Larry talks to experts about the future of NASA's space ambition. Also, Larry has the latest on Michael Vick's return to football. On FilmWeek our reviewers discuss the week's new releases including District 9, The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard, Ponyo, The Time Traveler’s Wife and many more. Then, in light of news that Steven Spielberg will remake the Jimmy Stewart classic film, “Harvey," we open the phones to ask, which films should NOT be re-made? All that and the latest news...

Larry discusses the issues surrounding the current health care debate. Then, AirTalk broadcasts Wednesday evening's Constitutional Convention at the Center for the Preservation of Democracy. Larry Mantle and guests pick apart the present budget system and make specific proposals to change the way California does business.

Larry taks about the Autry museum scrapping its plans for expansion. Then, its the latest news from Afghanistan. And, he discusses Equality California's new plan for legalizing gay marriage. Finally, Larry talks with food writer Russ Parsons about his friendship with Julia Child.

Larry talks about the legal feasibility of prosecutions within the Bush Administration. Then it's the politics of the health care debate. And, he will talk with author William Vollman about his new book, "Imperial" about the Imperial Valley. Finally it is a discussion about the new book by David Mas Masumoto, "Wisdom Of The Last Farmer."