Author: Molly Peck

  • Rising Climate Crisis Transforms California Mountains into ‘Zombie Forests’

    Rising Climate Crisis Transforms California Mountains into ‘Zombie Forests’

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    Some conifer forests in the Sierra National Forest are already as good as dead, so implies ecologist Avery Hill, who spoke to the Los Angeles Times about a forest in the Sierra Nevada that he described as “eerie.” Among the ecological community, green conifer forests like this one are becoming known as “zombie forests.” Conifer seeds can no longer grow here, so as the forests fade, they will be replaced by other kinds of trees—and this slow demise will have consequences.

    Global climate change has altered the world so that the environment around these green conifers can no longer support the next generation. It’s simply gotten too warm. When the wildfires come, as they increasingly do, or the drought or diseases that regularly kill these conifers arrive to do their inevitable work, the seeds dropped by these conifers will not survive. Conifer saplings need cooler weather and wetter soil than the new climate supports.

    The conifers will be replaced by other plants that surround the conifers: patchy groupings of arid chaparral shrubs. The landscape will be dramatically different. The carbon sink of the forest will be lost, and each dead conifer stand will marginally accelerate the changing climate. Conifer forests also resist wildfires substantially better than other plants that could be growing here, such as the scrub, and their loss will elevate the wildfire risk in the surrounding areas.

    Still, ecologists like Hill see opportunities in the inevitable. Hill told the Los Angeles Times, “It provides almost an experimental space to address some really difficult questions about how we manage ecological systems.” Hill, who works at the California Academy of Sciences, understands that environmental changes like this will continue to occur in the future. He and his colleagues believe now is the time to monitor these inevitable transitions and determine strategies to manage them.

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    Although Hill does see value in this research opportunity, he pointed out that expectations have to be realistic. “There are management decisions you can make to kind of squeeze out every last opportunity these trees have to survive,” he told the Los Angeles Times, “But if the climate says no, the forest won’t grow.” Hill’s team has projected that the conifer forests will continue to become zombified if current trends hold, with nearly the entirety of the Sierra Nevada unsuitable for conifer saplings by the end of the century. Even if worldwide efforts against climate change substantially reverse these trends, Hill’s team projects that the zombie forests could still double in size in that same time. At this point, there’s already no going back to how things were.

    Chris Field, the director of the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment, was quoted as saying, “It’s a really stark reminder of how much climate change has already occurred and how important it is to make sure that the amount that occurs in the future is as little as possible.” The Sierra Nevada is one of the most protected and highly studied natural wonders of California and plays an important role in stabilizing the surrounding climate. The consequences of the expanding zombie forests and the loss of the conifers will affect more than just the surrounding region. Hopefully, the research of scientists like Avery Hill and his team will also have far-reaching consequences, though it will never be enough to fully counteract what has already begun.

  • Jag Bains Makes History as First Sikh and Indian American ‘Big Brother’ Winner

    Jag Bains Makes History as First Sikh and Indian American ‘Big Brother’ Winner

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    In a significant change for reality TV, Jag Bains has made history on the show Big Brother. Bains, who is 25 and owns a truck company in Omak, Washington, has become the first Sikh and Indian American to win the show in its 25 seasons. His win is not just about him winning; it shows how the show, which has had issues including different cultures, is changing.

    Bains’ path to winning was full of surprises. He was up against strong competitors: Matt Klotz, a 27-year-old swimmer who has competed in the Deaflympics and is the first deaf person on the show, and Bowie Jane Ball, a 46-year-old DJ and lawyer from Australia. The three of them were all in the final episode on Thursday, fighting for the top prize. In the end, it came down to Bains and Klotz. Bains gave an excellent speech that convinced a group of seven former contestants to vote, and he won five votes to two.

    Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Bains reflected on his unexpected victory. “I didn’t think I was going to make it this far in the game and that I was going to win,” he admitted. His win is a milestone, making him the first Sikh participant and the inaugural winner of Indian descent in the show’s history. This win means a lot to Bains personally. It connects to his own life story, as his parents came to the United States from Punjab, India. He said, “But what I will say is everything I do is for my family,” showing that he values what his parents have done for him.

    Bains’ victory adds to a recent trend of groundbreaking wins on Big Brother. In 2021, Xavier Prather became the first Black champion, followed by Taylor Hale, the first Black woman winner in 2022. These victories, however, emerge against a backdrop of controversy that has long shadowed the show. Since its debut in 2000, Big Brother has been marred by allegations of racism, homophobia, and other forms of hostility among contestants. 

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    There have been some upsetting events in past seasons. In season 21, Jack Matthews made hurtful comments about Black and Asian contestants, which made a lot of people angry. In 2013, Aaryn Gries made derogatory remarks about Black and Asian housemates, causing a lot of criticism. The show got into more trouble in 2016 when Andrew Tate was kicked off for posting racist and homophobic messages online. These incidents show that the show has struggled to be fair and respectful to everyone.

    After the tragic event of George Floyd’s murder in 2020, there were many calls for more diversity in TV shows. CBS, the network that airs Big Brother, promised to make changes. George Cheeks, the head of CBS, said they would make sure that at least half of the people in their reality shows, like Big Brother, are Black, Indigenous, or people of color. This promise was an important step toward including more diverse people in TV shows.

    Talking to Entertainment Weekly, Bains said he knew he was the first of his kind on the show and felt pressure to represent his community well. Because Big Brother is a game in which people often compete against each other, it was hard for Bains, who values loyalty and honesty, to play. He struggled at first, trying to be loyal to everyone. But then, after almost being sent home, he decided to be loyal to only one person: Matt Klotz. Their friendship became popular among fans. 

    Bains reflected on the initial challenges he faced. “I know I felt it at the beginning of the game—I sucked—I was loyal to a fault,” he admitted. This realization led to a strategic shift. 

    Bains’ win is important because it shows someone breaking new ground in the show. It also highlights the challenges of being true to yourself and your community in a competitive TV show. As “Big Brother” tries to deal with its issues, Bains’ story is integral to its history.

  • Newport Beach Locals Anxious Over Unstable Hillside

    Newport Beach Locals Anxious Over Unstable Hillside

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    A landslide that began seven months ago is having a substantially negative impact on the local community in Newport Beach. The event already demolished one home and wiped away chunks of several residents’ backyards. Recently, the landslide began moving land around again at an alarming pace. It leaves residents of the Dover Shores neighborhood of Newport Beach living on the edge, and understandably so, as they anxiously await how the event continues.

    Bob Holcomb, a superintendent for Holcomb Engineering, recently observed evidence of the landslide’s activity on one resident’s home, and it is not looking good, especially with unpleasant weather on the horizon. Heavy rain could quickly destabilize the environment for the property and another near the landslide. 

    This natural event can be challenging to predict, control, and resolve, and such issues prime landslides for anxiety in such locations. Locals monitor the event and keep up with the details to plan accordingly. It is unclear at this time when the landslide will subside. 

    Two residents on Galaxy Drive reported that they had been concerned since the earlier landslides in March. Being close to the event has significantly affected their quality of life, and residents worry about the landslide’s potential consequences. 

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    Unfortunately, developments in landslide activity are not relieving the community’s anxiety. Recent observations by experts like Holcomb indicate possible progression. With increased levels of rain on the way, expectations are not promising. 

    Now, residents face more concern as tension continues mounting. Multiple homes in the Newport Beach Dover Shores neighborhood are again at risk, and residents are concerned for their security and safety. Although the landslide began in March, the threat continues. 

    Seven months after the landslide began, two homes on Galaxy Drive still live on the edge. After the evaluation, Holcomb concluded, “The wall is starting to lean right now because the hill is so saturated that the dirt keeps sinking, and this keeps peeling off every day.” The first landslide severely impacted the home in question.

    While property owners wait to see if their homes or yards will make it unscathed, analysts track the weather. Local climate conditions and the amount of precipitation will inevitably influence the magnitude of the following activity and resulting damage. Those monitoring the area can only hope for the best, with an event practically impossible to prepare for. 

    As bluff failure has occurred in the past in surrounding areas, it would not be surprising to see it happen here. It has also contributed to the general rise in concern, stemming from claims from some locals that the city of Newport Beach was partially responsible for the slide. Some locals cite a clogged and overflowing storm drain as the landslide’s perceived cause. Regardless of the reason, there may be more concerning landslide activity soon. 

  • Los Angeles Welcomes Premiere Chain Food Festival, Featuring Chili’s, Panda Express, and Pizza Hut

    Los Angeles Welcomes Premiere Chain Food Festival, Featuring Chili’s, Panda Express, and Pizza Hut

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    For those whose palates crave the cuisine of popular chain restaurants, the groundbreaking ChainFEST delivers a unique Chain experience in Los Angeles. The vibrant and unconventional food festival steers away from the average food festival, spotlighting local gems or chef-driven establishments to offer a unique culinary experience. ChainFEST, the inaugural food festival created by Chain, is a dining concept born from the minds of The Office actor B.J. Novak, renowned Los Angeles chef Tim Hollingsworth, and their passionate collaborators.

    The Chain has already made a name by paying homage to beloved chain restaurant dishes and serving creative spins on classic favorites. They are taking it further by hosting ChainFEST, a two-day extravaganza in Los Angeles celebrating the iconic flavors of chain dining.

    The premier chain food festival will unfold in early December at the Nya Studios in Hollywood, California. It is a culinary journey inviting attendees to savor delectable bites from a roster of heavyweights in the chain restaurant business. Attendees can expect offerings from Chili’s Grill and Bar, Dunkin’, Jack in the Box, Panda Express, Pizza Hut, Red Robin, SONIC Drive-In, and more, with refreshing soft drinks from Pepsi and crafty cocktails by several massive alcohol brands, including Crown Royal and Captain Morgan. With many options, attendees can enjoy every mouthwatering morsel for a single-day ticket price of just $75.

    While the menu items might sound familiar, ChainFEST brings a unique twist. Chef Tim Hollingsworth, who boasts an impressive culinary background, will reimagine the signature dishes from each participating restaurant, crafting unforgettable meals exclusive to this event. Novak, one of the minds behind Chain, emphasized the significance of honoring chain cuisine and expressed his love for chain food, deeming the popular mainstream food worthy of celebration and respect, just like any other cuisine.

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    Chef Hollingsworth shared his perspective on the event’s culinary philosophy, declaring Chain a reflection of his chef background and his duality of working in high-end Michelin restaurants worldwide while still cherishing the chain restaurants from his childhood. For Chef Hollingsworth, ChainFEST’s imagination of iconic, widely beloved, and easy-to-eat dishes reflects a pursuit of excellence.

    ChainFEST gives Angelenos and more the unparalleled opportunity to indulge in their favorite food chain restaurants’ revamped and reimagined dishes while participating in fun games and activities designed for food enthusiasts. The one-of-a-kind festival will welcome guests at the venue Nya Studios on Friday, December 1, from 7 to 9 p.m. and on Saturday, December 2, with two sessions: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

    Quench your thirst at the festival with soft drinks from Pepsi and sip on Diageo alcohol brands featuring Guinness, Smirnoff, Crown Royal, and Captain Morgan. Additionally, Postmates will be on-site, ensuring those in the Postmates lounge get all the delectable delights served at the event.

    ChainFEST invites all to relish their favorite foods and beverages from the world’s most renowned food chains. This December, culinary prowess and Chain food comfort merge for a delectable concoction.

  • Loss and Fear: LA’s Jewish Community Grapples with Conflict in Israel

    Loss and Fear: LA’s Jewish Community Grapples with Conflict in Israel

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    Upon leaving the theater with her daughter on a seemingly ordinary Saturday evening, Sharon Farber was met with an onslaught of frantic messages. The alerts were from her sister in Israel, detailing how their family had taken refuge in bomb shelters amidst a sudden attack.

    The distance felt excruciating. Farber, a renowned film composer and the musical head of Beverly Hills Temple of the Arts felt trapped in an abyss of anxiety, constantly refreshing news feeds and calling loved ones.

    Many shared her despair in Los Angeles, where the Jewish community stands as one of the most significant outside of Israel. The weekend, which should have been filled with joyous celebrations for the Simchat Torah holiday, became a sad reflection of the violence thousands of miles away.

    By Sunday, reports highlighted the grave extent of the assault, with casualties exceeding 1,100 Israelis and Palestinians. The violence wasn’t just a number for Farber; among the deceased was the child of a dear friend. She lamented, “Such vast devastation in such a compact area means everyone knows someone affected.”

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    The anticipation of the holiday was disrupted. The usually vibrant streets of the Pico-Robertson area, typically closed for festive celebrations, took on a solemn atmosphere. Rebecca Wizman, a resident, expressed her grief, noting that what was supposed to be the year’s happiest day had been overshadowed by tragedy.

    The absence of technology due to holiday observance intensified the angst. Many, including Wizman, awaited the sunset on Sunday with trepidation, dreading the updates they would find once they could access their devices.

    Rabbi David Baron from the Beverly Hills Temple drew parallels between the unfolding events and the horrors of 9/11. Conversations with relatives and friends in Israel emphasized the unprecedented magnitude of the assault.

    Yossie Ziff’s return to LA from Modi’in in Israel took a tragic turn as news of the attacks reached him. While the synagogue service was a testament to resilience and hope, the atmosphere was tinged with pain and sorrow. Ziff, amidst his tears, was determined to find joy in the holiday.

    Yet, not all could find that strength. Nathan Pazooky, a young attendee, voiced the internal struggle many faced, torn between their duty to celebrate and the overwhelming heartache of the current events.

    Beyond the Jewish community, the aftershocks of the conflict were palpable. In Anaheim’s Little Arabia, Aref Mohammad’s constant check-ins with his family in Gaza echoed the universal fear for loved ones. Nazeeh, a Palestinian diner, commented on the long-standing conflict, emphasizing the tragedy on both sides.

    Reflecting outside the Chabad Persian Youth Center, Jay Israel captured the essence of the collective heartbreak. He grieved for the innocent lives lost, underscoring that in war, the civilians always bear the brunt of leadership decisions.

    In times of crisis, communities globally, irrespective of distance, feel a profound sense of unity, empathy, and shared sorrow. The events in Israel were a stark reminder of the fragile nature of peace and the universal desire for harmony.

  • Kaiser Healthcare Professionals Commence a Three-Day Strike

    Kaiser Healthcare Professionals Commence a Three-Day Strike

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    In a historic move, Kaiser Permanente healthcare professionals in Southern California initiated a three-day strike following the failure to produce an agreement amid contract negotiations. Notably the largest in United States history, the strike started at 3 a.m. on the East Coast, with strikers throughout Southern California joining at 6 a.m. The strike is led by the union representing nationwide Kaiser employees. 

    Before the strike, a Kaiser spokesman provided insight into the ongoing talks, with Kaiser claiming several agreements with the Coalition of Kaiser Permanente unions had been reached regarding specific provisions. After declaring a commitment to around-the-clock attention toward achieving a fair deal, Kaiser’s newer statements about negotiations claim the coalition union representatives and Kaiser Permanente management are still at the bargaining table. According to a report from Kaiser’s Senior Media Relations Specialist Terry Kankari, the two entities have worked tirelessly to reach an agreement that offers robust employee benefits. 

    Just days before the strike, Kaiser officials expressed that a strike was neither inevitable nor justified. They laid out their goal to reach an agreement that ultimately strengthens Kaiser Permanente as a quality workplace with reliably efficient, affordable, and accessible care for members. Despite these statements, the union remained prepared to take action after failed contract talks and maintained picketing plans, which commenced Wednesday at several Kaiser locations statewide.

    Unionized Workforce’s Grievances

    Throughout California and several states, 75,000 Kaiser Workers are expected to band together and make their voice heard, expressing that Kaiser Executives are refusing to listen to the needs of employees suffering from Kaiser’s short-staffing crisis. Employees suggest Kaiser Executives are bargaining in bad faith and failing to deliver substantial solutions. Kaiser employees have been disheartened by the burnout of single-handedly taking on the roles of several people. At the same time, their patients suffer and become frustrated when healthcare professionals have to rush them and hurry to the next patient. Desiring to give patients the attention and care they need, Kaiser employees are demanding the short-staffing crisis be adequately addressed.

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    The picketing locations are set to expand all across California, with the union reporting that additional pickets will be set up at Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, and Orange County Kaiser facilities. Within the United States, the union coalition reports additional picketing will occur in Washington, Colorado, Oregon, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia Kaiser facilities. The strike consists of numerous workers across various practices in the healthcare field, including licensed vocational nurses, respiratory therapists, X-ray technicians, behavioral health workers, surgical, radiology, pharmacy technicians, medical assistants, emergency department technicians, ultrasound sonographers, teleservice representatives, and many more. 

    Accusations Against Kaiser Permanente

    Along with inefficient efforts to maintain necessary staffing levels, Kaiser Permanente has been accused of cutting employees’ performance bonuses, failing to protect against subcontractors, and not offering wages that reflect inflation. Kaiser denied allegations of slashing performance bonuses and raising members’ premiums while also claiming to provide wage increases across the board. As the historic strike unfolds, it brings to the forefront the challenges in reaching a consensus between healthcare providers and the workforce advocating for better working conditions and patient care.

  • New Frights Await as Haunted Hayride Launches in Los Angeles

    New Frights Await as Haunted Hayride Launches in Los Angeles

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    Guess what’s new at the Haunted Hayride in Griffith Park, LA? This year, they’re introducing the chilling “Hellbilly Halloween” – a spooky dive into a cannibal family’s home. Yikes!

    The Haunted Hayride has been LA’s go-to for Halloween fun for the last fifteen years. From haunted houses to mazes and games, there’s something for everyone. And the cherry on top? The iconic Hayride through the eerie town of Midnight Falls is set up mainly in Griffith Park each year. If you’re looking for spooky vibes, drop by anytime from late September right up to Halloween night.

    This year, the Haunted Hayride will host three haunted mazes: the Morbid Mortuary, Midnight Falls walkthrough, and the new Hellbilly Halloween. Each is full of scary characters ready to frighten you. Hellbilly Halloween is a large haunt, offering customers the chance to enter the home of a family of hillbilly cannibals. The maze allows visitors to walk through various rooms in the run-down house, full of bodies, blood, and terror. The place is also fog-filled, making it challenging to find the exit. “It was pretty scary. I was sweating,” said Sofia Lauren as she exited Hellbilly Halloween. “I was like, ‘When is this going to end?’ I was looking for the end because it was a little too long, but it was fun,” the Monrovia resident continued.

    Explore the New “Hellbilly Halloween” Maze

    This year, the Hayride got a bit of a facelift! Not only will there be more unexpected spooks, but you’re also in for a comfier ride. Remember how we just sat on a hay spread on the wagon floor? Well, now they’ve set up hay bales around the sides, making it much cozier to sit. So, brace yourself for a thrilling journey through the park’s wild side!

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    “Last year, you had to lay down on the wagon; now it’s much better, and it was scarier than last year, too, because they had more people coming at you,” said Rene Zapien, a resident of Sun Valley who visited the Haunted Hayride with his wife and two daughters. 

    Enjoy Upgraded Rides and New Games

    Another new addition to the event is a game called Zombie Splat. Players can fight back against the zombies in this carnival-style shooting game. Actors play zombies that visitors can shoot with gelly balls, like paintballs but much softer. “I think this may be the only place where you get to fight back against the zombies rather than them sneaking up on you,” commented Ryan Wade as he exited Zombie Splat. 

    Victor Mathieu, general manager for the Haunted Hayride, has high hopes for this year’s Halloween season. “It’s going to be epic,” he told Los Angeles Daily News, “Overall, this event has grown and improved drastically. We’re extremely excited about this season.”

    You can buy tickets for the Halloween event on the Haunted Hayride website. The prices of the tickets vary, starting from $29.99 for hayride tickets and going up to $109.99 for platinum tickets that give you access to all parts of the event. You can visit the Midnight Falls Town Square well by purchasing tickets at any price point.

  • Los Angeles Turns to AI for Early Detection and Aid for Potential Homelessness

    Los Angeles Turns to AI for Early Detection and Aid for Potential Homelessness

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    For Dulce Volantin, a single phone call can change lives; that call was a lifeline she didn’t see coming. Dulce and her partner, Valarie Zayas, lived close to Venice Beach in Los Angeles, a small place unlike the fancy LA homes most people think of. Their story is one of romance emerging from turbulent backgrounds. They had a touching story of finding love after facing many challenges, including dealing with gangs. Dulce had mental health problems, and Valarie was trying hard to find a job. They were apprehensive about becoming homeless.

    However, a call from the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services offered a glimmer of hope. This was no ordinary check-in. Instead, Los Angeles was planning a groundbreaking strategy to tackle homelessness by forecasting it through the power of artificial intelligence (AI). 

    Dana Vanderford, spearheading the Homelessness Prevention unit, likens the situation to a “bucket with a hole in it.” While the existing measures help refill the bucket, the underlying problems remain unaddressed, causing it to keep draining. 

    The introduction of the AI program aims to seal that leak. It’s an ambitious venture. Collating data from numerous county agencies, from emergency room stats to sign-ups for food aid, the program employs machine learning to generate a list of individuals on the brink of losing their homes.

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    Bridging Technology and Human Touch in Homelessness Prevention

    But data is just the starting point. Humanity fills in the gaps. Elizabeth Juarez, one of the 16 dedicated case managers, understands that while AI can hint at potential homelessness, it takes a human touch to convert these leads into tangible help. This task isn’t straightforward; many are skeptical or have already succumbed to despair by the time they’re reached.

    When Juarez finally connects, she doesn’t just offer assistance—she paints a future where $4,000 to $6,000 will fend off impending instability. Whether paying off payday loan debts, providing e-bikes, or ensuring food is on the table, the goal is holistic well-being. 

    Ricky Brown’s journey is a good example. At 65, Ricky’s already unstable financial position was thrown into turmoil when he unexpectedly became the sole guardian of his three grandsons following the sudden death of his ex-wife. The burden of added responsibilities made his modest apartment in LA’s Crenshaw district feel overwhelmingly cramped. Fred Theus, a county case manager, stepped in to weave a support system for Ricky and his family, showing that the direst situations can be averted with the proper assistance. Despite the complexities and the constant race against time, Fred stands as Ricky’s beacon of hope in challenging times. 

    The Promise and Future of AI-Driven Homelessness Prevention

    This AI-driven program, now two years into its implementation, has already helped over 560 individuals. Many have managed to retain their homes, indicating the initiative’s promise. But its real success lies not just in the present but in the longevity of its impact. Plans for a comprehensive randomized control trial Nanaimo objectively assesses the program’s efficacy by comparing participant outcomes against non-participants.

    Janey Rountree of the California Policy Lab at UCLA emphasizes the need for discernment. “When millions seem vulnerable, pinpointing the 1% to 2% who might access homelessness is critical,” she explains.

    By 2026, we’ll have a clearer picture of the initiative’s long-term efficacy. But even now, LA’s endeavor is setting precedents, with San Diego County gearing up for a similar venture.

    Dulce and Valarie’s present circumstances vividly illustrate the transformative potential of this program. They now have a happy home filled with good memories. A special phone call started their journey to a better life. This shows how using technology and caring for people can work together. It’s not just about stopping a bad situation but creating a brighter future for everyone.

  • Progress on the Los Angeles to Coachella Valley Train Route Remains Steady

    Progress on the Los Angeles to Coachella Valley Train Route Remains Steady

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    Big news for LA’s commuters and Coachella enthusiasts: The long-awaited passenger rail connecting Los Angeles to the Coachella Valley is making notable progress. Initiated as a response to the region’s booming population, this visionary concept was officially unveiled to the public in 2021 to revolutionize how Southern Californians navigate their vast state. The proposed east-west intercity rail service would connect LA’s Union Station to Coachella Valley’s city of Indio faster and more conveniently.

    This transformative rail project, known as the Coachella Valley Rail, is spearheaded by the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC). Per the commission’s official website, the RCTC hopes the rail line will address the growing need for better connectivity in the region due to the significant growth experienced in the Coachella Valley over the past few years. The project aims to provide an efficient transportation solution for Southern California, connecting counties like Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside.

    The project recently saw a pivotal achievement, with the RCTC certifying the Tier 1 Program-Level Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report in July 2022. This paves the way for a more in-depth Tier 2 analysis, focusing on specifics like station locations and essential infrastructure improvements.

    As of now, funding is the RCTC’s priority. Department officials say the forthcoming phase has a $60 million price tag. RCTC locked in $23 million for the Tier 2 EIS/EIR. An additional $20 million could come from the federal Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program. Additionally, Congressmember Ken Calvert, representing California’s 41st district, spanning Riverside County and cities from Corona to Palm Springs, has championed the cause with a proposed $5 million boost.

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    The state has also been supportive of the project. So far, $40 million has been acquired from various state channels. While a final tally for the project’s construction costs remains uncertain, early indicators suggest the figure could surpass the $1 billion mark.

    Costs aside, the emphasis is on the project’s potential impact on Southern California’s broader goals. “The service would provide game-changing access to jobs and education centers while reducing vehicle miles traveled and combating climate change and air pollution,” officials note. “The rail service would also significantly expand economic opportunities by opening travel to restaurants, resorts, music festivals, sports facilities, and commercial and retail centers.”

    Plus, the Coachella Valley Rail is set to be a part of Amtrak’s broader Tucson-Los Angeles corridor, linking passengers nationwide. “The Tucson-Phoenix-Los Angeles corridor would connect passengers to Amtrak’s Coast Starlight, Pacific Surfliner, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, and Texas Eagle routes, broadening travel opportunities nationwide,” the RCTC officials explain. Considering its expansive scope, the proposed project is a matter of state and national interest, a fact the Commission hopes will elicit more support.

    As with any long-term infrastructure project, citizens are urged to curb their enthusiasm for now. Even with rapid resource mobilization, it may take ten or more years to complete the project. However, the RCTC and its state and federal partners are tirelessly exploring funding options to expedite the process. For more information, the RCTC website has the latest real-time updates on recent developments and announcements.            

  • Los Angeles Opens Applications for Urgent Rent Assistance Scheme

    Los Angeles Opens Applications for Urgent Rent Assistance Scheme

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    On Tuesday, the City of Los Angeles is launching a program to provide financial assistance to low-income renters at risk of homelessness. The Emergency Renters Assistance Program is designed to provide relief for those who have been unable to afford rent because of the COVID-19 pandemic or other hardships. The new rental assistance program is funded through the United to House Los Angeles (ULA) measure, which uses sales tax revenue to support qualifying individuals. Eligibility for the new program will be determined by whether a household was obligated to pay rent on a residential dwelling and meets all requirements.

    Through Measure, ULA funds, often referred to as the “mansion tax,” renters are encouraged to utilize the application period and apply online at housing.lacity.org or call 888-379-3150 anytime M-F between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. The program will provide qualified people with up to six months of rent assistance. Residents of Los Angeles will be eligible for assistance under the following requirements as presented by the LA Housing Department:

    • All applicants must be residents of Los Angeles, irrespective of immigration status. Visit neighborhoodla.org to verify if you reside within city limits.
    • One or more household residents must have been subjected to unemployment, incurred substantial expenses, suffered a reduction in household income, or experienced other financial hardship between March 2020 and the present.
    • Applicants must have unpaid rent owed to their current landlord for one or more months from April 2020 to the present.
    • The applicants’ household income must be 80% or less of Area Median Income (AMI).  

    As part of the program’s launch, the general manager of the LA Housing Department, Ann Sewill, will be hosting a virtual news conference to provide further details and answer questions. All services and programs funded through Measure ULA will support qualifying Angelenos requiring help paying back rent.

    Measure ULA, or the “mansion tax,” is a sales of 4% on properties over $5 million and a sales tax of 5.5% on properties over $10 million. All revenue from Measure ULA is collected and embarked for building more affordable housing units and renter protections, such as eviction defense and rental assistance programs. As outlined by Measure ULA, A $150 million plan was front-funded by the LA City Council in August to support affordable housing and fund tenant protections.

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    The LA Housing Department is set to launch the Emergency Renters Assistance Program because many Los Angeles residents currently face eviction because they are working to pay back rent. While there were tenant protections to cover back rent accumulated during the COVID-19 pandemic from March 2020 to September 2021, those protections ended on August 1. For all rent accrued between October 2021 and January 31, 2023, tenants will have an extended window to February 2024 to pay.

    The LA Housing Department will also introduce an online portal to offer financial support for mom-and-pop landlords on October 23. For landlords who own 12 or fewer units, the LA Housing Department requires them to apply with the city.

  • LA Takes Action: The Potential End of RV Encampments on the Horizon

    LA Takes Action: The Potential End of RV Encampments on the Horizon

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    Los Angeles has witnessed a concerning rise in the prevalence of dilapidated RVs serving as makeshift homes for countless residents. These rundown RV communities, often characterized by dire living conditions, have become a troubling fixture on the westside of LA. Tragically, some have even died within these RVs, succumbing to fires that left many homeless. Now, LA aims to take action and potentially bring RV encampments to a close.

    Efforts to tackle this issue gained momentum through initiatives like the Jefferson Trail Rehabilitation Project. On the day of an RV fire, the project cleared an encampment in the vicinity, orchestrating the towing of vehicles, relocating encampment residents to hotels, and implementing deterrents like metal fencing, concrete barricades, and prominent “no parking” signs.

    Los Angeles City Council members, including Traci Park, are determined to find solutions that end the RV encampment problem. Beyond the immediate safety concerns, these encampments have detrimentally affected the environment, notably exemplified in the Ballona Wetlands encampment. How the Westside encampment issues are approached will likely become a model for how Los Angeles city and county officials will address the massive and overarching homelessness crisis.

    LA’s housing crisis is reflected in the vehicle and RV-based homelessness that impacted about ten thousand Los Angeles county residents in 2019, based on Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority data. Since that data was released, the number has surged, with nearly fourteen thousand people living in cars, vans, and RVs. The increase is rooted in several factors, including government officials’ failure to build substantial housing that meets the needs of residents. Limited housing resources have resulted in skyrocketing rental prices, forcing the vulnerable and poor into life on the streets, building communities among waste in RV neighborhoods.

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    An additional contributing factor relates to decisions made during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, the city opted not to tow vehicles used as homes, fearing exposing more people to COVID-19. After another year of delay, the Los Angeles City Council finally reversed this decision, mainly influenced by growing complaints about fires, accumulating trash, human waste, and discarded needles.

    While the initial plan aimed to remove inoperable, dangerous, and unregistered RVs, logistical challenges arose. The project encountered significant delays due to insufficient heavy-duty tow trucks or inexpensive RV storage locations.

    Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass acknowledges that the RV encampment issue remains unresolved but has expressed commitment to finding a solution. The City Council’s recent efforts include drafting an ordinance to regulate RV rentals better, emphasizing publicly parked, rundown RVs, and funding intervention programs for those dealing with vehicular homelessness.

    The prevalence of RV encampments highlights the grim and distressing circumstances experienced by many LA residents. Even those with full-time jobs have been impacted by the desperation and despair of the housing crisis, resorting to paying rent to “vanlords” to inhabit substandard RVs. Los Angeles’ RV encampments may meet their end as vehicular homelessness regulations and policies are crafted and enacted. 

  • Waymo Explores the Potential of a Robotaxi Launch in Los Angeles

    Waymo Explores the Potential of a Robotaxi Launch in Los Angeles

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Waymo has announced a soft launch of their robo-taxi service in Los Angeles this fall. The six-stop “tour” will allow interested Los Angeles residents to briefly use Waymo’s self-driving cars in different areas around the city.

    The six stops refer to certain areas of the city where the robot taxis will be available. The robo-taxis will be available in Santa Monica and Venice Beach from October 11th through November 18th; in Century City from November 20th to December 17th; in West Hollywood from December 17th through January 7th; in Mid City from January 8th to the 23rd; Koreatown from January 24th to February 8th; and in Downtown Los Angeles from February 9th through March 3rd. Those unfamiliar with Los Angeles may be confused about why each neighborhood is designated with its dates. The districts covered in the tour add up to an area larger than the entire city of San Francisco. Waymo covered smaller city sections one at a time to ensure safety and collect data.

    Los Angeles natives are encouraged to buy tickets or join the waitlist to use the robo-taxi service for free in their neighborhoods between the designated dates. Once a ticket is purchased, the customer can use the service as much or as little as they like for no additional charge.

    Waymo has been mapping the city since 2019. Los Angeles is a challenging city to drive in, self-driving car or not. Some difficulties mapping the town include the multitude of freeways, narrow backroads, unprotected left turns, and the city’s infamous traffic and distracted drivers. Waymo’s vehicles have been tested many times with a safety driver sitting in the front seat to ensure the car works correctly. During the upcoming tour, there will be no safety driver present.

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    Los Angeles is the first city where Waymo opted to try the tour strategy before launching a complete commercial service. The company faced backlash from city officials in San Francisco due to issues with blocked intersections and obstructed emergency vehicles. Waymo hopes to make a good impression on locals and community organizers before expanding to commercial service.

    Self-driving cars have made great strides over the past few years. Waymo is locked in a tight race with competitor Cruise to get autonomous vehicles on the streets. While Los Angeles is a challenging city to conquer, it also represents a thriving market of over 13 million people. Waymo previously estimated that a commercial service in Los Angeles could potentially bring in $2 billion in revenue. The city is entirely reliant on cars as transportation. The sprawling metropolis and lack of functional public transportation make Los Angeles nearly impossible to navigate without a vehicle. Uber and Lyft thrive in this environment, marking it a potentially lucrative market for Waymo and other AV companies. 

    A robo-taxi service would undoubtedly change the taxi landscape in Los Angeles. Waymo seeks to gain loyal customers through its tour of the city. Whether the Los Angeles communities will embrace self-driving taxis remains to be seen.