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California Earthquake

California Earthquake Rocks Bay Area: Berkeley Epicenter Feels Magnitude 4.3 Tremor

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A California earthquake struck the Bay Area in the early hours of Monday, leaving residents startled as tremors were felt across multiple cities. The US Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed that the epicenter of the quake was near Berkeley, with a shallow depth of just 5 miles. Phones blared with USGS Shake Alerts, waking up many residents as their homes shook.

Data from the USGS indicated that the main earthquake had a magnitude of 4.3 and occurred around 2:56 a.m. on Monday. Earlier in the night, a smaller magnitude 2.4 tremor was recorded near Petrolia, California, at 12:50 a.m., signaling early seismic activity in the region.

Story Highlights

  • Magnitude 4.3 California earthquake strikes near Berkeley at 2:56 a.m.

  • Earlier magnitude 2.4 tremor recorded near Petrolia at 12:50 a.m.

  • Tremors felt across the Bay Area, including San Francisco and Vallejo

  • No reports of injuries or significant damage have been reported

Residents took to social media to describe the sudden California earthquake. One X user shared, “Pretty big earthquake just now at 2:56 a.m. Felt a strong jolt here in San Francisco. Did you feel it?”

Another resident added, “Yeah, that rocked me out of bed #earthquake. It was hard to ignore the shaking.”

Some felt the intensity of the quake more closely to the epicenter. One user reported, “Very hard shaking and loud. I thought it would have been bigger, but I am a mile from the epicenter.”

In Vallejo, the tremors were strong enough to wake residents instantly. One wrote, “Yes! Woke me up – whole house shook hard. It definitely felt stronger than usual.”

Despite the widespread shaking and social media buzz, local authorities confirmed that there were no immediate reports of injuries or significant structural damage. Residents were advised to remain alert for potential aftershocks, a common occurrence following a magnitude 4.3 California earthquake.

This latest event underlines the ongoing seismic activity in California and highlights the importance of preparedness for residents in the Bay Area, particularly near Berkeley and surrounding cities. With frequent minor quakes occurring, authorities continue to emphasize earthquake safety measures, including securing heavy furniture, keeping emergency kits, and staying aware of official alerts.

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California Cap-and-Trade Program Pushes Forward as U.S. Clean Energy Policy Retreats

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While federal clean-energy policy is rolling backward, California is charting a different course. State lawmakers have passed a long-term extension of the California cap-and-trade program, strengthening its climate framework even as Washington scales back tax credits and dismantles regulations.

Story Highlights

  • Federal reversal: Clean-energy tax credits reduced; new regulatory barriers delay projects; major projects halted.

  • California action: Cap-and-trade program extended to 2045 to align with net-zero goals.

  • Program scope: Covers 85% of California emissions in transportation, energy and industry.

  • Economic benefits: Generates billions for climate investments and market-based pollution reduction.

  • Affordability steps: Electricity bill credits, refinery relief, and regional grid participation.

  • Broad support: More than 40 companies, including IKEA U.S. and Rivian, backed the law.

Federal Backsliding on Clean Energy

Across the United States, federal clean-energy incentives are shrinking. Tax credits have been rolled back, new regulatory barriers are delaying energy projects and some nearly completed facilities have been halted. Investors are unsettled, jobs are at risk and costs are climbing. At the same time, the administration is moving to repeal core rules for regulating climate pollution, threatening both public health and U.S. leadership in global clean-technology markets.

“The rollback of clean-energy policy is creating real uncertainty,” said one energy-market analyst. “It unnerves investors and raises costs for everyone.”

California’s Forward Path

California, now the world’s fourth-largest economy, has chosen a different path. First launched in 2013, the California cap-and-trade program sets limits on carbon pollution across transportation, energy and industrial sectors, covering about 85% of the state’s emissions. By putting a price on climate risk, it encourages businesses to reduce emissions in the most cost-effective way and has generated billions for local climate projects.

“It has been central to our emissions reductions,” said a state environmental official. “Market-based policies like this one are proven to work.”

Need for Long-Term Certainty

The program was due to expire in 2030. Uncertainty over its future had begun to rattle markets and put billions of dollars in revenue at risk. Although the system had proven effective, its pollution cap was not projected to meet California’s net-zero target by 2045.

In response, lawmakers moved to strengthen and reauthorize the California cap-and-trade program through 2045. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill into law shortly after its passage.

“At a time that demanded leadership, California answered the call,” Newsom said in a statement. “This ensures policy certainty and keeps our climate goals on track.”

Business and Community Support

More than 40 companies—including Dignity Health, Franklin Energy, Grove Collaborative, IKEA U.S., REI Co-op, Rivian and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company—publicly endorsed the legislation. They cited policy stability, program efficiency and local investment benefits.

“California’s long-term commitment gives businesses confidence to invest in clean technology,” said a spokesperson for one supporting company.

Addressing Affordability Concerns

Cost-of-living pressures remain a major issue across the country. Critics of the extension argued that it could raise energy prices in a state where electricity is already expensive. Some environmental advocates also questioned whether market-based systems reduce local air pollution.

To address affordability, lawmakers paired the extension with other measures, including relief for oil refineries to mitigate gas price spikes, authority for California’s grid operator to join regional electricity markets and twice-yearly credits applied to Californians’ peak-season electricity bills.

“These steps help merge climate action with pocketbook concerns,” said an industry group representative who dropped opposition after the package came together.

A Pragmatic Model for States

While not all critics were satisfied, the final package marked a pragmatic approach to balancing consumer affordability with climate action. California has shown that cost-of-living concerns—currently top-of-mind for voters—can be integrated with clean-energy policy, which often feels more abstract.

As federal policies move in the opposite direction, California’s example offers a template for other states seeking to integrate economic and environmental priorities through market-based solutions.

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Lowe’s to Pay $1 Million Over Price Accuracy Violations Across California

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Lowe’s has agreed to pay just over $1 million to settle a lawsuit accusing the home improvement giant of overcharging customers and engaging in false advertising, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced Wednesday. The civil complaint, filed by a coalition of California district attorney offices, alleged that Lowe’s charged some customers prices higher than the advertised or posted lowest prices.

Story Highlights

  • Lowe’s agrees to pay $1 million over price accuracy violations in California.

  • Allegations include overcharging and false advertising in ten counties.

  • Average overcharge recorded at 19.3 percent; 4.4 percent of items affected.

  • Settlement includes civil penalties, investigatory costs, and restitution for consumer protection.

  • Court injunction mandates a new price accuracy policy, internal audits, and a ban on weekend price hikes.

  • Complaint filed by six county district attorney offices; Lowe’s settles without admitting liability.

The violations were reported in ten counties across California between 2018 and 2022. According to authorities, the average overcharge per transaction was 19.3 percent, affecting 4.4 percent of items sold during that period.

As part of the settlement, Lowe’s will pay $1 million in civil penalties, along with investigatory costs and restitution aimed at supporting future consumer protection enforcement efforts.

A court injunction will also require Lowe’s to adopt a new price accuracy policy, conduct regular internal audits, and agree not to raise prices over weekends.

“This settlement protects shoppers and ensures fair pricing at checkout,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman.

He added, “Equally important, it holds retailers accountable for illegal business practices, sending a clear message that deceptive pricing will not be tolerated in California.”

The complaint was jointly filed by the district attorney offices of Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange, Alameda, San Bernardino, and Sonoma counties. Despite the settlement, Lowe’s did not admit any liability.

Consumer advocates say that price accuracy remains a critical issue for shoppers, particularly in large retail chains where advertised prices may differ from checkout totals. Authorities hope the settlement will set a precedent for stricter monitoring of pricing practices in the retail sector.

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Target Fresno Store Opens Massive 148,000 Sq. Ft. “Store-as-Hub” for Faster Online Orders

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Target is continuing its aggressive expansion strategy with the opening of a massive new “store-as-hub” in Fresno, California, just three hours from Los Angeles. Spanning an impressive 148,000 square feet, this location represents the brand’s growing commitment to blending traditional retail with digital fulfillment.

Story Highlights:

  • Target opens 148,000 sq. ft. “store-as-hub” in Fresno, California.

  • One of seven new locations launching this fall; six exceed 125,000 sq. ft.

  • Stores combine traditional retail with digital fulfillment.

  • Designed to serve as regional hubs for faster online orders.

  • Expansion targets seamless online and in-store shopping experience.

“The new Fresno store is more than a shopping destination,” said a Target spokesperson. “It’s a regional hub designed to handle higher inventory and speed up online orders, giving customers a faster, more seamless shopping experience.”

Unlike standard Target locations, these larger formats are specifically built to serve dual purposes. They cater to in-store shoppers while also functioning as fulfillment centers for digital orders. This approach allows the company to leverage its existing physical footprint, fulfilling most online orders directly from stores.

Target plans to open seven new stores this fall, six of which will exceed the standard 125,000 square-foot layout. The Fresno location, at 205 South Clovis Avenue, is among the largest in the company’s portfolio. Analysts note that this expansion aligns with growing trends in online shopping, particularly for groceries and everyday essentials.

“Our goal is to make online shopping faster and more convenient,” added the spokesperson. “By positioning these stores as both shopping destinations and fulfillment hubs, we can serve our customers more efficiently while offering a broader range of in-store products.”

The Fresno “store-as-hub” is a key part of Target’s strategy to streamline digital order processing. As Americans continue to embrace online shopping, this hybrid model is becoming increasingly essential. The combination of large physical stores with integrated fulfillment capabilities sets Target apart in a highly competitive retail market.

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Jimmy Kimmel Live Suspended: ABC Faces Backlash Over Charlie Kirk Comments

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Protesters are preparing to gather Thursday outside the “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” studios to protest ABC’s indefinite suspension of the popular late-night talk show. The suspension follows comments by Jimmy Kimmel regarding the fatal shooting of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, sparking national debate on free speech, media accountability, and political commentary in late-night television.

Story Highlights:

  • ABC suspends “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” indefinitely after comments on Charlie Kirk’s shooting.

  • Los Angeles protest planned outside El Capitan Entertainment Center.

  • Nexstar and Sinclair affiliates refuse to air the show; Sinclair demands apology and donation.

  • FCC Chairman Brendan Carr warns of possible license revocation for affiliates continuing broadcast.

  • Hollywood unions, including SAG-AFTRA and WGA, condemn suspension, citing threats to free speech.

  • Disney monitoring situation; no return date set for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

  • Charlie Kirk was killed while speaking at Utah Valley University; accused gunman faces death penalty.

The demonstration is set for 4:30 p.m. outside the El Capitan Entertainment Center on Hollywood Boulevard, the long-time home of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” The show’s future remains uncertain, with ABC citing the need to pause production as it navigates public backlash and affiliate concerns.

During Monday night’s broadcast, Kimmel addressed Kirk’s assassination. He said:

“We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”

Kimmel’s remarks prompted swift action from media organizations. Nexstar Media Group announced that its television stations would not air “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” in response to the comments. Andrew Alford, president of Nexstar’s broadcasting division, said:

“Mr. Kimmel’s comments about the death of Mr. Kirk are offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national political discourse. We do not believe they reflect the spectrum of opinions, views, or values of the local communities in which we are located. Continuing to give Mr. Kimmel a broadcast platform in the communities we serve is simply not in the public interest at the current time.”

The Los Angeles protest is being organized by RefuseFascism.org, which issued a statement urging public action:

“If Jimmy Kimmel can’t speak truth to power, then who can? We say this must stop and Jimmy must be restored. Come to protest this blatant Fascist crackdown Thursday, Sept. 18th at 4:30 pm when the Jimmy Kimmel show SHOULD be taping.”

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr also weighed in, suggesting that ABC affiliates continuing to air Kimmel could face license revocation. On a recent podcast, Carr said:

“Affiliates should refuse to air Kimmel due to the possibility of license revocation from the FCC.”

Meanwhile, Sinclair, the nation’s largest ABC affiliate group, announced that it would air a special on Charlie Kirk’s life during Kimmel’s usual time slot. The network said it would not resume the show until formal discussions with ABC about “commitment to professionalism and accountability” were conducted. Sinclair also called on Kimmel to issue a direct apology to the Kirk family and to make a meaningful personal donation to the family and Turning Point USA.

Disney has not provided a specific return date for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” but is monitoring the situation. According to the Wall Street Journal, the show could potentially return in the coming days. Kimmel has not issued any public response to the suspension.

Hollywood unions also responded, emphasizing the importance of free speech. SAG-AFTRA said:

“Our society depends on freedom of expression. Suppression of free speech and retaliation for speaking out on significant issues of public concern run counter to the fundamental rights we all rely on. Democracy thrives when diverse points of view are expressed. The decision to suspend airing ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ is the type of suppression and retaliation that endangers everyone’s freedoms.”

The Writers Guild of America West and East issued a joint statement, stressing:

“The right to speak our minds and to disagree with each other – to disturb, even – is at the very heart of what it means to be a free people. It is not to be denied. Not by violence, not by the abuse of governmental power, nor by acts of corporate cowardice. We stand united in opposition to anyone who uses their power and influence to silence the voices of writers, or anyone who speaks in dissent.”

Political reactions have been strong. Governor Gavin Newsom wrote on X:

“Buying and controlling media platforms. Firing commentators. Canceling shows. These aren’t coincidences. It’s coordinated. And it’s dangerous. The @GOP does not believe in free speech. They are censoring you in real time.”

Former President Donald Trump praised ABC’s decision, posting on Truth Social:

“Great news for America: The ratings challenged Jimmy Kimmel Show is cancelled. Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done. Kimmel has zero talent and worse ratings than even Stephen Colbert, if that’s possible.”

Charlie Kirk, 31, was shot while speaking to students at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Tyler Robinson, 22, has been charged with murder, and prosecutors indicated they would seek the death penalty if he is convicted.

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California Housing Market 2026: Prices Edge Up as Sales Slowly Recover

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The California housing market could be entering a steadier phase after several years of volatility. According to the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.), single-family home sales and median prices are both projected to rise in 2026. Although the gains will be modest compared with the sharp increases earlier in the decade, the outlook suggests more stability for buyers and sellers across the state.

Story Highlights

  • Single-family home sales: Forecast to rise to 274,400 in 2026 from 269,000 in 2025

  • Median California home price: Expected to reach $905,000 in 2026, up from $873,900 in 2025

  • Affordability index: Projected at 18% in 2026, up slightly from 17%

  • Mortgage rates: 30-year fixed expected to decline to 6.0% from 6.6%

  • Active listings: Set to increase nearly 10% toward pre-pandemic levels

Slower Growth but Signs of Stability

C.A.R.’s forecast indicates that both California home prices and sales are inching upward. In 2026, the group expects 274,400 single-family homes to change hands, compared with 269,000 in 2025. The median home price could climb to a record $905,000, following an increase to $873,900 this year.

“Home prices in California are expected to rise in 2026, but the growth pace will remain mild when compared to rates we’ve seen in past years,” said C.A.R. President Heather Ozur, a Palm Springs REALTOR®.

Ozur added that the shift could offer a window for buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines:

“For would-be buyers who sat out the competitive market during the past couple of years, that means more opportunities as inventory increases moderately and lending conditions become more favorable. Seller confidence will also improve as home prices stabilize and demand begins to rise again next year after a slow 2025.”

Affordability Still Tight but Easing

Even with the projected improvements, the California housing market remains challenging for many families. C.A.R. expects the state’s housing affordability index to inch up to 18% in 2026 from a projected 17% in 2025 — still near historic lows. Only about one in six households would be able to afford a median-priced home.

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate, however, is expected to decline to 6.0% from 6.6% in 2025. Lower borrowing costs could offer some relief. A study by HomeAbroad and Ziffy.ai found that at a 6% mortgage rate, buyers would need about $2,448 less in annual income to qualify for a loan. The savings could be even greater in high-cost areas, making it easier for middle-income earners such as teachers and first responders to purchase homes they previously couldn’t afford.

Market Risks and Economic Backdrop

C.A.R. Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Jordan Levine believes the gradual improvement in conditions will lift housing sentiment:

“As economic uncertainty begins to clear up in the next 12 months and mortgage rates start declining more consistently in the upcoming quarters, housing sentiment will see some improvement in 2026.”

Still, Levine warned that external risks remain. He cited ongoing trade tensions, California’s home insurance crisis, and the potential for a stock market bubble as factors that could weigh on the California housing market.

The forecast also reflects broader economic trends. U.S. GDP growth is expected to slow to 1% in 2026, while California’s job growth is projected at just 0.3%. The state’s unemployment rate is forecast to rise to 5.8%. Inflation is expected to average 3.0% in 2026, up from 2.8% in 2025. Active listings are projected to increase nearly 10%, bringing supply closer to pre-pandemic levels and giving buyers more options.

Outlook for Buyers and Sellers

The California Association of Realtors projects a market that is neither booming nor busting but gradually stabilizing. For buyers, slightly lower mortgage rates and a small rise in affordability could offer a long-awaited chance to enter the market. For sellers, steady California home prices may boost confidence after a sluggish 2025.

While challenges remain, the forecast suggests 2026 could mark the start of a more predictable chapter in the California housing market, setting the stage for cautious optimism among both buyers and sellers.

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Southern California Heat Wave Turns Muggy as Tropical Storm Mario Remnants Bring Rain Threat

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A stretch of Southern California heat wave conditions is unfolding this week, and forecasters say the weather will feel not only hot but also unusually muggy.
Humidity is expected to spike as remnants of Tropical Storm Mario push moisture north from Mexico, bringing with it chances of showers, thunderstorms, and potential flooding.

“This is not a typical dry heat pattern,” the National Weather Service (NWS) said in a Tuesday evening briefing. “It will be warm and muggy through Friday as remnants of Tropical Storm Mario move into the area. Temperatures will cool through the period but humidities will be much higher than normal.”

Story Highlights

  • Southern California heat wave to persist with high humidity through early next week

  • Rain and thunderstorms forecast between Wednesday night and early Friday

  • Dry lightning and strong winds possible Wednesday night into Thursday

  • Flooding and debris flows a risk Thursday near recent burn scars

  • Los Angeles opens cooling centers in recreation facilities and libraries

Moisture Surge Brings Rain and Thunderstorm Potential

Forecasters now have “growing confidence” that most areas across Southern California will get at least some rain between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday. The rainfall is expected to be highly variable. Some places may see only a tenth of an inch; others could receive up to two inches.

The NWS Los Angeles office warned:

“With the upcoming shower and thunderstorm chances, the most hazardous impacts Wednesday into early Thursday will be dry lightning and localized strong winds. As more moisture arrives Thursday, the threat shifts to flooding and potential for debris flows in and around recent burn scars.”

The best chance for lightning appears to be as the moisture first arrives Wednesday night into early Thursday. After that, forecasters believe the environment may be “too moist with too much cloud cover to support thunder development.”

Temperature Trends and Overnight Warmth

While daytime highs are expected to ease about five degrees from Tuesday’s scorcher—which saw mid-to-upper 90s in valley areas—overnight lows will stay much warmer than usual. The added moisture aloft traps daytime heat, leading to nighttime temperatures in the upper 60s and low 70s across inland areas through early next week.

“This kind of overnight warmth combined with high humidity can make conditions feel uncomfortable, especially for vulnerable populations,” NWS meteorologists noted.

Citywide Readiness and Cooling Centers

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’ office said the city is closely monitoring the forecast and coordinating a multi-departmental response. The Emergency Management Department, along with the fire, police, recreation and parks, and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, is prepared to act as needed.

City officials emphasized the availability of public spaces for relief from the Southern California heat wave. Hundreds of cooling centers are open, including recreation and parks facilities and local library branches. Residents can find locations and hours of operation at laparks.org/reccenter or lapl.org/branches, or by calling 311.

Looking Ahead

Forecasters say the muggy pattern could extend into early next week, with a slight chance of additional showers as more moisture arrives from the south. Even as daytime temperatures slowly decline, humidity will remain elevated, creating conditions that could fuel localized flooding if heavier rains develop.

“Angelenos should stay informed of the latest forecasts, be prepared for changing weather conditions, and take advantage of cooling centers if needed,” city officials urged.

With the Southern California heat wave showing no immediate sign of fully letting up, both residents and emergency services are bracing for a combination of high humidity, warm nights, and unstable skies.

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Wisk Aero Joins Forces with City of Fullerton to Launch Autonomous Air Taxis Across Southern California

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The skies over Southern California may one day be busier — and quieter — thanks to a new agreement between Wisk Aero and the City of Fullerton. The autonomous aviation company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Boeing, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the city to explore infrastructure, policy and operational pathways for launching autonomous, all-electric air taxi services at Fullerton Municipal Airport.

The collaboration positions Fullerton as a potential hub for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) in the Los Angeles–Orange County metropolitan area. It also marks the latest in a series of strategic moves by Wisk Aero to build a sustainable regional network for autonomous air taxis.

Story Highlights

  • Wisk Aero teams with City of Fullerton to plan autonomous, all-electric air taxi operations.

  • Focus on vertiport infrastructure, regulatory frameworks and community guidelines.

  • Builds on Wisk’s Long Beach partnership and 2023 public flight demonstration.

  • Aims to establish a Southern California Advanced Air Mobility network.

Laying the Groundwork for Air Taxi Operations

Under the MOU, Wisk Aero will advise Fullerton on vertiport requirements, Instrument Flight Rules routes and other technical needs for autonomous operations. Fullerton Municipal Airport will incorporate AAM and UAM considerations into its strategic planning for the airport, the electrical grid and surrounding airspace.

City officials will also develop policy pathways, including permitting and community noise level guidelines, to prepare for the potential introduction of autonomous air taxis.

A Joint Approach to Operations and Policy

The agreement goes beyond technical planning. Both Wisk Aero and the City of Fullerton will jointly evaluate operational and commercial aspects, such as the feasibility of training and maintenance facilities at the airport and the definition of commercial terms for Wisk’s future services.

They will also review existing municipal policies and land-use codes to recommend amendments necessary for autonomous AAM operations. This proactive approach is intended to help set standards for how urban centers integrate next-generation transportation technology.

Building a Regional Network Across Southern California

The MOU also encourages regional collaboration. Wisk and Fullerton will explore other potential vertiport sites across Southern California to facilitate route planning and support applications for federal, state and local grants to fund infrastructure development.

Community and Industry Reactions

Jeff Ball, President and CEO of the Orange County Business Council, called the partnership a “powerful example” of forward-thinking collaboration.

“The Orange County Business Council continues to advocate for innovative technologies that drive our region’s economic competitiveness,” Ball said. “The partnership between Wisk and the City of Fullerton is a powerful example of the forward-thinking collaborations that will keep Orange County at the forefront of technology and transportation. This milestone marks the beginning of a sustainable air mobility ecosystem — one that will create high-quality jobs, strengthen connections between communities, and further position Orange County as a leader in the future of mobility.”

Emilien Marchand, Regional Lead of Ecosystem Partnerships at Wisk, emphasized that the agreement represents a practical step toward bringing autonomous flight to life.

“This partnership with the City of Fullerton is representative of the practical steps needed to bring autonomous flight to life,” Marchand said. “Our work together will not only assess the feasibility of AAM at FUL, but also help define the standards and processes for the entire industry. We’re building a blueprint for how cities can successfully integrate AAM into their transportation networks for the long term, and we’re excited about the potential across the Southern California region.”

Continuing Momentum After Long Beach

This agreement builds on Wisk’s long-standing collaboration with the City of Long Beach and its historic public flight demonstration in October 2023. For Wisk Aero, the partnership with Fullerton represents another step toward fulfilling its commitment to the Los Angeles–Orange County metropolitan area.

By aligning with multiple cities, the company aims to unlock partnerships with other vertiport sites and create a regional network that could eventually serve passengers throughout this densely populated region.

About Wisk Aero

Wisk Aero is an autonomous aviation company dedicated to creating a future for air travel that elevates people, communities and aviation itself. The company develops all-electric, autonomous air taxi technology designed to transform urban and regional air transportation. More information can be found at wisk.aero.

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LA Convention Center Expansion Hits $2.7B as City Council Eyes 2028 Olympics Prep

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The Los Angeles City Council’s Budget and Finance Committee is preparing to vote Tuesday on a major proposal to expand the Los Angeles Convention Center and issue bonds to fund the project, which now carries a price tag of $2.7 billion. The expansion, aimed at modernizing the facility for the 2028 Summer Olympics and stimulating downtown revitalization, has seen costs rise by $483 million since earlier estimates in March.

Story Highlights

  • Los Angeles Convention Center expansion cost rises to $2.7 billion.

  • Project includes 190,000 sq. ft. of exhibit hall space, 40,000 sq. ft. of meeting rooms, and 100,000 sq. ft. of multi-service space.

  • Expected to create more than 13,000 construction jobs.

  • Construction paused during 2028 Olympics and Paralympics.

  • Bonds to fund the project will be repaid over 30 years, averaging $111M annually.

  • Expansion projected to generate $30M annually post-completion, eventually $60M.

  • Digital signage revenue faces reduction; state legislation may impact funding.

  • Renovation of Gilbert Lindsay Plaza removed to reduce costs.

City officials say the expansion is a critical step toward ensuring the city is ready to host Olympic and Paralympic events. “Missing the Olympic readiness deadline could result in serious financial ramifications for the city, including losing the Olympic and Paralympic events currently planned to be held at the Convention Center,” warned City Administrative Officer Matt Szabo.

The project will add 190,000 square feet of additional exhibit hall space, nearly 40,000 square feet of new meeting rooms, and close to 100,000 square feet for a multi-service room. Szabo emphasized that the expansion will also generate more than 13,000 construction jobs during the project, providing a major boost to the local economy.

Construction will follow a phased approach, with work paused during the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics to avoid disruptions. The Convention Center is slated to host fencing, taekwondo, judo, wrestling, and table tennis during the Olympics, and wheelchair fencing, taekwondo, judo, boccia, and table tennis during the Paralympics.

Despite the potential benefits, city officials have acknowledged substantial risks associated with the project. Szabo noted, “There are serious risks with the construction timeline. Potential delays during construction could jeopardize the readiness for the Olympics and cause financial strain.”

The $2.7 billion budget is broken down as follows: $82 million for pre-construction costs, $35 million for a development fee, $566 million for city-retained costs, and $2.035 billion for design and construction. Cost increases have been attributed to tariffs, rising material costs, and what some committee members describe as “self-inflicted” expenses. The Department of Water and Power also anticipates higher costs due to conduit and cabling work and the relocation of utility vaults.

To finance the Los Angeles Convention Center expansion, the city plans to issue bonds to be repaid over 30 years, with average annual payments expected to total $111 million through 2058. Szabo explained, “The initial years of repayment will be more expensive, but once the expansion is complete, it is expected to generate $30 million annually. By 2033, that revenue could reach $45 million, eventually stabilizing at around $60 million annually to help offset the debt service.”

Another challenge for the project is reduced revenue from digital signage. The expansion initially assumed $61 million annually from new digital signs facing the Santa Monica (10) and Harbor (110) freeway interchange, but revised estimates show a reduction of $34 million. Mayor Karen Bass’ office has led efforts to pass state legislation allowing the city to construct the full signage program. Szabo cautioned that amendments to the legislation make it difficult to fully realize the expected revenue.

City officials also removed plans to renovate Gilbert Lindsay Plaza to lower the overall project cost. Despite these reductions, the Los Angeles Convention Center expansion remains a cornerstone project for the city’s Olympic readiness and downtown revitalization strategy.

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Philadelphia’s Puerto Rican Day Parade 2025: Flags, Music, and Culture Take Over the Parkway

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Philadelphia will come alive on Sunday, September 28, 2025, as the city hosts its annual Puerto Rican Day Parade, a festival of music, food, dance, and community pride. From the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to the heart of North Philadelphia, Boricuas from across the city will gather to celebrate their heritage, waving flags, sharing food, and performing cultural traditions that span centuries.

Picture the scene: Puerto Rican flags, affectionately called la monoestrellada – the “one-starred” – flutter everywhere. The air is rich with the aroma of alcapurrias and other fritters, while salsa rhythms and Bad Bunny’s reggaetón fill the streets. Conversations mix Spanish and English in the Spanglish typical of the diaspora, creating a unique linguistic soundtrack to the festivities.

“The parade is chaotic, loud, and impossible not to love,” says the author, a Puerto Rican born on the island and now teaching in Philadelphia. “It is a space where we perform our Puerto-Ricanness in myriad ways, from eating traditional foods to dancing salsa badly but enthusiastically.”

Story Highlights

  • Philadelphia is home to the second-largest Puerto Rican community outside New York City.

  • The Puerto Rican Day Parade 2025 showcases music, dance, food, and cultural symbols.

  • Identity is fluid: island-born “islandricans” and diaspora-born “diasporicans” experience Puerto Rican culture differently.

  • Parade symbols reflect pride, historical roots, political statements, and personal expressions of culture.

  • Challenges like poverty, violence, and inequity in Fairhill and West Kensington highlight the community’s resilience.

For many Puerto Ricans, identity is complicated. Diasporicans – Puerto Ricans living in the U.S. – navigate mixed feelings about culture, language, and history.

“I am both Boricua and Latino, de allá y de aquí,” says the author. “I grew up colonized yet now live in the colonizing country. I think in two languages. I eat arroz, habichuelas y carne guisada and also hamburgers. I like Guns N’ Roses and Calle 13. Identity is both complicated and celebrated at the parade.”

Parades like the Puerto Rican Day Parade serve as public demonstrations of community identity. They use symbols, music, and traditions to communicate what it means to be Puerto Rican – whether island-born or diaspora-born, historically rooted or contemporary, traditional or alternative.

Waving la monoestrellada can signify pride in culture and history, a connection to the island as a U.S. territory, or even a subtle call for independence. Dancers often perform Indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean dances, reflecting the multiple cultural influences within the Puerto Rican identity.

Language also plays a role in identity. Bilingualism is common among Boricuas, but proficiency in Spanish and English can shape perceptions of authenticity. Islandricans may speak Spanish predominantly, while diasporicans lean toward English.

“Speaking Spanish with a gringo accent could mark you as an outsider on the island,” the author explains, “while not speaking English in the diaspora can make you seem backward. It’s complicated, but it reflects the fluid nature of Puerto Rican identity.”

Cultural anthropologist Yarimar Bonilla recently highlighted this ambivalence in her op-ed about Bad Bunny’s 30-date concert series in Puerto Rico.

“The concert is not simply an unprecedented artistic achievement; it is also a political statement,” Bonilla wrote. “Arraigo, or rootedness, is not what binds us, but what empowers us.”

Bad Bunny’s concerts, designed to favor island residents while celebrating Puerto Rican history, are seen as a gesture of love for the island and its people, regardless of whether they live on Puerto Rico or abroad.

Philadelphia has been home to Puerto Ricans for more than a century and is now a proud hub of Latin identity. According to U.S. Census data, over half of all Latinos in the city are Puerto Rican, making Philly the second-largest Puerto Rican diaspora in the U.S., after New York City.

Yet, the parade also reflects ongoing challenges. Neighborhoods like Fairhill and West Kensington face long-standing issues with poverty, violence, and inequities in health and housing. The parade becomes a public assertion of resilience, cultural pride, and community love.

Historically, the U.S. relationship with Puerto Rico has been complicated. From post-World War II economic aid to unethical medical testing in the 1950s and a slow response after Hurricane Maria in 2017, Puerto Rican communities have experienced both support and neglect. These histories add layers of meaning to the parade, emphasizing both pride and reflection.

“The parade demonstrates a rootedness that is complex and plural,” the author reflects. “It is a gesture of love that straddles comfort and grief. Identity is fluid, traditions shift, and political relationships change – yet our culture endures.”

In 2025, the Puerto Rican Day Parade in Philadelphia promises to be a vibrant, joyful, and reflective celebration of Puerto Rican culture, heritage, and resilience. From waving la monoestrellada to sharing food and dance, the parade is a reminder that identity, community, and love are ever-evolving but deeply rooted.

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