_{Advertisement}

Federal Immigration Agents Gather Outside Newsom’s Little Tokyo Event

A press conference in Little Tokyo turned tense Thursday when dozens of masked federal immigration agents appeared outside as Gov. Gavin Newsom, Mayor Karen Bass, and other California leaders discussed new congressional redistricting maps. Newsom accused the Trump administration of staging a political stunt to intimidate state officials, while Bass called the move “unbelievably disrespectful” and “completely unacceptable.” Federal officials insisted the agents were conducting routine patrols, though one person was taken into custody.

Uber Brings Women-Only Ride Option to Los Angeles

Uber has rolled out its Women’s Preferences feature in Los Angeles, giving female riders the option to match exclusively with female drivers. The update, already active in more than 40 countries, aims to offer women more comfort, choice, and control when riding or driving. Riders can set the preference in their app for on-demand or scheduled trips, while women drivers can toggle it on or off at any time. Uber says the move follows global feedback from women who want the option to connect with other women on the platform.

LAUSD Launches 2025-2026 School Year with Record Gains and Expanded Student Support

The Los Angeles Unified School District has kicked off the 2025-2026 academic year by building on last year’s record-breaking test scores and doubling down on student-centered initiatives. New safety and support measures include expanded transportation, crisis response teams, and virtual learning options to protect and assist students amid ongoing immigration enforcement activity. Superintendent Alberto Carvalho and city leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring every child learns in an environment free from fear, while continuing the district’s momentum toward academic excellence.

ShadeLA Takes Root: Cooling the City Ahead of the 2028 Olympics

With the 2028 Olympic Games on the horizon, Los Angeles is launching ShadeLA, a citywide effort to combat rising summer heat by planting trees and installing shade structures where they’re needed most. Led by USC and UCLA in partnership with local agencies and community groups, the initiative combines modern climate science, community engagement, and design innovation to create lasting cooling solutions for residents and visitors alike—ensuring the city stays cooler long after the Games end.

Pasadena’s Doo Dah Parade Postponed to 2026 Amid Wildfires and Funding Shortfall

Pasadena’s famously offbeat Doo Dah Parade, a playful counterpoint to the Rose Parade since 1978, will skip 2025 due to the Eaton wildfires and shaky funding. Organizers from the Light Bringer Project say they’re focusing on community recovery before the parade’s return on November 22, 2026—giving marchers extra time to dream up jester costumes, giant papier-mâché heads, and other delightfully wacky creations.

_{Advertisements}

Recommended Newsletters: