LOS ANGELES – One year after being sworn in to serve as Supervisor for Los Angeles County’s Third District, Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath became the youngest-ever Chair of the Board of Supervisors as she took the gavel Tuesday.

During the Board’s reorganization meeting, Supervisor Kathryn Barger was selected as Board Chair Pro Tempore. 

In her remarks following her becoming Board Chair, Horvath noted:

“In listening to young people, I am clear that the crisis of the moment is homelessness. From the threat of falling into homelessness because of the rising costs of rent and just living, to the reality of being unhoused while trying to go to school, and never being able to recover from the debt that piles up, the pervasiveness of homelessness in our region is a daily attack on our dream for a better future.”

“While homelessness is the crisis of the moment, climate change remains the crisis of our time. No one makes that clearer than our young people, whose commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future is unwavering.”

“But, the most insidious, sinister crisis we face today is the crisis of despair. The rate of suicide is unprecedented, especially among women and girls who face increasingly complicated mental health challenges. Anxiety, depression, and substance use are pervasive.”

 “This is a moment for urgency. This is a moment for impatience. This is a moment for profound change. We must march forward together and take bold steps to bridge generations and create the change that we so urgently need,” she added.

Horvath since her election as a Supervisor she has made it clear that she is on a mission to end homelessness in Los Angeles County. As Third District Supervisor she represents 10 cities and 26 unincorporated communities from West Hollywood to Malibu, Topanga to Chatsworth, and Pacoima to Santa Monica. Her district spans 446.08 square miles and is plagued by homelessness.

There are approximately 69,144 homeless people within the county, and that number is on the rise. 75% of those unhoused individuals do not have any form of permanent housing and are forced to wander from place to place, finding or making shelter wherever they can.

Six out of ten of these unhoused individuals are newly homeless – a reflection of the inequity between rising home prices and stagnant income levels that have left so many in California unable to make ends meet. 

On a mission; Supervisor Horvath tackles homelessness

This past January, [2023] the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors declared a state of emergency for the homeless crisis. 

“The declaration has allowed us to do two things,” Horvath told The Blade. “First, we were able to accelerate hiring. We learned that in the Department of Mental Health, for example, it can take longer than a year for mental health professionals to be hired into the department. That is completely unacceptable. We need to hire people faster to do this work. 

“Second, we were also able to expedite contracting. We learned from LAHSA that a contract could be touched up to 140 times before it is finally executed, and funding is able to reach service providers. Obviously, that is unacceptable. We are improving our contracting processes.”

Given the new laws attempting to outlaw the existence of the LGBTQ+ community in many Republican-controlled red states across America, young LGBTQ+ people flock to places like Los Angeles with little to no resources to avoid being persecuted for their identities. 

When asked how the she intends to deal with the influx of homeless LGBTQ youth pouring into LGBTQ+ safe havens like Los Angeles, Horvath told the Blade that she is prepared to welcome them with open arms. 

“We tackled this challenge a lot when I was the Mayor of West Hollywood. We saw a lot of people come to West Hollywood for exactly this reason, and we know that that is not unique to West Hollywood. It’s happening throughout Los Angeles County, so we are already providing those services to those who need them. Anyone who comes to our area will be met with support and care.”

In a statement released by her office, Horvath detailed her accomplishments over the past year:

• Introduced the emergency declaration on homelessness, the foundation for expedited results across the County, and appointed herself to LAHSA where she now sits as Chair.  
• Introduced protections for renters as essential homelessness prevention, including extending a 4% cap on rent increases for unincorporated Los Angeles County, along with other actions to strengthen the Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protections Ordinance.  
• Championed environmental action through motions to create a cleaner Santa Monica Bay and to protect our coast from sea level rise and erosion; opened improvements to the Marvin Braude Bike Trail; and today introduced implementation steps for the first comprehensive water plan for the region. 
• Stood for working Angelenos by authoring motions to strengthen hotel worker protections and created an entertainment business interruption fund. She also supported the WGA and SAG/AFTRA strikes. 
• Advanced a more inclusive and just LA County by initiating a Jewish Community Safety Plan; rooted out hate and antisemitism in all its forms; and recognized LA County’s unofficial “gay beach”. 
• Focused on care for system impacted young people and families by authoring a motion regarding Mandated Supporters, and co-authored a motion to create a Prevention framework for LA County.

As the new Chair of the Board of Supervisors, our message is clear:

This is a moment for urgency. This is a moment for impatience. This is a moment for profound change. pic.twitter.com/9qvgA8YmAe

— Lindsey P. Horvath (@LindseyPHorvath) December 5, 2023

CULVER CITY, Calif. – The City is envisioning the future for Bill Botts Fields and Veterans Memorial Park, and we want to hear from you!

The comprehensive visioning project will determine how these two parks will accommodate the community’s 21st century needs for indoor and outdoor recreational, community meeting, event and cultural facilities. Community meetings and a community survey will help determine the needs and priorities for Bill Botts Fields and Veterans Memorial Park. 

IN-PERSON COMMUNITY MEETINGS 
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 9-11AM with Childcare
Thursday, February 8, 2024, 6-8PM

Community meetings will be held at Veterans Memorial Auditorium located at 4117 Overland Ave., Culver City, CA 90230.  Free parking is available onsite.  The Culver CityBus lines 3 and 7 have stops in front of Veterans memorial Building.  Plan your trip by visiting Culver CityBus.  Neighbors are encouraged to walk/bike to the community meeting.

CHILDCARE OFFERED 
Recreation leaders from the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Culver City Afterschool Recreation Program (CCARP) will offer childcare services for parents who wish to attend the meeting.  The recreation leaders will offer games, coloring activities, and a creative project allowing children to draw what they wish for in an ideal park.  Childcare hours will be from 8:30 AM-11:30 AM. 

ONLINE COMMUNITY MEETINGS
To attend any of the above community meetings virtually, please visit the Project Website and click on the virtual meeting link.

For more information about the visioning project for Bill Botts Fields and Veterans Memorial Park, please visit the Project Website with past community meeting minutes, past presentations, and meeting board displays.  

Citywide News

Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting, Thursday, December 7^th

The Recreation, Parks, and Library Department proudly presents our annual Joy Around the World: Festival of Holidays and Tree Lighting event on Thursday, December 7^th, 2023, from 3:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. The event takes place at City Hall Plaza and the 300 block of Main Street. This free, family-friendly outdoor event combines El Segundo’s Christmas Tree Lighting tradition with the celebration of winter holidays from around the world, including Christmas, Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Nochebuena, and Ōmisoka.

Guests attending the event will enjoy live music and cultural dance performances, Christmas tree lighting, a visit with Santa Claus and gift giveaway, kids’ train ride, food trucks offering multicultural cuisines, craft-making stations, handmade jewelry and crafts for purchase, and more! This event is free to the public. For more information, please click here or call 310-524-2700.

Virtual Town Hall with AQMD, Wednesday, December 6^th  at 6:00 p.m.

On Wednesday, December 6^th, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. the City of El Segundo is hosting a virtual town hall with representatives from South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) and elected officials representing El Segundo and L.A. County with the goal of addressing community concerns regarding the air quality and odor issues related to the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant.

The meeting will feature:

• Status of Hyperion’s compliance with AQMD’s Orders of Abatement
• Information about AB 1216 requiring testing for pollutants of concern at Hyperion
• Opportunity for the public to ask questions of AQMD and elected officials

For more information about the meeting and the zoom link to attend, please click here

Candy Cane Lane, Saturday, December 9^th – December 23^rd

Candy Cane Lane is back in El Segundo! Celebrated every year since 1949, except for 2020 due to the pandemic, Santa Claus will kick off this highly anticipated event on December 9^th at 7:00 p.m. He will bring his magic down the 1200 block of East Acacia Avenue, lighting up decked-out houses and festive holiday displays as he goes!  Santa will then head back up to the North Pole but the light show continues nightly from 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. until December 23^rd. Please note, there will be nightly street closures at Center Street and East Acacia Avenue and at East Walnut Avenue and California Street to allow for safety precautions.

Santa’s Mailbox through December 9^th

Children are invited to write letters to Santa! Santa’s Mailbox is open through Saturday, December 9^th during library hours. Please be sure to include a return address so that Santa can send you his reply! The mailbox is located in the Youth Library downstairs. This program is in partnership with the El Segundo Woman’s Club.

Santa’s Sleigh Ride Starts Monday, December 11^th

Santa is coming to town, and he wants to meet you!  As always, the Police Officers Association is partnering with the Kiwanis Club to bring Santa to the streets of El Segundo. The dates for the sleigh will be December 11^th through December 14^th, and again on the following week, December 18^th. The Head Elf will be tracking Santa at approximately 5:00 p.m. – 8::30 p.m. each day. Be sure to listen for the sirens, when you hear them, come visit Santa Claus and get a candy cane!

Menorah Lighting – Thursday, December 14^th

El Segundo’s annual menorah lighting ceremony will take place on Thursday, December 14^th at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall Plaza. All are welcome to celebrate the festival of lights with potato latkes, jelly donuts, gifts for kids, and Hanukkah music and dancing.

Community Christmas Eve Dinner – December 24^th

Enjoy a free and delicious holiday meal at the Recreation, Parks, and Library Department’s annual community Christmas Eve dinner on December 24^th, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Joslyn Center. This event is open to the public and is available by free delivery. Please RSVP before December 20^th in-person or by calling the Joslyn Center at (310) 524-2705.

Toys for Tots Toy Drive through December 10^th

This holiday season the El Segundo Police Department is partnering with the United States Marine Corps to collect new, unwrapped toys and distribute those toys to less fortunate children at Christmas.

The Marine Toys for Tots Program was started by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to help bring the joy of Christmas and to send a message of hope through the gift of a new toy. Starting today, November 21st until Sunday, December 10th we will have 3 locations where you can donate in person. For details about the drive and donation locations, click here.

Spark of Love Toy Drive through December 14^th

The Spark of Love toy drive, the largest community toy drive in the nation, returns to El Segundo. This special community campaign collects new, unwrapped toys and sports equipment for under-served children. Donations are being accepted now through Thursday, December 14^th at Fire Station #1 or you can donate online. More details and info available here. 

El Segundo News – December Edition

El Segundo News is a monthly news show that can be watched on the City’s website, Channel 3, and the City’s social media channels. The show focuses on city-related issues and events.

Check out the December episode with all the latest happenings, news, and business spotlights HERE! 

City Council Recap for November 7^th Meeting

The City Council Recap provides highlights and a quick overview of business discussed during the Tuesday, November 7^th City Council meeting. To watch the full City Council meeting, click here.

Winter 2024 Recreation Activity Guide

The Winter Recreation Activity Guide is now available! Click here to view the guide and see all the classes, activities, and events we have coming up in the new year!

Registration for El Segundo residents opens on Monday, December 4^th at 9:00 a.m. and non-resident registration opens on Monday, December 11^th at 9:00 a.m. To register for these classes and activities, visit www.esrec.org and click on the “Winter 2024” tab. In-person registration is also available at the Checkout Building, Clubhouse, Joslyn Center, and Aquatics Center.

Please call 310-524-2362 or email [email protected] if you have any questions.

Housing Element Implementation Community Meeting
Thursday, December 14^th at 5:30 p.m.

On December 14, 2023, at 5:30 p.m., the City will hold a community meeting regarding the implementation of the City’s 2021-2029 Housing Element.  The community meeting will take place during the regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting.  During the meeting, staff will provide an update on the 2021-2029 Housing Element implementation, answer questions, and receive input on housing-related topics. 

For more information on the Housing Element and to get the latest updates, please visit the Housing Element webpage at www.elsegundo.org/housing-element.

The public is invited to attend the meeting in person at City Hall Council Chambers – 350 Main Street, El Segundo.

Sign Up for the Community Police Academy

The El Segundo Police Department is now accepting applications for our FREE January 2024 Community Police Academy. Classes start Wednesday, January 10^th!

The course is intended for those interested in learning more about how the El Segundo Police Department functions and operates. The goal of the program is to open the lines of communication and encourage interaction between our officers and the community.

The FREE 10 week course is held on Wednesdays from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Dinner is provided and topics include K9, School Resource, Motors, SWAT, Dispatch, Investigations, DUI and more. 

To register click the link: Community Police Academy Application or email Officer Josh Gilberts at [email protected] to secure your seat and we’ll see you in January!

Construction Activity Around Town

Brett Field Restroom Improvements Project construction will begin on Monday, December 4, 2023. GEM Construction will begin an interior renovation of the George Brett Field Restroom Building within Recreation Park to improve building accessibility. These restrooms will be closed during the estimated 1 ½ month duration of the project. Work hours will be Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information about the project, please click here.

El Segundo Boulevard Improvement Project construction is underway and is expected to continue through early 2024.

The project rehabilitates existing pavement along El Segundo Boulevard (between Illinois Street and Isis Avenue) and Nash Street (between El Segundo Boulevard and Imperial Highway). Additional improvements include installation of curb ramps and bike lanes, traffic signal modifications, drainage modifications, and landscaping.

More information and the project location map can be found here.

Funding provided by Metro, a partner in our community.

Hyperion Update

Below are the most recent updates on the situation with the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant, which is owned and operated by the City of Los Angeles:On December 6^th, at 6:00 p.m., the City is hosting a virtual town hall with AQMD via Zoom. Click here for full event details and the zoom link.

Hyperion has agreed to host the next Hyperion Citizens forum in person on January 18th at the El Segundo Public Library. Information about the event will be shared on the City’s website once all of the details are finalized.Hyperion continues the replacement of tank covers for Batteries C and B which is expected to be completed in December of 2023.Additional details and documents continue to be shared on elsegundo.org/hyperion and at future City Council meetings. 

Sign up to receive the latest Hyperion news and updates from the City of El Segundo directly to your inbox.

December 2023 City Hall Closure Dates

El Segundo City Hall will be closed in December for:

• Christmas – Monday, December 25^th & Tuesday, December 26^th
• New Year – Monday, January 1^st & Tuesday, January 2^nd

City Hall’s regular operating hours are
Monday – Thursday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Holiday Parade
Sunday, December 10, 2023

The El Segundo Chamber of Commerce’s 59^th Annual Holiday Parade will take place on Main Street on Sunday, December 10^th from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. This year’s theme is “A Home Run for the Holiday” and will feature our hometown Little League champions, marching bands, performers, floats, antique cars, and a visit from Ol’ Saint Nick himself to delight spectators from all over the South Bay! To learn more about the event go to El Segundo’s Chamber of Commerce website.

Missed a meeting or event? Check out El Segundo Media…

Watch El Segundo Media “on demand” providing original local programming since 2009. Check out replays of a City Council meeting, and original programming including cultural events, community awareness issues, spotlights on local businesses, healthy living, local sports highlights and more!

Watch Here

City of El Segundo 

350 Main Street, El Segundo, CA 90245

310-524-2300  |  Website

By Kevin Cody | HERMOSA BEACH, Calif. – Beach Cities Toy Drive organizers and Manhattan Beach firefighters gathered Saturday at the Manhattan Beach fire station to launch the local toy drive’s 31st year.

The Beach Cities Toy Drive is held to provide toys to underprivileged children in the County of Los Angeles who would otherwise do without during the holiday season. All toys collected go directly to charities who in turn give those gifts to families in need.

Unwrapped toys may be dropped off at the Hermosa and Manhattan Beach fire departments. Toys will also be collected Saturday evening, November 18 on Pier Plaza prior to the Jeremy Buck Band’s Rock for Tots Concert, which starts at 6 p.m.. Toys may also be brought to Pier Plaza on Sunday, November 19 prior to the holiday tree lighting at 7 p.m.

On Saturday, December 2, and 9, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. toys may be brought to  the Hermosa Beach City Hall Parking lot. The Toy Wrapping party will be held Saturday, December 16 at the Manhattan Beach Joslyn Community Center from 10 a.m. until the toys are all wrapped. Firefighters and toy drive.

Help spread the joy by donating unwrapped new toys at any of the locations below:

• Hermosa Beach Police Department: 540 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach (open 24 hours)
• Los Angeles County Fire Station No. 100: 540 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach
• Manhattan Beach City Hall: 1400 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach
• Manhattan Beach Fire Department: 400 15th Street, Manhattan Beach

Drive-thru toy drop-off opportunities:

• Dates: Saturday, December 2 and Saturday, December 9, 2023
• Times: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Location: Hermosa Beach City Hall Parking Lot, 1315 Valley Drive

The annual wrapping party will take place on Saturday, December 16, 2023 from 10:00 AM until the toys are wrapped at Joslyn Community Center, 1601 N. Valley Drive, Manhattan Beach.

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

The preceding article was previously published by Easy Reader & Peninsula and is republished with permission.

Kevin Cody is the publisher & owner of Easy Reader, Beach & Peninsula Magazine

New on the County Channel

Thanks to a gift to the L.A. County Parks Foundation by the L.A. Clippers, LA County Parks will have 117 renovated basketball courts at 60 locations by the spring of 2025. L.A. County parks courts host 57 Jr. Clippers youth basketball league locations, as well as everything from volleyball and dance to community events and other programming. LA Clippers Guard and hometown hero Russell Westbrook was in attendance at the opening of one of many new basketball courts at Jesse Owens Park where he learned to play as a youth.

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

Adopt A Family in Need for the Holidays

Join the heartwarming campaign by sponsoring a family in need this holiday season. Today, Los Angeles County residents who want to join the charitable movement, are encouraged to sponsor a family receiving benefits from the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) as part of the department’s holiday Adopt-A-Family Program.

For over 30 years, the department has partnered with the community to match sponsors with low-income families for the annual campaign. In 2022, Adopt-A-Family sponsored approximately 1,300 families.

Sponsors are matched with a family and given a wish list. The wish list may include clothing, gift certificates, or toys. Adopt-A-Family is a great project for families, co-workers, organizations, clubs, and schools. It is a rewarding way to lift communities and a reminder of the true meaning of the holiday season.

Those interested in sponsoring a family may apply online today at http://bit.ly/DPSSAAF. Sponsors may adopt one or multiple families. Information on the size of the family and location will be provided. For additional information, email: [email protected].

Thanks for the continued support of this worthwhile program!

At Your Service

Preparing for CARE Court

On December 1, 2023, Los Angeles County will implement the Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Act. Beginning December 1, 2023, qualifying individuals or entities can petition the Superior Court of Los Angeles County to help connect eligible individuals to a broad array of services, including mental health and housing services, via a voluntary CARE Agreement or CARE Plan established and overseen by a judicial officer. For additional information on Care Court visit dmh.lacounty.gov/court-programs/care-court/.

Residents and family members can access other LACDMH programs, services, and resources today through their website, calling the 24/7 Help Line at (800) 854-7771, or calling/texting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Out and About

Holiday Boat Parade

Visit Burton Chace Park in Marina Del Rey on December 9th for the annual Holiday Boat Parade! From 4pm-8pm you can take part in various activities including a fireworks show, strolling carolers, photo opportunities, food trucks and kids crafts. 

This event is free to the public. For more information, visit beaches.lacounty.gov.

Photo Finish

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

New on the County Channel

Twenty newly housed Pathway Home participants celebrate Thanksgiving together at their new homes.

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

Community Navigator Program – Apply Today!

The Center for Nonprofit Management launched the Community Navigator Program which aims to make direct investments in community organizations to provide community navigator services to communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This programming was made possible through the County of Los Angeles’ allocation of American Rescue Plan funds. The primary objective is to engage and support organizations, small business owners, individuals, and their families in accessing American Rescue Plan-funded resources and other County services necessary for their recovery.

Awardees will receive $200,000 – $268,000 over two years, plus skill-building, training, and capacity-strengthening assistance. To learn more and apply, visit cnmsocal.org/community-navigator-program/.

At Your Service

LA County Rent Relief for Landlords

The LA County Rent Relief Program will provide over $46 million in direct financial assistance to qualified landlords to help mitigate the negative economic impacts of the pandemic that have left many tenants behind on rent.

The Rent Relief Program will offer grants of up to $30,000 per unit to eligible landlords for expenses dating from April 1, 2022, to the present. The program is specifically designed with a focus on helping small, mom-and-pop landlords who own up to four rental units. Its goal is to reduce tenant evictions due to rent arrears, maintain the viability of small-scale rental businesses, and ensure availability of affordable housing in LA County.

Landlords can apply for the LA County Rent Relief Program beginning in mid-December. The application process will be easy and straightforward, and applicants will receive free multilingual technical support from community partners to guide them through the process and assist with gathering the necessary documentation.

To receive program updates and be notified when the online application opens, register today at lacountyrentrelief.com.

Out and About

Shop Local – Celebrating Small Business Saturday!

As we head into the holiday season, we are excited to partner with you to support local mom and pop shops across LA County! Join us on November 25th for Small Business Saturday – a day filled with local charm, unique finds, and a chance to support the heartbeat of our community – small businesses.

Shop Local LA Sweepstakes: Your Chance to Win Big!

To make your Small Business Saturday even more exciting, we’re launching the Shop Local LA Sweepstakes! This is your golden ticket to a $500 gift card to your favorite local spot and a slew of other fun prizes.

Here’s how it works:

• Visit the ShopLocal.LA website, take the Shop Local Pledge, and enter to win.
• Share the campaign with friends and family! Post on social media to encourage others to take the Shop Local Pledge.
• Take photos and leave reviews at your favorite local shops and restaurants. The more we amplify these neighborhood gems, the more our community prospers.

Lucky winners of our grand prize will receive a gift card to a local business of their choice. Many more will win shop local swag bags, and everyone benefits from supporting the local economy. [Some restrictions apply, please visit our website for full sweepstakes rules]

Save the date for Small Business Saturday on November 25th and get ready for a day of discovery, community, and the joy of supporting the unique businesses that make LA County shine.

Photo Finish

Wishing you and your loved ones a very Happy Thanksgiving!

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

New on the County Channel

Know before you go! LA County waterways and river channels are an amazing sight during and after a rainstorm – but behind that beauty is a hidden danger. Swift moving water can be very powerful and even dangerous.

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

Stay Updated on the 10 Freeway Closure

Here are some helpful tips and resources:

Driving:

• Check Quickmap prior to leaving for your destination for road closures.
• Alternate Surface Street Routes to Avoid Closure.

Public Transit:

• Use Metro and public transit to avoid I-10 closure in DTLA.
• Metrolink has added extra cars and service along the San Bernardino Line.
• LADOT Transit is offering free fares on all commuter express routes.

Send Tips:

Please send any tips anonymously to the CAL FIRE Arson Hotline at 1-800-468-4408 or [email protected].

At Your Service

#LARain

The rainy season is here. During storms, there is increased potential for flash floods, falling rocks and mud and debris flows. Everyone should be aware of the weather forecasts and associated impacts where they live, work, and play and take steps to be prepared and stay safe. Use the resources below to prepare for and stay safe during rainy weather.

Rain Safety Tips

• Heed all instructions from emergency responders and emergency alert notifications.
• Drive cautiously and slow down – Many roadways will be wet and slippery.
• Do not attempt to cross flooded areas and never enter moving water.
  • As little as 6 inches of water can knock over and carry away an adult and 18-24 inches of water can carry away most large SUVs, vans and trucks. “Turn around, don’t drown!”

Stay Informed

• Residents living in recent burn areas should monitor the Los Angeles County Public Works Mud and Debris Flow Forecast.
• Visit the County’s Ready LA County Page for emergency preparedness tips.
• The National Weather Service (NWS) issues weather advisories and watches when the weather forecast indicates there is a potential for hazardous conditions. View the latest NWS Hazard Summary for current watches, advisories, and warnings.
• Monitor social media and local news media for relevant and important updates. For useful information, please monitor the Ready Los Angeles County account on X (formerly Twitter). 

Out and About

Transgender Day of Remembrance

Transgender Day of Remembrance is an annual observance that honors and memorializes transgender individuals who have tragically lost their lives due to violence and discrimination. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and prejudice faced by transgender and gender-diverse people, fostering awareness, empathy and advocacy for their rights. This day also plays a vital role in unifying communities, promoting equality and mobilizing efforts to combat violence and discrimination against transgender individuals.

The City of West Hollywood would like to invite you to attend their Transgender Day of Remembrance Ceremony, on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at 6 p.m. at the West Hollywood City Council Chambers, located at 625 N. San Vicente Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90060.

The ceremony will feature speakers and a reading of names to memorialize people who have been murdered as a result of anti-transgender violence.

The Ceremony will also be available live and for replay at the City’s WeHoTV YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/wehotv

Photo Finish

Descanso’s Enchanted Forest of Light is an interactive, nighttime experience unlike anything else in Los Angeles. For more information, click here.

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

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. –  The regular meeting of the William S. Hart Union School District, located in the northern part of Los Angeles County on Wednesday, Nov. 15, was packed as LGBTQ+ allies and supporters and anti-LGBTQ+ battled during the public comment sessions over a proposed  “Parental Notification” policy.

Earlier in the day students at Hart High School in Newhall walked out of class to protest the policy. Speaking to KTLA 5, Hart High School senior, Heather Decosier, said that not all students have a safe place at home.  

“Some of us have personal experiences with already being kicked out and I’m concerned that if the policy goes into place, the suicide rates will go up, the abuse rates will go up and, personally, the homeless rates will also go up,” she said. 

Prior to the board meeting, a spokesperson for the District told the Blade that no vote on the proposed policy was set to take place at Wednesday night’s session.

Mason Cortina, another senior at the school, echoed Decosier’s opinion, telling KTLA the policy is potentially dangerous.  

“We need to do something because if we’re just going to sit and let it go, a lot of kids are going to get hurt or do something worse, like kill themselves,” Cortina said.  

Prior to the public comments, Irvine-based attorney Wendy Wiles, delivered a presentation to the board, which included an overview of the legal landscape regarding those California school districts that considered or implemented “Parent Notification” policies.

Her presentation included the preliminary injunction on two parts of the parental notification policy in the Chino Valley Unified School District by a San Bernardino County Superior Court judge.

During the course of the public comments, a majority of speakers in alliance with the LGBTQ+ students warned the school board that adoption of the policy had two certain outcomes- the District will be sued by the state and that there would be suicides, increased homelessness by LGBTQ+ students forced out of their homes as a result of the Outing policy, and probable incidents of violence against LGBTQ+ students.

The meeting was heavily attended by students from District high schools who spoke testifying about the damage the policy will inflict on queer kids. Those students included non-LGBTQ+ students speaking in alliance with their LGBTQ+ peers.

The proposed policy was introduced and being pushed by board member Joe Messina, a nationally known hard-right anti-LGBTQ radio host of nationally syndicated talk show The Real Side (TheRealSide.com).

On social media LGBTQ+ allies took aim at Messina as did numerous speakers during the public comments session.

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Related:

WSHUHSD – Regular Governing Board Meeting – Public Session – November 15, 2023:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNt52gazdD8

 Students at Hart High School protest LGBTQ+ notification policy:

LOS ANGELES – LA vs Hate, Los Angeles County’s robust anti-hate program, partnered with County Supervisor Holly Mitchell to kick off United Against Hate Week, unveiling a powerful new mural celebrating LA County’s Black community.

The Saturday, Nov. 11 event took place at the Willowbrook Senior Center and marked the fifth and final mural of LA vs Hate’s Summer of Solidarity, a public art series celebrating the diverse communities of Los Angeles.

The mural, titled “It’s All For You,” created by artist Brittney Price, is a testament to the program’s commitment to combating hate and discrimination. Launched in 2019 by the LA County Commission on Human Relations, LA vs Hate is a community-centered initiative designed to encourage all residents of Los Angeles County to unite against and report hate while providing support to victims of hate-motivated acts.

The “It’s All For You” mural, created in partnership with Willowbrook Inclusion Network, Brotherhood Crusade, LA Commons, and the office of LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, serves as the culmination of LA vs Hate’s Summer of Solidarity. This public art series celebrates the diverse communities of Los Angeles, conveying messages of inclusion, pride, and historical significance for groups experiencing high levels of hate and discrimination.

Muralist Brittney Price described “It’s All for You” as a welcoming piece connecting the history and future of Willowbrook’s ecology and community. Historical figures from Willowbrook and LA County’s Black community are depicted within a tableau of natural, musical, spiritual, and architectural elements paying homage to the neighborhood’s rich culture from the past to the present.

The unveiling event featured LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, who expressed her gratitude for the community coming together to honor the history of their neighborhoods and working towards a brighter future. She emphasized the importance of recommitting to ending all forms of hate, stating that the mural serves as a beautiful reminder of the possibilities when communities unite.

President of the LA County Commission on Human Relations Ilan Davidson, commended the Commission’s efforts in bringing LA vs Hate to communities through the mural series and United Against Hate Week events.

Executive Director of the LA County Commission on Human Relations Robin Toma highlighted the strength gained when community art uplifts and unifies, making communities more resistant to division. Poet Shandela Contreras spoke as did a hate-incident victim who also shared their story.

The mural unveiling event marked the beginning of LA County’s fourth annual United Against Hate Week, which will continue through November 18. Various events are planned, including webinars, social media events, screenings, art projects, community dialogues, and meditation gatherings.

Returning for its fourth annual campaign, LA vs Hate’s United Against Hate Week (UAHW) is part of a California statewide effort for local civic action against hate and discrimination, which continues to threaten school campuses, neighborhoods, towns, and cities.

LA vs Hate will participate in several United Against Hate Week actions, including the statewide campaign press conference in Berkeley on November 13, partnering with the California Civil Rights Department, City of Berkeley, and Not In Our Town.

On November 13, the City of Santa Monica will collaborate with Right To Be to offer a virtual bystander intervention training for the community. On November 14, at the Museum of Tolerance, The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and Brotherhood Crusade.

The United Against Hate Week will take place from November 12th to November 18th. Communities across LA County are planning a range of activities, including webinars, social media events, screenings, art projects, community dialogues, and meditation gatherings. These initiatives aim to increase engagement across neighborhoods and support efforts to stand up against hate in communities.

Charisse Bremond Weaver, President and CEO of Brotherhood Crusade, expressed the organization’s honor in standing alongside LA vs Hate, Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, and partners in unveiling the mural. She emphasized the mural’s illustration of the beauty emerging from diverse voices coming together to spread a message of peace and understanding.

Karen Mack, CEO of LA Commons, emphasized the power of experiencing art and culture together, transcending differences and finding common ground. She referred to the murals as powerful touchstones providing beauty, inspiration, and meaning, energizing communities for United Against Hate Week.

Reginald Johnson, founder of Willowbrook Inclusion Network, highlighted the added value of arts and culture, specifically visual art in the form of murals, to the community. He called for the replication and scaling of the coalition that worked on the project to enhance historic preservation projects that help communities understand their past, present, and future.

As the final mural unveiling of the Summer of Solidarity program, LA vs Hate welcomed back the artists of the other four community murals to discuss their work created for the Jewish, LGBTQ+, Latiné, and Indigenous communities of LA County. The series aims to remind residents of the County’s hate reporting system, where anyone can report an act of hate and receive free and confidential support by calling 2-1-1 or filing a report online at www.LAvsHate.org.

LA vs Hate, led by the LA County Commission on Human Relations, operates as a community-centered system supporting all residents and communities targeted for hate acts in Los Angeles County. The program partners with community organizations across all five County districts, forming a diverse coalition committed to preventing and responding to hate.

The goals of the LA vs Hate System include addressing the normalization of hate, building understanding about hate acts and reporting mechanisms, and supporting individuals and communities in their healing from the trauma of hate. By tracking and reporting hate incidents, the program ensures appropriate resource allocation and fosters the creation of respectful and resilient communities. Victims of hate are encouraged to report incidents by calling 2-1-1.

LA vs Hate employs various strategies in its prevention and response efforts, including art, healing interventions, bystander training, outreach and training for law enforcement, public school resourcing, and a pilot program for small businesses impacted by hate.

Related:

Contacting 211 LA is free, confidential, and accessible in 140 languages. As a public non-profit organization, 211 LA contracts with the County of Los Angeles to provide county-wide information and referral services, delivering case management resources to victims of hate. Victims who fear reporting to law enforcement are encouraged to report to 211 LA, ensuring their report can be anonymous.

LOS ANGELES — The Museum of African American Art in Los Angeles is currently home to a remarkable art exhibit that celebrates diversity, culture, and the power of place. Titled “Here – Arts and Culture Along the K,” this exhibit is a testament to what has been, what is present, and what is possible along the K Line of the Los Angeles Metro.

The exhibition opened on October 7, 2023, with a reception that brought together artists, cultural producers, and the community to mark the first anniversary of Metro’s K Line service. It will remain on view through December 30, 2023.

“Here” showcases a stunning collection of artworks and cultural expressions resulting from collaborations involving over 150 artists and cultural organizations. These creative minds have responded with bold imagination, infusing the distinct neighborhoods along the K-Line with the vibrancy of art and culture.

This massive project, which took approximately 15 years to complete, was made possible by Metro Art, an initiative dedicated to enhancing the customer experience on Los Angeles County’s metro system through visual and performing arts. Metro Art fosters ridership and connects people, sites, and neighborhoods throughout the county, creating a sense of place through site-specific artworks.

One remarkable aspect of this project is Metro Art’s commitment to providing opportunities for artists of all backgrounds and levels of experience. As Zipporah Yamamoto, Senior Director of Special Projects Art & Design, pointed out, this opportunity was open to all artists, regardless of their background or experience in public art. Metro Art took on the responsibility of shouldering the liability and cost of fabricating the art, providing technical support, and granting emerging artists the chance to gain valuable experience in the field.

The K Line, with stops in neighborhoods like Crenshaw, Leimert Park, Hyde Park, Inglewood, Westchester, and El Segundo, is more than just a transportation route. It’s an integral part of the identity of native Angelenos. In a large and dispersed city where the mode of transportation is an extension of one’s home, the metro lines become a canvas for celebrating the diverse cultures and stories of the people who call Los Angeles home.

Public art is a vital element of the city’s evolving culture, reflecting the spirit of the community, adding meaning to the urban landscape, and providing an intersection between the past, present, and future. It humanizes the built environment and invigorates public spaces, making art freely accessible to all.

“Here” showcases the works of artists Alexis Hunley, Carlson Hatton, Dean Erdmann, Eileen Cowin, Erwin Redl, Geoff McFetridge, Giovanni Solis, Ingrid Calame, Jaime Scholnick, Jason Williams, Kenturah Davis, Kim Schoenstadt, Mara Lonner, Michael C. Hsiung, Mickalene Thomas, Mobolaji Olambiwonnu, Moses X. Ball, Motherland Music, Rebeca Méndez, Russell Hamilton, Sam Pace, Sherin Guirguis, Shinique Smith, and Wakana Kimura.

One moving feature of this project is Metro Art’s collaboration with filmmaker Mobolaji Olambiwonnu. His work, “Community Voices,” is an award-winning short-form documentary series that gives context to the significance of the K Line’s opening by highlighting personal stories from community members over the years. This ongoing series captures the essence of the community and its journey.

Olambiwonnu shared his passion for capturing the humanity of the Black experience in America through his work with The Blade. For him, art is a medium to celebrate and reflect upon this rich history and bring communities together.

“The focus is always on a character or multiple characters,” said Olambiwonnu, “which allows people to fall in love, and be drawn in by a character that they can identify with via their humanity.”

Olambiwonnu discussed one of the films in this project that focused on two elderly men walking along the K Line tracks. The film captured these men as they reflected on the history of Los Angeles, particularly the evolution of the city’s transportation system. The film aimed to create a dialogue about the city’s history, transportation, and the unique experiences of the two individuals who had witnessed the changes in the city over the years, including the removal of the old train. In addition to allowing viewers to connect with the personal stories of these two seniors, the film gave insight into the city’s rich history through their perspectives.

“My hope is that through accessing the train and accessing other forms of art throughout the K line stations, people will be able to experience the beauty of that community.”

Artist Jaime Scholnick’s vivid 400-foot mural, which consists of 70 panels, was installed in January at the station at Crenshaw and Exposition Boulevards, the first stop along the 8.5 mile line. Her piece, “Layered Histories,” is an intricate collage of porcelain-glaze-on-steel based on “tens of thousands of images” of the surrounding neighborhood where she spent much of her time while in graduate school.

Scholnick’s art journey began in Kindergarten when she won an art competition with a drawing of a zoo, an experience that sparked her love for connecting with people through her art. She found the process of working with Metro Art particularly inspiring, as it allowed her to focus solely on creating art, without the burden of managing the technical aspects.

Scholnick worked closely with photographer Sally Coates to amass a huge photo archive, which she later narrowed down for the final project. Jaime also worked with foster youth from the RightWay Foundation, giving them disposable cameras and having them take photos around the city. Scholnick incorporated a selection of these photos into “Layered Histories.”

Artist Shinique Smith’s mosaic mural, “Only Light, Only Love,” at the MLK Jr. Station brings together elements of fashion, pop culture, and calligraphy to visualize the cultural richness of South Los Angeles. This artwork pays tribute to the station’s namesake and incorporates empowering words inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches and autobiography.

“The flow of the city, fashion, the graffiti of my youth, and Japanese calligraphy influence these gestures, as I extract what I see as the graceful and spiritual qualities in the written word and everyday life,” Smith said.

Smith told The Blade that her focus is always on creating a connection between the viewer and the character in her art. She believes in the power of humanity and its accessibility through art.

“What draws me to be an artist is the fact that what I do can resonate with a person,” Smith said. “There is an exchange of energy between my work and the viewer.”

“Here – Arts and Culture Along the K” is more than an exhibition; it is a celebration of the vibrant and diverse culture of Los Angeles. It honors the past, embraces the present, and envisions a future filled with artistic expressions that reflect the community’s strength and resilience.

For more information on current and future artist opportunities with Metro Art, click here.