Essential California: Investigative Journalism and More

For nearly three decades, my career as a journalist has involved reporting on police, courts, city governments, legislative bodies, natural disasters, and wars. A consistent theme throughout my work is a strong skepticism towards those in power, whether they are Democrats, Republicans, entrepreneurs, or others. Maintaining a critical distance and scrutinizing leaders is crucial to understanding the people and policies shaping the state.

This approach is what defines my career and will continue to guide my work with Essential California. Alongside important stories, I will share the unique aspects that make California special. I welcome tips and suggestions at [email protected].

An Unexpected Journey

Unlike many in the field, journalism was not my initial aspiration. In the early 1990s, I graduated with a poetry degree during a recession. With limited demand for poets, I answered an ad to teach English in Czechoslovakia. The fall of the Berlin Wall had recently occurred, and a private university in Seattle aimed to establish business schools in former Soviet territories. Reality, however, fell short of their grand plans.

The school was under-resourced, with insufficient textbooks and a malfunctioning photocopier. As a novice teacher, I was the same age as many of my students. Despite these challenges, their eagerness to break free from the communist past was palpable, and they embraced any opportunity for learning.

During a town hall meeting, I highlighted the lack of resources to the school’s founder, who responded by praising my accent instead of addressing concerns. This incident sparked my interest in holding authority figures accountable.

Commitment to Accountability

Over the years, my colleagues and I have uncovered stories involving prison guards running gangs, hospitals concealing medical errors, and state contractors bribing governors. Investigations have revealed misconduct leading to legal and regulatory changes.

In Essential California, we focus on impactful stories while also discovering intriguing narratives. The publication aims to monitor those in power and keep readers informed about developments that matter.

Highlighted Stories

Cyclist Julie Gress from Costa Mesa feeds around 40 feral cats near the Los Angeles River.

The long-delayed completion of the L.A. River bike path remains a significant issue. Documents reviewed indicate costs have tripled to over $1 billion.

A wildfire in Big Sur necessitates evacuations, impacting iconic locations as it expands over 1,700 acres.

The death of Jackie, a famous bald eagle from Big Bear, at an Ojai rehabilitation center affects numerous followers.

More News

• A speed climber known for rapidly climbing the El Capitan route died on a subsequent adventure.
• An Encino mansion becomes a source of community frustration due to party buses.
• As LAUSD schools prepare to open, leaders work to address budget concerns.
• Rising euthanasia rates at L.A. city animal shelters concern residents.
• A typo by San Francisco police results in the wrongful arrest of a driver.

Commentary

Columnist Gustavo Arellano discusses a community’s response to the impact of the Lineage Fire on their church. Another column reflects on protecting justice within the LAPD.

Editor’s Picks

Senior Librarian Christina Rice revives the Mold-A-Central at the Los Angeles Central Library, a nostalgic nod to retro vending machines.

Mish Delicatessen in Fairfax modernizes Jewish deli cuisine.

Explore John Mellencamp’s 29 Hot 100 hits ranked by quality.

Today’s Recipe

Ribeye cachetada tacos live up to their name, delivering bold flavors with every bite.

Question for Readers

What is your favorite spot for people-watching in L.A.? Share your thoughts with us at [email protected].

Photo of the Day

A Saturday evening chat on San Fernando Boulevard in downtown Burbank illustrates the city’s effort to enhance pedestrian-friendly experiences.

Games

Challenge yourself with today’s mini crossword and explore other puzzles such as sudoku and word searches.

Have a productive day, from the Essential California team:

• Jack Dolan, Investigative Reporter
• Hugo Martín, Assistant Editor
• Kevinisha Walker, Multiplatform Editor
• Andrew Campa, Weekend Writer
• Karim Doumar, Head of Newsletters
• Shi Bradley, Audience Intern

We welcome your feedback on how to enhance this newsletter. Contact us at [email protected]. For top stories and trends, visit latimes.com.