California

SANTA MONICA—On March 5, The Second District Court of Appeal issued a ruling directing the Los Angeles County Superior Court to vacate its order granting a pretrial mental health diversion program to Job Uriah Taylor, 27. The opinion, authored by Presiding Justice Frances Rothschild and Justices Bendix and M. Kim, was certified for publication. The Appellate (Court of Appeals) court’s decision was made after the defense failed to answer whether Taylor would pose an unreasonable risk of danger to public safety if he were to be treated in the community, as required under the Penal Code. The record revealed evidence of prior non-compliance by Taylor. According to investigators, a family member indicated that Taylor repeatedly signed himself out of treatment at mental health facilities in Louisiana and did so within 24 hours of admission. According to Dr. Campbell, who worked with Taylor in 2023, records indicated a refusal on Taylor’s part to take his prescribed medication on multiple occasions. Taylor was using methamphetamine in addition to phencyclidine (PCP) or what is referred to as “angel dust,” at the time of the attacks. Reports indicate that on March 3, 2023, Job Uriah Taylor (then 25) traveled to Santa Monica. Taylor admitted that the reason he was in Santa Monica was that he was “sent by his family to target black residents.” Taylor used a pipe to beat a man to death who was sleeping at a nearby homeless encampment. Taylor, who reportedly was also homeless living in the encampment, near the 5th Street Expo Station, and the victim. Taylor beat him so hard that he crushed his skull. Within 24 hours Taylor had killed one man, and at least two others were able to escape. One of the survivors of Taylor’s attacks is now confined to a wheelchair. Reports indicate that the latter of the victims will always require assistance. Reports indicate that the reason it took so long to bring this case to trial is because the defense was attempting to offer Mr. Taylor a mental health program rather than sentencing him for the crimes he committed. According to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Inmate Roster. Taylor was first arrested on October 17, 2023, on felony charges. He was booked into jail at the Inmate Reception Center I.R.C. and housed at the North County Corrections Facility (NORF). The Pitchess Detention Center North reportedly takes medium to maximum security prisoners. Initial reports indicate that Taylor’s sentencing date was set for October 23, 2023. He had another court date listed for August 28, 2024. The most recent court date for Taylor on the inmate report is scheduled for April 23, 2026, at LAX Superior Court. Bail was set for $2,135,000.00   By Sharon

GRIFFITH PARK—On March 5, Los Angeles Mayor, Karen Bass announced a 70 percent reduction in filming fees at Griffith Observatory. The costs have been reduced from $100,000 to $30,000. Both Griffith Park Observatory and the Central Library are now open for filming and photos. City officials significantly lowered the prices in their efforts to revitalize Los Angeles and to encourage those in the film industry to utilize iconic spaces in Los Angeles in a way that has not been possible since 2008. “It’s a great day in LA to be celebrating and promoting our most significant industry, the entertainment industry where we impact the enite world. For me, it is also a celebration of signing Executive Directive 11 that directed city departments to deliver on priorities that the entertainment industry has asked City Hall to act on for far too long,” stated Mayor Bass. Mayor Bass has served Los Angeles as Mayor since December 11, 2022, and served in the House of Representatives congresswoman (2011-2023). Griffith Observatory was last used for filming the musical “La La Land” in 2016, “The Rocketeer” in 1991, and “The Terminator” in 1984, “Rebel Without a Cause,” in 1955 and “The Phantom Empire” in 1935.   By Sharon

STUDIO CITY—On February 5, Matthew Jason Kroth, aka “Speedy,” of Studio City was sentenced to 200 months in federal prison for his part in a conspiracy scheme targeting the elderly. Kroth reportedly broke into the home of an elderly man living alone, and later returned to steal items, jewelry, and mail. According to a press release issued by the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney’s Office Central District of California, Kroth pleaded guilty in October 2023 to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He has been in federal custody since August 2023. “According to his plea agreement and other court documents, Kroth in the summer of 2020 broke into the home of an elderly man, who was living alone in the house at the time. Later, Kroth returned to the victim’s home to steal items, including mail and jewelry. By this time, the victim had died, but his death went unreported to authorities. Kroth then provided to his co-conspirators the victim’s PII and his mail so they could impersonate the victim and steal his assets, including his home and money in his financial accounts. Kroth’s co-conspirators forged a trust document and power-of-attorney forms so that they could pretend that the now-deceased victim supported the sale of his assets for the benefit of Kroth’s accomplices. The conspirators then dismembered and disposed of the victim’s body so his death would be hard to discover.” Caroline Herrling, 46, of West Hills was leader in the scheme who brought Kroth into the conspiracy. She is currently incarcerated and serving a 20-year prison sentence. Herrling pleaded guilty in March 2023. She has been in federal custody since January 2023. James Rhys Kantor, 46, is a resident of Cumming, Georgia. Kantor was formerly of West Hollywood. His sentencing date is scheduled for February 19. In October 2024, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and faces the statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. Anyone age 60 or older who may have fallen victim to wire fraud is asked to call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.   By Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On Tuesday, February 3, the Santa Monica Board of Trustees met to discuss the $16.7 million budget deficit Santa Monica College (SMC) is operating under. SMC has roots in the community dating back to 1929, during the Great Depression. The campus faces the prospect of having to lay off close to 70 employees, where the Santa Monica College Annual Report 2024-2025 indicates they need to hire more personnel to oversee incoming grants. Canyon News spoke to Santa Monica College’s Director of Public Information Grace A. Smith, about the possibility of a hiring freeze. “Yes, there has been a hiring freeze except for positions deemed essential to fulfill a vital function since last year, due to an ongoing large structural deficit and a decline in revenue. Enrollment and many other factors including volatility in the state funding,” said Smith. In the California Governor Gavin Newsom’s budget, the state discontinued funding that directly impacted Santa Monica College. SMC is a recipient of a $200,000 grant CA Learning Labs’ Ai FAST Challenge to support professional development for faculty incorporating AI into their curriculum. SMC are the benefactors of a $355K grant through United Way for brand new training for students to become skilled in street outreach or working directly with the homeless. The training will be for outreach workers, case managers and housing navigators to help a community with approximately 72,000 unhoused individuals. “The demand for trained professionals has never been greater. As we prepare to welcome our second cohort in February, this funding allows us to do what our community needs most, prepare a skilled, compassionate workforce to support individuals experiencing homelessness. Our students and faculty are answering that call with heart, purpose and dedication,” said President-Superintendent of SMC Dr. Katheryne E. Jeffrey. “Helping our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness requires a caring compassionate, and well-trained workforce. Investing in Santa Monica College’s Homeless Service Work Certificate is an opportunity to invest in training a vital workforce but also to invest in solutions form homelessness. This program will equip sector professionals with the skills, training and support they need to transform community care into lasting solutions. This is how we strengthen systems, uplift people, and create a Los Angeles where everyone has an opportunity to thrive,” said Elise Buik, President and CEO of United Way Of Great Los Angeles. Applications for the Second Cohort of Certificate Program will be accepted through February 6th.   By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On January 10, multiple reports indicated a disturbance occurred at Quentin Tarantino’s New Beverly Cinema, located at 7165 Beverly Boulevard. A double feature was showing of “Wild Strawberries (1957)”, directed by Ingmar Bergman, and the 1999 film, “The Straight Story,” directed by David Lynch, were interrupted by a man on his cell phone. The patron did not exit the theater becoming agitated and argumentative, forcing the manager to call the police to remove them from the premises. Dozens of moviegoers captured video of the incident on their cell phones. The manager earned rave reviews for his handling of the incident from directors Josh Safdie, filmmakers and screenwriters Ronnie Bronstein, and actor Joe Russo, who were in attendance and witnessed the manager’s quick response. Videos posted on X reached over 700,000 views in less than a day. One commenter, Scott Leger, posted, “My favorite part is always when they say, ‘don’t be like the beloved regular who pulled out his phone yesterday during the trailers, and was banned for life.” Another commenter praised the work of the policeman. “That policeman did an excellent job of not letting anything escalate. Thank God there are still some cops that understand what we really need from them.” The name of the man escorted out by police has not been released. Canyon News reached out to the Beverly Hills Police Department for more information and spoke to a Watch Commander by the name of Diamond, who referred to an LAPD Watch Commander for the Wilshire Division. No comment was provided before print.   By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On December 30, gourmet cupcake bakery owner, and founder Candace Nelson announced the closing of her Sprinkles Cupcakes bakery. The bakery opened its first site in Beverly Hills nearly 20 years ago, the famous Cupcake ATMs, and Sprinkles Cupcake Bakery’s franchise stores nationwide are now closing for good. Nelson confirmed to multiple news outlets and on her social media pages that the stores would be closing between December 2025 and January 2026. All stores closed their doors by New Year’s Day. According to Fortune magazine, the entire franchise was purchased by an investment group. “Nelson sold her business to private equity firm Karp Reilly LLC in 2012 after the company had expanded to 10 locations across the country. The firm owns dozens of other companies for products including a health food home delivery service, kombucha and protein wellness shakes.”   By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On December 31, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority issued an alert reminding the public that regular construction outside Beverly Hills Station will resume on Friday, January 2.

“Metro is expected to open the Beverly Dr and Century City/Constellation stations in 2026. The entrance for the Beverly Dr Station will be at the southwest corner of the Wilshire and Reeves intersection. This site currently serves as the Reeves Staging Yard for Metro and its contractor,” stated the city of Beverly Hills on its website. 

The final extension for the North Canon Drive closure at Wilshire was conditionally passed in a 4-1 vote on September 9, 2025, with no further extensions beyond March 14, 2026. The extension included the removal of a 20-foot wall used as a sound barrier and the restoration of sidewalks

In addition, LA Metro agreed to pay a penalty of $20,000 per day should the reopening deadline not be met. The council agreed upon these dates with the knowledge that construction would likely come to a halt for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day 2026. Visit LA Metro website for more details on Purple D Line.

By Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On Tuesday, December 9, the Santa Monica City Council met in a closed session related to the future use of the Santa Monica Pier and the beach lot around it. Five topics on the agenda included discussion on the use of Crescent Bay Park, Beach lot 4 South, and the Pier. Los Angeles is securing appropriate venues to accommodate the upcoming traffic and revenue expected to pour into Los Angeles County during the World Cup, Superbowl, and the US Olympics. Production company, Silverback LLC, is negotiating with the City Council for usage of Crescent Bay Park and Beach Lot 4. Both Anheuser-Bush and ESPN requested the use of the Pier. Concert promoter, Goldenvoice, would like to use 550 square feet of the sand and sea area south of the Santa Monica Pier. Tickets are on sale now for World Cup 2026 at SoFi Stadium for the summer 2026. The 2027 Superbowl LXI is scheduled for February 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. The French National Olympic and Sports Committee would like to secure the Annenberg Beach House handles France’s Olympic participation/negotiations in overseas territories. They are working tirelessly to secure the proper facilities in advance for the 2028 Olympic Games. Reports indicate that since the Olympics are a national event, they fall under the leadership of U.S. Secret Service. The U.S. Olympics relies on private funding, sponsorships, and broadcasts rights. According to reports, LA28 has secured more than $2 billion in sponsorships. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has undergone a $30 billion renovation to accommodate the crowds. LA Metro has a “Twenty-eight” by “28” initiative in progress to complete 28 transit upgrade projects by 2028. Los Angeles and surrounding areas are implementing initiatives as they get ready to host the 2028 Olympics with tickets on sale starting January 2026   Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On Tuesday, November 25, city officials were informed after suspicious activity was reported at a rehabilitation facility located at 413 Ocean Avenue. Multiple calls regarding vans of people dropped off at the facility in the dark of night raising public concern. On Friday, 11/28, our city team – Building and Safety, Code Enforcement, Fire and Housing conducted a full inspection of 413 Ocean Ave after community concerns were raised. Due to public demand, the building was inspected and did not meet code. Multiple reports indicate that the sober living facility was at the very least operating without a license. The facility has since been ordered to relocate their patients and were ordered to vacate the premises within 24 hours. Reports indicate that people were coming in from out of state under the guise of rehabilitation. Concerned residents have publicly accused the state of allowing these pop-up drug and rehabilitation centers to conduct business without verifying their credentials. The patients are lured in while they are at their most vulnerable. Their insurance is charged for their “services.” Public records indicate that the business located at 413 Ocean Avenue operated as a sobriety clinic. They did not have the proper business license to operate a housing facility of this nature. Nor were they in receipt of the proper permits needed. There was no certificate of occupancy. City officials rendered the site unsafe and unpermitted for its current operation. The operator of the business was reportedly directed to cease all activity until compliance standards were met. Initially, this did not happen. The premises have since been vacated. Los Angeles County Supervisor, Lindsey Horvath previously ordered the termination of two rehabilitation centers; the sobriety living facility mentioned here, and a similar facility located at 825 Ocean Avenue. Both were initially part of a project to provide beds for those experiencing homelessness complicated by addiction and behavioral issues. These are the same places earmarked for rehab that Santa Monicans complained about in the beginning. Many spoke out against the use of some of the most expensive properties in Santa Monica as a rehabilitation and homeless project. Horvath ordered those in charge of operations to find a more suitable dwelling place. Santa Monica Mayor, Lana Negrete, responded to the state’s findings. “These are not allegations. These are the City’s documented findings. People deserve dignity, stability, and real oversight. Policy reforms are already in motion to prevent this from happening again.”   By Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On October 15, California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) announced the closure of Topanga Canyon Boulevard/State Route 27(SR-27) between the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Grandview Drive due to current and potential mudslides. Caltrans reported a slide in the canyon at postmile 1.2. Reports indicate that crews are working on retaining walls, slope stabilization, underground utility operations, creek run-off, repaving… Due to safety concerns, there is no thru-traffic permitted here. This includes cyclists and pedestrians. Entry into the canyon must be made from the north. It is not possible to enter the canyon from the south. The following message came directly from CALTRANS: The closure is to protect the public from serious injuries and fatalities. As Caltrans works to restore the road, it will maintain access for emergency responders. Crews are also monitoring the recovery work zone on State Route 1/Pacific Coast Highway, but there are no reported impacts at this time. For more information see CALTRANS Quick Map, or the Palisades Fire Emergency Repairs website.   By Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On Monday, October 13, the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) issued a press release announcing that they are the recipients of a $285,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). A spokesperson for SMPD issued the following statement in gratitude for the financial support: “We are grateful to receive this grant, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety. Through a combination of education and enforcement efforts, our goal is to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty issued the following statement: “Through focused traffic enforcement and education, we’re working toward a future where everyone will be safe on California roads. By encouraging people to prioritize safety in their daily choices, we are creating a strong road safety culture together.” Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and should provide funding for additional programs and resources including the following: Training and/or recertification for police officers in Standard Field Sobriety Tests (SFST), Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) and Drug Recognition Expert(s) (DRE). Enforcement operations focused on the leading violations that cause accidents such as speeding, failure to yield, running red lights, and improper lane changes/turns Enforcement operations focused on dangerous driving behaviors that put bikers and pedestrians at risk. More DUI checkpoints/Patrols focused on getting impaired drivers off the roadways. Distracted driving, high-visibility enforcement operations, targeting drivers in violations of California’s Hands-Free Cell Phone Law. Community education through presentations educating the public on distracted/impaired driving, bicycle and pedestrian safety. To aid in collaborative enforcement efforts with neighboring agencies making the roadways safer for all those traveling in California.   By Sharon

PACIFIC PALISADES—On October 8, the California U.S. Attorney’s Office issued a press release announcing the arrest of Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, aka “Jonathan Rinder,” aka “Jon Rinder,” of Florida for starting the Palisades Fire. He made his first appearance in court today. Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Assayli made the following statement. “The complaint alleges that a single person’s recklessness caused one of the worst fires Los Angeles has ever seen, resulting in death and widespread destruction in Pacific Palisades. While we cannot bring back what victims lost, we hope this criminal case brings some measure of justice to those affected by this horrific tragedy.” Special Agent in Charge, Kenny Cooper from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Los Angeles Field Division spoke on the tremendous loss homeowners suffered due to the fire. “At the request of the state and local authorities, [Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms] lead this complex investigation utilizing techniques unique to our agency’s capabilities. The horrific loss of life and property was significantly felt by ATF members, and we are honored to utilize our expertise to provide answers to the community. We remain committed to serving with integrity and distinction.” Official reports from an affidavit filed with the complaint, law enforcement determined that the Palisades fire began with the Lachman fire that started in the early morning hours on January 1, 2025. Firefighters extinguished that fire in a timely fashion. Unbeknownst to all, the fire continued to smolder, beneath the ground, burning roots and dense vegetation. On January 7, heavy winds blew new life into the fire spreading quickly throughout Pacific Palisades causing mass destruction and irreparable damage. Investigators were able to confirm through surveillance footage, cell phone data, and other analysis that it was Rinderknecht who originally set the Lachman Fire just after midnight on New Years Day. According to a press release by the California U.S. Attorney’s office the land where Rinderknecht set the fire was owned by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA). Within a week’s time, the fire spread burning federal property. Jonathan Rinderknecht, who was working as an Uber driver on New Year’s Eve in 2024, made two separate trips to that area. Local law enforcement later noted that they spoke to Rinderknecht that night, and he appeared agitated. After he dropped off his last passenger(s), Rinderknecht, who had once lived in the area, took a ride up to Skull Rock Tailhead. He called an old friend as he walked up the trail. He was listening to a rap song. The beats on video depict catching things on fire. Authorities confirmed that the fire began on January 1, precisely at 12:12 a.m. Rinderknecht indicated that he attempted to call 911 several times but could not get through. He was out of range and could not connect the call until he was at the bottom of the hiking trail when he reported the fire. By that time, a neighbor had already notified authorities. Rinderknecht fled the scene of the crime at a high rate of speed, stopping at just after 1:00 a.m. to take cell phone video of the fire he created. The following information came directly from the press release. “If convicted, Rinderknecht would face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. ATF is investigating this matter, with substantial assistance from the Los Angeles Police Department and the United States Forest Service.” By Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On October 6, the Santa Monica Education Foundation (smedfoundation) announced its annual Pledge Week October 7-11 with donor matched donations up to $50,000. The Santa Monica Educational Foundation (SMEF) awarded the Santa Monica – Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) 2.52 in grants representing funds raised during the 20204-2025 school year generating $2.409 million, up a percent higher than the year prior. This grant is in addition to the previous year’s endowments and the SAMOHI Scholarship Fund. The SMEF issued the following statement. The full text may be viewed on the SMEF website. “The Ed Foundation is honored to manage the Samohi Scholarship Fund, which gives out approximately $184,227 in scholarships to approximately 200 graduating seniors every year. SAMOHI students are incredibly fortunate to be supported by a community of donors who want to assist in their future endeavors. The Samohi Scholarship Fund is run by the Samohi Scholarship Committee, comprised of three college counselors, current and former teachers, community members with a connection to Samohi. Each spring, seniors are invited to apply for a myriad of scholarships. At the end of each school year, there is a ceremony where scholarship funders can meet the student recipients.” The Executive Director of SMEF, Raymur Flynn made the following statement regarding school funding: “Every dollar given this past year is a direct investment in our students’ futures. In a time when public funding falls short of what our children deserve, our donors have stepped up to ensure vibrant, enriching programs remain a core part of a Santa Monica Education.”   By Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On September 5, two of the Downtown Santa Monica (DTSM) City Council members Leonid Pustilnikov and Jon Farzam, filed suit in Los Angeles Superior Court against the City of Santa Monica for the firing /replacement of DTSM board members. Reports indicate that this was done without knowledge or consent of the council members have called, “a violation of their bylaws.”

Reports indicate that problems arose following a call-to-meeting that occurred on July 29, changing bylaws to read that no individual will be removed without probable cause.

The lawsuit was filed on Friday, September 5, after six board members were dismissed from their positions, and others were appointed in their stead.

This comes at a time when the Santa Monica City Council and the downtown businesses are struggling to survive. It is not clear if the city will declare and emergency or be able to make the most recent 2025-2027 budgeting plans.

On September 9, multiple news outlets reported that the City of Santa Monica will likely declare a fiscal emergency due to financial constraints causing a budget crisis. Santa Monica is reliant on revenue from tourism, and reports indicate that tourism is down by 50 percent since 2019.

The City of Santa Monica has been plagued with a total of $229.8 million in legal settlements from the sexual abuse former city employee Eric Uller who worked with the Police Activities League (PAL).

A total of 124 people alleged they were victims of Uller. 105 individuals were paid $107.3 million. A later settlement added $122.5 million for additional victims.

In addition, in June of 2025, a landlord in Santa Monica agreed to a $685,000 settlement to resolve three other lawsuits stemming from an alleged tenant harassment/discrimination case.

In addition to financial strains, crime is up in Santa Monica. Mayor Lana Negrete, does not welcome the Trump Administration’s help in reducing crime by using the National Guard to assist in immigration sweeps. Negrete has been vocal about her anti-ICE views.

The beaches have had higher bacteria levels due to overflow from flooding following the wildfires just a few months ago. Add some sick sea lions to the mix, and Santa Monica may not be on the agenda for this years vacation.

By Sharon

BRENTWOOD—On September 5, California Governor, Gavin Newsom, and Los Angeles Mayor, Karen Bass, announced that the California Highway Patrol (CHP) with assistance of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) will be providing Kamala Harris with the security detail she needs as she begins her 15-stop tour for her new book, “107 Days.”

On August 28, multiple news reports circulated that President Trump issued a memo that, “Stripped former Vice President, Kamala Harris, of her security detail just as she began her book tour.”

The truth is that sitting Vice Presidents are entitled to six-months of security detail. Prior to leaving office, former Vice President, Joe Biden, extended the time of her detail.

President Trump did revoke Harris’s security detail which reportedly goes into effect Monday, September 8th. Her six months of protection by Secret Service would have typically ended in July. Former VP Harris received an extra two months of security protection.

Reports indicate that it was a trip to South Africa taken by Hunter and Ashley Biden with an 18-person security detail paid in full by the U.S. government.

The only government employees who are entitled to lifetime security are former Presidents and first ladies, and their children until they reach the age of 16.

The rule of lifetime security protection for former sitting Presidents was signed into law during the Obama Administration in 2013 reversing the previous law that allowed for 10 years of protection by the Secret Service.

Now, as a private citizen, the state of California has taken on Harris’s security detail.

In October of 2024, The Wall Street Journal reported that Harris is entitled to federal pension of $18,800. Annually based on her accrued time as Vice President and Senator.

In addition, former Vice Presidents benefit from lucrative book tours and public speaking engagements.

The following came directly from a November 4, 2024, issue of Forbes Magazine estimating former Vice President and Doug Emhoff’s financial worth.

“Thanks to her decades in government and wealthy husband, Kamala Harris has built up quite a nest egg, and she’s only gotten richer since becoming vice president.

Forbes estimates her net worth, along with gentleman Doug Emhoff, at about $8 million, up from $7 million in 2021. That’s roughly 20 times the median worth of Americans in the same age bracket.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On August 27, US News and World Report’s 2025-2026 lists Beverly Hills High School as 348th within the state of California and 2,540 nationally. The schools are ranked according to their performance on state-required tests, graduation, and how well they are prepared for college.

The scorecard for Beverly Hills High is 85.1, indicating the following.

At least 55 percent of the student body took at least one AP exam.
Forty-seven percent passed at least one AP exam. They scored 43 percent in math proficiency, seventy-two percent in reading proficiency, thirty-nine percent in science proficiency, and have a graduation rate of 91 percent.

In addition, Gretchin Whitney High School in Cerritos ranked number one in Los Angeles Schools and number 16 nationally.

Oxford Academy in Cypress, placed 2nd in LA schools and 19th nationally.

The Science Academy Stem Magnet School placed third in LA School rankings and 20th nationally.

Wallet Hub published a list of States with the Best and Worst Schools (2025).

The report lists the public schools, by state, beginning with the best and ending with the worst for all 50 states and the District of Columbia. California lands right in the middle, at number 30.

ChatGPT, ranks the following 15 schools from the least to the most dangerous school system in the United States.

15—John F. Kennedy in Sacramento

14—Langley High School in McLean, Virginia

13—Robert E. Lee High School, Jacksonville, Florida

12—Lakewood High School, Lakewood, California

11—Tilden High School, Chicago, Illinois

10—Bannaker High School, Washington D.C.

9—Gulfport High School, Gulfport, Mississippi

8—Green Tech High Charter School, Albany, NY

7—Hillcrest High School, New York City, NY

6—Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School, Detroit, MI

5—Jefferson High School, Portland, Oregon

4—East High School, Columbus, Ohio

3—Premier High School, Fort Worth (Southside), TX

2—Woodrow Wilson High School, Camden, NJ

1-McClymonds High School, Oakland, California is listed as the most dangerous school in the U.S.

On August 25, California Attorney General, Rob Bonta blamed President Trump for the state of California public schools.

“The Trump Administration upended school programs across the country when it recklessly withheld vital education funding just weeks before the school year was set to begin.”

On June 30, the state of California had their grant money frozen over their insistence in keeping a sanctuary status, and refusing to comply with immigration laws, and federal officers while they were conducting immigration sweeps and arresting illegal immigrants with outstanding warrants.

According to a report released on August 4, AG Bonta has spent an estimated $5,000,000 in lawsuits against the Trump Administration so far this year.



By Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On Sunday, August 31, at approximately 5:00 p.m., an employee of Pier
Pizza and Subs, located at 1603 Ocean Front Walk, was taking a break when a crazed individual, believed to be homeless, came up from behind him and began stabbing him.

The attacker got away. The victim was transported by ambulance to an area hospital for treatment. Police are requesting assistance from the public in identifying the suspect who is still at large.

This incident caused many locals to speak out against the rampant crime in the area.

Kevin Dalton, aka “Kevin the Pier Man,” shared his video footage and a description of what
on X with the caption, “This post brought to you by Gavin Newsom 2028,
reminding you that crime is down in California.”

California Governor Gavin Newsom is claiming a decrease in crime.
The following statement is taken directly from an August 12 press release on
Newsom’s webpage.

“…While the President continues his assault on democracy, this time by threatening to
deploy federal law enforcement officials to states across the country, California has brought
down crime in nearly every category.

Based on data released by the California Department of Justice, nearly every major crime
category, including violent crime and homicides, dropped in 2024.

Recently, President Trump baselessly deployed military assets to Washington, D.C., to
‘rescue’ the nation’s capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor and worse,’” …

Governor Newsom has fought the Trump Administration in court to prevent him from providing California the extra support the U.S. National Guard offers to maintain order in communities with high crime rates.

By Sharon

MALIBU—On Friday, August 29, three children ages 2, 7, and 9 had to be air lifted to UCLA Medical Center after the car they were sitting in was stolen in East LA. The driver led California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers on a high-speed chase passing through Santa Monica on I-10 Freeway. The pursuit ended in a crash on Kanan Dume Road. All three of the children were injured.

FOX11 interviewed the mother of the three children who were reportedly injured and traumatized in the carjacking.

The mom was speaking in Spanish as she retold what happened as she left the car briefly to go into the 7-11 on E. Olympic Boulevard to get the kids a treat. Her husband and uncle were parked right next to her car. At the same moment the father was called away.

It was during that moment that the car thief jumped into the vehicle. The father and uncle attempted to fight off the man to no avail.

Reports indicate that the suspect escaped the vehicle after hitting another vehicle and ran up an embankment into a neighborhood nearby. The suspect was attempting to steal another vehicle when police captured him and took him into custody. His name has not been released to the public.

The Fox News reporter indicated that the children had unbuckled themselves as they were trying to escape the vehicle. The children were all hurt. The middle child was hurt the worst. They are home. Their physical wounds are expected to heal, but the trauma remains.

A GoFundMe has been set up to assist the family as both parents work, and their vehicle was totaled in the crash.


By Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On Monday, August 18, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced that HelloFresh, the world’s largest meal kit delivery company, was ordered by the Court to pay $7.5 million to settle a civil lawsuit alleging the company violated California’s Automatic Renewal Law by deceptively enrolling consumers into auto-renewing subscription plans without proper disclosure or consent.

The lawsuit, jointly led by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Division and the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office, alleged that HelloFresh misled California consumers into ongoing subscription charges without adequate notice or authorization.

The civil complaint alleged that HelloFresh failed to:

• Clearly and conspicuously disclose its subscription terms before collecting payment;

• Obtain consumers’ affirmative consent before charging their credit or debit cards;

• Provide a post-transaction acknowledgment containing the material terms of the subscription; and

• Offer an easy-to-use mechanism for cancellation.

The practices allegedly resulted in consumers being unknowingly enrolled in ongoing payment plans that were difficult to terminate.

The case is one of the ongoing investigations conducted by the California Automatic Renewal Task Force (CART). CART was established by the LADA’s Office in 2015 to address rising consumer complaints about subscription-based traps.

In addition to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, CART includes the district attorney’s offices of Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and San Diego, and the Santa Monica City Attorney’s Office.

The HelloFresh case was filed in the Santa Clara County Superior Court. Under the final judgment, signed by Judge Daniel T. Nishigaya and entered Monday, where HelloFresh was ordered to pay:

• $6.38 million in civil penalties, divided among the prosecuting agencies.

• $120,000 in investigative costs; and

• $1 million in restitution to be distributed to eligible California consumers.

HelloFresh, which occupies approximately 75 percent of the U.S. meal kit delivery market, is headquartered in Germany. The company did not admit liability in the settlement.

By Danny Jones

BEVERLY HILLS—On Monday, August 11, at approximately 10:45 a.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) South Bureau responded to a call for a fire at Beverly Towers Condominiums located at 1115 S. Elm Drive in Pico-Robertson. Firefighters arriving at the scene discovered the fire was visible from the balcony of the 4th floor of the six-story building.

LAFD upgraded the fire to a Knockdown structure fire and requested assistance. The fire was contained to one unit. Forty-four responding Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire within 26 minutes, protecting the floors above from further spread.

According to a press release on the LAFD website’s alert page, firefighters found and rescued a 94-year-old woman who was trapped in a hallway nearby. She was having difficulty breathing. She was treated at the scene. She and a second patient and a 54-year-old man with minor injuries, were both transported to an area hospital for treatment.

The fire temporarily affected travel in the area.

Pico Robertson is a charming community just west of Beverly Hills that dates back to 1920. It is rich in Jewish culture and known for its delis and specialty shops.

By Sharon

SANTA MONICA/MALIBU—The National Weather Service issued a Tsunami Advisory (upgraded from a Tsunami Watch) on Tuesday, July 29 for the California coast, including Santa Monica, following an 8.7 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Russia.

Dangerous waves and strong currents are expected to arrive overnight at around 1 a.m. The public is advised to stay out of the ocean and away from the coastline and Pier (the Santa Monica Pier closes daily at 11 p.m.

A tsunami is a series of large waves generated by the sudden displacement of the ocean. Large earthquakes below or near the ocean floor are the most common cause, but landslides, volcanic activity, certain types of weather, and near-earth objects (e.g., asteroids, comets) can also cause tsunamis. Most tsunamis are generated by earthquakes or landslides caused by earthquakes, and due to the unique terrain along the Santa Monica coast, residents must be prepared for these catastrophic events.

When a tsunami is detected, the city of Santa Monica notes warnings will be issued by Wireless Emergency Alert, radio, television, telephone, text message, and door-to-door contact by emergency responders. By registering with the city of Santa Monica for SMAlerts, individuals will receive emergency updates via phone, email or text message to assist with evacuations within the region.

At the moment, no evacuations are expected in Los Angeles County. For more information visit the city of Santa Monica tsunami preparedness website.

By Danny Jones

SANTA MONICA—On Monday, July 21, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department provided an update regarding an Arson Explosives Death Investigation. Authorities noted the deaths of the three detectives last week at Biscailuz Center Training Academy in East Los Angeles could be connected to an incident that transpired in Santa Monica.

Deputy Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Deputy Victor Lemus, and Deputy William Osborn were members of the Arson and Explosives Detail. Each of them had years of experience. All three were killed after 7:30 a.m. on July 17, no other injuries were reported during the incident.

On July 17, the Arson Explosives Detail investigators responded to a call for service in the 800 block of Bay Street in Santa Monica, assisting the Santa Monica Police Department with a report of possible explosive materials at the location. When on scene, detectives recovered items that appeared to be grenades.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Investigators are continuing to conduct their post blast investigation and reconstruct the incident scene, to determine if the devices found last week were in fact the cause of the explosion that transpired on Friday.

The LASD noted that these investigations take time, and they are committed to conducting a thorough examination to accurately determine the cause.

On Monday, the Sheriff’s homicide investigators, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Los Angeles Police Department, served a search warrant at the 13900 Block of Marquesas Way in Marina Del Rey.

Investigators are following all leads and evidence to determine the origins of the devices located on Thursday in Santa Monica.

By Danny Jones

SANTA MONICA—On June 26, the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) issued a new press release with details on the officer-involved shooting on June 25 that was connected to the WAYMO shooting on June 22.

The initial incident occurred on June 22, at approximately 11:38 p.m. when then unknown suspects approached a WAYMO vehicle on foot downtown and shot into the vehicle injuring two juvenile passengers.

The victims were transported to an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

On June 25, at approximately 1:00 p.m., an SMPD observed an individual matching the description of the suspect. He was later identified as 31-year-old David John Hairston, who was reportedly from the homeless community.

When the officer attempted to approach Hairston, he ran, leading the officer on a foot chase. He then turned and fired multiple shots striking and injuring the officer. The officer was transported to an area hospital where he was listed in stable condition.

At 4:20 p.m. SMPD received an anonymous tip from a community member who found an individual in Palisades Park that matched the description of the suspect. Approximately a dozen agencies worked in a joint effort to capture the suspect.

Officers responding to the call were led on another foot pursuit that ended in the arrest of Hairston who was booked into the Santa Monica jail. Bail was set at $1,000,000.

According to SMPD, the case was presented Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office on June 27. The anticipated charges included but were not limited to: Attempted Murder of a peace officer, assault with a deadly weapon, two counts of attempted murder of the two juveniles in the WAYMO shooting on June 22, and firearms violation. 

On June 27, LA County District Attorney, Nathan Hochman issued a press release, the full text of which is posted on his webpage.

“David Hairston (dob 6/18/94) is charged in case 25ARCF01201 with three counts of attempted murder, one count of assault with a semiautomatic firearm upon a peace officer, two counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, and one count of shooting at an occupied motor vehicle”.

It also is alleged that Hairston committed the attempted murders willfully, deliberately and with premeditation, and that he personally and intentionally discharged a handgun.

At a scheduled arraignment hearing today, the defense declared doubt as to competency and criminal proceedings were suspended. A competency hearing is scheduled for July 14 in Dept. 203 of the Hollywood Courthouse. Bail was set by the court at $4 million.

If convicted as charged, Hairston faces a maximum sentence of 104 years to life in state prison. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Stephen Lonseth of LADA’s Crimes Against Peace Officers Division and investigated by the Santa Monica Police Department.

“Our hearts go out to Officer Palmeira and the two young victims and their families who were senselessly targeted during these attacks. Violence in our community, especially against our children and those who risk their lives to protect us, is unacceptable. We are committed to holding the suspect accountable.”

By Sharon

CALIFORNIA—The Los Angeles Fire Department battled a structure fire at a massage business on Tuesday, June 17 in the Beverly Grove area.

The incident was reported at 4:13 p.m. at 8217 W. Beverly Blvd. By 4:33 p.m. the fire was extinguished by 46 firefighters in 20 minutes.

The building is a split level, one story in the front with two stories in the back. The fire was lapping out the first story window up to the second floor at the rear of the building.

Firefighters conducted a transitional attack (applying water from the outside) to quickly knock back some of the fire while crews readied for an interior fire attack.

The fire was prevented from extending to the second floor or the attic. One patient is being evaluated for a minor burn injury. There were no other occupants located inside the building. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Danny Jones

BEVERLY HILLS—On June 9, Governor Gavin Newsom’s wife, Jennifer Seibel Newsom, found herself under scrutiny for going on an elaborate girl’s shopping spree that required an extensive security detail due to the violent anti-immigration protests happening in the Los Angeles area.

Governor Newsom has flooded social media with posts complaining about President Trump deploying U.S. military forces in Los Angeles County. The governor denies the need for extra security. His recent request for an immediate restraining order denying the President the authority to deploy the U.S. military to LA County was not immediately approved by Judge Charles R. Breyer. The judge scheduled a hearing for June 12.

On June 10, Governor Newsom’s wife, and First Lady of California, Jennifer Seibel Newsom posted the following remarks on her X social media page:

“Thank you @LASDup and @LASchools leaders for standing up to protect kids and families. This unnecessary militarization may be entertainment, for the President, but even the premise of armed immigration agents and soldiers near schools where children learn and grow is simply wrong. Please stay safe and calm California.”

In Gavin Newsom’s posts, he claims that, “We didn’t have a problem before Trump got involved.”

Governor Newsom, AG Bonta, Mayor Bass, and local police did nothing to stop the violent anti-ICE protests with protesters spitting, and throwing cinder rocks at Federal Agents. Molotov cocktails were being lobbed at the feds while they were attempting to execute warrants for illegal immigrants with criminal records, and those harboring fugitives which is classified as a felony.

The local police Chiefs: Santa Monica Police Department Chief, Ramon Batista, and the Los Angeles Police Department Chief, Jim McDonnell told their officers not to involve themselves with the federal government’s immigration raids. Their statements may be found on their prospective websites.

When President Trump learned that the Mayor, Governor, California Attorney General, nor the local police would properly assist agents during the protests that turned riotous, he deployed the military for security and to manage crowd control.

President Trump offered the U.S. National Guard before the January 6 riots, and his offer was denied by then Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi. This time, he took matters into his own hands.

Newsom and Bonta filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration in an attempt to get Judge Breyer to issue a restraining order against the Trump administration to prevent them from deploying the military to Los Angeles County.

Judge Breyer did not honor Newsom’s immediate request for a restraining order. A hearing is scheduled for Thursday, June 12. According to Newsom, it was “unnecessary,” for Trump to deploy the military to LA.

First Lady Jennifer Siebel Newsom required a security detail to go on a shopping spree.

By Sharon