At least 20 individuals have sustained injuries after a car plowed into a gathering on Santa Monica Boulevard in Los Angeles, as reported by the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). As many as five people are in critical condition, with up to 10 others reported as seriously injured, according to emergency services. The event took place at 02:00 local time (09:00 GMT) in East Hollywood. Images from the scene depict a grey vehicle on the sidewalk alongside scattered debris and a significant police presence. According to CNN, the incident occurred near a music venue, as indicated by the LAFD. It remains unclear what led the vehicle to strike the crowd. Source link
Home » RAILWAY NEWS » California, San Diego, and Disneyland: The Ultimate Summer Travel Shortcut – Bypass the Traffic with Amtrak Pacific Surfliner! Saturday, July 19, 2025 As Southern California welcomes a lively season packed with thrilling events, the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® emerges as the premier travel option across the region. With the launch of a 12th daily round-trip service between Los Angeles and San Diego, the Pacific Surfliner delivers unmatched flexibility, comfort, and a leisurely way to traverse the bustling summer travel landscape. This increased service guarantees passengers a convenient alternative to combatting traffic while absorbing the picturesque beauty of California’s coastline. The Pacific Surfliner services 29 stations along a 351-mile coastal route, connecting key cities in San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. This extensive route is tailored to ensure travel is as seamless and stress-free as possible, presenting a remarkable substitute for driving, especially during the peak summer season when roads are busy with vacationers and event attendees. From significant cultural festivals to exhilarating sporting events, the Pacific Surfliner is the ideal means to discover Southern California’s premier destinations. Whether you’re off to a coastal wine festival, a family getaway, or one of the region’s signature summer happenings, the train promises a scenic, comfortable ride equipped with numerous onboard amenities. Top Summer Destinations Accessible by Train Del Mar Race Season July 18 – September 7 | Del Mar Racetrack The Del Mar Racetrack launches its legendary summer meet with Opening Day on July 18, heralding an exhilarating season of horse racing that captivates both casual fans and seasoned aficionados. With weekend races, vibrant trackside celebrations, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Del Mar delivers a truly unique experience. Getting There: Passengers can board the Pacific Surfliner to Solana Beach Station, where complimentary shuttle service is available on race days for those holding valid train tickets. It’s a short hop to the racetrack, allowing visitors to savor the event without parking hassles or traffic woes. California Wine Festival – Santa Barbara July 18 – 19 | Chase Palm Park Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the California Wine Festival in Santa Barbara unites wine enthusiasts and food lovers for two days filled with exquisite tastings and culinary experiences. Set along the picturesque Central Coast, this festival offers a delightful fusion of wine and food against a beautiful beach backdrop. Getting There: Easily accessible via the Pacific Surfliner to Santa Barbara Station, where attendees can enjoy just a three-minute stroll to the festivities at Chase Palm Park, immersing themselves in a celebration of fine wines and gourmet dishes. San Diego Comic-Con International July 24 – 27 | San Diego Convention Center The globally celebrated Comic-Con returns this year, showcasing exclusive programming, industry panels, premieres, and fan experiences. As one of the largest and most anticipated pop culture conventions in the world, Comic-Con attracts thousands of fans annually, and the Pacific Surfliner provides a superb transit solution to bypass traffic and parking challenges. Getting There: Travelers can ride the Pacific Surfliner to the Santa Fe Depot in downtown San Diego. Conveniently located just a mile from the San Diego Convention Center, attendees can effortlessly reach the event while avoiding congested roadways. Ventura County Fair July 30 – August 10 | Ventura County Fairgrounds The Ventura County Fair, affectionately branded “A Country Fair with Ocean Air,” merges the thrill of classic carnival rides and games with the tranquil beauty of Ventura’s coastline. The fair features live music, food stands, and the iconic Ferris wheel, presenting breathtaking views of the Pacific. Getting There: The Pacific Surfliner brings passengers directly to Ventura Station, which is just a stone’s throw from the fairgrounds, making it incredibly convenient for visitors to enjoy the festivities without the worries of parking or traffic congestion. Disneyland® Resort 70th Celebration Currently Underway | Anaheim, CA In honor of 70 years of enchantment, the Pacific Surfliner has partnered with Disneyland® Resort to provide unique travel deals, featuring a special train wrap and exclusive offers for Disneyland guests. This marks a significant milestone for one of Southern California’s most cherished attractions. Getting There: Riders can catch the Pacific Surfliner to Anaheim Station, where discounted park admission and train fares are available for Disneyland® Resort guests. A complimentary bus connection from the station to the resort simplifies the start of their magical adventure. Plan Ahead for Summer Rail Travel As a myriad of events and festivals unfold across Southern California this summer, it is advisable for travelers to book their Pacific Surfliner tickets ahead of time, especially for high-traffic events like Comic-Con and Del Mar’s Opening Day. Early reservation guarantees that passengers secure preferred travel dates and times, particularly as these events attract substantial crowds. For travelers holding Unreserved Coach tickets, the Pacific Surfliner offers the flexibility to board any train between their chosen origin and destination. Seating operates on a first-come, first-served basis, providing a convenient option for those with adaptable schedules. Comfort and Amenities on the Pacific Surfliner The Pacific Surfliner ensures a soothing and comfortable experience for all passengers. Each train features reclining seats, power outlets, complimentary Wi-Fi, bike and luggage racks, and a Market Café that offers a variety of food and beverages, including California wines and local craft beers. Regardless of whether traveling for business or leisure, passengers will discover the Pacific Surfliner to be a pleasant and enjoyable journey. For those desiring even more comfort, Business Class upgrades are available. Business Class tickets guarantee a reserved seat, along with a complimentary snack and drink, priority boarding in San Diego, and additional Amtrak Guest Rewards points. Given the high demand and limited availability of Business Class tickets, travelers are encouraged to secure their spots early. Stay Informed and Connected To stay abreast of real-time service alerts, crowd forecasts, and other vital travel information, it is recommended that passengers follow @PacSurfliners on Twitter/X. This is an excellent avenue for travelers to remain updated and ensure their journey proceeds smoothly, particularly during busy periods such as the summer months when crowds may be larger or unexpected delays may occur. The Perfect Way to Travel The Pacific Surfliner offers a picturesque and stress-free alternative to driving, making it the perfect transportation choice for attending Southern California’s top summer events. Whether participating in a globally recognized festival like Comic-Con, enjoying a beloved local tradition like the Ventura County Fair, or celebrating a milestone at Disneyland® Resort, the Pacific Surfliner enables passengers to avoid traffic, minimize stress, and relish the beauty of the California coast. With enhanced flexibility and comfort, including the recent addition of an extra daily round-trip service between Los Angeles and San Diego, the Pacific Surfliner remains a premier option for travelers prioritizing convenience and ease. As the summer season intensifies, there has never been a more opportune moment to explore all that Southern California has to offer by rail. Tags: Amtrak, California coastline, California Wine Festival, Del Mar Races, Disneyland Resort, family vacation, Pacific Surfliner, Pacific Surfliner amenities, Public Transportation, San Diego Comic-Con, scenic train travel, Southern California events, summer festivals, summer travel, train travel in California, Ventura County Fair Source link
California Indian Nations College Awarded $10 Million to Become State’s Only Tribal College NBC Palm Springs Source link
Registered nurses at Long Beach Medical Center and Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital in Long Beach, Calif. decided unanimously to pass a vote of no confidence in the hospital’s administration, announced California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU). The nurses, who voted on Thursday, July 17, cited repeated bad faith bargaining practices by hospital executives, who have continued to disregard failures in patient care standards. “Nurses have had enough,” said Stephanie Jobe, RN in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital. “We are committed to our patients and our profession, but we cannot continue to work under leadership that ignores our safety warnings, stonewalls us at the bargaining table, and punishes transparency.” The vote of no confidence reflects escalating frustration with MemorialCare senior management personnel, who nurses say have failed to address systemic issues despite repeated opportunities. Among their top concerns, nurses cite: Unsafe staffing levels across units Unmitigated workplace violence, stemming from a lack of a comprehensive prevention plan Financial decisions that prioritize profits over care Refusal to bargain in good faith Jobe, RN continued, “Despite these challenges, nurses have continued to care for their patients–working overtime, training new staff, and supporting each other. The vote is not just a statement of protest, but a call to urgent action and accountability.” The vote results will be shared with relevant regulatory bodies. Nurses are also calling on community members, elected officials, and patients to stand with them in demanding fair contracts that ensure safe staffing and high quality of patient care. Nurses previously went on a 1-day strike on May 22. CNA represents nearly 2,100 nurses at Long Beach Medical Center and Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital. California Nurses Association/National Nurses United is the largest and fastest-growing union and professional association of registered nurses in the nation with more than 100,000 members in more than 200 facilities throughout California and more than 225,000 RNs nationwide. Source link
Originally deployed by the Trump administration to address “violent, insurrectionist mobs” in and around Los Angeles, U.S. Marines and California National Guard troops have recently found themselves facing little more than boredom. “There’s not much to do,” a Marine remarked while on guard outside the imposing Wilshire Federal Building in Westwood this week. The vibrant protests that initially erupted against federal immigration raids in downtown Los Angeles were absent along Wilshire Boulevard or Veteran Avenue, leading many troops to spend their time chatting and joking over energy drinks. The Marine, who requested anonymity due to restrictions on speaking with reporters, indicated that his responsibilities primarily involved granting access to federal workers and visitors at the Veterans Affairs office. Over five weeks since Trump ordered a significant military presence against the objections of California Gov. Gavin Newsom and L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, most National Guard troops and Marines have vanished from public view, retreating to local military bases in Orange County. Reflecting the military’s diminishing role in immigration enforcement, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced the release of 2,000 National Guard troops on Tuesday. Meanwhile, both Bass and Newsom, along with others, are urging the complete withdrawal of the remaining troops—around 2,000 California National Guard soldiers and 700 Marines. “Thousands of members are still federalized in Los Angeles for no reason and unable to perform their essential duties across the state,” Newsom stated on X, accusing Trump of using California National Guard troops as “political pawns.” “Terminate this charade and bring everyone back home,” the governor insisted. Bass asserted that the troops’ main assignment in L.A. was to secure federal buildings that “honestly didn’t require guarding.” “They had to separate from their families, education, and jobs,” Bass mentioned at a news conference on Tuesday. “There have been no issues for weeks, so why are they still here?” Steve Woolford, a resource counselor for GI Rights Hotline, a nonprofit providing free, confidential information to service members, noted that calls from troops have significantly decreased over the past month. “The last few people I spoke with sounded bored and lacked purpose,” Woolford shared. “They seem fine with it: they’re not asking for more tasks. Yet, I sense they don’t see any genuine purpose in their current activities.” The bulk of National Guard troops have been allocated to the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos, according to military officials and members of the governor’s office who spoke under anonymity. In recent weeks, a large tent city has emerged at the Orange County base—approximately 25 miles southeast of downtown L.A. The tents, some extending up to 50 yards long, serve as living quarters, eating areas, and other facilities. On a recent morning, National Guards troops—some in full combat attire and others in casual wear—were observed exercising, roaming around, and engaging in touch football. A separate contingent of Marines and National Guard troops has remained stationed at the Westwood federal building for a full month. The building has been equipped with sleeping and dining arrangements for the troops, according to a Marine who communicated with The Times. It is true that some California National Guard troops participated in tense operations alongside federal immigration agents, conducting sweeps at farms, warehouses, and public streets. On July 7, Guard troops joined federal agents as they raided MacArthur Park on horseback and in armored vehicles in a heavily militarized display. Although it remains uncertain if any arrests occurred that day, crowds quickly gathered around the federal agents and military personnel, yelling for them to “leave!” Days later, Guard troops wielding riot face shields and long wooden batons confronted hundreds of demonstrators in Ventura County, as immigration agents apprehended around 200 suspected undocumented immigrants at Glass House Farms, a cannabis greenhouse in Camarillo. However, the majority of the deployed Guard troops and Marines do not appear to have engaged in raids or even maintained security at federal buildings in recent weeks. An estimated 90% of the National Guard troops stationed in the L.A. area in recent days have not participated in daily operations, according to a source in Newsom’s office familiar with the military operation. “For the most part … they’re just sitting around,” the source said. The source, who spoke under anonymity due to restrictions on public commentary regarding the deployment, estimated that approximately 3% of the 4,000 troops—around 120 soldiers—were involved in daily missions, mostly concerning security at federal buildings. A few hundred more were on standby for “quick response force” missions—ready to be mobilized within hours for immigration raids or crowd control. However, even with these troops activated daily, about 88% of the 4,000 troops—roughly three-quarters of the remaining 2,000—remained underutilized. The Pentagon and Task Force 51, the military’s designation for Los Angeles area soldiers, declined to provide information about how many Guard troops and Marines were involved in safeguarding federal buildings or accompanying immigration agents on daily tasks. They did not comment on Newsom’s office’s assertion that most troops were “sitting idle.” Guard soldiers and Marines were “primarily providing security for fixed-site federal facilities and assisting federal law enforcement personnel while they conduct immigration enforcement activities, such as serving warrants,” read a statement from the task force. Federal officials have also refrained from disclosing exact costs relating to the deployment. Hegseth previously stated that mobilizing troops would be $134 million, but the accuracy of this estimate remains ambiguous. Jennifer Kavanagh, director of military analysis at Defense Priorities, a military research organization, emphasized the lack of evidence supporting the necessity of military presence. “The demand for military forces in Los Angeles is minimal, while the requirement for National Guard forces elsewhere in the state is increasing,” Kavanagh observed. “Remaining deployed for an extended period without apparent need suggests a desire to establish a precedent for military involvement in immigration enforcement and deployment within U.S. urban areas.” Kori Schake, a senior fellow and director of foreign and defense policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute, concurred: “They have essential training to focus on—fighting and securing the nation’s wars—while this performative policing distracts from that mission.” The first units of Guard troops arrived in L.A. on June 8, shortly following the Trump administration’s announcement to deploy 2,000 Guard members to the city in response to unrest as protesters tagged buildings, set fire to Waymo driverless cars, and clashed with ICE agents attempting immigration raids. Despite protests from California leaders deeming the deployment far from necessary, the Trump administration intensified its stance. On June 10, 700 Marines from the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center about 150 miles west in Twentynine Palms arrived in L.A. A week later, the task force expanded to 4,800 personnel when Hegseth sent an additional 2,000 Guard troops. Newsom criticized Trump for redirecting members of the California National Guard as they prepared for wildfire season, citing that the unit dedicated to wildfire response was operating at just 40% of its normal staffing levels due to the deployment. The governor’s office also raised concerns that approximately 150 California Guard soldiers were pulled from the state’s Counterdrug Task Force, focusing on disrupting drug trafficking at the U.S.-Mexico border and throughout California. Ultimately, the Trump administration authorized the release of 150 Guard members for state wildfire suppression. While the National Guard has been deployed in Los Angeles before, it has never been against the wishes of the L.A. mayor and California governor. In 1992, President George H.W. Bush mobilized the National Guard to Los Angeles following several days of riots triggered by a jury’s acquittal of four white police officers in the beating of Black motorist Rodney King. Approximately 6,000 troops were ultimately deployed at the request of then-Gov. Pete Wilson and Mayor Tom Bradley, to secure vulnerable areas and restore control after rioters attacked businesses, set buildings ablaze, and in extreme cases assaulted or killed residents. The Times labeled it “the worst civil unrest in Los Angeles history.” Nearly 30 years later, Guard troops were summoned once again during the 2020 protests after George Floyd’s murder. Following downtown vandalism and arson of police vehicles, L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti requested Newsom to deploy 1,000 National Guard troops to assist local law enforcement in restoring order. However, last month, the federal government sent in the troops without the support of local officials, igniting an intense legal confrontation. A day after the National Guard troops arrived in L.A., Newsom and Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to halt the “illegal and unnecessary takeover” of a California National Guard unit. They argued that the unwarranted commandeering of National Guard troops without the governor’s consent violated the U.S. Constitution and exceeded the president’s Title 10 authority. A U.S. district judge in San Francisco ruled in favor of the state on June 12, determining that Trump violated the law by deploying thousands of California National Guard troops to L.A. contrary to the state’s wishes. The judge issued a temporary restraining order aimed at restoring control of the National Guard to California. However, the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals paused this order, permitting the troops to remain in L.A. pending the outcome of the federal court case. Kavanagh expressed concern over Guard troops assisting federal agents during immigration raids. Even if they were instructed not to engage in law enforcement activities, situations could escalate rapidly. “There are numerous opportunities for things to spiral out of control,” she remarked. “While we haven’t observed any unintended escalation yet, that doesn’t guarantee we won’t.” When the troops were initially deployed to L.A., advocates for service members expressed concerns about low morale. Woolford noted a surge of calls to the GI Rights Hotline regarding apprehensions about immigration enforcement. Some personnel communicated to the hotline that they opposed supporting ICE or participating in deportations, considering immigrants part of the community or having immigrant family members. Others expressed reluctance to point weapons at citizens. A few worried that the country might be approaching a state resembling martial law, and expressed a desire not to become the armed occupiers of their own nation. Many were taken aback that the deployment orders were set for 60 days. “There’s no way they really intend to keep us here that long, right?” Woolford recalled being asked. However, as more contractors arrived and large tents with cots were set up, callers to the hotline seemed increasingly resigned to the idea of a prolonged stay in L.A. When questioned about the pressures faced by troops on their assignment to Los Angeles, a Marine stationed outside the Wilshire Federal Building offered a succinct insight: “That’s just orders,” he stated. “We follow directions—it’s the system.” Times staff writer Jeanette Marantos contributed to this report. Source link
Areas of California Facing Tropical Thunderstorm According to Fox 5, residents in the San Diego region should prepare for overcast conditions today, along with elevated humidity levels, which may include some virga. Virga is a weather occurrence where rain descends from a cloud but evaporates before it hits the ground, manifesting as streaks or wisps of precipitation disappearing in the air. Weather analysts predict a chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms over the mountainous regions through Friday, primarily in the afternoons and evenings. This stormy spell may extend into the valleys, with a slight possibility of affecting the coastline as well. These storms are expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dry lightning, which can pose a risk of igniting fires. Dry lightning refers to lightning occurrences where most precipitation evaporates before reaching the earth, creating a serious fire hazard, especially in arid forested areas. Such thunderstorms tend to be more frequent during the summer months. By Saturday, humidity levels are expected to decrease, although they may return the following weekend, as the region experiences monsoon season through September. What Safety Measures Should I Take in Case of Dry Lightning? As previously noted, dry lightning poses a significant fire risk due to the lack of moisture. During any lightning event, it’s crucial to find shelter indoors to reduce the chance of being struck. According to the National Weather Service, seek refuge in a secure building, ideally one with electricity or plumbing, or in an enclosed metal-topped vehicle with windows closed. It’s important to remain in a safe shelter for at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder. Source link