Los Angeles County
Supervisor Kueh’s lawyers: LASD search ‘LA Confidential’
California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta on Tuesday took control from the LASD of a controversial criminal investigation into Supervisor Kuehl
LOS ANGELES – In a motion filed Monday, attorney’s for Los Angeles County Supervisor Sheila J. Kueh, called the September 14 search of her Santa Monica residence by LA County Sheriff’s investigators a scene straight out of “L.A. Confidential.” Kueh attorney Chery L. 0″Connor also decried the search labeling it a politically-motivated and retaliatory raid.
The Los Angeles Times reported Tuesday evening that California Attorney General Rob Bonta took control from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department of the controversial criminal investigation into Supervisor Kuehl and others, saying in a letter to sheriff’s officials that sidelining the department was in the “public interest.”
Bonta’s decision Tuesday comes amid mounting questions about the department’s handling of the probe and allegations from Kuehl and others that Sheriff Alex Villanueva is using it to attack political enemies.
In the Monday filing, the Out county supervisor’s legal team asked the Los Angeles Superior Court for an emergency order quashing the warrant and asking the court to order the LASD to return all of the property seized, stop an active search of any and all computers and electronic devices and a special master to review any forensically imaged copies of the devices.
In their request the attorney’s also noted that the affidavit in support of the search warrant is “plainly insufficient” and lacks any evidence, much less probable cause, that Supervisor Kuehl was involved in, influenced, or benefitted in any way from the award of Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transit Authority (“MTA”) contracts awarded to the LA non-profit Peace Over Violence.
“It lacks any evidence, much less probable cause,” the motion said, and argued that the warrant is, “fatally defective and was obtained under highly suspicious circumstances.”
The Public Corruptions Unit of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department alleged that Kuehl steered a now-defunct MTA contract to her longtime friend Patti Giggans, who runs the non-profit.
NBC 4 LA reported that Kuehl’s is the second challenge aimed at stopping the search warrant served September 14 at her home and office, following an initial “motion to quash” filed by an attorney representing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Office of Inspector General, another of the search targets.
LA Superior Court Judge William Ryan ordered the Sheriff’s Department last Thursday to cease its examination of two computers taken from the MTA OIG’s office and return them, and scheduled a hearing for Thursday with a list of questions he expects LASD to answer.
The politically charged investigation in part stems from a whistleblower complaint by a former disgruntled MTA employee Jennifer Loew, who alleged improper MTA contract dealings by both Kuehl and Giggans, which both women have vehemently denied.
Speaking with reporters last week as the search was underway in her home, Kuehl claimed the investigation by the sheriff’s department stems from a “bogus non-issue” related to claims brought on by a the disgruntled MTA employee.
“We didn’t vote on a contract, we didn’t even know about the contract,” said Kuehl, who claims the employee’s issue comes from an alleged contract brought on by METRO that was negotiated with Peace Over Violence, which Kuehl said she did not vote on. “These deputies have been brought into something that is kind of non-existent.”
She continued saying, “There’s no claim of any crime. There’s no basis for this.”
The Office of the Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón indicated the office was not inclined to take action on the results of the search by the LASD. The LADA also noted in a statement that “The allegation was investigated by LASD & submitted for filing consideration in September 2021. We reviewed the case and determined that the state of the evidence at that time did not prove criminal conduct beyond a reasonable doubt. LASD indicated that they would continue to investigate.”
The DA’s office went on to note that it was not notified of last week’s search nor was the warrant disclosed to the office and as such it was declining to defend the matter in court if challenged.
NBC 4 LA also reported that it appeared that Sheriff’s investigators had gone “judge shopping” as Superior Court Judge Ryan raised that issue himself in his ruling.
Why the Sheriff’s Department went to a new judge for last week’s warrant, after a different judge authorized the LASD to search the same locations, under the guise of the same investigation, in March, 2021 Ryan wanted to know.
“Why, after Judge Hunter was going to require a Special Master, did the Sheriff immediately seek a warrant from a different judge, and who made that decision,” Judge Ryan wrote in the order requiring answers from LASD.
Kuehl has garnered outspoken support over the search by the LASD including her fellow Out politician, openly gay Los Angeles City Councilman Mike Bonin, who wrote on Twitter:
“A corrupt sheriff with a track record of abusing his power and trying to silence and intimidate his critics is conducting a bogus, vindictive, politically motivated witch hunt against Sheila Kuehl, a public official of the highest integrity.”
In another Tweet Bonin pointed out: “It’s worth noting to connect the dots that the judge who signed the warrant (Craig Richman) has a longtime special relationship with the head of Villanueva’s political enemies unit (Mark Lillienfield).” He also linked to an Los Angeles Times article describing the sheriff’s unit that targeted political enemies of LA County Sheriff Alex Villanueva.
In an emailed statement Tuesday, a grouping of heads of LGBTQ non-profits voiced their support, although when asked by the Blade why there was a delayed response in issuing support to Supervisor Kuehl, a spokesperson for the group, LA LGBT Center head Joe Hollendoner replied;
“A very appropriate question. Truth be told, it took a bit of time for us to decide on an action and draft a statement. Plus, we really needed to contemplate risk of retaliation. No new developments have occurred that prompted this coming out today.”
In a follow-up question Hollendoner admitted that fear of retaliation was that potentially from Sheriff Alex Villanueva.
Statement:
L.A. LGBTQ+ Community Leaders Statement on Sheriff Department’s Unprecedented Action Towards Supervisor Sheila Kuehl and Patti Giggans
We, the undersigned group of Los Angeles LGBTQ+ community leaders, were deeply alarmed and concerned by the news reports, photos, and video footage of the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department raiding Los Angeles County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl’s home at dawn on Wednesday, September 14, escorting Supervisor Kuehl from her home barefoot, and depriving the County Supervisor of her phone. We were equally dismayed to learn that these were then followed by Sheriff’s investigators acting similarly towards Civilian Oversight Commissioner, Patti Giggans, another member of the LGBTQ+ community, who has long served our community.
Facts about what led to the Sheriff’s Department’s taking this invasive action are extremely limited. What is known is that the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office evaluated the evidence in the case, and stated that it “did not prove criminal conduct beyond a reasonable doubt.” This fact alone suggests that due process was not followed. In the aftermath of Wednesday’s raid, the district attorney’s office stated that it was not aware of the search warrants used to invade Supervisor Kuehl’s house and that, for this reason, “we do not intend to defend it if challenged in court.” This unprecedented lack of coordination between the Sheriff’s and District Attorney’s offices gives credence to claims that this is a baseless political attack by Sheriff Alex Villanueva against his political opponents.
While most of the facts are unknown about the Sheriff’s extreme actions toward Sheila and Patti, we would like to point out what we hold as truths about these two public servants and this investigation. First, we have deep respect and admiration for both. The two women have dedicated decades of their lives to addressing violence within our communities, only to have an act of violence performed on them with the raiding of their homes and offices. Second, we have seen both women consistently act with the highest level of ethics and integrity. None of us have ever observed behavior on either’s part that makes us think that Sheila or Patti would violate the clear due process the County uses when awarding contracts. Finally, the LGBTQ+ community has had a long history of discrimination and harms at the hands of law enforcement. While much progress has been made in recent years on this front, we are deeply concerned that the safety of our community and its leaders could be placed in jeopardy if the Sheriff’s Department continues to disregard due process and this behavior goes unchecked.
As leaders of nonprofit organizations, many of which receive contracts from Los Angeles County, we believe part of our responsibility to our community is to hold elected officials accountable. To that end, we will be watching the developments in the investigation of Supervisor Kuehl and Patti Giggans very closely. We are prepared to mobilize our community to take necessary action and to hold officials accountable as the facts of this case continue to be revealed.
Signed,
Alexis Adsit; Benjamin Anderson Bashein; Evelin Montes; Jim Mangia; Joe Hollendoner; Keith McNutt; Mason Funk; Richard Zaldivar; Steven Roth; Tony Valenzuela; Tony Hoang
Supervisor Kuehl’s motion to quash:
Los Angeles County
Culver City considers ordinance for gender neutral public restrooms
It has 11 design elements for security, privacy, light, ventilation, & signage- key concerns for users of public restroom facilities
CULVER CITY – On Monday, the City Council unanimously approved the introduction of an ordinance requiring Gender Neutral Public Restrooms for new construction projects.
Newly constructed buildings will soon be required to include gender neutral public restrooms in Culver City. Existing buildings will not be required to retrofit current layouts but may voluntarily do so. The ordinance needs two readings at City Council meetings prior to going into effect.
The proposed ordinance requires single-user and multi-user public toilet facilities to use signage indicating that the facilities are accessible to all users, and not restricted to persons of a specific sex or gender identity. There are 11 design elements for security, privacy, light, ventilation, and signage, which are key concerns for all users of public restroom facilities. Staff also noted the new ordinance would likely cutdown on square footage needed for restrooms in new buildings.
The City Council began Monday’s meeting with declaring five proclamations which included:
Proclaiming May 2024 as Jewish American Heritage Month. In the proclamation, it stated Culver City shares an obligation to condemn and combat antisemitism wherever it exists, to include Jewish Americans in all facets of civic life, and to stand with the Jewish American community against hatred or bigotry in our city and country. The City Council calls upon all residents to celebrate the rich and diverse heritage of the Jewish American community, including those who live, work, and play in Culver City, playing a vital role in contributing to all aspects of life in Culver and honors the generations of residents and immigrants who have enriched our nations’ narrative.
During the month of May, Culver City celebrates Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month and pays tribute to the contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders who have enriched our history and been an integral part of our community. The theme for AANHPI Heritage Month in 2024 is “Advancing Leaders Through Innovation” which celebrates lasting contributions of persons of AANHPI descent, from technological advancements to social/political changes, while navigating significant cultural and systemic barriers. Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders lend their rich heritage to enhance our community, playing a vital role and contributing to all aspects of life in Culver City. The City Council celebrates the diaspora and honors the generations of residents and immigrants who have enriched our nations’ narrative.
May is also Historic Preservation Month. This year Preservation Month focuses on “People Saving Places” which recognizes everyone doing great work of saving places – in ways big and small – and inspiring others to do the same. The Culver City Historical Society, established in 1980, continues its mission of collecting, preserving and exhibiting the history of Culver City and its environs through new partnerships to expand and diversity audiences and incorporate future generations into their work. The City Council encourages all residents and visitors to discover or re-discover, honor, and share the unique history of Culver City.
The City Council also proclaimed May 2024 as National Cities, Towns, and Villages Month in celebration of America’s local governments and the National League of Cities’ historic centennial anniversary. Over the years, it has has successfully championed federal legislative solutions that support municipalities and has worked closely with Congress and the Executive Branch to educate policymakers on the realities of local implementation. The City of Culver City is a proud member of the National League of Cities, and has benefited from the organization’s research, technical expertise, federal advocacy and opportunities to learn from other local governments.
In its final proclamation of the evening, City Council recognized National Bike Month. Culver City has participated in this important effort by implementing the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, hosting events like CicLAvia, sponsoring the Culver City Walk & Rollers program, and installing and maintaining a growing network of bike lanes and paths. You can view the map on the Culver CityBus website. Culver City, community organizations, and partners throughout Los Angeles County have worked together to promote greater public awareness of bicycling throughout the month of May. The City Council encourages all community members and students to reap the benefits of bicycling as a form of transportation and exercise.
Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
Culture Club South Bay Culture Club, a non-profit organization located at the historic Bruce’s Beach, honors the legacy of Willa and Charles Bruce, who established a beach resort in Manhattan Beach in the 1900s. In collaboration with LA County, Culture Club promotes diversity and inclusion among children through activities like surfing, volleyball, education, and culinary experiences. This program creates lasting memories while paying tribute to an important piece of local history.
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
Commercial Acquisition Fund Grants Available For Nonprofits
The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity recently launched the Commercial Acquisition Fund to provide grants to qualifying nonprofit organizations to support the acquisition of vacant or abandoned land and buildings in designated communities that were most negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Commercial Acquisition Fundis funded by the County, with $10 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds and will be awarded as recoverable grants, ranging from $500,000 to $2,000,000. Acquisitions and funding must occur before December 1, 2024.
The deadline to apply is May 20th at 5:00 p.m. To learn more, apply, or sign-up to attend a community webinar, visit lacaf.info.
At Your Service
LA County Rent Relief Program is Reopening!
Following a successful initial launch, the Los Angeles County Rent Relief Program is set to open for a second round of applications. Landlords affected by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply to receive up to $30,000 per rental unit to cover past-due rent and other eligible expenses incurred since April 1, 2022.
The application window will open Monday, May 20, 2024, at 9 a.m. and will close on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at 4:59 p.m. To learn more about the eligibility criteria, and to receive a direct link to the application when it goes live, visit the LA County Rent Relief Program website at lacountyrentrelief.com.
Out and About
Marina Culture Jam on May 26th
Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Month at the Marina Culture Jam event on Sunday, May 26! Presented by the Department of Beaches and Harbors and The Music Center, Marina Culture Jam is a FREE special 3-part series featuring live performances and more!
Click here to learn more and RSVP for this free event.
Photo Finish
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Los Angeles County
City of Downey bans Pride Flag, Mayor labels it attack on LGBTQ+
The mayor in his remarks prior to the council’s vote framed the agenda item as an attack on the LGBTQ+ community
DOWNEY, Calif. – After a tense back and forth between city council members during Tuesday night’s regular meeting, notably between the city’s Out LGBTQ+ Mayor and Councilmember Claudia Frometa, the council voted 3-2 to implement a ‘neutral’ flag policy agenda item brought forward for a vote by Mayor Pro Tem Hector Sosa.
During the discussion, Mayor Mario Trujillo noted that the proposed agenda item had been lobbied for by a select few residents at the behest of a California chapter of Boston, Massachusetts-based anti-LGBTQ+ group MassResistance. The mayor in his remarks prior to the council’s vote framed the agenda item as an attack on the LGBTQ+ community.
The group is listed as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center for lies and propaganda and according to the SPLC, one of the most active chapters has been in California, run by perpetual right-wing activist Arthur Schaper, a columnist for TownHall.com and freelance writer based in Torrance, California.
Years long effort to ban the flag
In July of 2021, The LA Wave media outlet reported that Sandi Padilla, the Downey chapter leader of MassResistance said her chapter planned protests on the Pride flag and possibly other LGBTQ+ related issues at future City Council meetings. In June of 2021, the city council had voted to fly the LGBTQ+ Pride flag every June.
“We will definitely continue,” Padilla told LA Wave reporter Arnold Adler. “We won’t stop now. We elected the council members. We are their constituents. They should listen to our voices.”
Padilla said she has lived in Downey for eight years. Members of her chapter say City Council members went against the will of the majority of city residents when they approved flying the Gay Pride flag at the June 22. 2021 City Council meeting. The vote in favor of flying the flag was 4-1 vote, with then-Mayor Claudia Frometa dissenting.
The Downey City Clerk’s office told the LA Wave eight of 14 speakers opposed the Pride flag at the June 22, 2021 meeting and eight emails on the subject were all in opposition to the flag.
The Downey Patriot Newspaper reported on April 11, 2024 Mayor Pro Tempore Sosa asked city staff to “agendize a conversation” on the subject of a neutral flag policy, and what litigation the city could potentially expose itself to in the absence of adopting one. A neutral flag policy would ban the flying of nongovernmental flags on city buildings.
Currently the city of flies four flags – the American, California, city and MIA-POW flags – year-round.
During the public comment, Ari Ruiz, District Director for Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco, a former mayor of Downey delivered a message from Assemblymember Pacheco:
(Photo Credit: Blanca Pacheco/City of Downey Facebook
“Good evening Mayor Trujillo, Mayor Pro Tem Sosa, and Councilmembers Frometa, Pemberton, and Ortiz.
Due to the legislative calendar, I am unable to attend tonight’s Downey City Council meeting, where you will be voting to adopt a new Flag Policy. Therefore, I have asked my District Director to deliver brief remarks on my behalf and communicate my opposition to the proposed Neutral Flag Policy, which does not allow for freedom of expression.
A pre-existing policy addresses this matter, affirming that if the City Council approves the display of the PRIDE flag or any other flag designated as a ‘commemorative flag,’ the flag is recognized as an official form of government speech, which is permitted. For instance, if the City Council authorizes the display of the PRIDE flag, the display can be no longer than 30 days.
The U.S. Declaration of Independence states: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” However, for some people, equality is not so evident, particularly when concerning who we love.
During my tenure as a public servant, which has included serving the people of Downey as their Mayor and Councilmember, and now as their Assemblywoman, my goal always has been to ensure that all constituents are treated with respect and dignity. I believe that the current policy champions equality and inclusivity, mirroring the diverse community of Downey and extending a warm welcome to the LGBTQ+ community.
Thank you, Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco”
On Wednesday in a statement after Tuesday’s vote, Assemblymember Pacheco told the Blade:
“As someone who has always believed in the importance of inclusion and representation, it’s disheartening to see the Downey City Council adopt a neutral flag policy. When I served as mayor pro tem, we took a step forward in recognizing and celebrating the diversity of our community by flying the pride flag. While I respect differing opinions, I believe that embracing diversity strengthens our community and fosters a sense of belonging for all residents. I remain committed to promoting equality and acceptance in Downey and elsewhere.”
In a heated rebuke of the mayor’s remarks saying that the vote to ban the Pride flag was an attack on LGBTQ+ Downey residents, Councilmember Fromenta disagreed strongly saying that this was an issue of not showing favoritism or political endorsement of a group of people versus maintaining a neutral and appropriate acknowledgment of the nation, the state and city’s unity based on the whole of the city’s residents.
The Los Angeles County LGBTQ+ Elected Officials (LACLEO) association, in response to the City Council of Downey’s vote to ban the LGBTQ+ Pride flag, expressed its “profound disappointment,” in the decision.
LACLEO President and Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang told the Blade in a statement: “This is a flag that symbolizes hope, freedom and unity. As an association representing over 50 LGBTQ+ elected officials, we are deeply disappointed but also incredibly surprised. Downey hosted the first pride celebration of any city in southeast Los Angeles County, flying the Pride flag proudly.”
The council vote was even more surprising given the fact that Mayor Mario Trujillo and Councilmember Horacio Ortiz are out-LGBTQ+ officials and who both voted against the measure LACLEO told the Blade.
“It just doesn’t make any sense for the leaders of a community that has been supportive of their LGBTQ+ constituents in the past to now adopt what appears to be a mean-spirited measure. At a time when we need to come together as a society more than ever, this can only serve to create division and discord where there was none,” Prang added.
LACLEO member, City of Downey Mayor Trujillo reiterating a portion of his remarks from Tuesday’s council meeting prior to the vote noted: “The flag has particular poignance for LGBTQ+ youth – it sends a message that this is a safe space and that you are welcome. Suicide is at epidemic levels and we should be doing all we can to be welcoming.”
“We must work to discover solutions that expand inclusivity and that acknowledge the diversity that enriches the places we all call home”, said LACLEO Vice President Ed Reece, who also serves as LA County LGBTQ+ Commissioner and Claremont City Councilmember.
Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
Welcome to Meet the Fleet: the show that takes you inside the cab and under the hood of LA County’s fleet of vehicles. With more than 17,000 vehicles in its garage, LA County is ready to respond to anything by land, sea or air. Meet the Fleet will showcase how these machines serve the people of Los Angeles County and introduce you to operators who make them run.
In this episode, ride into the fire with the LA County Fire Department and learn about the heavy machinery they use when the heat is on.
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
May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
This month, we celebrate the vibrant cultures, rich traditions, and invaluable contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. Join Los Angeles County in celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Visit lacounty.gov to find events, programming and resources that are available for you to access throughout May.
At Your Service
Addressing Teen Mental Health Challenges
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health recently launched a Mental Health Toolkit for teens and parents/guardians of teens. If you are a teen or parent/guardian of a teen, explore the free guide to the most common mental health challenges facing this generation by clicking here.
Out and About
Take Action During Mental Health Awareness Month
The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health’s Take Action movement promotes wellness and well-being while sharing the vast array of resources and services provided by the nation’s largest behavioral health department.
The Department of Mental Health is bringing communities together in wellness by encouraging everyone to pay attention to their own needs and those around them. Drop by one of our Take Action events and learn more about what the Department of Mental Health can do for you!
In addition to this year’s Take Action events, Department of Mental Health encourages County residents to utilize the resources available through the department and its partners, including the 24/7 Help Line at (800) 854-7771, the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, iPrevail digital wellness platform, our walk-in clinics and peer resource centers, and our partnerships with L.A. agencies and organizations. To learn more about these resources, visit dmh.lacounty.gov.
Photo Finish
(Photo Credit: Los Angeles County/Mayra Beltran Vasquez)
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Los Angeles County
Chappelle’s bisexual attacker sues Hollywood Bowl & its security
He claims that the security team for the Hollywood Bowl failed to protect him from Chappelle’s entourage intentionally
LOS ANGELES – In a lawsuit filed in Superior Court Friday, the 25-year-old who rushed comedian Dave Chappelle on stage at the Hollywood Bowl during Chappelle’s set during the “Netflix is a Joke” festival on May 3, 2022, is suing the venue’s operator’s, The Los Angeles Philharmonic Association and the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, along with its security company.
According to the court documents reported on by KABC 7 Eyewitness News, Isaiah Lee, the man who attacked the comedian alleges that the Bowl’s security guards and members of Chappelle’s entourage beat Lee “ruthlessly” when he rushed the stage.
KABC 7 noted that Lee, who identifies as bisexual, “became upset by the discriminatory nature” of Chappelle’s jokes that night and “rushed the stage in protest as the show ended,” the lawsuit read.
Lee also claims that the security team for the Hollywood Bowl failed to protect him from Chappelle’s entourage: “These individuals spat on Lee and dislocated his arm intentionally,” the lawsuit alleges.
Chappelle was attacked by Lee who also had a plastic replica of a gun that shoots forth a knife blade on him, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
After regaining his composure, Chappelle joked that the attacker “was a trans man,” a reference to the comic’s controversy within the LGBTQ+ communities.
Chappelle, beloved by many for his clever television program Chappelle’s Show, has long been a controversial figure to the LGBTQ+ communities. Following the premiere of his Netflix The Closer, which featured insensitive cracks about trans women’s genitalia and TERFs (or trans-exclusionary radical feminists), among other topics, several trans employees of Netflix staged a walkout.
Additionally, trans comedians told CNN they felt that the comments were an example of “punching down” on those with less power and a betrayal of the astute social commentary for which Chappelle is known. Chappelle eventually agreed to meet with members of the community to discuss the tenor of his jokes about trans people.
Los Angeles County prosecutors opted to not charge Lee with a felony instead with misdemeanor charges of battery, possession of a weapon with intent to assault, unauthorized access to the stage area during a performance and commission of an act that delays an event or interferes with a performer.
After Lee’s attorneys cited homelessness and mental illness, a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge granted Lee a mental health diversion, thus waiving his speedy trial rights for two years after he entered a not-guilty plea. He was sentenced to 270 days in jail and after serving his time was conditionally released to Lake Hughes Recovery Center in Gorman, California.
Related:
Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
Patients at LA County’s Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center enjoy some animal therapy as they progress on their rehabilitation journey.
Department of Health Services’ recreation therapists use animal-assisted therapy in both individual and group treatment settings to gain functional outcomes such as increasing social skills, range of motion, group participation, and overall strength and endurance.
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
LA County Day at the Fair is May 4th!
The LA County Fair opens this weekend and to celebrate, we’re offering discounted tickets on LA County Day at the Fair on May 4! Enjoy the LA County Expo showcasing all the great things the county is doing in our neighborhoods and take advantage of this discount offer. Admission is just $8 through May 3 at 11:59 p.m. Admission is $10 the day-of, May 4, 2024.
LA County Fair season runs from May 3rd – May 27th. Get your tickets today and be sure to use the password “LACOUNTY” for your LA County Day tickets for the discount price!
At Your Service
LA County Library: Citizenship in a Bag
Looking for help on your path to US Citizenship? LA County Library offers Citizenship in a Bag, a toolkit with resources for customers seeking to obtain US Citizenship.
This toolkit in a bag contains a variety of educational materials for the naturalization exam, including flash cards, multimedia tools, and a FREE citizenship folder with valuable resources that customers can keep.
Borrow or place a hold on a Citizenship in a Bag toolkit here.
For more details and questions, please call your nearest LA County Library location.
Out and About
Beach Eats Gourmet Food Trucks
Beach Eats is back for another summer in Marina del Rey!
Join us every Thursday, 5–9 p.m., May 9 through October 31, for some of the most unique and popular local food truck fare at “L.A.’s Marina.”
- ORDERS: Food orders can be made online up to five days before each Thursday event, or directly at the food trucks on-site.
- PARKING: Available in Lot #11 at a rate of $0.50 for each 15 minutes. There is a $2 minimum for credit card payments.
- MORE INFO: Visit the Best Food Trucks website to check out the upcoming food truck schedule, order online, or try the Best Food Trucks app (Apple or Android).
See you on Thursdays at Beach Eats in Marina del Rey!
Photo Finish
(Photo: Los Angeles County / Mayra Beltran Vasquez)
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Los Angeles County
St. John’s Community Health awarded $10 mil for climate resiliency
St. John’s Community Health is a network of 24 community health centers and 4 mobile clinics providing free & low-cost health care
LOS ANGELES – Today, St. John’s Community Health – a network of community health centers serving South, Central, and East Los Angeles; the Inland Empire; and the Coachella Valley – announced they have been awarded $10 million by the California Strategic Growth Council (SGC) to help build a community resilience center in South Los Angeles.
“To protect communities made most vulnerable to climate change by racist policies and practices, we must be proactive in treating environmental disparities and implementing climate preparedness plans,” said Jim Mangia, president and CEO of St. John’s Community Health. “We will build the Avalon Health Access and Resilience Center alongside the community it is meant to serve, offering a diversity of programs and services to treat both the symptoms and the root causes of the climate crisis.”
The abundance of concrete, heavy traffic corridors, and lack of green space in South Los Angeles causes more extreme heat than in other areas of Los Angeles. Further, rapid gentrification has caused spikes in homelessness, leaving many people forced to live on the street and face dangerously hot weather with no respite. Increasing risk of wildfires also put people experiencing homelessness and low-income children at greater risk for respiratory illnesses.
St. John’s Community Health is one of nine applicants being awarded a community resilience center implementation grant.
Through this grant, St. John’s Community Health plans to build the Avalon Health Access and Resilience Center near their existing community health center and drop-in clinic serving unhoused people. The center will be a community-driven safe haven in South Los Angeles with the infrastructural capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover from climate, public health, and other emergencies.
The climate and community resilience center will incorporate wide-ranging disaster relief and environmentally sustaining campus amenities and services, including: accessible and adaptable indoor and outdoor spaces for cooling, emergency shelter, climate and community resilience classes and events, and a community garden.
Physical infrastructure elements will be integrated with year-round medical, dental, and behavioral health services, case management, educational programming, peer support, workforce training, basic-needs services, and other programs to address lack of access to resources for low-income people of color from a diverse group of priority populations living and working in South Los Angeles.
This first-of-its-kind center represents a significant step in expediting recovery efforts and building resilience among communities in South Los Angeles.
Moreover, the center will serve as a catalyst for community cohesion, bringing residents together to collaborate, share resources, and support one another. St. John’s anticipates serving at least 15,000 members from the priority populations at the Avalon Health Access and Resilience Center annually.
Los Angeles County
Manhattan Beach PD: Hate crime investigation after Nextdoor post
Anyone with information regarding the incident was urged to contact Manhattan Beach Police at (310) 802-5127
MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif. – A photo of a sign with racial slurs and the hanging of what appeared to be a noose from a tree posted online on the neighborhood centric Nextdoor website Thursday has touched off a hate crime investigation Manhattan Beach Police confirmed.
Detective Seth Hartnell told City News Service uniformed patrol units responded to an isolated section of Sand Dune Park near Bell Avenue around 11:00 a.m. Thursday, but that officers did not find a noose hanging there. Hartnell said city workers removed the sign.
“Officers took a report documenting the incident, and Manhattan Beach Police Department detectives are investigating,” he said.
Anyone with information regarding the incident was urged to contact Manhattan Beach Police at (310) 802-5127.
Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
Welcome to Budget Quest: the game where billions of dollars and services for millions of people are at stake! Watch this video as Buddy the Budget Wiz navigates the County’s complex budget process to build and fund a new program.
To learn more about the County’s $45.4 billion 2024-25 recommended budget, visit ceo.lacounty.gov/budget.
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
April is “Child Abuse Prevention Month” in Los Angeles County
In L.A. County, there are more sleep-related deaths than all other accidental child deaths. These deaths are completely preventable. Accidental suffocation is the greatest risk for babies under age 1. These deaths are silent and quick. It just takes seconds for a baby to suffocate.
Below are some resources for parents and caregivers to learn more about safe sleeping practices:
- Inter-Agency Council on Child Abuse and Neglect: Infant Safe Sleep
- LA County Department of Public Health: Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: Safe to Sleep®
At Your Service
DEO Small Business Summits
Get ready, LA County! Join the LA County Department of Economic Opportunities and partners for the ultimate small business boost at the upcoming LA Region Small Business Summit series, kicking off Small Business Month on April 29th at the iconic Los Angeles Coliseum with the City of Los Angeles. Five power-packed FREE Summits throughout May, celebrating all small businesses, entrepreneurs, and County residents in style!
Discover a trove of FREE resources, services, and programs aimed at helping your business grow and thrive. From expert panel discussions to a bustling resource expo and beyond – we’ve got everything you need to elevate your business — all under one roof! Ready to supercharge your small business journey? Don’t miss out! Register now for a Summit near you by visiting here.
Out and About
The LA County Fair is Back May 3!
This year the LA County Fair celebrates the medley of communities that comprise Los Angeles County with its theme Stars, Stripes & Fun. LA County is one of the most diverse counties in the nation, brimming with a mix of cultures and communities, and the LA County Fair celebrates them all!
Join us at the Fair as we celebrate all things LA County on Saturday, May 4! Enjoy the LA County Expo showcasing all the great things the county is doing in our neighborhoods and take advantage of this discount offer. Admission is just $8 through May 3 at 11:59 p.m. Admission is $10 the day-of, May 4, 2024.
Get your tickets today and be sure to use the password “LACOUNTY” at check out for the discount price!
Photo Finish
(Photo: Los Angeles County/Mayra Beltran Vasquez)
Click here to access more photos of LA County in action.
Los Angeles County
New on the LA County Channel
You can watch on Channel 92 or 94 on most cable systems, or anytime here. Catch up on LA County Close-Up here
New on the County Channel
L.A. County is investing millions of dollars in American Rescue Plan funds for paid early education apprenticeships. The Early Care and Education Assistant Teacher Apprenticeship Program aims to bolster the education career pipeline and bring relief to those hoping to avoid financial debt.
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
April is “Sexual Assault Awareness Month”
This April marks the 23rd observance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Sexual Assault Awareness Month is a chance for each of us to think about the role we can play in preventing sexual abuse, assault, and harassment.
Violence is preventable. Stopping sexual abuse, assault, and harassment before they happen requires us to work together to support healthy, safe, and respectful behaviors and environments. To build truly connected communities, we must start with community accessible services and support and expand the network of service providers. When it comes to sexual violence, everyone has a role to play to help build a community that is safer, inclusive, and equitable. Below are some resources and ways for you to get involved:
- Raise Awareness: The National Sexual Violence Resource Center
- Participate in Denim Day | April 24, 2024: 5 Ways to Participate in Denim Day and Denim Day Rally & Press Conference
- Learn More: Office of Family Violence Prevention and Services and The Rape, Abuse, and Incest Network (24/7 Confidential Support Hotline)
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673.
Learn more at lacounty.gov/sexual-assault-awareness-month/.
At Your Service
Commercial Acquisition Fund Program
The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity recently launched the Commercial Acquisition Fund to provide grants to qualifying nonprofit organizations to support the acquisition of vacant or abandoned land and buildings in designated communities that were most negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Commercial Acquisition Fundis funded by the County, with $10 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds and will be awarded as recoverable grants, ranging from $500,000 to $2,000,000. Acquisitions and funding must occur before December 1, 2024.
To learn more, apply, or sign-up to attend a community webinar, visit lacaf.info.
Out and About
April 21 – April 27th is “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week”
Join District Attorney George Gascón, the LA District Attorney’s Bureau of Victim Services and the LA District Attorney Crime Victims Advisory Board for this special National Crime Victims’ Rights Week panel discussion: “Pathways to Healing: Supporting LA’s Crime Survivors.”
This hybrid event will be on Thursday, April 25 at 6 PM, with doors opening at 5:30 PM. Click here to register to attend.
Photo Finish
Celebrate the 4th year of SOAR at the South Coast Botanic Garden when butterflies return May 1!
Click here to access more photos of LA County in action.
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