Author: Debbi Compton

  • Kris Jenner Named Los Angeles Magazine’s Woman of the Year

    Kris Jenner Named Los Angeles Magazine’s Woman of the Year

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Los Angeles Magazine has named Kris Jenner, the matriarch of the Kardashian-Jenner family, the coveted Woman of the Year. The acknowledgment is hardly surprising, given Jenner’s incredible journey from her modest retail origins to her reputation as a cultural icon and business entrepreneur.

    Jenner’s impact goes well beyond the walls of her family’s reality show, “The Kardashians,” as seen by her recent appearance in rap songs, where she’s praised as a representation of strength and prosperity. Artists like Drake, Megan Thee Stallion, and Lil Yachty have mentioned her in their music, further cementing her place in pop culture.

    Even with Hollywood’s glamour and flash, Jenner never wavers in her dedication to her family and enterprises. Jenner, who began her career working in her grandmother’s store at a young age, had a sharp business sense that she has since used to manage the careers of her six children, making them well-known and creating a multibillion-dollar empire.

    With millions of viewers worldwide for her family’s reality program, Jenner’s influence on popular culture is evident. Her capacity to go through various phases of her life and profession with poise and resiliency makes her stand out.

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    Jenner discussed her path and accomplishments in a recent interview with Los Angeles Magazine, praising her tenacity and excellent work ethic. Jenner’s commitment to her work is clear, as shown by her career progression from wrapping presents at her grandmother’s store to running many companies and sponsorships.

    Being one of the most significant personalities in pop culture, Jenner enjoys fame and attention, but she doesn’t let it detract from her commitment to her family and health. Even though Jenner has unquestionably realized the California dream with four homes in Los Angeles County and an estimated net worth of over $200 million, she still maintains her modesty and commitment to her moral principles.

    Jenner’s priorities are maintaining her health and pursuing her hobbies as she gets closer to 70 years old next year. Jenner isn’t slowing down, whether running her family’s companies or taking on new projects like her brand of natural cleaning supplies, Safely.

    Jenner’s influence on the city and its culture is honored as she won Woman of the Year from Los Angeles Magazine. Beyond the confines of Hollywood, Jenner’s impact is apparent in her charitable work and contributions to the entertainment business.

    Kris Jenner is an established trailblazer in pop culture, and her endurance and determination will continue to inspire future generations. Given that rap songs have made Jenner’s name even more famous and that her companies are doing well, her influence will not go away soon.

    Furthermore, Jenner’s influence as a businesswoman and mentor has been crucial in molding the careers of other youthful entrepreneurs. Her leadership and mentoring inspired numerous others to follow their passions and thrive in the cutthroat entertainment and business industries.

    It’s impossible to overstate Jenner’s dedication to philanthropy. She has actively participated in many charitable endeavors, promoting women’s empowerment, healthcare, and education. Her commitment to giving back to the community further solidifies her standing as a prominent societal figure and is a light of hope and inspiration for many.

  • Small Businesses Are Feeling the Pressure of Rising Rent and Rapid Development in California

    Small Businesses Are Feeling the Pressure of Rising Rent and Rapid Development in California

    Image credit: Unsplash

    According to a recent report, long-standing small businesses in modern California may struggle to thrive the way they have in the past.

    Whether a current resident, visitor, or small business, California has long been known for being one of the country’s most expensive states, and this became especially true following the COVID-19 pandemic. On Monday, the Los Angeles Times reported a story highlighting small business owner Karen Kropp and the struggles that have led her to close her bookstore, Book Rack.

    L.A. Times reporter Marisa Gerber wrote, “After 40 years — the last half under Kropp’s ownership — the beloved used-book store tucked between a hot pot restaurant and a chiropractor’s office in Arcadia is closing this week.” She continued, “Slowed down by the consumer shift to online shopping and further decimated by cratering sales during the pandemic, the shop held on by a thread in the months since Kropp cashed out her life insurance policy to keep it afloat.”

    Gerber also recalled when Kropp would say things such as, “When you’re in a bookstore, you have to be a dreamer,” and the “miracle is coming.”

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    The L.A. Times report spotlighted the damper on the owner’s sentiments, adding, “But the miracle never came, and Kropp, who turns 79 later this year, knew that even if she couldn’t really afford to, it was time to retire.” According to Gerber, “She [Kropp] plans to live off her monthly Social Security check — around $1,200 after insurance premiums are deducted — and can’t afford to stay in Southern California. Instead, she will move in with her younger sister in Albuquerque once she finishes clearing out the shop.”

    “Kropp’s situation mirrors those of many aging small-business owners who, unless they have a relative eager to take over,” the report added, “are faced with complex questions about their legacy and finances.”

    Utilizing a tool from the University of Massachusetts Boston, one estimate found that “Someone in Kropp’s situation — a single renter living in L.A. County — needs $2,915 a month to cover their basic necessities,” according to the report.

    The director of the retirement security program at the UC Berkeley labor center, Nari Rhee, added that the estimated amount is “basically twice the average Social Security benefit in California.” Rhee continued to remark on how numerous elderly Californians have fallen victim to homelessness and poverty.

    After years of working at the bookstore, Kropp purchased it in the 2000s, taking over a business that routinely brought in over $10,000. However, the meteoric rise of Amazon alongside the pandemic changed everything.

    Gerber’s report stated, “Then, during the shutdowns, sales dropped to almost zero. Bills still came due, as did the shop’s rent and the fee for a storage unit where she kept overflow books, which together cost about $2,000 a month.” The report continues, “Sales eventually crept back up but never fully recovered; now, she said, it sometimes takes two days before sales hit $200.”

    A recent sales analysis from GoBankingRates Found that even a $150,000 annual salary is considered “lower middle class” income in many of California’s high-cost cities.

    California’s rent and state policies have been scrutinized by the L.A. Times before, such as when a 40-year-old attorney who moved to Florida from California, Krystal Meyer, was “driven out, she said, by financial pressures, homelessness, and a deep frustration with California’s COVID-19 restrictions.”

    Meyer reportedly told the Times, “My salary increases were not outpacing my rental increases… I was losing money every year.” Although Meyer had already been driven out of one area of California following a confrontation with a machete-wielding homeless person, it was California’s response to the coronavirus pandemic that finally forced her to relocate to Florida.

  • California Prepares to Ban Services Fees and Other Surcharges From Restaurants

    California Prepares to Ban Services Fees and Other Surcharges From Restaurants

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    California is stepping up with a fresh regulation set to kick off this July, aiming to ditch those sneaky extra charges consumers find on their bills from places like eateries, taverns, lodging spots, and delivery outfits. Dubbed Senate Bill 478 and greenlit by Governor Gavin Newsom last fall, this measure is all about ditching those so-called “junk fees” to make sure the sticker price is what folks actually shell out at the end.

    Spearheaded by Senators Bill Dodd (from Napa) and Nancy Skinner (of Berkeley), this move is getting kudos as a big win for folks spending their cash, looking to dodge hidden costs. With California’s top legal eagle, Rob Bonta, throwing his weight behind it, the aim here is to cut through the fog of sneaky fees that muddle the real deal on prices, hitting back at practices that mess with consumers and fair play in the market. Advocates of the bill are buzzing, calling it a standout in the U.S. for putting the brakes on these undercover charges.

    The impending law has stirred a debate within the hospitality industry, particularly among restaurant and bar owners who have come to rely on surcharges to fund employee benefits, including healthcare and higher wages. These fees, sometimes listed as optional on menus, have been a critical component in managing financial pressures intensified by the pandemic and subsequent economic challenges. However, with the new regulation, establishments will be required to incorporate any additional charges into their menu prices, a move that is expected to significantly impact pricing strategies and overall business operations.

    James Beard Award-winning restaurateur Caroline Styne voiced concerns over the potential financial strain on businesses, predicting substantial price increases for menu items as a direct consequence of the law. The necessity to raise prices, she argues, comes at a time when restaurants are already facing considerable economic challenges, making the situation even more precarious for the industry.

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    The state has provided a grace period before the law’s implementation, aiming to give businesses adequate time to adjust. Critics of the law, however, fear that the inclusion of surcharges in menu prices could lead to sticker shock for customers and potentially reduce business for restaurants already struggling to recover from recent hardships. Furthermore, there are concerns about the broader implications of rolling mandatory fees into pricing, such as the impact on employee benefits and the operational viability of many establishments.

    The legislation also aligns with a broader national effort to eliminate junk fees, evidenced by the Biden administration’s announcement of new initiatives to tackle these practices in collaboration with the Federal Trade Commission. This synergy between state and federal efforts underscores a growing consensus on the need for greater transparency and fairness in pricing practices across the consumer landscape.

    The debate over service charges and their role in the restaurant industry highlights the complex interplay between business needs, employee welfare, and consumer rights. While some view the new law as a necessary step towards fairness and transparency, others worry about its potential to exacerbate the challenges faced by an already beleaguered industry. As California prepares to implement this groundbreaking legislation, its effects on businesses, consumers, and the broader economic landscape will be closely watched, potentially setting a precedent for similar actions across the country.

  • L.A. Residents Scramble for Safety During Historic Storm

    L.A. Residents Scramble for Safety During Historic Storm

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    Los Angeles struggled through an immense storm on Monday, unlike anything it had seen before. This storm, caused by excessive moisture from the atmospheric river, significantly impacted the community. Both those living in expensive homes and those without a roof over their heads were searching for a safe place to stay. 

    The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings for approximately 2.5 million people in the Los Angeles area, including those in Hollywood and Beverly Hills. Up to 9 inches of rain had already pummeled the area, with expectations set for even more. The NWS described the flash flooding and mudslide threat as “a particularly dangerous situation.”

    As rainwater transformed streets into rivers and hillsides sent mud and boulders crashing down, more than one million people statewide found themselves without electricity. The storm’s fury was felt across Southern California, with rescue crews working tirelessly to save those caught in the swift-moving waters. Among these rescues were two homeless individuals evacuated from an island in the Santa Ana River.

    In Studio City, behind the Hollywood Hills, the storm’s power was evident as floodwater brought mud and debris into the neighborhood. Sixteen people were forced to leave their homes, and two houses were damaged. Keki Mingus, looking at the damage, said, “It looks like a river that’s been here for years.” Her comments echo the community’s shock at the extreme weather.

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    The Los Angeles Fire Department was stretched to its limits, with numerous reports of flooding, debris flow, and the urgent rescues of motorists stranded by rising waters. This force of nature brought the city to a standstill, prompting Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass to urge residents to stay off the roads, highlighting the dangers of fallen trees and electrical lines amidst the floodwaters.

    Even as the city faced immediate challenges, the storm set long-term records, with downtown Los Angeles receiving over 4 inches of rain in a single day. This marked it as one of the wettest days in recorded history. The amount of rainfall was staggering for the area, as it surpassed the average rainfall for a full month.

    Despite the chaos, the Grammy Awards proceeded as planned. Commuters navigated floodwaters, and the city braced for more rain, with forecasts predicting significant rainfall across Southern California’s coastal and valley areas.

    The storm’s impact extended beyond Los Angeles, with Northern California and the Sierra Nevada also feeling its effects. In Yuba City, a man sadly died from the storm’s effects as a large redwood tree crushed him. Meanwhile, off the coast of Long Beach, a dramatic rescue unfolded as 19 people were saved from a sailboat incapacitated by the storm.

    Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, mobilizing resources and opening emergency shelters in response to the storm’s devastation. Most public schools in Los Angeles, however, remained open, demonstrating a commitment to continuity even as the community grappled with the storm’s aftermath.

    This historic storm will remain in the hearts and minds of LA residents for years to come. It showed the unexpected power of nature and its uncontrollable force in both the wealthiest and most impoverished areas of Los Angeles.

  • Despite High-Interest Rates and General Distress, California Sees Industry-Wide Growth in Real Estate Market

    Despite High-Interest Rates and General Distress, California Sees Industry-Wide Growth in Real Estate Market

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    Job growth in commercial real estate has reached a seven-year high in Southern California, though finance lending employment has experienced a slight decrease. This occurred during a year of high interest rates and general distress in several of the area’s property markets. The increase may have been helped by significant construction projects throughout the area and employment increases across all industries.

    According to the Los Angeles Daily News, which cited data from California’s Employment Development Department, commercial real estate jobs have increased by 3.1 percent over the year. This data, which includes Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, shows a 12-month gain of roughly 24 thousand positions. The new total of real estate positions in these areas has reached nearly 804 thousand. It is the largest increase in real estate employment since 2017.

    In the same area, jobs in all other industries experienced a 2 percent increase over the last year, increasing by roughly 141 thousand to a total of 7.4 million.

    Real estate jobs saw an even greater increase in the Inland Empire. Over the previous year, real estate jobs here increased by 4.9 percent, representing a gain of around nine thousand for a total of roughly 190 thousand. LA County increased by 2.9 percent (10 thousand gained for a total of 379 thousand), and Orange County by 2.1 percent (5 thousand gained for a total of 233 thousand). Real estate jobs now make up 11.1 percent of the workforce in the Inland Empire, 8 percent in Los Angeles County, and 13.4 percent in Orange County.

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    Some specialties experienced much greater growth than others. Most likely due to the surge of large infrastructure construction projects in the area, as well as a great deal of commercial development, the employment of trade construction specialists increased by 5.6 percent. This added 14 thousand new jobs for a total of 265 thousand. Similarly, employment in civil construction increased by 4.2% percent (5 thousand new jobs for a total of 144 thousand) and building services increased by an impressive 5.9 percent (6,400 for a total of 265 thousand). 

    Meanwhile, employment in lending and building supplies dropped slightly, though only by just over one percent at worst. Employment in real estate services dropped by a mere 0.1 percent, largely holding stable at around 144 thousand jobs in the noted counties.

    The Southern California construction boom is driven largely by residential projects, which began to surge near the end of the pandemic and immediately after. There is also an effort in Los Angeles to add a significant number of residential units—more than 400 thousand, roughly a third of which are set to be affordable housing projects—to the downtown area. This is one of many similar plans taking place throughout LA, which projects that 20 percent of the city’s housing growth will take place in an area representing only around one percent of the city’s land area.

    Southern California is also one of the primary sites for a nationwide boom in new apartment construction which is expected to continue until the end of 2025. After that point, experts project the boom in apartments will dwindle, though Los Angeles County’s many developmental plans will continue.

  • Human Trafficking Task Force Announces Hundreds of Arrests Made During Weeklong Operation

    Human Trafficking Task Force Announces Hundreds of Arrests Made During Weeklong Operation

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    This past Tuesday, January 30th, marked a significant announcement by Los Angeles Sheriff Robert Luna, who revealed the outcomes of an extensive week-long crackdown on human trafficking. Luna confirmed that the operation led to the arrest of hundreds of individuals involved.

    At a morning press briefing at 10:00 a.m., Sheriff Luna made his stance clear, stating, “Human trafficking and child exploitation are heinous acts that target some of our society’s most defenseless.”

    Human trafficking, essentially a contemporary form of slavery, is perpetrated primarily for sexual exploitation or forced labor. Annually, the U.S. reports thousands of such incidents, with many cases implicating multiple victims.

    The majority of the reported human trafficking cases reported in 2021 were victims of sex trafficking, which found 1,023 cases. A total of 131 cases were for labor, while 63 cases were for sex and labor. 

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    Females are disproportionately victimized by human trafficking as the above-mentioned cases involved 1,108 females compared to 164 males. These cases affected a total of 978 adults and 246 minors.

    The LA-based operation was conducted as a statewide effort and dubbed Operation Reclaim and Rebuild. It involved over 95 federal, state, and local agencies. In a news release on Monday, January 19th, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said that numerous specialized task forces throughout the state of California were also involved in the operation.

    The news release stated, “California law enforcement and the Los Angeles Regional Human Trafficking Task Force made hundreds of arrests, and rescued adult and juvenile female victims.” During the news conference, Luna dove much further, breaking down the numbers of all those who were arrested in the operation.

    Sheriff Luna was joined in the news conference, which was streamed live on the LASD Facebook page, by Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang from Homeland Security Investigation. Luna was also joined by Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon.

    According to Luna, police in this operation arrested a total of 539 criminals. Among those who were arrested, 40 were suspected traffickers and exploiters. At least 271 were reportedly suspected sex buyers.

    Throughout the course of the operation, a total of 54 adults and 11 children were rescued, according to reports.

    According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline (NHTH), which maintains one of the most extensive data sets on human trafficking in the U.S., a total of 5,257 signals were received by the Hotline in in 2021 in California. A total of 1,999 of those signals were initiated by victims or survivors of human trafficking. 

    The NHTH works closely with local law enforcement agencies, various service providers, and many other professionals and institutions across California. The purpose of the work the NHTH performs in conjunction with these groups is to serve the victims and survivors of human trafficking. The NHTH maintains meticulous data, responds to human trafficking cases, and shares information and resources. 

    Anyone who has been the victim of human trafficking or anyone with a tip regarding a situation involving sex trafficking, labor trafficking, or any other form is urged to contact the NHTH via phone call, text, or online. 

  • John Stewart Temporarily Returns to ‘The Daily Show’ Through the 2024 Election

    John Stewart Temporarily Returns to ‘The Daily Show’ Through the 2024 Election

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    For the 2024 election season, Comedy Central’s The Daily Show will welcome back former host Jon Stewart on a part-time basis. When Trevor Noah left the show in December 2022, Comedy Central had to find a permanent replacement; thus, throughout 2023, the show relied on its guest hosts and correspondents. At the Emmys, Roy Wood Jr. made public pleas, but ultimately, it was decided not to hire a full-time presenter. Jon Stewart, on the other hand, will be back for Monday night shows.

    “After much reflection, I have decided to enter the transfer portal for my last year of eligibility,” Stewart said on social media to announce his comeback. Looking forward to the future with excitement!” Along with some personal information, The Daily Show-related hashtags were also included in the tweet.

    President/CEO of Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios Chris McCarthy reacted to Stewart’s return by saying, “Jon Stewart is the voice of our generation, and we are honored to have him return to Comedy Central’s The Daily Show to help us all make sense of the insanity and division roiling the country as we enter the election season.” McCarthy highlighted that in a time of theatrical politics and political dishonesty, Stewart may offer clarity.

    Variety reports that Jon Stewart will continue to anchor Monday night shows through 2025 and the 2024 elections. Correspondents from The Daily Show will continue to alternate at the hosting desk for the Tuesday through Thursday shows.

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    Stewart took over as host of The Daily Show from Craig Kilborn in 1999 and stayed on the show until 2015. Notably, he departed before Donald Trump’s ascent to prominence and the 2016 presidential contest. After leaving, Stewart directed movies including Irresistible (2020) and Rosewater (2014). With his Apple TV+ series The Problem, which aired from 2021 to 2023 when the streaming service dropped it, he made a comeback into politics. Stewart’s return to The Daily Show was made possible by this cancellation.

    Reviving Jon Stewart is viewed as a calculated attempt to negotiate the complicated political environment before the 2024 elections. It is anticipated that Stewart’s humor and distinct viewpoint will offer perceptive criticism of the status of circumstances right now. For Tuesday through Thursday shows, the decision to keep a rotating pool of reporters shows a dedication to diversity and different perspectives while covering the daily news.

    Trevor Noah hosted The Daily Show from September 2015 until December 2022. Noah ended up leaving as he missed traveling around the world doing stand-up comedy, and that was impossible to do with the consistency of his schedule while he was hosting. There has been a revolving door of temporary hosts since Noah left, and Jon Stewert will be somewhat of a return to normalcy, hosting every Monday to cover the 2024 Presidential election that will almost certainly be between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

    Fans of The Daily Show are excited about Stewart’s return because they want to see his perspective on the modern political landscape. Stewart has a history with the show and a solid reputation as a shrewd political analyst, so his Monday night broadcasts should garner interest and help the program stay relevant in the late-night comedy scene.

  • Instagram Famous “Ribbon of Light” Bridge in Los Angeles Goes Dark After Being Targeted by Copper Thieves

    Instagram Famous “Ribbon of Light” Bridge in Los Angeles Goes Dark After Being Targeted by Copper Thieves

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    A Los Angeles Bridge known as “The Ribbon of Light” went dark just in time for Christmas and has remained troubled ever since. The 6th Street Bridge, a $588 million project, had ten illuminated arches that depended on electrical boxes at ground level, which were discovered open and stripped of copper wiring on December 22, 2023. Several of the bridge’s arches went dark as a result.

    Copper theft targeting electrical wiring has been a long-suffered problem in the US, with the FBI warning of threats to critical infrastructure back in 2008. This is not the first target of such theft in Los Angeles. In a statement to the LA Times, a city councilman said that around $500,000 has been spent fixing theft-damaged city lighting alone. The LA Times cited 1,200 open cases of suspected wire thefts inside the city, which included not just lighting but also Metro rail cars.

    In a statement to local outlet ABC7, the city’s public works department said, “We understand the impact of these thefts on the community, and we are committed to taking every necessary step to safeguard our infrastructure and maintain the safety and reliability of our city’s lighting systems.”

    Connecting the city’s art district to Whittier Boulevard and Eastside, the 6th Street Bridge has been popular for social media stunts ever since it was first opened in 2022. The bridge is a four-lane viaduct with pedestrian paths on both sides and ten pairs of thirty-foot-tall concrete arches. The bridge has been periodically closed for a variety of reasons that mostly stem from misuse of the space for dangerous stunts. Police have closed the bridge to stop drivers from spinning donuts in its center and to prevent people from climbing on the arches or skateboarders from riding on them. In May of 2023, a 17-year-old fell to his death attempting to climb the arches.

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    The bridge remains a popular public destination. The 2022 renovation that accompanied the bridge’s construction included a twelve-acre public park below the bridge. The space is accessible from the bridge by pedestrian paths and bike paths. The space includes recreational fields and a café along the LA River, as well as a public art plaza for the display of community projects. The entire project comprises the largest bridge project in the city’s history and was the winner of the American Council of Engineering Company’s 2023 Grand Concept Award.

    The 6th Street Bridge was designed by Michael Maltzen Architecture. In a release describing the project, the architecture firm said, “It seeks to overcome the silo effect caused in the past by infrastructure, countering it with the vibrancy and ‘connectiveness’ of a ‘civicstructure’.” The large concrete “ribbons” were intended to reference the arches of the old 6th Street viaduct, which had been built in 1932. The old bridge had to be demolished beginning in 2018 due to serious structural issues that resulted from “architectural unsophistication,” which left the bridge seismically unsound.

    The new bridge’s design, connections between city centers and the park below, and its distinctive lighting gave it a fast reputation as one of LA’s most distinctive features. Locals are eager to see the damage repaired.

  • Gustavo Dudamel to Conduct Renowned Composer Gustav Mahler’s “Symphony No. 6”

    Gustavo Dudamel to Conduct Renowned Composer Gustav Mahler’s “Symphony No. 6”

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    January sparkled with classical music. The renowned Gustavo Dudamel, as music and artistic director, returned to the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall, leading the Los Angeles Philharmonic. From January 11 to 12, Dudamel conducted three distinctive performances, centering on Gustav Mahler’s “Symphony No. 6.”

    Dubbed the “Tragic Symphony,” Mahler’s masterpiece immerses listeners in a profound emotional journey. Dudamel, a maestro in Mahler’s compositions, adeptly guided the audience through the symphony’s emotional highs and lows, creating a mesmerizing experience.

    Mahler, bridging 19th-century Austro-German tradition with early 20th-century modernism, composed “Symphony No. 6” during 1903-1904, revising it in 1906. This period marked a happy phase in Mahler’s life, including marriage and the birth of his second daughter. Yet, the symphony, premiering in 1906, marries joy with a poignant, almost nihilistic end.

    The use of percussion is key to expressing the intense emotions Mahler sought to evoke. The symphony incorporates cowbells, suggesting pastoral nostalgia, and then introduces hammer blows, each heralding an inescapable doom that overshadows the earlier joy. Despite its sorrowful end, “Symphony No. 6” represents a profound journey of the human spirit, ultimately embracing life in its entirety.

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    Dudamel, known for more than just his conducting prowess, is lauded for his vibrant presence on the podium and his commitment to promoting arts education. As the music and artistic director of both the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra, he’s been instrumental in bringing classical music to a diverse, global audience. His influence crosses over into pop culture, evident in his contributions to projects like “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” and “The Simpsons.”

    His notable accomplishments include conducting the LA Phil in the concert film “Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles,” collaborating with stars like Billie Eilish, and performing at high-profile events such as the Super Bowl halftime show and the Academy Awards. Dudamel’s diverse musical endeavors, which have involved working with international icons and winning four Grammy Awards, span a variety of genres.

    As January progresses, Dudamel’s commitments include a full-scale production of Richard Wagner’s opera “Das Rheingold,” with sets designed by Frank Gehry. The month rounds off with Dudamel conducting Johannes Brahms’ “Double Concerto” and Anton Bruckner’s “Symphony No. 1,” demonstrating his versatile expertise. The Walt Disney Concert Hall’s rendition of Mahler’s “Symphony No. 6” under Dudamel was an invitation to delve into the emotional depths of the composition, masterfully orchestrated by the conductor. This performance showcased the timeless beauty and relevance of classical music when guided by a maestro who honors both tradition and innovation.

    The musical evening not only celebrated Mahler’s brilliance but also shone a light on Dudamel’s talent in reviving ageless music for today’s audience. Dudamel’s dedication to upholding classical music traditions while infusing them with new vigor ensures that each performance becomes a distinct and unforgettable experience for those present this January.

  • Los Angeles Public Library Acquires Renowned Angel City Press

    Los Angeles Public Library Acquires Renowned Angel City Press

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    Sadly, 2023 was a rather somber year for independent media. Announcements proclaiming another independent press had been shut down, another newspaper was bought out, or another media company was laying off journalists seemed to surface daily. So when the cofounders of Angel City Press, Paddy Calistro and Scott McAuley, said they were retiring from the publishing house they had operated for over three decades, it just felt like another glum casualty of the 2023 literary world.

    However, the Los Angeles-based institution had a pleasant surprise in store. A truly unprecedented turn of events revealed that Angel City Press—the publisher well-known for its celebration of L.A.’s iconic cultural history—has, indeed, been acquired by the Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL).

    LAPL, which is the nation’s fifth-largest public library system, announced the acquisition of the press on December 16th. Moving forward, the acquisition, which happened via donation by Calistro and McAuley, will be known as Angel City Press at the Los Angeles Public Library.

    With eight books already in the pipeline for 2024, Angel City Press is on pace as it usually puts out five to eight works annually. To help guarantee some continuity under the new acquisition, Terri Accomazzo, the editorial director who started with the press as an intern in 2007 and has held the position full-time since 2018, will continue in her role. Calistro spoke on the development, saying, “I really can’t believe that it’s happening because it’s so right.”

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    The LAPL currently manages 73 branches housing over 8 million books and has recently become even more aggressive by expanding its special collections. However, acquiring an entire press raises the system to a never-before-seen level. John F. Szabo, who has served as the city librarian of L.A. since 2012, called the achievement a unique step for any public library system. He said, “I am not all aware of an independent publisher becoming part of a public library anywhere in the country.” Szabo has been a librarian for over 30 years and has served under three different mayors.

    Nevertheless, the LAPL is not the first library system with its own press. In 2016, the New York Public Library sprung its own press that publishes five books annually, and the Library of Congress Publishing Office also puts out its own titles via the Library of Congress Books program. Speaking on the acquisition, Calistro said, “The reason that this has made sense from the beginning is that the missions of the two entities are the same.” He continued, “We have always wanted to preserve the history of Los Angeles and get people to read about it, and that’s what the library does.”

    Angel City Press has made enormous contributions to L.A.’s cultural history since it was first founded in 1992 in Santa Monica. Throughout the years, the press has published such influential books as Hollywood du Jour: Lost Recipes of Legendary Hollywood Haunts by Betty Goodwin and Becoming Los Angeles: Myth, Memory, and a Sense of Place by D.J. Waldie.

    Although the acquisition is current news and has been in the works for approximately two years, the relationship between Angel City Press and the LAPL goes back much further. The two entities initially partnered in 2013 to publish Josh Kun’s Songs in the Key of Los Angeles. This propelled Kun to create a trilogy, which concluded in 2019.

    Additionally, Angel City has even published a book by Arnold Schwartzman and Stephen Gee titled Los Angeles Central Library: A History of Its Art and Architecture, a book about the LAPL itself. According to Szabo, “We’re committed to preserving L.A. history, and we get excited about telling untold stories of Los Angeles and Angelenos. That’s very much what Angel City Press has done through their publishing of very high-quality, well-researched books with wonderful authors.”

  • Terminal 3 of LAX Evacuated After “Suspicious Items” Found in Unattended Bag 

    Terminal 3 of LAX Evacuated After “Suspicious Items” Found in Unattended Bag 

    Image credit: Unsplash

    An abandoned backpack containing “suspicious items” caused a brief disturbance at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Monday morning, prompting evacuations from Terminal 3. Around 10:00 in the morning, a watchful onlooker noticed a man leaving his suitcase unsecured. This led to prompt action from airport authorities and police enforcement.

    The traffic at the upper level entering the Central Terminal area was significantly affected by the police action that followed the LA Airport Police Department’s quick response to the event. To protect the safety of the thousands of passengers transiting through the crucial transportation hub, the airport authorities, working with the police, conducted evacuations and temporarily suspended operations.

    Travelers and commuters were put in a bind by the interruptions caused by the Terminal 3 shutdown, according to CBS Los Angeles, with the upper-level horseshoe road being closed until shortly before 11 a.m. Although the closure caused traffic jams outside the airport, many were somewhat relieved that lower levels of the airport were still accessible.

    At first, there were few details available on the contents of the suspicious luggage, which increased tensions between the public and airport staff. The fact that there was no particular information made the situation much more worrisome, leading cops and bomb squad members to carefully inspect the abandoned suitcase. They conducted a comprehensive investigation to identify the bag’s owner and ascertain the nature of the possible danger.

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    A collective sigh of relief filled the airport around 11 a.m. when authorities gave the all-clear. Regular airport operations were ostensibly restored after allowing passengers to return to Terminal 3. Sources at CBS Los Angeles characterized the mood as travelers returned. They noted a tangible feeling of relief that preceded the resolution, even if the tension remained like the exhaust fumes from previously halted automobiles.

    NBC Los Angeles was able to collect video footage that showed the evacuation and the fear passengers felt in the crowds outside the terminals. The video also captured the final sense of relief when the crisis was effectively handled, demonstrating the expertise of emergency services and law enforcement in handling such serious situations.

    The event serves as a clear reminder of the need for alertness and prompt action in preserving the safety and security of one of the busiest airports in the country as LAX returns to routine. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the unattended suitcase is still underway by the authorities, who are resolute in their efforts to protect the safety of all travelers and employees at Los Angeles International Airport.

    The interruptions were recognized by the LA Airport Police Department in a post that was picked up by NBC Los Angeles. It said, “Police activity at Terminal 3 causing traffic impacts at the upper level into the Central Terminal Area.” Even though the event resulted in a great deal of inconvenience, its resolution demonstrated how well law enforcement and airport authorities coordinated their reaction to manage possible threats quickly and guarantee public safety.

    The incident at LAX is evidence of the value of preventive security measures and the ability of airport staff to respond appropriately in emergency situations. The community can appreciate the commitment of individuals who worked hard to handle the problem and maintain the safety and security standards of one of the best airports in the country while the inquiry into the abandoned suitcase is ongoing.

  • Free Career Coaching Coming to Ojai and Piru Libraries

    Free Career Coaching Coming to Ojai and Piru Libraries

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Ojai and Piru Libraries of Ventura County have announced a series of free career coaching sessions taking place throughout the first five months of 2024. In total, twenty sessions will take place across both libraries, with ten at each location. These events will occur on either Thursday or Tuesday in the afternoon. Each session includes seven career-focused workshops designed to serve the interests of the community.

    In a statement, Ventura County Library Director Nancy Schram said, “We are proud to serve as a catalyst for empowering our community’s workforce. This program aligns with our strategic plan and commitment to being a hub for knowledge and support, fostering growth and success for all.”

    The sessions are open to all and easy to access. “Coaching is free, registration is not required, and drop-ins are welcome,” reads the Ventura County Library website. Auxiliary aids and services will be available to people with disabilities. Any participants with hearing or speaking limitations may reach the California Retail Service by dialing 711.

    The seven workshops include:

    • “Brand Called You,” a workshop about defining your experiences, skills, and values to promote a personal, professional brand.
    • “Digital Literacy,” a workshop about finding and evaluating information through the internet and digital media platforms.
    • “Edge Up,” a workshop about the free online Career Edge platform for continued career development at all stages.
    • “Emotional Intelligence,” a workshop about managing one’s own emotions and better understanding the emotions of those around you.
    • “Power of Networking,” a workshop about connecting with coworkers, collaborating with colleagues, and building professional relationships.
    • “Why Way?” is a workshop about finding your strengths and values and deciding on a career path that aligns those with your goals.
    • “Winning the Interview,” a workshop about the best ways to ‘win’ in conversations with potential employers.

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    The sessions that take place at Ojai Library are scheduled to occur biweekly on Thursdays between 1/11 and 5/30. They will begin at 2 p.m. and last until 4 p.m. They are scheduled for 1/11, 1/25, 2/8, 2/22, 3/14, 3/28, 4/11, 4/25, 6/16, and 6/30. Ojai Library is located at 111 East Ojai Avenue in Ojai, CA.

    The sessions that take place at Piru Library are scheduled to occur biweekly on Tuesdays between 1/9 and 5/28. They will begin at 2 p.m. and last until 4 p.m. They are scheduled for 1/9, 1/23, 2/6, 2/20, 3/12, 3/26, 4/9, 4/23, 5/14, and 5/28. Piru Library is located at 3811 Center Street in Piru, CA.

    Workshops are made possible by federal funding in the amount of $4,950,787. This allows each topic to be generously taught to the community without any expectation of payment or donation from participants. 

    Questions about the sessions can be directed to the Ventura County Library’s Education, Literacy, and Outreach Manager, Antonio Apodaca, at [email protected] or (805) 677-7159. The libraries are excited to offer this service to the community and are committed to making them as accessible as possible to the people of Ventura County.