LOS ANGELES – As Los Angeles County officially ends its coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) emergency declaration Friday, improved conditions have placed all 58 counties in California in the low community level for transmission and hospitalization rates, meaning the coronavirus is not spreading rapidly or in a way that’s exerting undue stress on the state’s healthcare systems.

This milestone that comes as the region’s coronavirus case rate has fallen to its lowest level since summer 2021.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) is aligning county safety measures with federal and state COVID-19 guidance, while continuing to require a few common-sense measures at worksites, educational institutions and healthcare facilities to reduce COVID-19-related disruptions and protect the people at highest risk of severe illness.

At worksites and educational settings, COVID-19 isolation and notification guidelines for staff are set by CAL/OSHA. Public Health’s newly issued school guidance align with both CAL/OSHA and state department of public health recommendations, as follows:

• School employees (as with all other employees subject to CAL/OSHA regulations) who have tested positive must isolate at home for at least 5 days and can only return to their worksite between days 6-10 if they are fever free and wearing a mask when around others. Students who have tested positive are also required to isolate at home for 5 days and, if returning to school between days 6-10, should wear a well-fitting mask when indoors around others.
• Schools are required to notify employees who are close contacts of a confirmed case and provide exposed workers with free testing. While schools are not required to notify parents of an exposed student, Public Health strongly recommends that schools notify the parents of students who were exposed to a case of COVID-19 during its infectious period at school.

Public Health also is maintaining its robust tracking of cases, hospitalizations and deaths, and requiring schools, worksites, skilled nursing facilities and other entities to report clusters of COVID-19 cases. Reporting allows for early intervention to slow the spread of COVID-19 and reduce disruptions, protect vulnerable residents and assist facilities to improve their infection control practices.

While for many residents and workers, masking and vaccination protective measures are now recommended and not required, because there are so many vulnerable people in healthcare settings, enhanced protections among healthcare workers in Los Angeles County remain in place.

Healthcare workers must wear protective face coverings when providing patient care or in patient care areas. Requirements for masking by visitors or patients is at the discretion of the facility, although Public Health strongly recommends that facilities continue to have their patients and visitors wear masks in public spaces. All Public Health clinics and vaccination sites will require that everyone at these sites wear a well-fitting mask and free masks will remain available for workers, patients and visitors.

In addition, new healthcare employees will need to comply with the existing vaccination requirements; all currently employed health care workers have completed their primary series and one booster dose or received an exemption from their facility.  There are similar federal requirements for healthcare workers in facilities that accept Medicare and Medicaid funding.

The guidelines for healthcare facilities will be reassessed by September to take into account any changes in U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA) vaccination guidance.

Most public health response measures are not affected by the ending of local COVID-19 emergency declarations. Public Health is committed to continuing to provide free access to vaccinations and boosters, testing and treatment to Los Angeles County residents, regardless of insurance or immigration status.

For information about vaccines, to access testing, and/or to receive therapeutics, please call 1-833-540-0473, seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

For more information on other non-health related changes with the lifting of the LA County emergency COVID declarations, visit lacounty.gov/covid-emergency-ending.

“I offer my heartfelt condolences and wishes of peace and healing to anyone who has lost a loved one to COVID-19,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “With no new strains proliferating, I am optimistic we will remain in the Low Community Level this spring and my hope is that our hospitalization and death rates continue to decline. I would love to see our lowest-ever numbers since the pandemic started – that has not happened yet and in order for it to happen, we will have to take advantage of all the tools and resources that helped us get to where we are today and to be aware of how our actions affect those in our community who are most vulnerable to severe illness.”

The 7-day average case count for COVID-19 dropped nearly 19% from the week prior from 615 last week to an average of 501 this week. Reported average daily deaths also dropped 32.5%, from 12 last week to 8 this week. The 7-day average of new COVID-19 positive hospital admissions is 52 this week, down from 67 last week. The 7-day average for test positivity remained stable at 3.2%.

Los Angeles County remains in the CDC’s Low COVID-19 Community Level for the 11^th consecutive week. This includes a 7-day case rate of 34 new cases per 100,000 people. The 7-day total for new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 people is currently 3.7. And the 7-day average of the proportion of staffed inpatient beds occupied by COVID-19 patients is now 2.3%.

As of Tuesday, March 28, there have been 35,994 deaths in Los Angeles County.

A wide range of data and dashboards on COVID-19 from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health are available on the Public Health website at http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov including:

• COVID-19 Locations & Demographics (data by demographic characteristics and geography, active outbreaks, and citations)
• COVID-19 Response Plan
• COVID-19 Vaccinations
• Skilled Nursing Facility Metrics

Always check with trusted sources for the latest accurate information about novel coronavirus:

• Los Angeles County Department of Public Health: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/
• California Department of Public Health: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/nCOV2019.aspx
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
• CDC Spanishhttps://espanol.cdc.gov/enes/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
• World Health Organization https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus
• LA County residents can also call 2-1-1

LOS ANGELES – As the West Coast received more gasoline imports and Arizona fuel supply issues continue to affect local refineries, Southern California gas prices stopped dropping in most areas last week after two previous weeks of decreases, according to the Auto Club’s Weekend Gas Watch.

The average price for self-serve regular gasoline in California is $4.83, which is the same as last week. The average national price is $3.49, which is five cents higher than a week ago.

The average price of self-serve regular gasoline in the Los Angeles-Long Beach area is $4.87 per gallon, which is two cents higher than last week, three cents higher than last month, and $1.19 lower than last year. In San Diego, the average price is $4.87, which is the same as last week, two cents higher than last month, and $1.14 lower than last year.

On the Central Coast, the average price is $4.85, which unchanged from last week, eight cents higher than last month, and $1.13 lower than last year. In Riverside, the average per-gallon price is $4.78, which is one cent lower than last week, four cents higher than last month and $1.18 lower than a year ago. In Bakersfield, the $4.88 average price is the same as last week, 11 cents higher than last month, and $1 lower than a year ago today.

“A new report from the US Energy Information Administration shows that gasoline imports are at a 20-month high on the West Coast, according to Oil Price Information Service,” said Auto Club spokesperson Doug Shupe. “That factor is helping to kepp Southern California fuel supply plentiful at a time when some local refinery production is being redirected to Arizona to help resolve a supply crisis there.” 

The Auto Club reminds drivers of the following tips to save money on gas:

• If you use premium unleaded fuel, make sure it is required for your vehicle, not just recommended. The Auto Club’s Automotive Research Center found that vehicles with recommended premium fuel performed safely with regular unleaded gasoline.
• Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.
• Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
• Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
• Slow down and drive the speed limit. Fuel economy peaks around 50 mph on most cars, then drops off as speed increases. Reducing freeway speeds by 5 to 10 mph can increase fuel economy by as much as 14%.
• Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because you could lose control of the vehicle.
• Minimize your use of air conditioning.
• Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.
• Remove unnecessary and heavy items from your car.
• Minimize your use of roof racks and remove special carriers when not in use.
• Download the AAA App to find the cheapest gas prices near you. 

The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on March 30, averages are:

New on the County Channel

END OF COVID-19 EMERGENCY

The COVID-19 emergency is ending. Here’s what that means for you.

LA County’s declaration of a local public health emergency for COVID-19 ends on March 31, 2023. That means changes in some programs, but many services will continue to be available to support County residents. Here is an overview of what the public can expect in several key areas—from the availability of free testing to resources for tenants and landlords. We’ve also got details on what residents need to do to avoid interruption of their Medi-Cal health benefits.

For more detailed information, visit lacounty.gov/covid-emergency-ending.

When LAUSD teachers and staff went on strike, County libraries stepped up with a range of programming including pop-up events and e-learning programs to help the students and their families and provide a safe, supportive and welcoming environment.

You can watch more stories like this on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here.

At Your Service

Free Dispute Resolution Help for Families, Individuals, and Businesses

There is help available for County residents dealing with a dispute. The Los Angeles County Dispute Resolution Program (LADRP) has provided free dispute resolution services to families, individuals and businesses for more than 30 years in a friendly, confidential, accessible, and no-cost manner.

A decision by a court judgment usually ends up with a winning party and a losing party. Mediation, an alternative method of resolving disputes, supports parties in the tailoring of agreements that mutually meet participants needs and interests. The aid of a skilled and neutral mediator promotes communication by guiding conversations that help parties identify issues, find points of agreement, reduce misunderstandings, and explore areas of compromise.

LADRP is made up of nine dispute resolution organizations, each having their unique services, languages, and cultural capacities. You can find more information about them HERE.

Healthy Food Kickstarter Project

The Healthy Food Kickstarter (Kickstarter) ARP Program has officially launched. Kickstarter program will provide grants of $20,000 (new projects) or $200,000 (expansion of existing projects) to non-profits and private/for-profit enterprises to support projects that provide affordable, fresh, healthy food options to the County’s most food insecure communities in order to strengthen and contribute to a more equitable, post-pandemic food distribution system. Kickstarter aims to address and alleviate historic food insecurity further compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic in Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) populations, low to moderate income individuals and families, and those living in County-identified Target Communities. 

Out and About

Youth Sailing Camp

WATER Youth Sailing Camp is back for Spring Break, ready to share exciting outdoor adventures with eager campers (11-17 years old) in Marina del Rey!

Taught by LA County WATER Program Lifeguards.

DETAILS:

DAYS:     Monday – Friday, April 10-14

TIMES:   10 AM – 4 PM 

COST:     $375 for the 5-day session

AGES:     11 to 17

LEVEL:     Beginning

** Financial aid available for qualifying families.

Click here for more information or to sign up. 

César Chávez Celebration: Create a Paper Garden

Join LA County Library to learn about César Chávez’s legacy as a civil rights advocate and farm labor leader who championed nonviolent social change and environmental rights.

Create a beautiful paper garden of your own and learn about nutrition, protecting the environment, and how to grow your own vegetables! The program will take place in the Children’s Area. All materials will be provided.  

For ages 5 – 12 with parent or caregiver.
No registration is required.

For more information on this event and others at your local library, check out visit.lacountylibrary.org/events

Photo Finish

Confronting COVID-19: take a look back at Los Angeles County’s mobilization and response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Click here to access more photos of LA County in action.

SACRAMENTO – Surrounded by legislators and community leaders in the rotunda of the California State Capitol, Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation Tuesday to implement the strongest state-level oversight and accountability measures on Big Oil in the nation – bringing transparency to California’s oil and gas industry, shining new light on the corporations that have for decades operated in the shadows while ripping families off and raking in record profits.

It is the latest instance in which the Governor has successfully taken on the historically powerful industry for putting profits over people. Last year, Governor Newsom signed legislation adding new reporting requirements to oil refiners, as well as a law protecting neighborhoods and schools from oil drilling.  

“With this legislation, we’re ending the oil industry’s days of operating in the shadows. California took on Big Oil and won. We’re not only protecting families, we’re also loosening the vice grip Big Oil has had on our politics for the last 100 years,”  the governor said.

Authored by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), co-sponsored by Attorney General Rob Bonta and approved by a supermajority in both the Senate and Assembly, SBx1-2 creates a dedicated, day-in and day-out, independent watchdog to root out price gouging by oil companies and authorizes the California Energy Commission (CEC) to create a penalty to hold the industry accountable. The law will go into effect on June 26, the 91st day after the end of the special session. 

• Learn more about the new law here.

When the law’s new transparency and oversight requirements go into effect at the end of June, the state will begin receiving more information than ever before, including last year when it appeared that oil producers suppressed supply to drive up prices and rake in record profits. Industry knows that the new independent watchdog division will be closely monitoring them and will refer any violation of law – including industry misconduct or market manipulation – to the Attorney General for prosecution.

Remarks from stakeholders and co-sponsors:

• Attorney General Rob Bonta: “Record high retail gas prices — and record-breaking profits for Big Oil — hurt those who can least afford it most of all. For too long, Californians have been left in the dark when it comes to the practices of the gas industry. And while oil companies have been lining their pockets, many Californians are struggling to make ends meet. I proudly stand with the Governor as he signs into law our cosponsored bill to bring accountability and transparency to the gas industry. Together, we are fighting to even the scales for California consumers and take this burden off their shoulders.” 
• Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego): “This bill provides important tools to help Californians get the answers we deserve about oil company profits and price gouging. Through the leadership of Senators Skinner, Bradford, Limón, and McGuire, and our colleagues in the Assembly and the Administration, these new reforms are strong on transparency and accountability. That’s a big part of what it will take to stop any wrongdoing and protect California consumers.”
• Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood): “Assemblymembers deserve praise for developing and passing this legislation, collaborating with the Governor and the Senate in the face of oil company intransigence. Our deliberations have been rigorous and transparent. Transparency is what we need now from the gas pricing system. That’s what this bill is about.”
• Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), author of SBX1-2: “I am proud of my colleagues for passing this first-in-the-nation protection against price gouging by Big Oil. Californians faced outrageously high gas prices last year, prices that strained family budgets an extra $600 or more a month. In calling for immediate action, Governor Newsom responded decisively in proposing SBX 1-2, the strongest, most effective transparency and oversight measure in the nation. This landmark law will allow us to hold oil companies accountable if they pad their profits at the expense of hard-working families. With SBX 1-2, California has sent a clear message to the oil industry: Open your books and prove you’re not price gouging, otherwise Big Oil will pay the price — not consumers.”
• Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks): “A supermajority of the Legislature, in partnership with the Governor, has just delivered for Californians struggling to afford gasoline. Not only will this new law provide real transparency and oversight with dedicated expertise to oversee the gasoline market, it will also create a plan to achieve our low carbon and clean air future. While the work is just beginning, experts will now have the tools they need to address outrageous prices at the pump.”
• Dwayne Crenshaw, President, Greater Sacramento Urban League: “For far too Iong, Californians have been wrongly taxed at the pump by Big Oil. This tax has especially impacted those in low-income, urban communities of color, where residents struggle to pay for basic needs and can’t afford price gouging at the pump. Governor Newsom’s bold proposal addresses economic, environmental health and racial justice, while holding Big Oil accountable.”
• Mary Leslie, President, Los Angeles Business Council: “The key to creating a clean energy economy that’s good for business and consumers is ensuring transparency and accountability in our fuel markets. Governor Newsom’s price gouging law protects California families and workers, while supporting our clean energy transition which is a big win for all of us. We thank the Governor and the Legislature for their quick action to bring much-needed transparency to the industry.” 
• Max Vargas, VP of Economic Justice, Latino Community Foundation: “We applaud Governor Newsom’s leadership to tackle gasoline price gouging in California. Latino workers and small businesses are the backbone of local economies, but they’re still reeling from the pandemic’s disproportionate fallout, which oil company price hikes are further exacerbating. The creation of an independent watchdog for an industry this powerful is especially affirming for grassroots community leaders across the state who serve the working families directly affected by this price gouging.”
• Melanie Morelos, California Strategy Senior Program Manager, The Greenlining Institute: “We applaud Governor Newsom, and the California State Legislature’s swift action to tackle Big Oil’s ongoing corporate greed. Too many California families are forced to choose between filling up the tank in order to get to work, over essential expenses like rent and childcare while oil executives line their pockets with record-breaking profits. This landmark legislation sends a clear message that we will not allow corporations to take advantage of our communities and that the reign of unchecked Big Oil is coming to an end.”
• Teri Olle, California Campaign Director, Economic Security Project Action: “Finally, California called Big Oil’s bluff and won. The real reason this handful of massive corporations charge California twice as much for gas is that they can. We applaud Governor Newsom and the legislature for taking significant steps in addressing the unchecked corporate concentration which has been keeping our gas prices so high and in creating a more equitable and fair economy.”
• Jamie Court, President, Consumer Watchdog: “This landmark reform makes California the first state in the nation to authorize a windfall profits cap on oil refiners so that they can no longer gouge consumers at the pump.  Combined with unprecedented transparency measures and a new watchdog bureau, this price gouging penalty will prevent Californians from enduring the price spikes and profits spikes that have plagued the gasoline market last year. Governor Newsom has balanced the scales on behalf of millions of Californians who no longer will have to choose between $6 per gallon gas and putting food on their tables.” 
• Matt Petersen, CEO, LA Cleantech Incubator: “The small business owners and startup founders we support–and the workforce they employ–are the engine of our state’s growing cleantech innovation economy, yet they all suffer from price gouging at the pump that is enriching oil companies. We applaud Governor Newsom and the Legislature’s leadership for pushing back to keep money in our cleantech workers’ and small business’ pockets while growing our economy–the fourth largest in the world–while putting in place bold, equitable climate action.”
• Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan: “I’ve supported the Price Gouging Penalty bill (SBX1-2) from the beginning because I saw first-hand the effect high gas rates had on our residents. Thanks to Governor Newsom’s fast action, Californians will no longer be charged unfairly at the gas pump by big oil companies.”
• Meghan Sahli-Wells, California Director, Elected Officials to Protect America (EOPA), Former Culver City Mayor: “I am proud to join over 150 local elected officials throughout California who support transparency and accountability for an industry that has put their profits over our health, safety and wellbeing for far too long. We represent communities on the frontlines of fossil fuel pollution, unbreathable air and climate disaster, that, to add insult to injury, Big Oil has held hostage by unprecedented price hikes at the pump. We applaud the Governor for heralding, the and legislature for passing, this first in the nation bill to hold multi billion-dollar corporations accountable for price gouging, and laying the groundwork for a healthier, more just and economically vibrant California for all.”

 

By Paulo Murillo | LOS ANGELES – The Christopher Street West Association (CSW) that produces the LA Pride celebration – announced Tuesday that multi-award winning global superstars Mariah Carey and Megan Thee Stallion will headline LA Pride in the Park, with additional artists to be announced.

Following last year’s overwhelming success and demand, the multi-stage event will expand to a two-day concert experience with headliners Megan Thee Stallion on June 9 and Mariah Carey on June 10 at Los Angeles State Historic Park.

Across 32 acres and with a capacity for 25,000, LA Pride in the Park is one of the most sought after and largest Official Pride concerts in the country. Additionally, the official theme for this year’s Pride season is “All Out with Pride,” which celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community’s diversity, resilience, and joy.

“I’m thrilled and honored to be a part of LA Pride 2023,” exclaimed Carey. “I am happy to be back in person celebrating with the LGBTQIA+ community here in Southern California and throughout all of the lands!!! Let’s come together to celebrate love, inclusion, and Pride.”

“I can’t wait to headline LA Pride in the Park and celebrate the phenomenal LGBTQIA+ community,” said Megan. “This incredible event advocates for diversity, inclusivity and equality, so I’m honored to perform and have a blast with all of the Hotties in attendance.”

“Mariah Carey and Megan Thee Stallion are the perfect artists to headline LA Pride in the Park this year as we expand to two days,” said Gerald Garth, board president of LA Pride. “These empowering and iconic women are sure to take the stage by storm to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and will undoubtedly make this year’s LA Pride in the Park an unforgettable experience.”

Early Bird Single Day and Weekend passes are sold out. General Single Day ($69) and Weekend ($119) as well as VIP Single Day ($299) and VIP Weekend ($549) are now available to purchase at lapride.org.

Carey has been a longtime ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and has spoken out in support of equality and acceptance. In 2016, she received the Ally Award at the GLAAD Media Awards for her work to advance LGBTQIA+ rights. In addition to her advocacy work, Carey has also been a vocal supporter of LGBTQIA+ artists and creatives.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee in 2021, awarded Megan Thee Stallion, a three-time GRAMMY-winning recording artist, the 18th Congressional District Hero Award in Houston for her humanitarian initiatives. out against the intolerance of the LGBTQIA+ community within the hip-hop genre.

Stallion told People magazine in a 2021 interview that, “Representation is important, and it is really crucial for us all to have compassion and acceptance of every human.”

**************************************************************************

Paulo Murillo is Editor in Chief and Publisher of WEHO TIMES. He brings over 20 years of experience as a columnist, reporter, and photo journalist.

******************************

The preceding article was previously published by WeHo Times and is republished with permission.

By Paulo Murillo | WEST HOLLYWOOD – The Los Angeles LGBT Center will host Drag March LA on Easter Sunday, April 9, 2023. The event for all ages and aims to mobilize against the oppressive anti-LGBTQ+ tidal wave that is currently sweeping through America.

The march will start at West Hollywood City Hall, located at 8300 Santa Monica Boulevard, at the corner of Santa Monica Boulevard and Sweetzer Avenue and end at the LGBT Rainbow District.

There are already over 400 pieces of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation on the books—unsurprisingly, most of them target transgender people and drag performances too.

“Drag has always been political and gender has always been policed. LGBTQ+ people have always known (and shown) that there are many shades of the rainbow—and once again, it’s time for us to put them all on full display,” Los Angeles LGBT Center said in a statement. “We will not stand by while the far right seeks to roll back our rights.”

The event is in partnership with local LGBTQ+ organizations, faith groups, queer and trans activists, and the finest drag artists in the City of Angels.

• 10 a.m. Doors Open
• 11-11:40 a.m. Rally & Kickoff Performance
• 11:45 a.m. Demonstrators Get in Formation
• 12 p.m. March Begins
• 1 p.m. March Ends

Participants are encouraged to wear their best drag.

Guest speakers will include the activists and families from impacted states who are fighting anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. See below for a full list of supporters.

+1,000 guests expected to attend. Stay tuned for more on speakers + performers!

Want to get your organization involved? Sign up here

Supporters of Drag March LA include the following:

• Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California
• Bienestar Human Services
• CA LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network
• Equality California
• LGBTQ Center Orange County
• LGBTQ+ Community Center of the Desert
• ProjectQ
• Racial & Ethnic Mental Health Disparities Coalition (REMHDCO)
• Radiant Health Centers
• Rainbow Services, Ltd.
• Somos Familia Valle
• The National LGBTQ Institute on Intimate Partner Violence
• The Source LGBT+ Center
• [email protected] Coalition

**************************************************************************

Paulo Murillo is Editor in Chief and Publisher of WEHO TIMES. He brings over 20 years of experience as a columnist, reporter, and photo journalist.

******************************

The preceding article was previously published by WeHo Times and is republished with permission.

New on the County Channel

Go behind the scenes at the moving new exhibit at the Holocaust Museum.

You can watch more stories like this on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here.

In Case You Missed It

Return Your Vote by Mail Ballot Early

You don’t need to wait until Election Day (April 4) to make your voice heard in the City of Los Angeles Council District 6 Special Primary Election.

Once you’ve completed your ballot, sign and date the Return Envelope and use one of these easy return options:

• Return by mail: No postage is required.
• Ballot Drop Box: There are 14 convenient Ballot Drop Box locations in your community.

Track your Ballot

Tracking your ballot – when it is mailed, received, and counted – has never been easier. Sign up to Where’s My Ballot? to receive automatic notifications on the status of your ballot.

At Your Service

Upcoming Webinars for Landlords & Tenants

DCBA will host a series of webinars that will explain which protections from the COVID-19 Tenant Protections Resolution expire after March 31st, 2023, and the impacts of that expiration on landlords and tenants.

Webinars for Landlords

On Thursday, March 23 at 10 a.m., DCBA will host the first in a series of webinars for landlords. We can help you understand your rights and responsibilities. 

An additional webinar is currently scheduled for Thursday, April 13. Visit our website at dcba.lacounty.gov/webinarsforlandlords to learn more and register for upcoming webinars.

Webinars for Tenants

On Thursday, March 30 at 10 a.m., DCBA will host an online workshop for tenants to discuss changes to tenant protections, the Rent Stabilization Ordinance in Unincorporated Los Angeles County, and other available resources for tenants.

Economic Opportunity Grants

LA County’s Economic Opportunity Grant program will award more than $54 million in grants to small & micro businesses, and non-profits impacted by the pandemic.

Grants ranging between $20,000 or $25,000 per grant will be available for non-profits starting in February. Interested businesses can visit grants.lacounty.gov to learn more or access multi-lingual support.

Out and About

Parks After Dark

It’s Park Time, L.A. County! Parks After Dark (PAD) returns this March with fun, free and safe recreational experiences that brings, teens, families, and communities together at 34 LA County Parks for two evenings during Spring Break.  Parks After Dark is an award-winning program designed to bring communities together by activating park spaces with hands-on activities and entertainment that transforms local parks into safe havens.

The Spring edition of Parks after Dark kicks-off March 23 and runs through April 15 on Thursday and Saturday nights from 6 to 9 pm for two evenings of fun.  Come experience an array of workshops and activities such as music, canvas painting, culinary art, family dances, arts, and crafts, and so much more. The Department of Parks and Recreation is dedicated to bringing the “World to You” through cultural performances sponsored by the Los Angeles Music Center.  Enjoy snacks, refreshments, and entertainment in our community zone.

For more information on an LA County Parks After Dark location near you, visit Parks After Dark Spring 2023 – Parks & Recreation (lacounty.gov)

Free Yoga Classes

LA County Beaches and Harbor is offering FREE yoga classes on Fridays at the Dockweiler Youth Center.

Fridays | 6:30-7:30PM
Dockweiler Youth Center
12505 Vista Del Mar, Playa Del Rey, CA 90293

Note: Students must bring their own mats.

Visit beaches.lacounty.gov for more information.

Photo Finish

LA County African American Infant and Maternal Mortality Prevention Initiative.

Click here to access more photos of LA County in action.

SACRAMENTO — On Monday, March 27, California legislators, Capitol staff, and community advocates will join trans+ community members to celebrate Transgender Week of Visibility, a series of celebrations leading up to International Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31. 

Legislators will wear buttons declaring “trans people belong” and spread their message of solidarity and inclusion for trans+ Californians across social media channels. The message will be echoed by leaders in the executive branch, labor, and advocacy organizations who are working to create a more just world for transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people. 

“Across the country and even right here in California, trans people’s lives are being used for political purposes. These attacks bring real harm to our trans+ friends, colleagues, and loved ones, particularly our children,” said LGBTQ Caucus Chair Susan Talamantes Eggman. “It’s up to all of us to stand together with trans, gender non-conforming, and non-binary people to create communities that are safe for trans+ people to thrive.”

Trans Visibility Week and the International Transgender Day of Visibility, acknowledge and uplift the societal contributions of trans+ people. The week also raises awareness of widespread discrimination and violence that the community faces in the United States, around the world, and sadly, right here in California. 

Trans visibility is more important than ever, as 429 bills attacking LGBTQ+ rights have been introduced in state legislatures across the nation, a record number, many particularly targeting transgender youth. Some of these proposals would force teachers to out trans students, deny trans youth the right to participate in sports and other activities, and deny affirming health care.

“Trans people shouldn’t have to fight just to exist or live safely in our communities,” said Evan Minton (he/they), a former Capitol staffer and national transgender advocate. “Trans visibility is an opportunity to celebrate the joy of being who we are.”

“The trans community deserves to live their authentic lives without the fear of harassment or violence. We are proud to join community advocate Evan Minton, state legislators, staffers, and the Capitol community to send a strong message that trans people belong and will never be erased,” said Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang. “Now more than ever taking a unified stance against LGBTQ+ hate is imperative. Equality California remains committed to achieve full, lived LGBTQ+ equality for all.” 

Monday’s Capitol events come after several historic actions this week in support of the trans+ community.  Earlier this week, the Sacramento City Unified School District board held its first annual trans pride flag raising, sending a powerful message of inclusion to trans students, teachers, and the entire school community. Last week, the District also passed a strong resolution affirming the rights of trans students and encouraging classroom discussion on the importance of trans visibility. On Tuesday, the Sacramento City Council adopted a resolution declaring an annual Transgender Week of Visibility in the city. Sacramento County is considering a similar resolution on March 28.

For more information, follow @eqca, #transpeoplebelong #TransgenderDayofVisibility 

YOLO COUNTY – Governor Gavin Newsom today rolled back some drought emergency provisions that are no longer needed due to current water conditions, while maintaining other measures that support regions and communities still facing water supply challenges, and that continue building up long-term water resilience.

Amid climate-driven weather whiplash, the state has taken action to boost water supplies through groundwater recharge, stormwater capture, reservoir storage, and more. 

Today’s action comes as the state announced increased water deliveries to 29 public water agencies that serve 27 million Californians, now expecting to deliver 75% of requested water supplies – up from 35% announced in February, and the highest since 2017. 

While recent storms have helped ease drought impacts, regions and communities across the state continue to experience water supply shortages, especially communities that rely on groundwater supplies that have been severely depleted in recent years. Today’s order is responsive to current conditions while preserving smart water measures: 

• Ends the voluntary 15% water conservation target, while continuing to encourage that Californians make conservation a way of life;
• Ends the requirement that local water agencies implement level 2 of their drought contingency plans;
• Maintains the ban on wasteful water uses, such as watering ornamental grass on commercial properties;
• Preserves all current emergency orders focused on groundwater supply, where the effects of the multi-year drought continue to be devastating;
• Maintains orders focused on specific watersheds that have not benefited as much from recent rains, including the Klamath River and Colorado River basins, which both remain in drought;
• Retains a state of emergency for all 58 counties to allow for drought response and recovery efforts to continue.

 A copy of today’s executive order can be found (here).

“We’re all in this together, and this state has taken extraordinary actions to get us to this point. The weather whiplash we’ve experienced in the past few months makes it crystal clear that Californians and our water system have to adapt to increasingly extreme swings between drought and flood. As we welcome this relief from the drought, we must remain focused on continuing our all-of-the-above approach to future-proofing California’s water supply,” the governor said.

Since Governor Newsom announced the 15% voluntary conservation goal, Californians conserved 600,000 acre-feet of water – representing 1.2 million households’ yearly usage. 

The Governor today visited the Dunnigan Groundwater Recharge Project in Yolo County, where he highlighted the state’s work to accelerate and increase groundwater recharge to make the most of winter storms. California is working to expand groundwater recharge by at least 500,000 acre-feet in potential capacity as part of our water supply strategy.

Leveraging the state’s long-term water supply strategy and more than $8.6 billion committed by Governor Newsom and the Legislature in the last two budget cycles to build water resilience, California is taking aggressive action to prepare for hotter and drier conditions driven by climate change that could reduce the state’s water supply by up to 10% by 2040. In the 2023-24 state budget, Governor Newsom is proposing an additional $202 million for flood protection and $125 million for drought-related actions.

Here are other actions that Governor Newsom and the Legislature have taken to boost water supply, expand storage, and improve infrastructure: 

• EXPANDING SUPPLY & STORAGE BY 1.1 MILLION ACRE-FEET: California has bolstered supply and storage through groundwater recharge and other projects, including a combined 1.1 million acre-feet of water – enough for 2.2 million households’ yearly usage. 
• EXECUTIVE ORDERS TO CAPTURE & STORE MORE WATER: During recent storms, Governor Newsom signed executive orders to accelerate stormwater capture to boost groundwater recharge and other conservation measures.
• FAST-TRACKING GROUNDWATER RECHARGE: The state is expanding groundwater recharge by at least 500,000 acre-feet in potential capacity – streamlining permits and $1 billion for groundwater recharge projects for 88,000 more acre-feet per year.
• MAXIMIZING STORMWATER CAPTURE: $176 million for 67 stormwater projects and streamlining permitting to take advantage of major storm events.
• EXPANDING STORAGE ABOVE & BELOW GROUND: California is supporting seven locally-driven water storage projects that would expand the state’s capacity by 2.77 million acre-feet – about three times as much water as Folsom Lake can hold. And, California is working to expand San Luis Reservoir by 135,000 acre-feet to store more storm runoff.
• ADVANCING CLEAR, AMBITIOUS TARGETS: 142 actions to improve water resilience and bolster water supplies, and a roadmap for expanding urban stormwater capture capacity by 250,000 acre-feet and adding 4 million acre-feet of water storage capacity.
• MODERNIZING WATER INFRASTRUCTURE: California is working to modernize aging water conveyance systems across the state to safeguard long-term water reliability and help carry winter storm runoff into storage.

Climate change has made California’s dry and wet spells more extreme and unpredictable – after the three driest years on record, recent rain and snowfall have dramatically changed conditions in many parts of the state. The state has also advanced actions to boost storage and supply. Today’s action eases drought emergency provisions that are no longer needed while maintaining others to support impacted communities statewide.
 
Harnessing water captured and stored from recent storms, the state also announced a major increase in expected State Water Project deliveries to local agencies – now an anticipated 75% allocation.

FACT SHEET

LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Homicide Investigators are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting death of a 38-year-old Marine veteran, Aaron Orozco, who was shot and killed in Lynwood while working as an Uber rideshare driver.

On Friday, March 24, 2023, at approximately 1:33 a.m., Century Sheriff’s station deputies responded to the 2800 block of Imperial Highway, in the city of Lynwood, regarding a gunshot victim call. Upon arriving, they located a male Hispanic adult in his late 30’s suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the upper torso.
 
During the initial investigation, deputies learned the victim was working as a rideshare driver and had picked up two male Black adults. During the duration of the rideshare, the victim stopped his vehicle in the parking lot of the indicated location.
 
The victim and the two passengers were then involved in a physical altercation, at which time, one suspect produced an unknown firearm and shot the victim.
 
The suspects then fled the scene in the victim’s vehicle. The abandoned vehicle was located a short distance from the location by Century Station deputies.
 
Orozco, resident of Lynwood, was pronounced deceased at the location.  The investigation is ongoing and currently, there is no additional information.

KTLA journalists Cameron Kiszla, Ellina Abovian spoke to Orozco’s wife who indicated that his 9-year-old son is autistic and that he was an extremely devoted father to both of his children.

“I’m still in shock. I can’t believe this happened to our family. I just don’t know how to react right now, really. It’s just so hard,” Orozco’s wife, Sandra Medina told KTLA.

The two attackers remain at large and anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.

If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google play or the Apple App Store or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org

A GoFundMe has been set up for Orozco’s family. To donate, click here.