Category Archives: Community

Philadelphia Hispanic Heritage Month Shines with ‘Indivisible’ Campaign

Philadelphia is taking a bold step this Hispanic Heritage Month with the launch of Indivisible, a campaign that shines a spotlight on the stories of six Hispanic Philadelphians making a mark in their communities. The campaign, created by The Perception, highlights how being Hispanic and calling America home can exist as one indivisible whole.

“Philadelphia has always been a city that welcomes everyone,” said a spokesperson from Visit Philadelphia. “With Indivisible, we wanted to show the fullness of Hispanic American identity and celebrate the people who embody it every day.”

Story Highlights:

The Indivisible campaign features six Philadelphia leaders from food, arts, education, and business.
It emphasizes belonging, identity, and the city’s commitment to inclusivity.
Participants include chef Cristina Martinez, salsa dancer Keila Perez-Vega, and filmmaker Stephanie Ramones.
Campaign elements include video series, bilingual print ads, Spanish-language YouTube content, and social media promotions.
Videos produced by Applebaum Films, directed by Jon Walley, with photography by Justin Muir and music by Pull (NYC).

The campaign’s concept grew from a fascinating discovery: when translating the Pledge of Allegiance into Spanish, one word remains the same—“indivisible.” This word became a bridge, capturing the essence of what it means to be proudly Hispanic and proudly American.

“Indivisible is about more than just words,” said campaign director Jon Walley. “It’s about the lives of real people in Philadelphia who live out this idea every day.”

This campaign arrives at a moment when discussions around identity and belonging are happening across the country. Philadelphia is using this opportunity to reaffirm that everyone who calls the city home—whether by birth or choice—is part of the city’s fabric.

The six changemakers featured in Indivisible are:

Cristina Martinez, James Beard Award-winning chef at South Philly Barbacoa.
Keila Perez-Vega, world champion salsa dancer and founder of Artsi Philly.
Brandon Cisneros, digital and marketing specialist at Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Edward Garcia, owner of Queen & Rook Game Cafe.
Shawnick Rodriguez, artist and educator affiliated with Taller Puertorriqueño.
Stephanie Ramones, filmmaker and videographer.

Each of their stories is a testament to Philadelphia’s vision of being the nation’s most welcoming destination.

The campaign is part of Visit Philadelphia’s In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union initiative, which demonstrates how destination marketing can inspire conversations and drive visitation.

The Indivisible campaign includes a video series available at visitphilly.com/indivisible, with new videos rolling out through October 15, 2025. Print advertisements appear in bilingual regional publications, while a YouTube programmatic media buy targets Spanish-language content. Social media content is also active across Facebook and Instagram to reach broader audiences.

“Philadelphia is proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with such inspiring stories,” said Visit Philadelphia’s communications director. “It’s a reminder that our city is built on diversity, creativity, and community.”

For more information about Indivisible and Philadelphia Hispanic Heritage Month events, visit visitphilly.com/indivisible.

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Goodman LAX01 Data Center Powers Up Los Angeles Digital Scene

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Los Angeles has gained a major step forward in its digital infrastructure network as Goodman Group announces the structural topping out of its Goodman LAX01 data center in Vernon, California. The project marks one of the largest new data center developments in the region and signals the company’s growing commitment to U.S. digital hubs.

Located at 3094 E Vernon Avenue, the three-story LAX01 spans 263,410 square feet (24,471 sqm) and is designed to deliver up to 32MW of critical IT power (49.5MW gross). When complete, the facility will support high-density workloads for hyperscale and enterprise customers, strengthening Los Angeles’ role as a West Coast data center gateway.

Story Highlights

Goodman LAX01 data center Los Angeles: 263,410 sq ft with 32MW critical IT power, 49.5MW gross
Address: 3094 E Vernon Avenue, Vernon, California
Timeline: Construction began March 2025; power shell-ready mid-2026
Infrastructure: High-density workloads, 2N substation with dual 66kV feeds from Vernon Public Utilities
Partnership: Built with Whiting Turner
Global Capacity: Goodman Group holds 5GW across 13 cities worldwide

Construction Progress

Goodman began construction with partner Whiting Turner in March 2025. The company now expects the facility to be power shell-ready by mid-2026, giving customers access to a large-scale, high-density data center in Los Angeles’ growing technology corridor.

The site is engineered for resiliency. Its 2N substation design includes dual 66kV feeds transformed on-site by Vernon Public Utilities, allowing the center to deliver reliable power even in high-demand conditions.

Goodman’s Approach

In a separate statement, Anthony Rozic, CEO of Goodman North America, highlighted the company’s strategy:

“At LAX01, Goodman has drawn on its planning capabilities, strategic sites, and proven expertise to deliver complex infrastructure,” Rozic said.

He added:

“What sets Goodman apart is our ability to integrate every stage of development – from site selection and power procurement to construction and delivery. With the right land, power, people, and partners, we create reliable, scalable solutions in some of the world’s most important digital hubs.”

Global Reach

Goodman Group, an integrated property company, operates across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Europe, the UK, and the Americas. The company claims a global power bank of 5GW across 13 cities—2.7GW already secured and another 2.3GW in advanced stages of procurement. Earlier this year, Goodman announced plans to raise AU$4 billion (US$2.5 billion) to support its data center expansion.

The company joins other major logistics and industrial real estate firms—including Prologis, Segro, GLP, ESR, and P3—that are moving deeper into the data center sector. Reports also suggest Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund GIC may invest in Goodman’s data center assets, reflecting rising interest in this market.

Los Angeles Data Center Market

The Los Angeles data center ecosystem is already home to operators such as Digital Realty, Centersquare, Hivelocity, Evocative, Prime, CoreSite, DataBank, Cogent, Telehouse, Lumen, and Equinix. With the arrival of Goodman’s LAX01 Vernon facility, the region’s capacity and competition continue to grow, offering more choices for businesses needing high-density digital infrastructure.

As the Goodman LAX01 data center Los Angeles moves toward its 2026 completion, it stands as both a physical landmark and a symbol of the city’s expanding role in the global digital economy.

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LéaLA Returns to Los Angeles: The Ultimate Spanish-Language Book Festival Hits LA Plaza

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Los Angeles is gearing up for the return of LéaLA, the nation’s most ambitious celebration of Spanish-language books, set to take place from September 25-28 at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes. Now in its 10th edition, the free, four-day festival promises to attract thousands of book lovers, offering over three dozen storytelling events, workshops, and opportunities to explore the richness of Spanish literature.

Story Highlights

LéaLA returns to Los Angeles for its 10th edition from September 25-28.
Free, four-day festival celebrating Spanish-language books and literature.
Over three dozen storytelling events, workshops, and panels scheduled.
Theme: “Let’s Build Peace Together” encourages dialogue and harmony.
Provides access to rare Spanish-language books, including children’s literature, novels, and historical titles.
Organized by the University of Guadalajara Foundation USA at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes.

Festival director Marisol Schulz Manaut highlighted the diversity of the festival audience. “It’s open to everyone, not only Spanish-speaking people, but of course, people who want to learn a little bit more about our culture,” Schulz said. She added, “We want to provide fun, entertainment, and at the same time, culture.”

LéaLA is more than a book fair—it’s a cultural experience. The festival this year carries the theme “Let’s Build Peace Together”, reflecting a mission to promote dialogue and understanding through literature. According to Schulz, the event aims to provide attendees access to books that are not easily found throughout the year.

“It’s the best opportunity to buy books in Spanish,” Schulz explained. “Because, the rest of the year is not so easy to get children’s books. Not only children’s books, but also other kinds of books, novels, history, Mexican history, Latin American history.”

The festival coincides with Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month, further celebrating the contributions of Hispanic culture to the literary landscape. Over the course of four days, visitors can expect storytelling sessions for all ages, workshops with authors, and panels on topics ranging from historical narratives to contemporary literature.

Organized by the University of Guadalajara Foundation USA, the festival will be held at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, located at 501 N. Main St., Los Angeles. Attendance is free, making it accessible to both local residents and visitors eager to immerse themselves in Spanish-language literature.

For the full schedule of events and participating authors, readers can visit the official LéaLA website.

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Inside California’s Bold Net-Zero Energy Home Saving Thousands a Year

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With household bills rising faster than inflation, the promise of a net-zero energy home — a home that produces more power than it uses — has never felt more relevant. In Hermosa Beach, California, one family has been quietly proving for over a decade that it’s not just an idea.

Robert Fortunato, a longtime advocate of sustainable building, remodeled his family’s 1959, 2,150-square-foot house into what he calls the “Green Idea House.” Today it stands as one of the first net-zero energy, zero-carbon case study houses built for less than the cost of a traditional remodel.

“It’s one of the first net-zero energy, zero-carbon case study houses that was built for less cost than standard construction,” Fortunato says.
“We used standard construction materials and off-the-shelf technologies that anyone can use.”

Story Highlights

Net-zero energy home: Generates more electricity than it consumes
Solar power: 26 rooftop panels run the house and charge two electric cars
Gas-free living: All-electric appliances, induction cooking and heat-pump water heaters
Passive design: Roof overhangs and thermal chimney reduce heating and cooling needs
Annual savings: About $4,800 a year after solar payback
Adaptation: Design tweaked as climate warms faster than expected

Cutting Ties With Gas

Before the remodel, the Fortunato household looked like any other. Gas powered the hot-water heater, furnace and kitchen appliances. Fortunato says the family decided to change course after repeated news about oil companies and environmental damage.

“We had just seen so many instances where the oil companies were not being responsible for the environment,” he recalls.
“We had a gas hot water heater. We had a gas furnace. We had all gas appliances.”

Disconnecting from the gas utility during construction saved money on pipes and allowed the family to choose electric systems. Twenty-six rooftop solar panels now supply all the household’s electricity and enough surplus to charge two electric cars.

“We really haven’t had an electric bill or a gas bill in the last 13 years,” Fortunato says.

He paid about $18,000 upfront for the system and estimates the family saves around $4,800 annually in utility costs, reaching payback in four years.

Research, Planning and Passive Design

From the street, the modern three-story house blends in with its Hermosa Beach neighborhood of contemporary and Mission-style homes. Yet its hidden features show how a net-zero energy home works.

A flat roof extends five feet beyond the front wall, hiding the solar panels from view while shading the southwest-facing façade. In summer, the overhang blocks direct sunlight and lowers cooling needs. In winter, when the sun sits lower, natural light and heat enter through large windows to warm the interior.

“Sixty percent of the energy that is saved, in terms of heating and cooling, is through that overhang alone,” Fortunato explains.

An open stairway doubles as a “thermal chimney.” By opening two vented windows at the top, hot air naturally escapes, reducing the need for air conditioning. Several skylights bring daylight indoors, and efficient LED lighting minimizes evening use.

This approach draws on centuries-old ideas such as Native American cliff dwellings and is echoed in Harvard’s HouseZero project in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Staying the Course

Some changes were straightforward, like swapping incandescent bulbs for LEDs. Others required persistence. Fortunato chose locally manufactured brown metal siding to cut transport emissions but discovered late in the process that the color he ordered came only from a Texas factory. He switched to a similar shade made in nearby Fontana, California, to meet his goal.

He even replaced an old garage-door opener that consumed 15 watts constantly with a model using 80% less standby power.

Chris Magwood of the Rocky Mountain Institute says homeowners need to be clear about their motivations.

“Having me as a consultant is like having that annoying two-year-old in your house because I just go, ‘Why?’ Like, why a solar house?” Magwood says.

He notes that rooftop solar panels make the most environmental sense in states that burn large amounts of coal for electricity, but less so where power grids already rely on cleaner sources.

Updating for a Hotter Climate

When Fortunato began the remodel 15 years ago, some now-common technologies were just emerging. He installed two heat-pump water heaters in the garage — one for domestic hot water and another to supply radiators that heat the home — even though contractors treated the idea like “science fiction.”

As local temperatures have risen faster than expected, he has added shades to skylights and is considering a small air-conditioning unit. Regular cleaning of the solar panels has also become necessary to remove soot from busy street traffic.

“It’s so ironic,” Fortunato says.
“The thing we’re trying to fight actually is depositing this layer that reduces the production of the solar panels.”

Will More People Follow?

The Fortunato family hoped their project would inspire others to build or remodel for net-zero energy homes. They have offered tours, hosted a reality show and shared lessons widely. Yet such homes remain a fraction of a percent of the nation’s 140 million housing units.

“We wanted to make the house something that anyone would want to live in,” Fortunato says, contrasting his home with some efficient houses he’s seen that resemble “spaceships” or “mud huts.”

He believes the financial argument may eventually persuade more people. His rough math: about $200 a month saved on household utilities plus $100 each for two electric cars — roughly $400 a month still adding up 15 years after completion.

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Philadelphia Eyes End to Trash Incineration at Chester Facility

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Philadelphia may soon change the way it manages its waste, potentially ending decades of sending trash to be burned in Chester. A bill introduced to City Council Thursday seeks to ban the city from signing new contracts with companies that incinerate trash to produce energy, such as Reworld, formerly Covanta, which operates a major waste-to-energy facility in Chester, Delaware County.

The legislation comes amid growing concerns over environmental and public health impacts, particularly for communities near incineration plants. About 40% of Philadelphia’s trash is currently incinerated, according to the city’s latest waste management plan, while the rest ends up in landfills. Among the facilities used, Reworld’s Chester plant handles the largest share.

Story Highlights:

Philadelphia may stop trash incineration at the Chester facility.
Reworld, formerly Covanta, is the city’s largest waste-to-energy partner.
40% of Philadelphia’s trash is currently incinerated.
Incineration emissions include particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, affecting respiratory and cardiovascular health.
Bill aims to reduce environmental impact and address environmental justice concerns in Chester.

Zulene Mayfield, chairperson of Chester Residents Concerned for Quality Living, said the community has long felt the burden of Philadelphia’s trash.

“Everything that we can divert away from that incinerator will improve our lives and the air quality for everybody,” Mayfield said.

She emphasized that Chester residents have been exposed to the facility’s emissions for decades.

“Our children and our community, we just literally cannot breathe,” she added.

Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who sponsored the legislation, noted that Philadelphia’s current contracts with Reworld and Waste Management are set to expire at the end of June 2026.

“Neither disposal method is perfect,” Gauthier said. “Landfilling is not perfect, but trash incineration has a greater impact not only on the environment, but on the people who live around trash incinerators. I think that’s something that we have to be cognizant of.”

Reworld markets its waste-to-energy operations as a more sustainable alternative to landfills. The Chester facility generates enough electricity to power approximately 51,000 homes each year and, according to the company, helps prevent methane emissions that would otherwise be released from landfills.

A company spokesperson emphasized that the facility’s emissions remain “below federal and state limits.” However, Reworld has been cited in the past for environmental violations, highlighting ongoing community concerns.

For Gauthier, the proposed ban on trash incineration contracts is also a matter of environmental justice.

“Ending Philadelphia’s role in perpetuating environmental racism in Chester is crucial,” he said.

More than 70% of Chester residents are Black, and over one in four lives below the poverty line — higher than in Philadelphia.

“Being cleaner and greener can’t just be thought about as only within Philadelphia’s borders,” Gauthier said. “It cannot come at the expense of a city who is more vulnerable than we are. And, we’re breathing the same air,” he added.

The bill represents a potential shift in Philadelphia’s waste management strategy, balancing energy production and environmental responsibility. It highlights growing awareness of how waste-to-energy solutions can impact both local communities and neighboring cities.

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George Soros Donation Fuels Gavin Newsom’s Redistricting Battle

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California’s high-stakes redistricting fight has drawn a $10 million boost from billionaire investor George Soros, a longtime progressive benefactor whose spending has become a lightning rod in national politics. The contribution, first reported by the New York Times, is the single largest to date for Proposition 50, the ballot measure backed by Governor Gavin Newsom to redraw the state’s congressional maps.

Story Highlights

George Soros donates $10 million to Governor Gavin Newsom’s Proposition 50 redistricting campaign
Labor unions, a Democratic PAC, and wealthy liberal donors have raised over $30 million in total
New House maps could remove up to six Republican incumbents while strengthening Democratic seats
Soros previously spent $1 million defending Newsom during the 2021 recall election
Republicans call Soros’s influence “outside interference,” making the measure a highly partisan national fight

Democratic strategists say the George Soros donation highlights the urgency of the campaign. Labor unions, a national Democratic political action committee, and a network of wealthy liberal donors have already raised more than $30 million to push the measure ahead of the November vote. Supporters argue the proposed House maps would create fairer representation and end years of gerrymandering. Critics say the effort is a power grab designed to shore up Democratic seats.

“This is about ensuring California’s voters get a fair shake,” a Newsom campaign adviser said in a statement. “Governor Newsom welcomes the support of anyone who wants fair maps for all Californians.”

According to filings, the new House maps could force out up to six Republican incumbents while solidifying Democratic strongholds. The scope of the change has turned what might have been a low-profile state issue into a national fight watched closely in Washington.

Soros is no stranger to California politics. In 2021, he spent $1 million to help Newsom defeat a recall attempt. He has also bankrolled campaigns to elect progressive prosecutors who favor lighter sentencing and increased police accountability — policies that have brought him fierce criticism from conservatives.

“Republicans see George Soros as a symbol of outside influence,” said a GOP strategist opposed to Proposition 50. “This donation will only intensify opposition to what they view as a partisan redistricting scheme.”

Political scientists note that Soros’s involvement is likely to harden partisan lines around Proposition 50. For Democrats, his support is a sign of momentum and financial muscle. For Republicans, it’s evidence of what they describe as “big-money liberal interference.”

With weeks left before voters cast their ballots, the George Soros donation to Gavin Newsom’s redistricting campaign ensures the debate over California’s congressional boundaries will remain a headline-grabbing issue far beyond the state’s borders.

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Sesame Place San Diego Closes Until 2026: Passholders React to Surprise Seasonal Shift

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CHULA VISTA, Calif. — In a major operational change, Sesame Place San Diego announced on Sept. 15 that it will move from year-round operations to a seasonal schedule. The park will shut its gates on Sept. 21 and is not scheduled to reopen until May 2026, according to its online calendar.

A spokesperson for Sesame Place San Diego told SFGATE by email, “By focusing on our most popular times of year, we can deliver the best possible experience from the moment guests arrive until the moment they leave.”

Story Highlights

Park closure: Ends daily operations Sept. 21, 2024; reopening May 2026
Event cancellations: Count’s Halloween Spooktacular and A Very Furry Christmas dropped
Compensation: 2025 season passholders offered SeaWorld “Fun Cards”
Ownership: Park operated by United Parks and Resorts, also owner of SeaWorld San Diego

Background on the Park

Opened in 2022 in its current form, Sesame Place San Diego blends theme park rides with water attractions and interactive shows. The Chula Vista park features parades and meet-and-greets with Sesame Street favorites such as Elmo, Big Bird, Bert and Ernie.

Impact on Passholders

To offset the closure, the park said it would issue SeaWorld “Fun Cards” with unlimited admission to 2025 season passholders. Single-day ticket holders have been given options to rebook for 2026, switch their ticket to SeaWorld San Diego or request a refund.

But many loyal customers said the sudden announcement left them frustrated and scrambling.

Hayley Porter, a resident of the San Gabriel Valley, told SFGATE she had purchased a pass for the end of 2025 through 2026 and had been looking forward to returning with her daughter after a visit in May 2024.

After learning of the closure, Porter posted on the park’s Instagram account, calling the move “outrageous” and “unprofessional.”

In a direct message to SFGATE, she added, “We are not happy with the news, there was no notice or any type of communication. Not a big fan of SeaWorld, so we are not happy. … So sick of these big corporations taking advantage.”

Complaints Over Refunds and Cancellations

Nikki Lincoln Williams, a San Diego resident, said she purchased four 2026 passes during a promotion that included the rest of 2025. Because her passes are technically for 2026, she said she was not offered a SeaWorld Fun Card.

“I’m going to work with my credit card to cancel the charges and get a refund on what I’ve already paid because the park is not delivering what I paid for,” Williams told SFGATE in a direct message. “I tried reaching out through their website when I heard the news, and have not heard a response.”

Williams also expressed disappointment about the loss of seasonal events. “We were looking forward to the Halloween and Christmas events,” she said. “The park has always done a good job of decorating and having meet and greets with the characters and a special show.”

Travel Plans Disrupted

The cancellation of fall and winter programs at Sesame Place San Diego has also affected out-of-state visitors.

“My family planned to travel from out of state to attend the Halloween Spooktacular,” wrote Sel Ruiz on the park’s Facebook page. “How do you expect people to plan entire vacations around your posted operating schedule and pull the plug with less than two weeks’ notice?”

Corporate Ownership and Next Steps

Parent company United Parks and Resorts owns both Sesame Place San Diego and SeaWorld San Diego. The abrupt shift means the Count’s Halloween Spooktacular and A Very Furry Christmas are canceled for 2024 and 2025.

According to the park calendar, Sesame Place San Diego is slated to reopen in May 2026 under its new seasonal schedule.

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California’s Jewelflowers: Rare Wildflowers Racing Against Climate Change

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The small, bell-shaped blooms that sway like tiny jewels in the breeze give jewelflowers their evocative name. In dazzling shades of yellow, maroon, purple, brown and white, these plants light up the Sierra foothills, arid deserts, coastal bluffs and grasslands of California. Despite their exotic appearance, jewelflowers belong to the humble mustard family.

More than 60 species are scattered across the state. Some have incredibly restricted ranges. Farnworth’s jewelflower (Streptanthus farnsworthianus) grows only in the Sierra foothills. The striking Mount Tamalpais jewelflower (Streptanthus batrachopus) clings to the slopes of a single peak just north of San Francisco. Such endemism makes these wildflowers both captivating and vulnerable.

📌 Story Highlights

Jewelflowers (Streptanthus and Caulanthus) are endemic California wildflowers, with many species found only in one location.
They originated in arid southwestern deserts 2–5 million years ago and spread north into California’s Mediterranean climate.
A new study shows jewelflowers survive by altering their germination and flowering schedules rather than evolving new climate tolerances.
Seeds sprout after first rains, then bloom during the hottest, driest part of the year — regardless of region.
High habitat specificity leaves many species endangered and at risk from climate change.

A Long Journey From the Desert

The evolutionary story of jewelflowers stretches back millions of years. These plants began in the arid deserts of the Southwest and slowly moved north, establishing themselves from Baja California to Oregon. They now thrive in environments that seem far removed from their desert origin, including cooler, wetter regions of California’s Mediterranean climate.

For decades, botanists assumed this expansion was powered by classic adaptation — that jewelflowers evolved to tolerate a wide range of temperatures and rainfall. But a new study has upended that assumption.

Changing the Schedule, Not the DNA

Researchers discovered that jewelflowers’ real secret lies not in genetic overhaul but in the timing of their lives.

“Jewelflowers are really amazing plants,” said Megan Bontrager, study co-author and botanist at the University of Toronto.

She continued:

“It’s one of the groups of flowers that have figured out how to complete their life cycle under the constraints of that super dry spring and summer.”

The team examined 14 species and found a striking pattern. All of them — whether in hot deserts or cooler northern hills — germinated after the first rains and flowered during the driest, hottest part of the year. Even in mild regions, jewelflowers actively sought drought-prone soils with poor water retention, echoing the deserts of their ancestry.

Evidence Hidden in Herbarium Drawers

The researchers based their findings on nearly 2,000 herbarium specimens from the Consortium of California Herbaria. Each specimen included the location and date of collection. When paired with historic climate data, the records allowed scientists to reconstruct when the plants sprouted and how old they were.

The result was a clear picture: regardless of geography, jewelflowers consistently synchronized their life stages with the onset of heat and dryness.

Vulnerability in a Warming World

This survival tactic has limits. Many jewelflower species are already threatened. The California jewelflower (Caulanthus californicus) and the Tiburon jewelflower (Streptanthus glandulosus niger) are listed as endangered due to habitat loss, overgrazing, urban development and pollinator decline.

As climate change reshapes California, scientists expect the first rains — the vital cue for jewelflower germination — to arrive later in the year. This would compress the plants’ already tight growing window.

“If they can’t flower in time and produce seeds, fewer and fewer plants will appear in subsequent years,” Bontrager warned.

Pollinators Out of Sync

There is also the risk of a timing mismatch with pollinators. If insects emerge earlier than the jewelflowers bloom, fewer seeds may be produced. Such mismatches have been documented in other plant–pollinator systems and could accelerate declines.

Isabela Lima Borges, an expert in rare plants at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden who was not involved in the study, underscored the implications:

“This study shows how creatively using natural history collections can reveal the ecological limits of rare plants. These flowers may look widespread but still have very specific needs.”

Preserving Refuges

With intense heat waves, prolonged droughts, extreme rainfall and larger wildfires already altering California’s landscapes, protecting the refuges where jewelflowers can persist may be the only way to secure their future. Conservationists argue that understanding their unique survival strategy is a first step toward safeguarding these rare gems of the state’s flora.

Jewelflowers may have learned to adjust their clocks, but in a rapidly changing climate, even their finely tuned timing could be tested.

California’s jewelflowers are more than dazzling wildflowers; they’re a lesson in survival. By shifting their germination and flowering schedules instead of evolving new traits, these endemic plants have thrived for millennia. Yet their highly specific habitats leave them vulnerable to delayed rains, hotter summers and disrupted pollination under climate change. Without protecting refuges and pollinator networks, even this clever timing strategy may not save California’s rarest blooms. Safeguarding jewelflowers now means preserving a unique piece of the state’s natural heritage.

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Ralph Galati to Lead 2025 Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival as Grand Marshal

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As POW/MIA Recognition Day nears this Friday, Philadelphia gears up for one of the city’s most anticipated events honoring service members. The 11th annual Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival will take place on Sunday, Nov. 9, featuring Ralph Galati, a U.S. Air Force veteran and former prisoner of war, as the grand marshal.

The parade will kick off at noon, making its way along the iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway and concluding at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Following the parade, the Veterans Festival will unfold in Eakins Oval until 4 p.m., offering attendees a full day of recognition, community engagement, and veteran-centered activities.

Story Highlights:

11th Annual Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival on Nov. 9.
Grand Marshal: Ralph Galati, decorated Air Force veteran and former POW.
Parade route: Benjamin Franklin Parkway to Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Veterans Festival at Eakins Oval until 4 p.m.
Founded in 2014, featuring 150+ organizations and attracting 7,000+ participants.
Event highlights veteran service, advocacy, and awareness of ongoing challenges.

Ralph Galati’s military service is marked by courage and resilience. As a Forward Air Controller in Southeast Asia, his mission was unexpectedly cut short when he was shot down and captured, spending 14 months as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam. For his valor and dedication, Galati was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star with Valor, Purple Heart, and Prisoner of War Medal.

After leaving active duty, Galati transitioned to a 30-year career in corporate America. His commitment to veterans continued as he founded the Office of Veterans Services at his alma mater, St. Joseph’s University. There, he introduced the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program, creating new opportunities for veterans navigating life beyond military service.

“Ralph Galati’s story is one of bravery, endurance, and purpose,” said Anthony Murphy, president of the Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival. “As a veteran, a leader, and an advocate for those who’ve served, Ralph embodies the spirit of this annual event. We’re honored to have him as our 2025 grand marshal.”

Galati himself reflected on the honor with humility. “I’m humbled and appreciative to be named grand marshal of the 2025 Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival,” he said.

He continued, “This event is not only a celebration of service but also an opportunity to raise continued awareness of the challenges many veterans still face. I’m honored to represent all who have served and to help ensure their stories are heard and their needs addressed.”

Since its founding in 2014, the Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival has grown into a major annual event, featuring more than 150 organizations and drawing over 7,000 participants. The festival highlights veterans’ contributions while providing a platform for community engagement, advocacy, and public recognition of service members.

The event is organized by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors and an active organizing committee. For those interested in participating, registering, or becoming a sponsor, detailed information is available at www.phillyveteransparade.org.

With Ralph Galati at the helm as grand marshal, the 2025 Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival promises to honor service, highlight veteran achievements, and shine a spotlight on the ongoing challenges faced by those who have served.

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SB 9 Housing Law Sparks Fire-Zone Showdown in Los Angeles County

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A pair of crises are converging in Los Angeles County. Congress has cut $3.4 million in federal funding for LAist, threatening the nonprofit newsroom’s ability to cover local affairs. At the same time, the county is grappling with how — and where — to rebuild after January’s destructive fires.

One of the biggest flashpoints is California’s SB 9 housing law, which allows homeowners to split lots and add duplexes or up to four units on land previously zoned for a single house. Supporters call SB 9 a lifeline for fire-hit families. Opponents call it dangerous densification in high-risk burn zones.

Story Highlights

Funding cut: LAist loses $3.4 million over two years after Congress reduces public-media support.
Key law: SB 9 housing law lets owners rebuild duplexes or multiple units on single-family parcels.
Divided response: Mayor Karen Bass banned SB 9 projects in the Pacific Palisades; Altadena leaders left the option open.
Applications: 26 SB 9 rebuild requests filed in Altadena; seven were filed in the Palisades before the ban.
Safety vs. equity: Critics cite evacuation risks; backers cite financial survival and multigenerational housing.

A Law Few Used — Until the Fires

Since taking effect in 2022, the SB 9 housing law had been a quiet experiment. Costly and tightly regulated, it was seldom invoked. That changed after January’s wildfires destroyed more than 13,000 homes.

Now, dozens of burned-out homeowners are filing SB 9 applications. Seven went in at the Pacific Palisades before Mayor Karen Bass halted the practice. In Altadena, 26 applications had arrived by early September.

Mayor’s Ban vs. County’s Openness

Bass acted soon after Governor Gavin Newsom gave local leaders the power to suspend SB 9 in very high fire-hazard areas. Her administration argued that adding more homes, and more people, would strain roads and emergency response during the next disaster.

County leaders in Altadena took the opposite tack. “I don’t want to disenfranchise anyone from the ability to rebuild,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who represents the area. “We have the flexibility at the local level to address what SB 9 is doing without taking away local land rights.”

Balancing Safety and Survival

Barger generally opposes state laws overriding local zoning. Yet she praised Newsom for restricting high-density development on Altadena’s Fair Oaks and Lake Avenue corridors after the Eaton Fire.

At the same time, she said SB 9 gives burned-out homeowners a financial foothold. “I want people to be able to choose to rebuild because they want to,” Barger said. “I want to make sure I don’t put any hurdles in place.”

Under SB 9, owners can rent secondary units or pool resources with relatives on the same lot — a chance to stay in their community rather than sell and leave.

Rebuilding a Legacy

For Paul Sanchez of Altadena, the SB 9 housing law may be the only way forward. Before the fire, his family lived in a classic post-war modernist home with steel framing and floor-to-ceiling windows — designed by an architect who fled Vienna after the Holocaust.

“The home that I lived in was built with new materials and new ideas at the time in 1948,” Sanchez recalled. “I’m going to continue this legacy of new ideas.”

He is exploring pre-fabricated, fire-resistant models and plans to keep units small and affordable for renters and for himself and his wife. “I’m cautiously optimistic,” he said, standing on the dirt lot. “I think SB 9 is an option that could really help me. Because I’m not sure if I can do it without it.”

Multigenerational Solutions

Nonprofit Neighborhood Housing Services of L.A. County is advising homeowners on rebuilding. CEO Lori Gay said SB 9 is complex but can work, especially for long-term, cash-strapped residents.

Her staff gently urges owners to keep properties in the family. “Do you have someone else in your family that either you’d consider selling to, or parcel-splitting with?” they ask.

Often, seniors are willing to move into smaller spaces while letting relatives occupy the main home. “As we think about rebuilding now, is that something that’s workable for people?” Gay said.

Critics Mobilize Online

Opponents have taken their case to social media. Before Bass suspended the law in the Palisades, influencer Spencer Pratt posted viral TikToks attacking leaders for allowing duplexes. He said the area “cannot handle more density.”

Christopher LeGras of Our Neighborhood Voices, a group opposed to state-imposed density, warned of evacuation hazards. “The idea of putting in more people who would have to evacuate if — God forbid — there’s another major emergency, is just reckless,” he said.

Opponents also fear SB 9 will change the character of low-density blocks. “When you start talking duplexes and real, more substantial multifamily [homes], I think that’s a bridge too far,” LeGras said.

Mild Density Gains So Far

None of the Altadena applications seek full lot splits or the four-unit maximum. Most propose only one additional unit. Barger has asked the county’s Public Works Department to study the impact of higher-density projects but is leaving SB 9 available for now.

Malibu has also refrained from banning SB 9 and reports no applications. Developer Andrew Slocum, who helps Altadena homeowners, said most use SB 9 to add just one unit but get better property valuations than through accessory dwelling unit (ADU) laws.

He criticized Bass’s decision as a “knee-jerk reaction” that “robbed” Palisades homeowners of rebuilding options.

Governor’s Order Still in Play

Newsom’s executive order gave local leaders the choice to suspend SB 9 in high fire-hazard burn zones. It does not cover all of Altadena, but officials could still restrict the law in the community’s eastern foothills.

Independent Journalism Under Pressure

As LAist documents the fallout of the SB 9 housing law in fire-zones, its own future is uncertain. The loss of $3.4 million in federal funds jeopardizes its paywall-free reporting on housing, climate and the homelessness crisis.

The newsroom is appealing to readers for support. It argues that no matter one’s politics, press freedom and independent local journalism are vital to keeping communities informed.

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