Category: Southern California

Jitneys Could Improve Mass Transit

Commentary Numerous stories show California’s mass transit is suffering big problems. And that’s not even counting the High-Speed Rail boondoggle. On May 22, Calmatters provided a summary, noting transit agencies are seeking $5.5 billion more in operating funds, even as the state faces a budget deficit of at least $31.5 billion. But here’s a solution:…


Jitneys Could Improve California’s Mass Transit

Commentary Numerous stories show California’s mass transit is suffering big problems. And that’s not even counting the High-Speed Rail boondoggle. On May 22, Calmatters provided a summary, noting transit agencies are seeking $5.5 billion more in operating funds, even as the state faces a budget deficit of at least $31.5 billion. But here’s a solution:…


California Lawmakers, Families Walk out in Frustration During First Hearing of New Fentanyl Committee

With the fentanyl crisis causing more than 100 deaths a week in California, lawmakers met on May 24 for the first-ever hearing of a newly created committee on overdose prevention, with some lawmakers and family members walking out in frustration during the proceedings. “This hearing, 80 percent of the time, was saying we care more…


Why We Need Local Fiscal News Coverage

Commentary I am fully aware that probably some 8 out of 10 people do not appreciate media pieces that are heavily focused on numbers. When I practiced as a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Planner, I realized that most people need professional assistance for many of their fiscal decisions. Watching personal finances is critical….


Are We Headed Toward a Genderless, Sexually Dysfunctional World?

On May 6 and 7, I attended a therapy training conference with one of the leading organizations in mental health, The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. This event attracted hundreds of therapists from throughout the country. I took several courses and will be writing a series of essays on my observations, thoughts, and…


Orange County Proposes $9.3 Billion Budget

SANTA ANA, Calif.—Orange County has released its proposed budget for the 2023–24 fiscal year, with the spending proposal up nearly $475 million from last year. The county’s proposed annual spending plan is $9.3 billion, up from $8.8 billion during the current fiscal year. The general fund budget, which is the more flexible portion of the…


Archdiocese Blasts Dodgers for Backtracking, Renewing Trans ‘Nuns’ Invite

LOS ANGELES—The Archdiocese of Los Angeles May 23 criticized the Dodgers for backtracking and renewing an invitation to a group of self-described “queer and trans nuns” to take part in the team’s Pride Night. The Dodgers came under fire from a host of LGBT groups and elected officials following its decision to rescind its original…


Teen Dies During Apparent Social Media Stunt on Los Angeles Bridge, Police Say

LOS ANGELES—A 17-year-old boy fell to his death this weekend while climbing a Los Angeles bridge in an apparent social media stunt, police said. Police were sent to the 6th Street Viaduct around 2 a.m. Saturday and found the boy, who was pronounced dead at a hospital. His name wasn’t immediately released. The teen slipped…


Nearly 4,000 Counterfeit Water Filters From China Seized at Los Angeles Port

LOS ANGELES—Authorities recently seized nearly 4,000 counterfeit water filters being imported from China at the Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport, officials announced May 24. The items, if genuine, would have had a suggested manufacturer’s retail price of nearly $150,000, according to Jaime Ruiz of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. “CBP officers discovered the filters while conducting…


Santa Ana Unified, City Clash Over $7 Million School Crossing Guard Funding

An ongoing clash between the city of Santa Ana and the Santa Ana Unified School District over funding for crossing guards could threaten the safety of thousands of students. Santa Ana city councilors last week voted 5–2 to delay a decision to renew a $7 million agreement to fund school crossing guards for up to…