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Today: June 12, 2025
Today: June 12, 2025

Local

Local

All eyes on Sunny as Big Bear eaglet takes her first flight

A bald eaglet named Sunny took flight from her nest for the first time, marking a major milestone for the popular live-streamed Big Bear Lake eagle family, according to Friends of Big Bear Valley. Sunny, believed to be about three months old, is the older of two eaglets raised this season by adult bald eagles Jackie and Shadow. Her first flight occurred during “Fledge Watch,” a closely observed period when eaglets are expected to leave the nest. Gizmo, Sunny’s younger sibling, remains in the nest overlooking Big Bear Lake. Observers and viewers of the livestream continue to watch for signs

June 10, 2025
All eyes on Sunny as Big Bear eaglet takes her first flight
Local

How gas prices have changed in San Francisco in the last week

Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in San Francisco using data from AAA.

October 15, 2024
How gas prices have changed in San Francisco in the last week
Local

How gas prices have changed in El Centro in the last week

Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in El Centro using data from AAA.

October 15, 2024
How gas prices have changed in El Centro in the last week
Local

California's safety net grows stronger with 339 new officer graduates

Three major California agencies have bolstered their ranks with 339 newly trained public safety personnel, marking a substantial expansion of the state’s emergency response and law enforcement capabilities. The recent graduates include firefighting supervisors, correctional officers, and highway patrol personnel who completed their respective training programs before deployment to communities across California. Gov. Gavin Newsom addressed the new officers during graduation ceremonies, emphasizing their commitment to public service. “Thank you for answering the call to serve our great state,” Newsom said. “As you go back to your communities, may you face any uncertainty with resolve, any challenges with integrity, and

June 06, 2025
California's safety net grows stronger with 339 new officer graduates
Local

Is This Freedom? Aging Elephants Relocated, Not Released

Two elephants, Billy and Tina, from the Los Angeles Zoo have been relocated to Tulsa Zoo in Oklahoma following months of opposition from animal rights activists who wanted the animals sent to a wildlife sanctuary. Billy arrived at the L.A. Zoo as a calf back in 1989, and Tina became part of the zoo’s elephant family in 2004. Over time, both elephants played key roles in the zoo’s Asian elephant exhibit, engaging in enrichment programs and helping educate visitors. Elephants are highly social and intelligent creatures, and captivity, especially for aging individuals, can have significant psychological impacts. Elephants in zoos

June 04, 2025
Is This Freedom? Aging Elephants Relocated, Not Released
Local

15,000 California convicts released during COVID-19; at least one-third are back in prison. Here’s why

Nearly one-third of the approximately 14,800 individuals released early from California prisons during the COVID-19 pandemic have returned to incarceration, according to data from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The early release initiative, aimed at reducing prison populations to curb virus transmission, has drawn criticism from human rights advocates who argue that systemic shortcomings in reentry support contributed to the recidivism. Between April 2020 and December 2021, the CDCR expedited the release of inmates nearing the end of their sentences, primarily those convicted of nonviolent offenses. As of January 31, 2025, about 4,600 of these individuals had returned

June 04, 2025
15,000 California convicts released during COVID-19; at least one-third are back in prison. Here’s why
Local

Beachgoers Beware: Wildfire fallout still threatens L.A. waters

Months after the devastating January 2025 wildfires swept across Los Angeles, concerns persist about whether local beaches are truly safe for swimming, surfing, and general recreation. While agencies have lifted many advisories, experts emphasize that fire-related impacts, especially water contamination and debris, still demand caution. In April 2025, the L.A. County Department of Public Health officially lifted its last ocean water quality advisory linked to wildfire impacts. Testing showed that the water met state standards and posed no significant health risks for recreational use. However, this clearance does not necessarily mean that every beach activity is cleared. Heal the Bay,

May 30, 2025
Beachgoers Beware: Wildfire fallout still threatens L.A. waters
Local

The future takes flight: LA Olympics to debut air taxis

In a groundbreaking move to revolutionize urban transportation, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will introduce electric air taxis to ferry spectators, athletes, and VIPs between key venues. Archer Aviation’s Midnight eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft has been selected as the official air taxi provider for the Games, marking a significant step toward sustainable and efficient urban mobility. Archer’s Midnight aircraft, designed to carry up to four passengers, will offer 10- to 20-minute flights connecting major Olympic sites, including SoFi Stadium, L.A. Memorial Coliseum, LAX, Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Orange County. These flights aim to alleviate the city’s notorious

May 22, 2025
The future takes flight: LA Olympics to debut air taxis
Local

Olympic wage: L.A. approves $30 minimum wage for workers

On May 14, 2025, the Los Angeles City Council reshaped the city’s labor landscape. In a 12-3 vote, council members approved a sweeping minimum wage hike for hotel and airport workers. This move is celebrated by labor advocates as a long-overdue correction and criticized by business leaders as economically risky, as reported by the L.A. Times. The ordinance, branded the “Olympic Wage,” will raise pay to $30 an hour by 2028, making it the country’s most ambitious local wage law. The increase isn’t instantaneous. Starting this July, the wage floor will rise to $22.50, with structured yearly boosts: $25 in

May 26, 2025
Olympic wage: L.A. approves $30 minimum wage for workers
Local

California homeowners may have to pay for wildfires they never even experienced, here’s why!

California homeowners may soon face new insurance surcharges, even if they live far from recent wildfire zones, as insurers seek state approval to pass along costs from devastating fires in Los Angeles County earlier this year. Under a policy approved by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, at least 10 insurance companies have filed applications with the California Department of Insurance to begin charging their policyholders for a portion of a $1 billion assessment imposed by the California FAIR Plan Association. This emergency fee came after devastating fires in January that overwhelmed the state’s insurer of last resort. The FAIR Plan, supported

May 27, 2025
California homeowners may have to pay for wildfires they never even experienced, here’s why!
Local

University researchers warn of long-term health risks from untested wildfire soil

A group of university researchers is urging Gov. Gavin Newsom to restore California’s wildfire recovery protocols by funding comprehensive soil testing in Los Angeles County neighborhoods impacted by the recent Eaton and Palisades wildfires. They warn that failure to do so could pose long-term health risks to returning residents. In a letter sent to Newsom and California Environmental Protection Agency Secretary Yana Garcia, nearly a dozen environmental health and engineering professors from institutions, including the University of Southern California and the University of California, L.A., expressed concern that thousands of properties destroyed by the fires are being cleared for rebuilding

May 27, 2025
University researchers warn of long-term health risks from untested wildfire soil
Local

Mob vandalizes train and buildings in downtown Los Angeles

Dozens of individuals assembled near downtown Los Angeles early Sunday, vandalizing Metro rail cars and commercial establishments while one person performed fire-breathing stunts. Law enforcement responded to multiple reports of the disruptive gathering, but no arrests were made during the incident. The crowd gathered around midnight near the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Maple Avenue, located south of the downtown area. News outlet OnScene.TV captured footage showing some attendees in party attire, including individuals wearing pink platform shoes and cat ear accessories. One man drank a flammable liquid from a jug and spat it onto a torch, creating flames that

May 28, 2025
Mob vandalizes train and buildings in downtown Los Angeles
Local

Volunteers target invasive black mustard to preserve Sepulveda basin ecosystem

More than 200 volunteers gathered last week at the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve to uproot black mustard, an invasive plant species threatening biodiversity and water quality in the Los Angeles River corridor. The event, organized by Friends of the L.A. River in collaboration with the California Native Plant Society and the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society, was part of an ongoing effort to restore habitat in the 225-acre reserve. Environmental educators say the spread of black mustard, known scientifically as Rhamphospermum nigrum, is crowding out native vegetation, reducing habitat for local wildlife, and increasing wildfire risk. “It does look harmless,

May 30, 2025
Volunteers target invasive black mustard to preserve Sepulveda basin ecosystem
Local

Rent crisis soars, pushing California homes out of reach for the average worker

The increase in housing construction alone hasn’t resolved California’s escalating housing costs, a revealing analysis by the Daily News highlighted. The analysis also pointed out that despite efforts to boost supply, systemic issues continue to drive affordability out of reach for many residents. California’s housing affordability crisis is intensifying, with renters bearing the brunt. As of 2025, the average rent in California stands at approximately $2,770 per month, significantly higher than the national average of $2,100. This disparity places immense financial pressure on tenants, especially those with moderate or low incomes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly half (49.7%)

May 30, 2025
Rent crisis soars, pushing California homes out of reach for the average worker
Local

Will Billy and Tina find freedom? Activists challenge zoo move

Animal rights activists have launched a vocal campaign to stop the Los Angeles Zoo from transferring its last two Asian elephants, Billy and Tina, to the Tulsa Zoo in Oklahoma. Activists argue the elephants, aged 40 and 59, face worsening health and psychological issues in captivity and would benefit more from a sanctuary environment designed for their specialized care. According to the L.A. Times, the transfer plan has led to protests, legal challenges, and public outcry about the ethics of keeping aging elephants confined. The L.A. Zoo has announced its intention to relocate Billy and Tina to the Tulsa Zoo’s

May 20, 2025
Will Billy and Tina find freedom? Activists challenge zoo move
Local

California bar exam’s AI fallout: $6 million in unplanned costs

The State Bar of California’s effort to reduce costs by incorporating artificial intelligence into its bar exam process has backfired dramatically. According to Reuters, this could result in nearly $6 million of unexpected expenses, intensifying the organization’s already troubling financial position. The attempt to replace national bar exam materials with a state-developed version using AI-generated questions has sparked legal action, operational overhauls, and public outcry. In February 2025, the State Bar launched a new California bar exam designed with help from a private contractor using AI to generate multiple-choice questions. However, the exam rollout was marred by widespread technical breakdowns.

May 19, 2025
California bar exam’s AI fallout: $6 million in unplanned costs
Local

Tough Stance on Hemp: California's Efforts to Protect Young Consumers

Nearly all California businesses are following state regulations that ban selling intoxicating hemp products potentially harmful to young people, state officials reported. Data from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control shows 99.7% compliance among licensed businesses in 2025. Enforcement agents have inspected more than 11,445 establishments since September 2024, identifying only 148 locations with prohibited items. Gov. Gavin Newsom established emergency rules through the California Department of Public Health on Sept. 6, 2024, citing concerns about public safety. “We are doing our part to ensure intoxicating hemp products are out of the reach of vulnerable groups like children. We must

May 16, 2025
Tough Stance on Hemp: California's Efforts to Protect Young Consumers
Local

Beat the heat: How to stay cool in Los Angeles this summer

As Los Angeles approaches the peak of summer, the city’s heat waves can make daily life challenging. Luckily, L.A. has no shortage of ways to stay cool, from public pools and beach escapes to indoor cooling centers when the sun gets too intense. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s how to beat the heat while staying safe. Cool Off at Public Pools There’s nothing quite like a swim to break free from a scorching day. The city of L.A. operates 28 public swimming pools each summer, many tucked inside neighborhood parks. It offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy

May 15, 2025
Beat the heat: How to stay cool in Los Angeles this summer
Local

California debuts AI chatbot to deliver wildfire info in 70 languages

California has unveiled a new artificial intelligence-powered chatbot designed to provide wildfire safety information and emergency resources in 70 languages, state officials announced during Wildfire Preparedness Week. Gov. Gavin Newsom introduced the tool, called “Ask CAL FIRE,” last week. It is now live on CAL FIRE’s website, fire.ca.gov, and is intended to make it easier for residents to access critical wildfire information around the clock. “California is harnessing technology and innovation to help people when it matters most,” Newsom said in a statement. “Ahead of peak wildfire season, we’re launching a new chatbot that will connect Californians with real-time information

May 15, 2025
California debuts AI chatbot to deliver wildfire info in 70 languages
Local

Cities with the most UFO sightings in California

Stacker compiled a ranking of cities with the most UFO sightings in California using data from the National UFO Reporting Center.

November 27, 2024
Cities with the most UFO sightings in California
Local|News|US

Students trigger evacuations with 'Chromebook Challenge'

Schools across the U.S. are dealing with a dangerous trend that has resulted in classroom evacuations, destroyed equipment, and criminal charges against students.  The “Chromebook Challenge,” which spread on social media platform TikTok, involves students deliberately causing short circuits in school-issued laptops by inserting metal objects into charging ports. The challenge has prompted numerous school districts to issue warnings as incidents emerge from coast to coast. In Long Beach, a 13-year-old student was arrested on arson charges after participating in the trend at Perry Lindsey Academy, according to Long Beach Police Department spokesperson Alyssa Baeza. “Recent cases have triggered fire

May 12, 2025
Students trigger evacuations with 'Chromebook Challenge'
Local|News

California faces Real ID deadline with millions still unprepared

As the federal Real ID enforcement took effect on May 7, California finds itself grappling with a significant number of residents yet to obtain the compliant identification necessary for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, approximately 18.6 million Californians had acquired a Real ID as of Feb. 1, leaving about 8.4 million residents without one. This means nearly one-third of the state’s drivers and ID holders are at risk of facing travel disruptions. In response to the impending deadline, the California DMV has implemented measures to facilitate the application process.

May 09, 2025
California faces Real ID deadline with millions still unprepared
Local

Top LAFD union officers suspended after audit flags $800K credit card purchases

The president and two other top Los Angeles Fire Department’s labor union officers were suspended following an investigation that uncovered approximately $800,000 in credit card purchases lacking proper documentation. The International Association of Fire Fighters, which oversees the United Firefighters of L.A. City and other local firefighter unions nationwide, took the extraordinary step after discovering what it described as “serious problems” with missing receipts. IAFF General President Edward Kelly announced the suspension of UFLAC President Freddy Escobar and two other officers in a letter to union members. The parent organization appointed John Bagala, a state representative for the IAFF and

May 09, 2025
Top LAFD union officers suspended after audit flags $800K credit card purchases