One year after Eaton and Palisades fires destroyed 10,000+ homes and claimed 31 lives in Los Angeles, science shows that community-based fire safety measures are most effective, yet receive only 2% of wildfire funding.
By Jerome Adams
Winter is upon us, and for many Americans, that means company parties, get-togethers with friends and of course, gathering with extended family.
These festivities are joyous. But
California State Auditor identified CalFresh as a 'high risk' program with an 11% error rate, potentially costing the state $2B. Critics from both parties have linked this to Minnesota's food fraud scandal, drawing questionable comparisons to Newsom's record.
As Gov. Gavin Newsom begins his final year in Sacramento with presidential ambitions, California faces a potential $35 billion budget deficit alongside persistent crises in housing, homelessness, and the economy that will challenge his would-be successors.
Jose Amezcua was one of hundreds of incarcerated firefighters who battled the deadly Los Angeles wildfires last year. The experience not only reduced his sentence but gave him purpose and prepared him for life after prison.
Santa Monica's four weekly farmers markets offer fresh local produce throughout January 2026. Highlights include peak-season citrus and avocados, new vendors like Bakeman Bars and Fat Uncle Farms, plus live entertainment at Pico and Main Street markets.
A longtime Santa Monica resident argues for closing SMO Airport by 2028 as mandated by a 2014 citywide referendum. The letter challenges claims about the airport's economic benefits and raises concerns about increasing jet fuel pollution.
California's economy has seen zero net job growth since the pandemic ended with 5.6% unemployment - highest in the nation. As Newsom positions for a presidential run, economic challenges including poverty and homelessness deserve more attention than political feuds.
California should fund college pipeline programs for first-generation students by taxing non-resident owners of million-dollar homes. While wealthy families spend up to $100,000 on college consultants, most low-income students lack access to these resources.
PACE (Program of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly) is helping thousands of California seniors age at home with comprehensive medical and social services. Despite saving $369.4 million in 2024 and reducing hospitalizations by 44%, only 10% of eligible seniors use it.
Santa Monica City Council unanimously approved the installation of 16 digital signs on or near the Promenade, each generating at least $500,000 annually for the city. The 30-year deal comes despite concerns from Downtown Santa Monica Inc. about impacts on residents and businesses.
