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Villaraigosa Seeks Federal Dollars To Speed Up Transit Projects

by Andrew Khouri and Christine Trang | March 11, 2010
Associate News Editor and Staff Reporter

The mayor testified in Washington Thursday on his 30/10 initiative that would speed up 12 transportation projects currently scheduled for completion over 30 years. [...]

L.A. Television Stations Not Covering Local Government, New Study Says

by Paresh Dave | March 11, 2010
Staff Reporter

A study released by USC's Norman Lear Center finds that crime receives the most coverage on L.A. television newscasts. Soft news receives the next most coverage.
[...]

USC Hit-And-Run Defense Shifts Gears, Pleads 'No Contest'

by Kevin Douglas Grant | March 11, 2010
Senior Editor

Attorneys for Claudia Cabrera and Josue Luna enter 'no contest' pleas, moving their cases straight to the sentencing phase. Cabrera and Luna are facing criminal charges stemming from the 2009 hit-and-run death of USC student, Adrianna Bachan. [...]

USC Selects Next President

by Callie Schweitzer | March 11, 2010
Senior News Editor

USC chose its current provost and second-in-command, C.L. Max Nikias, to replace President Steven B. Sample. [...]

Nearly One Year Later, USC Hit-And-Run Case Verges On Trial

by Kevin Douglas Grant | March 11, 2010
Senior Editor

The family of Adrianna Bachan may finally be close to justice after almost a year of legal back-and-forth. Bachan was 18 when she was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver.
[...]

Cabbies Seek Council's Help To Bypass Hotel Doormen

by Natalie Ragus | March 11, 2010
Staff Reporter

Taxicab drivers have long complained about being forced to pay doormen for access to customers, however that practice may soon be banned in the city of Los Angeles. [...]

Villaraigosa Urges Angelenos To File Their 2010 Census Forms

by Grant Tunkel | March 3, 2010
Annenberg Radio News

LISTEN: Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced a citywide campaign aimed to implore Angelenos to file the 2010 Federal Census form that will be arriving in mailboxes this month. [...]

Cops And Cyclists Mending Relationship As City Works Toward Cohesive Bike Plan

by Kevin Douglas Grant | February 23, 2010
Senior Editor

2010 may be the year that L.A.'s growing bicycle community finally has the full attention of city officials as several bike advocacy groups begin meetings with LAPD leaders.
[...]

Locals Fear A Change In Venice Beach Culture

by Phenia Hovsepyan | February 21, 2010
Staff Reporter

SLIDESHOW: For decades, Venice Beach has been an eclectic center of art, music and the care-free spirit of the Beat Generation. But both the future of this Southern California icon and those who call it home are changing. [...]

Mayor Eliminates Two Departments, Shrinking Deficit Slightly

by Richie Duchon | February 20, 2010
Senior News Editor

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said thousands of job cuts can be avoided if city employee unions, including police and fire, accept wage cuts. [...]

L.A. Marijuana Ordinance Proves Sticky for Local Shops

by Catherine Cronenberg | February 18, 2010
Contributor

A recently-passed marijuana ordinance may close up to 500 medical marijuana dispensaries and place restrictions on the dispensaries that remain open.
[...]

Disney Employees Strike For Better Health Coverage

by Jessica Youseffi | February 18, 2010
Contributor

Employees at Disney hotels protested in front of Walt Disney Studios and Disneyland this week to bring attention to a dispute over health care benefits. Some of the workers fasted for as long as a week.
[...]

Non-Pasteurized Cheese Regulation Sparks Controversy

by Catherine Cloutier | February 17, 2010
Staff Reporter

Food regulators have targeted non-pasteurized cheese due to its links to several illnesses that can result in death. [...]

L.A. Weighs Experimental Service Offer From Google

by Paresh Dave | February 17, 2010
Staff Reporter

L.A. is one of many cities interested in a new high-speed fiber optic network. [...]

Baca Unveils Policy Regarding Armed Suspects

by Natalie Ragus | February 17, 2010
Staff Reporter

L.A. County Sheriff Lee Baca unveiled a new policy aimed at reducing deputy-involved shootings. The department's answer to a recent spike in such shootings, the policy would encourage deputies contain suspects, while waiting for back up rather than giving chase.

[...]

A Snapshot Of Opposition To Red-Light Cameras

by Christine Trang | February 16, 2010
Staff Reporter

SLIDESHOW: A candidate for the Culver City Council called for the elimination of red-light cameras Monday, while drivers urged him on.

[...]

The Hollywood Sign Gets A Five-Day Face Lift

by Irma Widjojo | February 12, 2010
Contributor

SLIDESHOW: A consortium of preservation foundations and city agencies is working to raise enough money to purchase land near the Hollywood Sign to ensure luxury homes aren't built around it. [...]

L.A. Rescue Team Returns From Haiti With Stories Of Catastrophe

by Michael Green | February 9, 2010
Staff Reporter

Members from the L.A. rescue team sent to aid victims of last month's earthquake tell of the catastrophe in the region. Many called it the worst disaster they had ever seen. [...]

Jackson's Doc Says Not Guilty

by Madeleine Scinto | February 8, 2010
Staff Reporter

Jackson's doctor faces a criminal trial after prosecutors charged him for involuntary manslaughter, blaming him for the pop singer's death. [...]

Students Entice Boeing With Sweets to Clean Up Waste

by Catherine Cloutier | February 8, 2010
Staff Reporter

An estimated 40 students participated in a bake sale to encourage Boeing to clean up waste at its Santa Susana Field Laboratory. [...]

La Canada Residents Continue Clean Up Before Oncoming Storm

by Andrew Khouri and John Guenther | February 8, 2010
Associate News Editors

Paradise Valley residents continued to clean up their mud-damaged homes before an expected storm hits Tuesday. [...]

Vigil Held For Volunteer Killed In Haiti Earthquake

by Kevin Grant | February 5, 2010
Senior Editor

A high school friend of Molly Hightower, a young volunteer killed in Haiti's devastating earthquake, organized a vigil on the University of Southern California's campus to honor Hightower.
[...]

Fight Over Declawing Ban Rages On

by Chris Pisar | February 5, 2010
Contributor

State legislation blocked some city declawing bans from going into effect. But the cities are fighting back.
[...]

Art Program Saved For Now

by Stephanie Guzman | February 3, 2010
Contributer

Art enthusiasts came out in droves to Wednesday's City Council meeting. The council was considering scraping funding from its Department of Cultural Affairs, but decided to put the issue aside.

[...]

Budget Committee Considers Elimination Of Three City Departments

by Jessika Walsten | February 2, 2010
Associate News Editor

An 11-hour budget and finance meeting ended with three departments on the chopping block. The City Administrative Officer's mid-year report suggested the dissolution of the departments to help solve the city's budget woes. [...]

Layoffs And Budget Cuts Threaten L.A.'s Neighborhood Council System

by Callie Schweitzer | February 1, 2010
Associate News Editor

Some in the citywide Neighborhood Council system are worried a few bad actors might bring deep budget cuts upon a system of thousands of devoted volunteers that is already stretched thin. [...]

Families Lose Homes To New Elementary School

by Hayley Fox | January 29, 2010
Contributor

The Los Angeles Unified School District pushed 49 families out of their homes to build a new elementary school in Echo Park. Construction began on the school last year and is expected to last until fall 2011.
[...]

City Council Votes To Restrict Medical Marijuana Dispensaries

by Madeline Reddington | January 26, 2010
Staff Reporter

L.A. City Council passed an ordinance that could put several hundred medical marijuana dispensaries out of business. [...]

Effort To Restrict Tobacco Sales Around Schools Advances

by Paresh Dave | January 26, 2010
Staff Reporter

The Los Angeles City Council is expected to request Wednesday that the city attorney begin drafting an ordinance that prohibits the sale of tobacco within 1,000 feet of schools. [...]

New Bike Racks in Pico Union

by Stephanie Guzman | January 22, 2010
Contributor

Bicyclists in Pico-Union may have one less thing to worry about. The area will get new bike racks in response to a recent rash of stolen cycles. [...]

City Council Bans Smoking In Outdoor Dining Areas

by Stephanie Guzman | January 20, 2010
Contributer

Angelenos will now have to light up 10 feet away from restaurants with outdoor patios after the City Council banned smoking in outdoor dining areas Tuesday. [...]

Los Angeles Residents Band Together To Battle Mudslides

by Natalie Ragus | January 19, 2010
Associate Editor

Mother nature struck residents in La Canada Flintridge's fire-ravaged Paradise Valley area once again Monday with heavy rains and mudslides.

[...]

Haitian Church Leader Mourns Losses After Devastating Quake

by John Guenther and Madeleine Scinto | January 19, 2010
Staff Reporters

As Rev. Jean-Renaud Guillaume tries to comfort his Haitian congregation at the Full Gospel Apostolic Church of God, he himself silently copes with the loss of his own family members and friends. [...]

25th Annual Kingdom Day Parade a Hit Despite Lousy Weather

by Andrew Khouri | January 18, 2010
Associate Editor

An estimated 45,000 people showed up to honor Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy at the 25th annual Kingdom Day Parade in South Los Angeles. [...]

Debris Flowing In Flash Flood Areas

by John Guenther and Julia James | January 18, 2010
Staff Reporters

The National Weather Service issued a flood warning at 12:15 this afternoon for the areas burned up by the Station and Morris fires last year. Mud 2 feet deep is starting to cover on a road in Tujunga.
[...]

Tech Experts Share Skills To Aid In Haiti Relief Effort

by Mark Evitt | January 18, 2010
Senior Editor

Techies gather at USC's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism to help improve Haitian relief efforts. [...]

L.A. Derby Dolls Try To Best Firefighters In Broomball Match

by Kim Nowacki | January 16, 2010
Staff Reporter

The Los Angeles firefighters defended their title as undefeated broomball champs during a benefit game against the L.A. Derby Dolls on Thursday.
[...]

L.A. Haitians Gather, Mourn And Donate

by LeTania Kirkland | January 15, 2010
Staff Reporter

A Caribbean restaurant in Echo Park was the place for Haitians and Haitian Americans in Los Angeles to grieve, donate and show support for each other Thursday night. [...]

Who Killed Manchester Square?

by Hillel Aron | January 4, 2010
Senior Editor

More than three quarters of the buildings in Manchester Square are gone, demolished and replaced by long fields of grass surrounded by chain link fence. The question is, why?
[...]

USC Vietnamese-Americans Angered by Communist Flag

by Christine Trang | December 15, 2009
Staff Reporter

A Communist Vietnamese flag flying at USC disturbs some Vietnamese-Americans, who say it raises memories of the brutal North Vietnam regime that once employed forced labor, kidnapping and even murder. They want to see the Vietnamese Freedom and Heritage flag instead.
[...]

GM Sponsors Study Break For USC Students

by Irma Widjojo | December 10, 2009
Staff Reporter

General Motors collaborates with USG to feed students during the study week. [...]

Maywood Councilman Accused Of Holding Conflicting Public Offices

by Jessika Walsten | December 4, 2009
Staff Reporter

The L.A. County District Attorney wants a Maywood city councilman removed from office for violating a state law that prohibits local officials from holding two public offices. [...]

Supervisors Green-Light MLK Hospital Partnership

by Richie Duchon | December 2, 2009
Annenberg Radio News

LISTEN: The storied Martin Luther King Jr. hospital in Willowbrook goes back to the mid-1960s when it was opened in the wake of the Watts riots. After closing as a hospital under a dark cloud in 2007, the hospital is close to reopening. [...]

LAPD's Top Cop Confirmed, Sworn In

by Ariel Edwards-Levy | November 17, 2009
Annenberg Radio News

LISTEN: LAPD Chief of Detectives Charlie Beck was unanimously confirmed as the new police chief Tuesday morning by the L.A. City Council. [...]

Inmates Rehab Through Firefighting

by Katie Schaufelberger | November 13, 2009
Annenberg TV News

WATCH: Not all prison inmates are locked in a cell. In the Malibu Hills a group of female inmates are doing some surprising work. [...]

Homeless, Single, Dad

by Brittany Knotts | November 13, 2009
Annenberg Radio News

LISTEN: Leroy has been struggling as a homeless, single father for over a month. He entered the Union Rescue Mission one week ago. [...]

Recent Homeless Count Sparks Outrage, Confusion

by Timothy Beck Werth | November 13, 2009
Annenberg Radio News

LISTEN: L.A. County counts its homeless population every two years. Well the numbers are in, and it seems homelessness is way down. But the report has shocked and confused homeless activists and service providers who have seen increased demand for services during the recession. Some are outraged. [...]

L.A. Underperforms In Stimulus Grant Awards, City Councilman Wants Answers

by Paresh Dave | November 9, 2009
Staff Reporter

L.A. City Council President Eric Garcetti wants to know why Los Angeles lost a number of competitive project grants under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. [...]

L.A. Regional Water Board Bans Malibu Septic Systems

by Deidre Crawford | November 7, 2009
Senior Editor

The Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board took historic steps in mandating a ban on the exclusive community's septic systems, long accused of causing pollution to the area's beaches and waters. [...]

Government Unable To Support Veterans, Non-Profit Report Says

by Len Ly | November 6, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: A backlog of about one million claims at the Veterans Affairs department and rising homelessness among veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan suggest the federal government is struggling to support veterans returning from action overseas. [...]

USC President Formally Announces Retirement

by Carollyn Nguyen | November 2, 2009
Senior Editor

USC President Steven B. Sample formally announced his retirement, which will be effective next fall. [...]

Neon Tommy Reporter Makes Progress in Public Records Quest

by Christine Trang | October 30, 2009
Staff Reporter

It looks like the public will finally get a glimpse of records documenting the problems that forced the five-month delay of the Gold Line Eastside Extension opening. [...]

LAPD Chief Candidate Sizes Up Potential Future

by Kevin Douglas Grant | October 28, 2009
Senior Editor

First Assistant Chief Jim McDonnell served as the LAPD's second-in-command for seven years under Bill Bratton. After being named one of three finalists Tuesday evening, he is now in line for the top spot.

[...]

LAPD Headquarters Open For Business

by Piya Sinha-Roy | October 24, 2009
Staff Reporter

SLIDESHOW: Still without a name, the brand new $437 million LAPD headquarters downtown is officially open for business and the public got it's first look today. [...]

City Council Rejects Trutanich Threats Over L.A. Live Billboards

by Andrew Khouri | October 24, 2009
Staff Reporter

The L.A. City Council has roundly rejected threats from City Attorney Carmen Trutanich regarding permits for billboards on a new L.A. Live movie theater. [...]

L.A. Continues Efforts To Crack Down On Gangs

by Paresh Dave | October 21, 2009
Staff Reporter

L.A.'s new gang czar, Guillermo Cespedes, said the $5.9 million worth of contract extensions for gang reduction and prevention services is a more targeted approach to solve the city's gang problem.

[...]

L.A. Cyclists Want A Better Ride

by Paresh Dave | October 21, 2009
Staff Reporter

Some L.A. cyclist advocacy groups want the city's revised bicycle plan to have a grander focus and a Cyclist's Bill of Rights.

[...]

L.A. To Give Community Development Money To Fewer Providers

by John Guenther | October 19, 2009
Staff Reporter

Starting January, an effort to spend $18 million of city funds more efficiently could leave service gaps in some communities.

[...]

Areas Hit By Station Fire Now Prepare For Mudslides

by Madeleine Scinto | October 14, 2009
Staff Reporter

Weeks after the Station Fire burned 250 square miles, Los Angeles County now braces for potential flash floods and mudslides as the fall's first rains rolled into the area Tuesday.

[...]

Investigation Into Gibson Arrest Leak Continues

by David Cohen | October 10, 2009
Staff Reporter

A Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputy is still at risk for administrative penalties even after being cleared of criminal charges for allegedly leaking details of his 2006 DUI arrest of actor Mel Gibson. [...]

USC's Annenberg School Redefines Itself

by Shannon Pence | October 7, 2009
Associate News Editor

USC Annenberg journalism director Geneva Overholser says the school's new name is about declaring the university as a place for reinventing journalism. [...]

South L.A. Community Plans Get Mixed Reviews

by Callie Schweitzer | October 5, 2009
Staff Reporter

Residents asked for more supermarkets, fewer liquor stores, more affordable housing and keeping what little green space exists in South L.A. at a community planning workshop over the weekend. [...]

L.A.'s Water Pipes Show Weaknesses, Testing Strength of City's Management

by Kevin Douglas Grant | September 30, 2009
Senior Editor

After a rough September, the city is scrambling to answer questions about the stability of its water infrastructure. Although an abnormally large number of water main breaks might be a fluke, the City Council is taking no chances, summoning a team of experts to study the system in detail. [...]

USC Hit-And-Run Victim Had High Alcohol Level

by David Cohen, Hillel Aron, Samantha Page and Richie Duchon | September 30, 2009
Neon Tommy Staff

Toxicology results in USC freshman Adrianna Bachan's autopsy report could play a role in the hit-and-run trial set for early November. [...]

New Grocery Offers Hope In South L.A.

by Matthew Richmond | September 26, 2009
Annenberg Radio News

LISTEN: A new grocery store that offers fresh produce and an adjacent mixed-use development are one of the first signs of growth in a South L.A. neighborhood in years. [...]

Thousands Of City Employees Still At Risk In Budget Negotiations

by Paresh Dave | September 22, 2009
Staff Reporter

The city will offer early retirement options for 2,400 workers, but hasn't finalized negotiations with other unions representing thousands of firefighters, police officers, architects and engineers. [...]

Deal With Unions Moves City Closer To Balanced Budget

by Andrew Khouri | September 18, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: After a tumultuous week of negotiations between the city of L.A. and a coalition of city unions, a deal has finally been reached. If approved by union members and signed by the mayor, the agreement will avoid layoffs and mandatory furloughs and would save the city about $78 million. [...]

Little Ethiopia Unites For Democracy

by Samantha Hermann | September 18, 2009
Contributor

Little Ethiopia came alive when thousands of people turned out for a multicultural festival to celebrate Ethiopian culture and speak out for political unity.
[...]

Gold Line Extension Delay Affects Local Businesses

by Christine Trang | September 17, 2009
Staff Reporter

Construction for the Gold Line Eastside Extension is blocking streets around businesses, making it hard for customers to visit. [...]

Glendale Gears Up For Improved Road Safety

by Jessica Flores | September 16, 2009
Staff Reporter

Assemblyman Paul Krekorian called on Glendale residents Tuesday to help him brainstorm ways to improve road safety. Ideas such as adding more speed bumps, cracking down on jaywalkers and strictly enforcing speed limits were discussed. [...]

L.A. City Council Panel OKs Residential Rooster Limits

by John Guenther | September 15, 2009
Staff Reporter

The Los Angeles City Council's public safety committee recommended Monday to limit the number of roosters residents can keep. The full City Council is expected to take up the issue next week. [...]

UPDATE: Mayor Threatens To Veto Early Retirement Plan

by Natalie Ragus | September 14, 2009
Staff Reporter

The Los Angeles City Council's budget and finance committee failed Monday to make a recommendation on an early retirement program designed to allow city employees to retire up to three years sooner than planned. [...]

New L.A. Fire Chief Sworn In

by Paresh Dave | September 12, 2009
Staff Reporter

Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously to approve the swearing-in of the city's second ever African-American fire chief. [...]

Free Health Care Clinic Draws Thousands Of South LA Residents

by Jacqueline Howard | August 17, 2009
Contributor

While the nation bickers about health care reform, no-cost care from a group in Nashville makes a stop in Los Angeles. [...]

In Their Eyes: Los Angeles Reflects

by DeAna DiMeo | July 30, 2009
Contributor

DeAna DiMeo asked ten Angelenos what the city means to them. The responses were both predictable - too much traffic, bad pollution, fake people; and inspiring - the land where dreams come true, progressiveness and a melting pot of beautiful cultures. [...]

City Breaks Ground On Orange Line Extension, Funded By Measure R

by Carollyn Nguyen | June 26, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: The four-mile extension of the Orange Line in the San Fernando Valley will be ready in 2012 and create thousands of jobs. But businesses along the route will be forced to relocate. [...]

Thousands Fill Coliseum For Lakers' Celebratory Rally

by Carollyn Nguyen | June 18, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: More than 250,000 fans total lined Figueroa Avenue and filled the Los Angeles Coliseum to get a glimpse of the Lakers and revel in the team's 15th NBA championship. [...]

Fans Take To Street To Celebrate Lakers Win

by Carlos Saucedo | June 16, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: The L.A. Live complex was teeming with Lakers fans Sunday as they expected their team to clinch their first NBA title since 2002. The Lakers prevailed and jubilant fans streamed out of the ESPN Zone. Staff Reporter Carlos Saucedo reports from the scene. [...]

Alleged Gang Member Arrested In Highland Park Shootings

by Neon Tommy Staff | June 13, 2009

One alleged gang member was arrested in connection with the shooting of two Highland Park teens in March. Police are still looking for additional suspects. [...]

Toll Lanes Are Metro's Latest Idea To Ease L.A. Traffic

by Carollyn Nguyen | June 9, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: By December 2010, single drivers will be able to use the carpool lanes on portions of the 10 and 110 freeways in Los Angeles -- for a price. Commuters say they are open to the plan. [...]

Unsolved Shooting Highlights Struggles For Family and Police

by Lysee Mitri | June 1, 2009
Contributor

Michael Cardenas, a 17-year-old member of a Bell Gardens, Calif. tagging crew, was shot and killed last September. His family remembers a sweet kid who always flashed the peace sign in photos. Police say they are struggling to solve Cardenas' shooting because witnesses are afraid to come forward. Such are the contradictions of life in Bell Gardens. [...]

Parents Say They Want A Revolution In LAUSD Schools

by Carollyn Nguyen | May 28, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: At a rally and press conference Tuesday, the Los Angeles Parents Union said it is starting a 'parent revolution.' The group hopes to have signatures from more than 50 percent of parents at all Los Angeles Unified schools, signaling parents are ready to take action if schools continue to under perform. [...]

No Arrest Two Months After Compton Shooting

by Kiran Alvi and Stuart McClave | May 28, 2009
Contributors

More than two months after an identified gang member shot 18-year-old Jazzming Patton in Compton, the Compton Sheriff's Department has not made any arrests. The new detective assigned to the case has yet to contact the victim or her family. [...]

Sanitation Dept. Fights Persistent Trash Problem In South L.A.

by Tara Graham | May 27, 2009
Senior Editor

WATCH: Despite removing tons of illegally dumped trash from streets and alleys in South Los Angeles, sanitation enforcement officials haven't been able to completely curb the practice, or figure out who is doing the dumping. Residents and business owners are out of patience. [...]

Major Home Makeover Brightens Historic Neighborhood

by Newly Paul | May 26, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: A house near Los Angeles' historic Watts Towers got an extreme makeover when community volunteers came together to paint, plant, and help honor the Towers' place in history. [...]

Sleeping Modules Could Mean Better Nights For LA's Homeless

by Trishna Patel | May 22, 2009
Contributor

WATCH: Tens of thousands of people in Los Angeles County have no place to sleep at night. Packed shelters are forced to turn families away. But Randy Walburger hopes his bed modules will help give them the good night's sleep they deserve. [...]

Feeding All Faces Of Hunger In Los Angeles

by Torey Van Oot | May 21, 2009
Senior Editor

LISTEN: The students of the University of Southern California chapter of Food Not Bombs, a non-profit organization that combines radical politics with public service to provide food for the homeless and protesters across the country, serve vegetarian food to the hungry every Saturday at a local park. [...]

Fifth District LA City Council Race Too Close To Call

by Emilie Mutert and C. J. Dablo | May 20, 2009
Senior Editors

A close race for the Fifth District city council seat vacated by Jack Weiss remains undecided, and officials say it will take a few weeks to confirm a clear winner.
[...]

Local Car Wash Encourages Civic Participation With Giveaway

by Len Ly | May 20, 2009
Staff Reporter

SLIDESHOW: For the past eight years, Studio City Hand Car Wash has given a free car wash to anyone who voted. [...]

Trutanich Captures City Attorney Seat After Fierce Fight

by David Cohen and Mark Evitt | May 20, 2009
Staff Reporter and Senior Editor

South Bay attorney Carmen Trutanich defeated City Councilman Jack Weiss by over 11 percent in Tuesday's election for city attorney, winning the office after a tough race. [...]

Weiss Casts Ballot During Morning Of Anemic Turnout

by David Cohen | May 19, 2009
Staff Reporter

Councilman and city attorney candidate Jack Weiss voted at a polling place at Rodeo Realty on Sepulveda Tuesday where members of the press outnumbered voters, marking the final day of a grueling and often vicious race. [...]

City Attorney Candidates Battle Over Environmental Records

by David Cohen | May 18, 2009
Staff Reporter

Los Angeles city attorney candidates Jack Weiss and Carmen Trutanich are fighting over who is the true friend of environmentalists in advance of Tuesday's run-off election. [...]

Shooting In West Los Angeles

by Mark Evitt | May 15, 2009
Editor

During a likely gang shooting, a 40-year-old was shot in the hip. Police are currently looking for suspects. [...]

Students Lobby For Middle Eastern Identifier On UC Application

by Adriana Dermenjian | May 14, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: A group of UCLA students say Middle Eastern applicants shouldn't have to identify as "white" when applying to colleges in the University of California system. They're working to get a new bubble added to the race section of the application. [...]

UCLA Reaches Settlement With Tasered Student

by David Cohen | May 13, 2009
Staff Reporter

The lawsuit against UCLA brought by a student after campus police shot him with a taser in the university library in 2006 has been settled and is expected to be dismissed from Federal court soon. [...]

Staving Off Hunger: Elderly Turn To Food Bank Programs

by Daysha Eaton | May 12, 2009
Contributor

AUDIO SLIDESHOW: As the recession continues, more and more elderly are relying on food assistance programs like the Los Angeles Food Bank to stock their pantries. Waiting lists are growing by the day. [...]

Massive Deficit Weighs On Budget Committee

by Meghan McCarty | May 11, 2009
Staff Reporter

With union negotiations still pending, the Los Angeles Budget Committee has yet to nail down a concrete plan to close the city's $530 million deficit. [...]

Unsung Heroes Of Los Angeles

by Contributors | May 12, 2009

WATCH AND LISTEN: We rarely hear about people in Los Angeles who quietly go about making the community a better place. Each of these short profiles represents an Unsung Hero -- someone doing inspirational work in a quiet, uncelebrated way, from filing taxes to filling cavities, rescuing animals to reviving the arts. [...]

May Day Marchers Take to the Streets

by Meghan McCarty | May 2, 2009
Staff Reporter

SLIDESHOW: Marchers sent a clear message for reform: They formed a human aerial postcard. From the air it read, "WORKERS FIRST."
[...]

Competitors Chase The Big Cheese At Cook-off

by Jenn Harris | May 13, 2009
Staff Reporter

More than 250 competitors faced off in three categories during the 7th Annual Grilled Cheese Invitational. Thousands of spectators -- and tasters -- were on hand to judge the entries. [...]

May Day Events Will March to Different Beats

by Meghan McCarty | April 30, 2009
Staff Reporter

In Los Angeles, activist groups have planned a multitude of May Day demonstrations in support of immigrant and workers' rights. Despite the diverging marches, organizers say the movement is still united. [...]

Animal Lover Gets Them All Off The Streets

by Kyla Cullinane | May 1, 2009
Contributor

The founder of Dog's Life Rescue has saved nearly one thousand stray animals -- from dogs to pigeons to rats -- from living on the streets or in shelters. [...]

Artist Teaches Free Classes To Help Participants Tap Their Creative Sides

by DeAna DiMeo | May 1, 2009
Contributor

A local painter shares her passion with the young and old alike to give her students a chance to express the inexpressible.
[...]

Affluent Law Student Gives Back During Tax Time

by Michelle Phelan
Contributor

It's April 15th all year long for one volunteer who helps low-income residents file returns for free. [...]

Food Kitchen Is A Stepping Stone For Regulars And One Volunteer

by Emily Nerland | May 1, 2009
Contributor

Adams Harbor welcomes the homeless, but it did just as much good for its director when she found herself jobless and in need of a place to invest her time. [...]

Tutor Uses Reading To Draw Shy Child Out Of His Shell

by Jonathan Horn | May 1, 2009
Contributor

Witness how a volunteer's commitment to tutoring has not only improved a child's reading skills, but has unleashed a lust for learning beneath the boy's shy shell. [...]

Elementary School Teacher Goes Above And Beyond To Make Science Come Alive

by Lia Hardin | May 1, 2009
Contributor

An award-winning teacher brings real-world science to the classroom, in a search for "electric moments," and at a time when science is getting the short shrift in schools. [...]

Outreach Program Is OneWay To Combat Gang Violence

by Brooke-Sidney Gavins | April 30, 2009
Contributor

The son of an infamous gang member takes his family legacy and turns it around with "OneWay Outreach," a program to help would-be gang members find a path in the right direction. [...]

USC's Campus Safety Expands Authority

by Guillermo Vazquez | April 24, 2009
Contributor

Under a new agreement with the LAPD, DPS officers now have an increased level of authority for arrests and investigations. [...]

Traffic Engineer Shot After Standing Up To Assailant

by Traci Hanamura | April 24, 2009
Staff Reporter

Traffic engineer Narasimha Murthy was videotaping when an armed assailant demanded his camera. Murthy kicked the man in the groin, then the robber shot at him three times and hit him in the calf. Now Murthy says he should carry a gun to protect himself. [...]

Universities Increase Efforts to Go Green

by Shannon Pence | April 23, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: The Sustainable Endowments Institute graded Los Angeles-area universities on their efforts to go green. From meatless Thursdays to new solar panels, Shannon Pence reports on their progress. [...]

The Face of L.A. Changes As In-Bound Immigration Slows

by Emily Henry | April 22, 2009
Senior Editor

LISTEN: In-bound immigration is slowing in California, and the next generation of naturalized, immigrant children is growing. Los Angeles expert and political science professor Fernando Guerra talks about the changing face of the immigrant stock in Los Angeles. [...]

Drought Forces Council To Increase Outdoor Water Restrictions

by Kevin Lu | April 22, 2009
Contributor

The Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved a measure to restrict outdoor water use to just two days a week, further increasing attempts at conservation in the face of a water shortage. [...]

Los Angeles City Attorney Candidates Debate The Issues At Urban Roundtable

by David Cohen | April 20, 2009
Staff Reporter

Candidates for Los Angeles city attorney changed their tone and arguments for a debate in front of an outspoken audience in Leimert Park Saturday morning. [...]

On Easter, The L.A. Mission Reaches Out To Those In Need

by Traci Hanamura | April 19, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH VIDEO: This Easter sunday, the Los Angeles Mission, which normally serves homeless people, opened its doors to anyone and everyone in need. [...]

Fundraisers Run To The Sky In Support Of Lung Association

by Carlos Saucedo
Contributor

After racing up 63 flights of stairs at California's second-tallest skyscraper, stair climbers appreciate the view and support the fight to end lung disease.
[...]

BREAKING: LAPD Arrests Second Suspect In Fatal Hit And Run

by ATVN Staff | April 18, 2009

Josue Luna, husband of the woman arrested in connection to a fatal hit-and-run near the USC campus, was arrested while trying to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. He has been released on $50,000 bail. [...]

USC Frat Suspended After Allegations Of Sexual Assault

by Alexandra Tilsley | April 17, 2009
Daily Trojan

Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity is on interim suspension while Los Angeles Police and University of Southern California officials investigate allegations of sexual assault after a female student drank punch and woke up later at the fraternity missing her underwear.
[...]

More Than 110 Homeless Sheltered By New Skid Row Apartments

by Adriana Venegas-Chavez | April 16, 2009
Contributor

LISTEN: Downtown Los Angeles is quickly becoming more residential and affluent, but it's not just the rich who are starting to call downtown home. More than 110 people recently received keys to apartments on Skid Row. [...]

Fees For Port Trucks To Continue

by Esther Pomeroy | April 16, 2009
Contributor

LISTEN: Southern California ports won a minor battle Thursday but the "clean trucks program" is still facing a challenge from members of the trucking industry. [...]

City Attorney Runoff Gets Down And Dirty

by Richie Duchon | April 16, 2009
Staff Reporter

LISTEN: Jack Weiss and Carmen Trutanich are calling on each other to disclose the names of their former legal clients. [...]

ACLU Urges Supervisors To Close Men's Central Jail

by Nardine Saad | April 15, 2009
Staff Reporter

Civil-rights activists urged the Los Angeles Board of Supervisors to take swift action Tuesday and close the central jail in the Los Angeles County Jail system after releasing a report that said conditions inside the jail ultimately led to mental illness even in healthy people. [...]

Villaraigosa Donors Fined By Ethics Commission

by Richard Duchon | April 14, 2009
Staff Reporter

The L.A. Ethics Commission gave one of its largest fines ever today to two of the mayor's campaign donors. [...]

Marchers Call For Improved Treatment Of Immigrants

by Debory Li | April 14, 2009
Staff Reporter

Dozens of Latinos marched for more than two hours Sunday in Los Angeles at the 15th annual Emiliano Zapata March to protest what they said was unequal treatment of immigrants and the need for immigrants rights legislation in the United States. [...]

Napolitano Tours Ports, Pledges Immigration Reform

by David Cohen | April 14, 2009
Staff Reporter

Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano toured Los Angeles' port and airport and said in a press conference later that the Obama administration will be introducing new immigration legislation. [...]

City Attorney Candidate Offers Mea Culpa At Forum

by David Cohen | April 14, 2009
Staff Reporter

At a Los Angeles city attorney candidate's forum, city councilman Jack Weiss emphasized his support for gay marriage and received a mixed endorsement from his former opponent Noel Weiss. [...]

Massive Homeless Camp Discovered Below L.A. Freeway

by Len Ly | April 13, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH EXCLUSIVE VIDEO: There are hundreds of homeless colonies scattered across Los Angeles. One, underneath the 10 freeway in Baldwin Park, was called a 'condo' by the sheriff's deputy who discovered it. Although Skid Row is the focus of homeless outreach in L.A., there are many more people who live beyond the downtown area. [...]

Is South Los Angeles A Food Desert or Food Oasis?

by Ariel Edwards-Levy | April 19, 2009
Annenberg Radio News Staff

Some argue you can't find much healthy food in South L.A. As Ariel Edwards-Levy reports, most residents want to change that. [...]

There's No Substitute For Creativity In The Classroom

by Jean Luc Renault | April 12, 2009
Contributor

With public school budgets tightening and art programs getting axed, teachers in Los Angeles learn how they can use art projects to teach any subject. [...]

Water Rate Hikes Postponed In Los Angeles For Now

by Brian Frank | April 9, 2009
Co-Editor

While recognizing Los Angeles needs strict measures to combat a prolonged drought, the City Council firmly rejected a proposal on Wednesday from the local water agency that would raise rates on customers who use excessive amounts of water. [...]

Council Offers Reward To Help Solve Murders

by John Adams | April 9, 2009
Contributor

By drafting a motion Tuesday offering $75,000 in reward money, the Los Angeles City Council took a step in helping to provide information to solve the March 13 murders of two Highland Park teenagers. [...]

Family And Friends Remember Slain Student

by Kim Daniels and Shannon Pence | April 8, 2009
Staff Reporters

WATCH: Those who knew Alejandro Garcia said he wasn't in a gang, though he was likely killed by gang members when he was gunned down in March while walking home from school. [...]

Shooting Victim's Brother Speaks In Extended Interview

by Kim Daniels and Shannon Pence | April 8, 2009
Staff Reporters

Victor Garcia shares his thoughts on his brother, Alejandro, after the 16-year-old was shot one block away from his home. [...]

Police Say They Are Close to Solving Shooting Of Two Los Angeles Teens

by Richie Duchon | April 8, 2009
Staff Reporter

The investigation into the murders of two teenage boys in Highland Park in mid-March is close to being solved, the lead detective on the case said. [...]

Highland Park Residents: Gangs Part Of Everyday Life

by Samantha Page and Kevin Patra | April 8, 2009
Staff Reporters

Two boys gunned down outside the recreation center on N. Figueroa Street in Highland Park were not involved in gang activity, according to several residents. However, police said their deaths could have been gang related. [...]

Remembering Adrianna

by Anne Hsu & Kaelyn Forde | April 8, 2009
-- from ATVN

Friends and family celebrate the USC freshman whose short and full life ended due to a recent hit-and-run accident.
[...]

Villaraigosa Putting Africa Before LA In Fighting Poverty?

by Chris Nelson | April 8, 2009
Co-Editor

Poverty may affect millions in Africa, but an organization called ONE wants Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa to look in his own backyard.
[...]

ACLU Brings Lawsuit Against L.A. Immigrant Detention Facilities

by Adriana Venegas-Chavez | April 7, 2009
Contributor

Former detainees say they weren't permitted to shower, change their clothes or communicate with their families for weeks at a time. [...]

Marijuana Legalization Battle Continues on 4/20

by Kaitlin Funaro | April 8, 2009
Annenberg Radio News Staff

Medical marijuana supporters and law enforcement officials spar over how to regulate sales and distribution of the drug.
[...]

Sheriff Baca Hunts Solution To Hidden Homeless Dilemma

by Len Ly | April 7, 2009
Staff Reporter

Long-time homeless outreach advocate Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca sat down to discuss the county's homeless population beyond Skid Row and how he plans to tackle the problem. [...]

Candidates Spar As City Attorney Runoff Kicks Off

by David Cohen | April 7, 2009
Staff Reporter

Los Angeles City attorney candidates Jack Weiss and Carmen Trutanich hurled allegations at each other during a Los Angeles Neighborhood Council Coalition forum at Hollywood City Hall Saturday, in the first face-to-face debate of the runoff election. [...]

Hail César! Thousands March For Chávez Day

by Evelyn Padilla | April 6, 2009
Contributor

WATCH: Supporters marched through downtown Los Angeles Saturday to honor the famed union organizer on his birthday. Notable attendees included co-founder of the United Farm Workers Dolores Huerta and actor Edward James Olmos. [...]

Pillow Fight Day Brings Out The Young At Heart

by Irma Widjojo and Dianne de Guzman | April 5, 2009
Staff Reporters

WATCH: The feathers were flying at the International Pillow Fight Day celebration. [...]

Jose Canseco on Steroids and Regret

by John Adams | April 4, 2009
Contributor

Controversial baseball figure Jose Canseco addressed students at the University of Southern California on Friday, speaking openly about his steroid days and dropping a few hints about who else used performance enhancing drugs.

[...]

Police Make Arrest In Fatal USC Hit-And-Run

by Richie Duchon | April 3, 2009
Staff Reporter

At a press conference Friday Los Angeles Police announced they had arrested the driver who struck and killed one student and injured another. The passenger of the car likely pushed one victim off the hood of the car. [...]

Shelters Get Creative To Help Homeless Families

by Tara Graham | April 3, 2009
Senior Editor

WATCH: As more families join the ranks of the homeless in Los Angeles, shelters are struggling to make enough bed space available. Some organizations are coming up with unorthodox ways of helping those in need. [...]

Tales From The Unemployment Line

by Neon Tommy | April 2, 2009
Contributors

Los Angeles County reported unemployment numbers of 10.9 percent in February. Each job-seeking story is different, yet they all have a common thread: It's tough to find a job these days. [...]

New Teachers Fear The Chopping Block

by Lauren Mendoza | April 2, 2009
Contributor

WATCH: Passion for the profession doesn't count for much in this fight for jobs. [...]

'Not Guilty' Verdict In Super Bowl Bet Stabbing Incident

by Jessica Selva | April 1, 2009
Contributor

An altercation between two golfers over a Super Bowl bet ended when one stabbed the other in the arm with a pocket knife. After being tried for assault with a deadly weapon, the jury decided in favor of the defendant, who said he had acted in self defense. [...]

Planting Seeds Of Change

by Daysha Eaton | April 2, 2009
Contributor

AUDIO SLIDESHOW: A community garden in South Los Angeles is teaching young people the value of growing their own healthful food.
[...]

Immigrant Rights Supporters Rally In Downtown Los Angeles

by Meghan McCarty | March 30, 2009

AUDIO SLIDESHOW: It's not May Day yet but the drumbeat has begun in the march toward immigration reform. A coalition of activist groups marched on City Hall on Saturday calling for an immediate end to immigration raids and full legalization of undocumented workers. [...]

Bald Heads Show Support At St. Baldrick's

by Shannon Pence | March 29, 2009
Associate Editor

WATCH: A touching event gives the community a chance to show solidarity with children facing cancer. [...]

Homeless Grant Comes Up Short

by Timothy Werth | March 27, 2009
- from Intersections

Shelters are scrambling to make the most of a $73 million government grant to help L.A.'s homeless, but middle-class homeless families are on the rise and resources are still tight. [...]

Rocky Economy Yields A Smoother Bus Ride

by Richard Duchon | March 26, 2009
Staff Reporter

The economic stimulus bill is helping L.A.'s Metro Transit Authority go the distance.

[...]

Teachers Protest Layoff Notices

by Alex Caputo-Pearl | March 25, 2009
- from Intersections

After the Los Angeles Board of Education voted recently to send layoff notices to about 9,000 LAUSD teachers, hundreds of students and teachers started a protest. Alex Caputo-Pearl, a Crenshaw High School teacher, was there and provides a first-hand account.

[...]

Downtown LA Squeezes In(to) Fashion Week

by Deidre Crawford | March 25, 2009
Staff Reporter

Out with the old, in with the vintage: Celebs, fashionistas and politicos try L.A. Fashion Week on for size. [...]

Scientists Make Mammoth Discovery At La Brea Tar Pits

by Mark Evitt | March 20, 2009
Senior Editor

WATCH: Columbian mammoth fossils were discovered at the site of a new parking garage. Already more than 700 specimens have been recovered. [...]

When 'Yes We Can' Turns Into 'Oh No You Didn't'

by C.J. Dablo | March 18, 2009
Staff Reporter

SLIDESHOW: More than 1000 people waited to get tickets to President Barack Obama's town hall meeting in Costa Mesa, Calif. Hundreds of people who had waited for hours were turned away after the front of the line swelled considerably as people joined friends who saved spots in line for them. [...]

An Irish Adventure: Get Your Green On In Los Angeles

by Emily Henry | March 17, 2009
Senior Editor

WATCH: Pershing Square in downtown Los Angeles became a sea of green for St. Patrick's Day, with a festive crowd jigging along to music from The Young Dubliners. [...]

Downturn Drives Students To Community College

by Neila Jamee | March 17, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: College counselors at local high schools are encouraging students to consider community college as a way to save money during these challenging economic times. But community colleges are suffering, too, and closing classes if they aren't filled on the first day of the semester. [...]

Marijuana Dispensaries Still Wrapped In Legal Haze

by Emilie Mutert | March 17, 2009
Senior Editor

Attorney General Eric Holder may have put a stop to federal raids on medical marijuana dispensaries, but the stores still operate in a legal limbo. The Los Angeles City Council is debating new legislation that will increase store regulation. [...]

New Culinary Program Combines Home Ec With High Tech

by Emily Henry | March 16, 2009
Senior Editor

LISTEN: At Dorsey High School, students in a culinary program are learning more than just how to cook. [...]

Santa Monicans: Keep It Off The Streets

by Megan McCarty | March 13, 2009
Contributor

WATCH:The 4th Street steps in Santa Monica are a popular exercise destination, but residents in the area are none too pleased about the calisthenics -- and other unsavory activities -- spilling over on to the medians in front of their homes. [...]

If At First You Don't Succeed, Go Public

by Alexander Comisar | March 12, 2009
Staff Reporter

After being rebuffed by County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky's press office, Neon Tommy reporter Alexander Comisar took his request to the public square...and scored an interview.
[...]

Sheriff's Department Stymies Own Shooting Investigation

by Kiran Alvi and Stuart McClave | March 13, 2009
Contributors

Detectives for the Compton division of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department have not arrested a known suspect in a recent shooting because they were unable to speak with the victim or other eyewitnesses. Yet cell phone numbers were right there in the original incident report. [...]

Libraries Provide More Than Free Books During Recession

by Newly Paul | March 13, 2009
Staff Reporter

WATCH: Free to the public, libraries' Wi-Fi services, computer stations and DVDs are drawing people in, especially those who have been recently laid off and are looking to save cash or even get help securing a job. [...]

Cleaning Out The Competition

by Daniel Kohn | March 16, 2009
Staff Reporter

USC senior David Ravanshenas runs a laundry delivery service that's on the verge of striking an exclusive deal with the university.
[...]

Neighbors Lose As New Metro Station Breaks Ground

by Emilie Mutert | March 10, 2009
Staff Reporter

Construction of Los Angeles' Expo Metro Line stays on track, despite determined opposition from nearby communities. [...]