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Today: June 25, 2025
Today: June 25, 2025
Sowjanya Pedada

Sowjanya Pedada

Staff Writer

Sowjanya is a passionate writer and an avid reader. She holds an MBA in Agribusiness Management and now works as a content writer with the LA Post. She loves to play with words and hopes to make a difference in the world through her narratives. Apart from writing, she is interested in reading fiction novels and doing craftwork.

Latest From Sowjanya Pedada

Local

Olympic wage: L.A. approves $30 minimum wage for workers

On May 14, 2025, the Los Angeles City Council reshaped the city’s labor landscape. In a 12-3 vote, council members approved a sweeping minimum wage hike for hotel and airport workers. This move is celebrated by labor advocates as a long-overdue correction and criticized by business leaders as economically risky, as reported by the L.A. Times. The ordinance, branded the “Olympic Wage,” will raise pay to $30 an hour by 2028, making it the country’s most ambitious local wage law. The increase isn’t instantaneous. Starting this July, the wage floor will rise to $22.50, with structured yearly boosts: $25 in

Olympic wage: L.A. approves $30 minimum wage for workers
US

Severe heatwave hits southern California: Tips to stay cool and safe

Southern California is enduring a significant heatwave this week, prompting the National Weather Service to issue heat advisories across large parts of Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. Forecasts predict many inland areas will experience temperatures soaring to 100 degrees or higher, raising concerns about health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. The NWS highlights the rapid rise in temperature and its impact on daily life in Southern California. Areas such as the San Fernando Valley and the Inland Empire are expected to face the most severe temperatures, with Palm Springs potentially reaching nearly 110 degrees. This extreme heat exceeds

Severe heatwave hits southern California: Tips to stay cool and safe
Travel

Surviving Memorial Day weekend: Navigate travel chaos with these tips

As the Memorial Day weekend approaches, travelers across the U.S. are bracing themselves for significant crowds and airport delays due to increased demand and air traffic control constraints. The Federal Aviation Administration anticipates a record-breaking number of flights this Thursday, with close to 54,000 nationwide departures — marking the busiest travel day of 2025 so far. According to the American Automobile Association, nearly 45 million Americans plan to travel at least 50 miles away from home over the long weekend. Of those, approximately 3.6 million will travel by air, representing an increase compared to last year and signaling strong demand

Surviving Memorial Day weekend: Navigate travel chaos with these tips
Health

Delayed FDA response to listeria outbreak tied to Fresh and Ready Foods

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration confirmed the source of a multistate Listeria outbreak, nearly a year and a half after illness was first reported in December 2023, raising questions about the timeline of the investigation. The outbreak spanned multiple states and has been linked to ready-to-eat foods manufactured by Fresh & Ready Foods. The outbreak reported cases of illness spreading across several states, including California and Nevada. The FDA began investigating the outbreak in January 2024. Still, it wasn’t until a routine inspection in April 2025 that they identified the source of contamination as the Fresh & Ready Foods

Delayed FDA response to listeria outbreak tied to Fresh and Ready Foods
Crime

Sextortion nightmare: How one teen's trust cost him everything

17-year-old Ryan Last from Morgan Hill, California died by suicide in 2022 after being sextorted. Authorities recently arrested four men linked to the case in West Africa. Ryan, who was catfished by someone pretending to be a 20-year-old woman on social media, paid the scammer $150 to prevent his private photos from being circulated. The scammer initially shared a nude photo and then asked Ryan to send a picture of himself in return. But the conversation immediately turned criminal when the person behind the screen started demanding money and threatened to expose those images. A few hours after the sextortion

Sextortion nightmare: How one teen's trust cost him everything
Local

Will Billy and Tina find freedom? Activists challenge zoo move

Animal rights activists have launched a vocal campaign to stop the Los Angeles Zoo from transferring its last two Asian elephants, Billy and Tina, to the Tulsa Zoo in Oklahoma. Activists argue the elephants, aged 40 and 59, face worsening health and psychological issues in captivity and would benefit more from a sanctuary environment designed for their specialized care. According to the L.A. Times, the transfer plan has led to protests, legal challenges, and public outcry about the ethics of keeping aging elephants confined. The L.A. Zoo has announced its intention to relocate Billy and Tina to the Tulsa Zoo’s

Will Billy and Tina find freedom? Activists challenge zoo move
Local

California bar exam’s AI fallout: $6 million in unplanned costs

The State Bar of California’s effort to reduce costs by incorporating artificial intelligence into its bar exam process has backfired dramatically. According to Reuters, this could result in nearly $6 million of unexpected expenses, intensifying the organization’s already troubling financial position. The attempt to replace national bar exam materials with a state-developed version using AI-generated questions has sparked legal action, operational overhauls, and public outcry. In February 2025, the State Bar launched a new California bar exam designed with help from a private contractor using AI to generate multiple-choice questions. However, the exam rollout was marred by widespread technical breakdowns.

California bar exam’s AI fallout: $6 million in unplanned costs
Local

Tough Stance on Hemp: California's Efforts to Protect Young Consumers

Nearly all California businesses are following state regulations that ban selling intoxicating hemp products potentially harmful to young people, state officials reported. Data from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control shows 99.7% compliance among licensed businesses in 2025. Enforcement agents have inspected more than 11,445 establishments since September 2024, identifying only 148 locations with prohibited items. Gov. Gavin Newsom established emergency rules through the California Department of Public Health on Sept. 6, 2024, citing concerns about public safety. “We are doing our part to ensure intoxicating hemp products are out of the reach of vulnerable groups like children. We must

Tough Stance on Hemp: California's Efforts to Protect Young Consumers
Local

Beat the heat: How to stay cool in Los Angeles this summer

As Los Angeles approaches the peak of summer, the city’s heat waves can make daily life challenging. Luckily, L.A. has no shortage of ways to stay cool, from public pools and beach escapes to indoor cooling centers when the sun gets too intense. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s how to beat the heat while staying safe. Cool Off at Public Pools There’s nothing quite like a swim to break free from a scorching day. The city of L.A. operates 28 public swimming pools each summer, many tucked inside neighborhood parks. It offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy

Beat the heat: How to stay cool in Los Angeles this summer
Political

Trump’s New Immigration Initiative Offers $1,000 for Voluntary Departures

President Donald Trump’s administration has unveiled a new immigration initiative offering undocumented immigrants a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance if they voluntarily leave the U.S.  Officials described the plan as a humane and fiscally responsible alternative to forced deportations, aiming to reduce the rising costs and burdens on immigration courts and detention centers. The Department of Homeland Security announced the “Incentivized Departure Program” on May 5, targeting individuals with outstanding deportation orders. Participants who meet eligibility requirements must apply online, attend a scheduled interview, and agree to depart within a government-set timeline. DHS stressed the initiative emphasizes voluntary compliance to

Trump’s New Immigration Initiative Offers $1,000 for Voluntary Departures
News|US

Trump administration joins defense of mifepristone amid abortion pill debate

In an unexpected political alliance, leaders from both parties are rallying behind mifepristone’s Food and Drug Administration approval as an ongoing legal battle threatens access to the abortion pill. President Donald Trump’s legal team surprised many by continuing former President Joe Biden administration’s defense of mifepristone’s FDA approval, urging courts to dismiss a lawsuit from conservative states that seek to sharply restrict its availability. While Republicans have traditionally taken a strong anti-abortion stance, the wide acceptance of medication abortion has created political and practical complications. Trump’s lawyers argued the FDA had appropriately followed the law when approving mifepristone over two

Trump administration joins defense of mifepristone amid abortion pill debate
Local|News

California tourism hits new record as officials warn of downturn

Tourism spending in California reached an all-time high of $157.3 billion in 2024, rising 3% from the previous year’s record, according to figures released Monday by Gov. Gavin Newsom and Visit California. State tourism officials simultaneously cautioned about projections showing potential declines in 2025. Forecasts predict a 1% drop in total visitors and a steeper 9.2% reduction in international tourism. Officials have labeled this anticipated decrease a “Trump Slump,” linking it to federal policies and global perceptions about traveling to the U.S. The economic impact report showed the tourism industry created 1.2 million jobs statewide last year and generated $12.6

California tourism hits new record as officials warn of downturn
US|News

Will a proposed $1K asylum fee be a barrier for vulnerable migrants?

House Republicans have unveiled a plan to require migrants applying for asylum to pay a $1,000 fee — a change immigrant advocates warn could block the most desperate from finding refuge.  While proponents frame the fee as a way to manage strained resources and prevent abuse, critics argue it targets people already fleeing danger and poverty, placing safety even further out of reach, according to the New York Times. Currently, seeking asylum in the U.S. is free. This longstanding policy reflects a belief that those escaping violence or persecution shouldn’t be priced out of protection. The new proposal would reverse

Will a proposed $1K asylum fee be a barrier for vulnerable migrants?
News|US

Peace Corps staff cuts threaten vital support for volunteers

In a move that alarmed current and former volunteers alike, the Peace Corps is bracing for significant staff reductions as a cost-cutting review led by Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative bears down on the historic organization.  Critics warn these cuts could erode vital support systems volunteers rely on while serving overseas, often in remote and challenging conditions. The Peace Corps – created in 1961 under President John F. Kennedy’s administration – has long symbolized America’s commitment to global goodwill. Thousands of Americans leave their homes each year to help with health care, education, agriculture, and youth development projects in over 60

Peace Corps staff cuts threaten vital support for volunteers
Local|News

Earthquake early warning app surges to 4M downloads

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the state’s earthquake early warning application, the MyShake app, has reached over four million downloads, equivalent to more than 10% of California’s population. MyShake notifies users before earthquake shaking begins through a statewide network of ground motion sensors that detect seismic activity. “MyShake provides Californians with life-saving seconds before earthquakes strike. This milestone is a proud moment for California, and a reminder that preparedness is a continuous effort,” Newsom said. Launched in 2019, the California Earthquake Early Warning System has grown considerably. Since the program’s inception, over 60% of its 1,046 sensors have been installed. These

Earthquake early warning app surges to 4M downloads
Local|News

L.A. firefighters fight for fair compensation amid wildfire struggles

After battling some of the fiercest wildfires in the history of Los Angeles County, local first responders are pushing for better pay and working conditions. They are frustrated by years of budget cuts that left them dangerously short-staffed and under-resourced during the crisis, reported by the L.A. Times. This past wildfire season torched over 40,000 acres, destroyed more than 15,000 structures, and claimed at least 27 lives, according to reports from emergency services and wildfire response teams. More than 16,000 first responders were called in, many working marathon shifts with little sleep and facing fires. Behind their demands lies a

L.A. firefighters fight for fair compensation amid wildfire struggles
Local

California bar exam faces backlash over AI-generated questions

The State Bar of California is under fire after disclosing it used artificial intelligence to draft some questions for the February 2025 bar exam without informing test takers or stakeholders. This decision has triggered backlash from legal educators, students, and the California Supreme Court, the Los Angeles Times reported. Out of the 171 multiple-choice questions on the exam, 23 were developed with AI assistance by ACS Ventures, a consulting firm hired by the Bar. The remaining questions were a mix of a first-year law student exam and Kaplan Exam Services. This use of AI was not disclosed to candidates until

California bar exam faces backlash over AI-generated questions
Health

FDA plans to phase out synthetic food dyes for children’s health

In a move aimed at safeguarding children’s health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services, announced plans to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes from the nation’s food supply as soon as possible.  This initiative targets eight widely used artificial colorings – including Red No. 3, Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, Green No. 3, and Orange B – which are prevalent in numerous processed foods and beverages. The decision follows mounting scientific evidence linking these dyes to adverse health effects in

FDA plans to phase out synthetic food dyes for children’s health
Local

L.A. homeowners sue insurance companies over wildfire coverage

Homeowners in Los Angeles are suing major insurance companies, claiming the companies worked together to cancel fire insurance after a series of destructive wildfires. The lawsuits say 25 insurance companies, including State Farm, stopped offering coverage in high-risk areas, which forced many people to buy expensive insurance from the state-run FAIR Plan instead. The lawsuits were filed in April 2025, a few months after wildfires in January burned nearly 18,000 buildings and killed at least 30 people in L.A. Homeowners who lost everything are accusing the insurance companies of breaking the law by acting together to stop selling or renewing

L.A. homeowners sue insurance companies over wildfire coverage
Local

Cost of living is top concern in L.A. residents' quality of life: UCLA study

Los Angeles County residents cite the cost of living as their primary concern in the latest annual quality of life assessment, according to University of California, Los Angeles survey findings. The UCLA Quality of Life Index recorded an overall satisfaction score of 53 out of 100, matching last year’s score as the lowest in the assessment’s 10-year history. “The overall satisfaction score on our QLI index is stuck for one main reason — the impact of the high cost of living,” Paul Maslin, public opinion expert at FM3 Research, said. The project, conducted by the L.A. Initiative at UCLA’s Luskin

Cost of living is top concern in L.A. residents' quality of life: UCLA study
Local

L.A. sees decline in parking enforcement, fines

Los Angeles is experiencing a decline in parking enforcement, raising concerns over its potential impact on public safety, fiscal stability, and civic order. With fewer citations being issued and revenue losses adding up, city management may face a silent crisis that risks eroding infrastructure and public trust. Parking citation numbers have dropped significantly since 2019, according to recent reports. The L.A. Department of Transportation issued about 2.1 million citations in fiscal year 2023 — down nearly 40% from the pre-pandemic average of over 3.5 million. This fall directly correlates to reduced street oversight and accountability. This enforcement decline has translated

L.A. sees decline in parking enforcement, fines
Local

Los Angeles claims 'Right to Counsel' for low-income tenants

In a historic move to address housing instability, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed the long-anticipated “Right to Counsel” ordinance. The policy guarantees free legal representation to low-income tenants facing eviction, marking a major shift in how the city tackles its housing and homelessness crisis. The ordinance ensures legal counsel for renters earning below 80% of the area median income—approximately $77,700 for individuals and $110,950 for a family of four. While celebrated as a milestone by housing advocates, implementation will be phased, with full access expected to take years as the city ramps up funding and staffing. Only around

Los Angeles claims 'Right to Counsel' for low-income tenants
Health

Puberty rewires brain in genetic condition linked to autism

A genetic condition associated with autism undergoes significant brain connectivity changes during puberty, potentially explaining its link to psychiatric disorders, according to new research from University of California, Los Angeles Health and international collaborators. Scientists found that chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome – which is caused by missing genetic material on chromosome 22– produces dramatic shifts in brain connectivity patterns that coincide with puberty, according to findings published in Science Advances. The research team used brain imaging in humans with the condition and laboratory mice with similar genetic modifications to track these changes. “Differences in functional connectivity observed on MRI are

Puberty rewires brain in genetic condition linked to autism
Local|Crime|News

California crime rates drop as state credits enforcement strategy

California crime rates fell in 2024, with both violent and property offenses showing notable declines, according to preliminary data released by state officials. An analysis by the Public Policy Institute of California found violent crime dropped 4.6% in 2024 compared to the previous year, while property crime fell 8.5%. The institute examined Real Time Crime Index data from 29 law enforcement agencies throughout the state. Robberies decreased by 5.2%, and aggravated assaults fell by 3.9%, according to the analysis. Homicides dropped 5.9% from 2023 levels. Vehicle thefts showed a substantial decline of 11.9%. Burglary rates fell 13.6%, and larceny dropped

California crime rates drop as state credits enforcement strategy
Local

Record high animals dying on Los Angeles roads

A record number of animals are dying on Los Angeles roads. In 2024, more than 32,000 requests were made to remove dead animals from city streets, the highest number ever recorded, according to city service data. That’s a 10% spike in just one year. These incidents are not confined to specific areas. They are prevalent throughout L.A., from Van Nuys to San Pedro — where increasing urban development and heavy traffic intersect with natural wildlife habitats. This ongoing conflict has led to a noticeable rise in fatalities among native species, including opossums, skunks, coyotes, raccoons, and even mountain lions. An

Record high animals dying on Los Angeles roads

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