Author: Brianna Kamienski

Over 200 Celebrated in Los Angeles as California’s Lifts Ban on Lowriders

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Lowrider drivers and car enthusiasts in Los Angeles have kicked off 2024 on a high note. The streets of East Los Angeles, particularly Whittier Boulevard, witnessed a historic moment on New Year’s Day. Over 200 shimmering lowriders paraded down the road, their presence marking more than just a celebration; this was a victory lap for a community long marginalized by restrictive legislation.

The cause for excitement was the signing of Assembly Bill 436 by Governor Gavin Newsom in October. This new law has struck down previous restrictions on lowrider cruising, effectively ending the anti-cruising ordinances that once hindered enthusiasts from freely enjoying their decked-out vehicles on public roads. The ban’s removal has been a long-awaited victory for the lowrider community. Large groups watched in anticipation as “no cruising” signs were ceremonially dismantled.

One enthusiast expressed the significance of this event, saying, “Cruising is our lifestyle, it’s our culture, it’s our life, it’s our livelihood.” This statement captures what cruising means to these individuals – it’s more than just a hobby; it’s a way of life encompassing a rich cultural history and a deep sense of community.

Lowrider culture can be traced back to the post-World War II era, developed predominantly by Mexican Americans in Southern California. It’s a group that has flourished over the decades, with enthusiasts meticulously modifying their cars, lowering them, and embellishing them with eye-catching designs and accessories. However, this cultural expression faced a setback in 1988 when a law permitted local jurisdictions to penalize cruising or driving lowriders on city streets. Many of these restrictions classified lowriding as a traffic offense.

Governor Newsom’s recent change in legislation is not just a legal victory but a restoration of cultural pride and freedom. It acknowledges the importance of lowrider culture as a significant and legitimate part of California’s diverse heritage. A lowrider driver highlighted this, saying, “Whether you got a car that’s worth a couple thousand dollars or whether you’ve got a beautiful machine out here that’s worth several hundred thousand dollars — we appreciate the culture and your contribution to our culture.”

Lifting the ban has opened up new avenues for these enthusiasts to showcase their passion and creativity. It’s a triumph over a law many in the community felt unfairly targeted their cultural expression, and its removal is seen as a step towards eliminating the discrimination that has shadowed this community.

The overturning of the anti-cruising law is more than just a legal victory; it’s a restoration of dignity and respect for a community that has long been sidelined. This New Year’s Day celebration proved how strong and united the community is. It showed how this culture has survived many years of being misunderstood and treated unfairly.

As lowriders drive freely on California’s streets, they show the world their history of fighting hard, achieving success, and never giving up. The end of this ban is more than just good news for car lovers; it’s a recognition of the importance of cultural expression in all its forms. In this new world, the sound of a lowrider’s engine is something to be proud of and enjoy.

January 11, 2024
Knightscope Security Robots Join Security Team Near Crypto.com Arena

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A 50-year-old real estate company purchased and installed two autonomous security robots from Knightscope near the Crypto.com Arena in Downtown Los Angeles. Knightscope contributes to blue light emergency communications systems and automated security systems.

The area surrounding the Crypto.com Arena is a busy section of Downtown Los Angeles that houses several restaurants, bars, concert venues, convention centers, hotels, and more. The multi-use area sees enormous foot and vehicle traffic but has yet to be known for being a particularly secure area. The two new K1 towers will provide residents, visitors, and employees with a safer environment per Knightscope’s mission.

Knightscope’s long-term goal is to make the United States the safest country globally by providing top-of-the-line security and emergency response systems. In a recently released blog post, the company described its plan for securing commercial real estate like the Crypto.com Arena area. Knightscope outlines a four-step plan that uses K5 ASRs to monitor parking lots, K1 Hemispheres in building lobbies, and K5 and K3 ASRs to patrol interior areas. The company advocates using ASRs to lighten the workload on overnight security guards.

The K1 towers now in use in Downtown Los Angeles are positioned at the front of two buildings, which aligns with Knightscope’s recommendations. According to the blog post, the K1 Hemisphere towers record and stream eye-level HD video from 360 degrees 24/7. The technology can also recognize the faces of unwanted visitors and alert security teams that the person in question is on the property. People Detection helps eliminate threats like unnecessary liabilities and workplace violence.

The buyer of the Knightscope technology employs thousands of people across the country and is one of the largest and most established real estate developers in North America. The company has constructed over 15,000 homes, owns and manages more than 11,000 rental apartments, and built over 18 million square feet of office, retail, and industrial space. The company also currently has 28 million square feet of space in various stages of development, representing several opportunities for expansion and the installation of more Knightscope ASRs.

Besides commercial real estate, Knightscope security systems are active in airports, casinos, hospitals, hotels, schools, and public parks. Law enforcement has embraced Knightscope technology and uses its autonomous security robots as crime-fighting partners. ASRs aid in monitoring government offices and buildings, patrolling interiors, and providing security footage. ASRs can also help businesses like hospitals comply with security regulations.

While Knightscope’s smaller ASR models, like the K5 and K3, are designed with self-driving technology to patrol areas, the K1 towers installed in Los Angeles are stationary machines. The K1 towers weigh 150 pounds and are 69 inches in height, 28.8 inches in width, and 11.2 inches in length. Knightscope states these machines strongly affect crime rates in their monitored areas. Results include a 46% drop in crime reports, a 27% increase in arrests, and a 68% reduction in citations. The towers’ capabilities work to prevent incidents, but their physical presence is also designed to deter criminals. The intimidating-looking machines marked as security fend off people with bad intentions just by appearing imposing.

January 4, 2024
Modern Family Star Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Husband Justin Mikita Share an Inside Look at Their Los Feliz Home

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In the heart of Los Angeles’ Los Feliz neighborhood, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, famous for his role in “Modern Family,” and his husband, Justin Mikita, have opened the doors of their home to fans. This invitation has revealed a blend of contemporary design and personal touches that make their space truly unique.

Their recently acquired residence, designed by Mandy Cheng, offered the perfect canvas for transformation. The house was initially a blank slate and has been meticulously crafted into a haven of warmth and modern aesthetics. It showcases Cheng’s ability to marry the couple’s vision with innovative design elements.

The decision to work with Cheng was strategic. Justin emphasized their desire for a designer who could both challenge their tastes and respect their preferences. This balance is evident throughout the home, where modern design meets personal sentimentality.

Art plays a pivotal role in their home’s ambiance. The couple, who married in 2013, have curated a collection that not only beautifies their space but also holds significant sentimental value. Jesse highlighted the importance of showcasing their meaningful art and collectibles, adding a layer of personal history to the home’s modern backdrop.

One standout piece is a unique gift from Jesse’s “Modern Family” co-star, Eric Stonestreet. To mark the end of the beloved ABC sitcom, Stonestreet presented each cast member with a framed piece of wood, featuring their autographs next to their respective spike tape marks – a color-coded system used on set to indicate where actors should stand during filming. This gift, encapsulating memories of their 11-season journey, holds a special place in Jesse and Justin’s home.

The couple’s sense of humor and love for comfort is reflected in the design of their bedroom, which boasts a custom-made bed, humorously described by Jesse as “a king and a half.” While providing a touch of luxury, this oversized bed also echoes the couple’s playful nature.

Their home extends beyond the interiors to include patios that lend an “elevated campground feel,” as described by Jesse. The backyard is a sanctuary in itself, complete with a guest house, a pool inspired by luxury hotels, and two whimsically named statues – “Joe Jonas” and “Peter” the horse. These outdoor spaces provide a perfect blend of leisure and elegance.

Functionality is also a key aspect of their home design. With two young sons, Beckett and Sullivan, the couple ensured their home was not just a showpiece but a practical living space. The open-concept kitchen, dining, and living room areas facilitate a seamless flow, ideal for family interactions and entertaining guests. Additionally, the playroom, as Justin humorously notes, is a favorite spot for their three-year-old, rivaling his bedroom in terms of time spent.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Justin Mikita’s Los Feliz home is more than just a modern abode. It’s a carefully curated space that reflects their journey, humor, and family life. It perfectly blends contemporary design with personal narratives, offering a glimpse into the lives of one of Hollywood’s beloved couples. Their home is not just about aesthetics. It’s about creating a space that embodies their life’s stories and joys, making the perfect home for a truly modern family.

December 28, 2023