California will spend $2 billion to address learning loss, settling a lawsuit that alleged it violated children’s rights to equal education during the pandemic. Senators berated Mark Zuckerberg and four other social media CEOs on child safety and their platforms. But there’s no consensus on legislation to address it.  Middle-class Chinese immigrants are showing up at the U.S.-Mexico border. Most are trying to flee the communist government's authoritarian crackdown on dissent. UV light is a revolutionary tech that could crush viruses before they strike. So why aren't we embracing it? Critics review the latest film releases: “Argylle,” “How to Have Sex,” “Scrambled,” and “Orion and The Dark.”

The Claremont Institute, a conservative Southern California think tank, helped spearhead a national campaign to ban DEI on public college campuses. Palestinian anger is growing in the West Bank. Settler attacks and police raids are feeding into concerns that the war will turn into a bigger conflict. The Israel-Hamas conflict is damaging U.S. President Biden's standing with young voters, who overwhelmingly support a ceasefire. Will it cost him the election?  Right-wing provocateurs have lasered their sights on Taylor Swift as part of a conspiracy theory involving a rigged Super Bowl and an endorsement for Joe Biden.  The heart of harissa — a spice paste — is cumin, coriander, and caraway. It gives nuance and soul to the North African dish shakshuka.

People watch certain films repeatedly, and not all are masterpieces. “The Power of Film” explores why. The docu-series is based on Howard Suber’s book of the same name. Neuralink’s co-founder Elon Musk says the first human has received one of their brain implants. It has some promise, but also carries risk. Apple's new Vision Pro headset debuts this week with a retail price of $3,500. What does it do, who is it for, and is it worth it? Boeing’s Max 9 jets are back in operation after a weeks-long investigation. But the company faces a steep task of restoring the public’s trust. Internet meme lords have turned their attention to a mass-produced, mid-priced California wine that shares a name with the most average guy you know — “Josh.”

Gus Van Sant’s film about musician Kurt Cobain’s final days has been adapted into an opera that will make its U.S. debut with the LA Phil this week. The U.S. says an Iran-backed militia launched a drone attack in Jordan that killed three American service members and injured nearly three dozen more.  More than a dozen countries have paused funding for a United Nations program aiding Palestinians in Gaza. Israel claims some of the agency’s workers are tied to last year’s Hamas attack.  Assemblyman Vince Fong is running for former Congressman Kevin McCarthy’s seat. He’s also on the ballot to keep his state Assembly seat, which is illegal under California law. Grocery stores will no longer sell Knott’s Berry Farm jams and jellies. Smucker’s purchased this iconic Southern California brand in 2008.

Critics review the latest film releases: “Miller's Girl,” “Tótem,” “The Breaking Ice,” “The Sweet East.” As the war in Gaza rages on, negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release remain stalled. KCRW looks at how the U.S. and Qatar could help broker a deal.  New films starring Kieran Culkin, Will Ferrell, and Kristen Stewart were among the crowd favorites at this year’s Sundance. But is it all buzz? The NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers hired Jim Harbaugh as their new head coach. His older brother John’s Baltimore Ravens take on the Kansas City Chiefs in Sunday’s AFC Championship Game.

A row of tall trees separating a golf course from a historically Black neighborhood in Palm Springs is the subject of a new PBS documentary called “Racist Trees.” The stock market is booming, driven primarily by tech stocks. And yet these same companies are looking to continue mass layoffs in the next few months. San Diego residents are still reeling from a heavy and rapid downpour that started on Monday morning. Is Southern California built to withstand storms like this? “Barbie” scored eight Oscar nominations, including for Best Picture. But noticeably absent were Margot Robbie for Best Actress and Greta Gerwig for Best Director.  There are many ways of making hot chocolate. Thick, thin, creamy, spicy, super-chocolatey, luxurious with cream and milk — there is a type that suits your needs. 

​​The LA Times said today that it will lay off more than 20% of the newsroom. Owner Patrick Soon-Shiong said the paper has been losing $30 to 40 million annually.  Top candidates to replace the late Dianne Feinstein in the U.S. Senate debated on Monday. Three Democrats largely attacked former LA Dodger Steve Garvey, who's running as a Republican.  The genre “normporn” includes sedate, soothing family dramas that usually grapple with race and sexuality as a nonissue, and show a fantasy of what family should be.  With state governments largely abdicating any role in getting kids back into classrooms, some schools have turned to private companies for a reimagined version of the truant officer.

The documentary “June” features never-before-seen archival material of June Carter, who boasted a prolific music career solo and with Johnny Cash.  Biden is leaning into abortion politics to boost Democratic turnout for the presidential election. Kamala Harris is in Wisconsin to draw attention to the issue. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who’s leading a big election interference case against former President Trump, faces allegations that she had an affair with the special prosecutor she hired to manage the case. More than 12 million Americans take Singulair. For decades, doctors and regulators ignored alarming side effects like aggressive behavior and suicidal thoughts. Stanford University’s Tara VanDerveer has broken the all-time record for the amount of games any college basketball coach has won — man or woman. How did she do it?

After 35 years, LA bakery Sweet Lady Jane shut down on New Year’s Day. It’s the latest local favorite to close, following the fate of Animal and Mohawk Bend. The Los Angeles Times could be planning a massive round of layoffs. The news follows the departure of Executive Editor Kevin Merida earlier this month. People can still go to work or school if they have COVID but no symptoms, says the California Health Department. It cites vaccinations, natural immunity, and Paxlovid as its reasoning. Critics review the latest film releases: “I.S.S.,” “The End We Start From,” “The Kitchen,” and “Founder’s Day.”

The Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Fat Ham” puts a present-day twist on Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” pulling from playwright James Ijames’ experiences growing up in the U.S. South. After a third place finish in the Iowa caucuses, Nikki Haley needs a win in New Hampshire to make the GOP primary a race, rather than a coronation of Donald Trump. A calendar featuring “real” Republican women set off a debate that reflects the cultural divide between “barstool conservatives” and social conservatives.  Shakshuka is a North African dish in which eggs are cooked in a spice-infused tomato-pepper sauce. It’s great for dipping your favorite bread.

Journalist Franklin Foer’s book “The Last Politician” is a behind-the-scenes account of the first two years of the Joe Biden presidency. The Supreme Court is hearing a big case involving homelessness that could have major implications for California. The justices also reconsider precedent known as "Chevron deference." The New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodger is injured, giving him lots of time to spout anti-vax and Epstein Island conspiracies involving Jimmy Kimmel. KCRW recaps Monday’s much-delayed Emmy Awards show. “Succession” and “The Bear” took home six wins each. Netflix’s “Beef” wasn’t far behind.

A produce box could contain cauliflower, beets, turnips, kale, lettuce, avocados, eggs, apples, and more. Evan Kleiman offers many ways to use the ingredients. South Africa argued its case before the International Court of Justice — that Israel is acting with "genocidal intent" in Gaza. Israel denies the accusation. UCSD oceanographers discovered thousands of World War II-era munitions dumped off the California coast. That adds to the barrels of DDT already documented. Critics review the latest film releases: “Mean Girls,” “The Beekeeper,” “The Settlers,” and “The Book of Clarence.”

The Geffen Playhouse’s new artistic director, Tarell Alvin McCraney, wants to connect with younger audiences and create a safe space for immersive horror.  Criminal gangs have wreaked havoc throughout Ecuador this week. It escalated on Sunday when notorious gang leader Adolfo “Fito” Macías escaped from prison. California is in the red by $37.9 billion. Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled his budget for the year and his ideas for reducing that deficit. High-powered Hollywood attorney Kevin Morris, who represents the “South Park” creators, has become Hunter Biden’s closest confidant and financial backer.  On Tuesday, SAG-AFTRA announced a deal with a tech company that allows actors to license their voices to be replicated by artificial intelligence for video games. 

The Emmy-winning “Schitt’s Creek” star’s new Netflix film follows a grieving widower who had run away from his problems.  LA County could be experiencing the largest COVID wave in years. RSV and flu are also spreading. A doctor explains how to navigate this infectious winter. The average liter of bottled water has about 240,000 tiny particles known as "nanoplastics," new research shows. How concerned should we be? The LAPD’s helicopter program cost more than the budget of 14 other city departments combined, with little proven benefit, according to an audit by the LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia.

New music in 2024 includes tripped-out Latin indie pop and a dance floor-ready love letter to an artist's late mother. The Golden Globes saw big wins for “Oppenheimer,” few awards for “Barbie,” and a cringe-y monologue from Jo Koy with steel-melting side-eye from Taylor Swift. New York's civil corruption trial against the National Rifle Association began today. Longtime head Wayne LaPierre and others are accused of using millions in NRA resources for personal gain. For decades, lung cancer was associated mostly with men and heavy smokers. Now doctors are seeing more cases in women and people who’ve never smoked cigarettes.

Preschools that receive state funding largely can’t expel or suspend students. What does that mean for schools that have seen an uptick in bad behavior?  Roughly 250,000 illegal border crossings took place in December. But the numbers don’t tell the full story when it comes to the complex issue of immigration. Critics review the latest film releases: “Night Swim,” “Occupied City,” “All of Us Strangers,” and “Good Grief.” Michigan will face Washington in the College Football Playoff National Championship. What to expect from that game, plus the NFL playoffs?

At farmers markets, you often get produce with higher nutritional value and greater flavor. Now through an online portal, you can order for pick-up or home delivery. Saleh al-Arouri, a Hamas leader who played a prominent role in the October 7 attacks, is dead. Hamas and the U.S. say Israel is behind the killing. What comes next? Harvard President Claudine Gay resigned on Tuesday. She faced criticism and conservative backlash over her handling of campus hate speech and allegations of plagiarism.  American poet Major Jackson celebrates two decades of poetry in his latest book called “Razzle Dazzle: New and Selected Poems 2002-2022.”

New state traffic laws will restrict speeding and traffic stops, plus lift a decades-long ban on cruising through neighborhoods.   Some Democrats hoped California would follow Maine and Colorado by disqualifying Trump from the 2024 primary election. Why didn’t that happen? Asteroids, vaccines, and a star eating a planet were some of the biggest scientific discoveries in 2023. Scientific American’s Laura Helmuth breaks them down. Learning playground clapping games is a rite of passage for many girls. An ESPN documentary traces this tradition through the centuries, even into modern hip-hop.  Two early Mickey Mouse cartoons can now be reused, remixed, or reimagined. There are already horror movies inspired by Mickey in production.

Andrew Leland talks about his fears of going completely blind, how it would affect his marriage and family, and how he lives in a world largely hostile to blind people. Shannon Lee talks about “Warrior,” which follows a martial artist who immigrated to San Francisco in the 1800s. It’s based on a TV pitch penned by her father.  Jake Shears’ disco-heavy album, "Last Man Dancing,” features big-name artists like Kylie Minogue, Big Freedia, and Iggy Pop. 

In “The Underworld,” journalist Susan Casey takes readers into the deep ocean to explore volcanoes, trenches, and a booming ecosystem that’s vital to our survival. Corinne Bailey Rae talks about “Black Rainbows,” which took seven years to make and was inspired by Chicago artist Theaster Gates.  In “Egg,” author Lizzie Stark explores the history of the egg, from Gold Rush-era gang wars in San Francisco to vaccine development and chickens in space.

Celine Song’s film “Past Lives” is about what happens when a girl from Korea emigrates and leaves behind her childhood sweetheart, and they reconnect decades later. Alex Borstein’s comedy special, “Corsets and Clown Suits,” is a mix of musical theater and storytelling. She talks about its origins and reflects on “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” With a banjo and an arpa llanera, Larry Bellorín and Joe Troop are fusing traditional Venezuelan and Appalachian folk music.

Most pregnant women experience morning sickness. About 2% of them require hospitalization for an extreme version known as hyperemesis, which is tied to a hormone called GFD15.  West Hollywood, a famously progressive city, has the highest minimum wage in the country. Labor activists cheer the move, but many business owners are concerned. Critics review the latest film releases: “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” “The Iron Claw,” “Ferrari,” and “The Color Purple.” Which LA charities make an impact and need support? Evan Kleiman points to No Us Without You, Student Lunch Box, Hollywood Food Coalition, and Adopt an Elder.

Can Tim Burton’s 1992 “Batman Returns” make your days merry and bright? Vox’s Alex Abad-Santos says this film about the Dark Knight is the best Christmas rom-com. Colorado disqualified former President Trump from the Republican primary ballot. He appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. A ruling could upend the 2024 presidential election. “A Day in the Life of Abed Salama” tells the real-life story of Palestinian man trying to find his 5-year-old son after a fiery bus crash outside Jerusalem. The holiday season is often a time for tax-deductible, charitable contributions. But those pleas may do more harm than good, says author Amy Schiller.

A volcano in southwestern Iceland erupted on Monday. The country is home to nearly three dozen active volcano sites and a rich mythological history.  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not popular. But since October 7, his government’s military action in Gaza has enjoyed wide support, even among the left. "Detransitioners" — people who transition or begin treatment and then reverse care — wield a lot of influence in shaping conservative transgender laws. How representative are they of a wider movement? Hollywood’s year of WGA and SAG strikes, streaming struggles, and big-budget flops is raising questions about how the industry will adjust. 

Bringing people together through music is a big part of KCRW’s work. Meet everyone who makes Press Play happen, and a song or two that’s special to us. The Nord Stream pipelines could have supplied continental Europe with two-thirds of its natural gas. A series of explosions shut them down, leading to an international whodunnit. The Supreme Court agreed to take up a case over the "obstruction of an official proceeding" charge against a handful of the January 6 defendants. It has implications for Special Counsel Jack Smith's case against Donald Trump.What is Sesame Street’s Cookie Monster truly eating? Calling them “cookies” might be a stretch. The New York Times went looking for answers.

Yossy Arefi’s latest book offers recipes for cookies, bars, and cakes that are quick, easy, and adaptable. Most can be made in about an hour — and in one bowl.  Critics review the latest film releases: “The Zone of Interest,” “American Fiction,” “Wonka,” “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget.” After a year of failing banks and recession fears, inflation is cooling and businesses are hiring. How should we feel about these confusing economic times? An LA Times investigation looks into Sean “Diddy” Combs’ recent downfall, as he faces allegations of rape, sex-trafficking a minor, and assault from multiple women. 

Lenny Kravitz says he is pleased with the pace and longevity of his career; explains the importance of Bayard Rustin in civil rights history; and reflects on his biracial roots.  At COP28, nearly 200 countries agreed on Wednesday to adopt a plan to combat climate change that would move away from fossil fuels and invest more in renewable energy. A groundbreaking approval from the FDA allows the gene-editing tool CRISPR to treat sickle cell disease. But many unknowns exist in using CRISPR to treat illnesses.  Two-time Emmy winner Andre Braugher came to prominence in the 90s with a role in a gritty, Baltimore crime drama. But audiences may remember him most for his comedic turn.

This holiday season, film critic Alonso Duralde recommends watching “Love, Actually,” “Fanny and Alexander,” “A Biltmore Christmas,” and “There’s Something in the Barn.”  Alfajores are South American dulce de leche sandwich cookies, with textures varying from a crumbly shortbread to a soft cake style. Buy them locally or make them at home. Donald Trump and the media have had a codependent relationship since the early days of his candidacy. How should journalists adjust the way they cover Trump? TV legend Norman Lear will be remembered for iconic shows like “All in the Family” and “The Jeffersons.” The theme songs of these shows have also become classics.

Japanese baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani is joining the LA Dodgers with a 10-year, $700 million contract. It’s one of the largest deals in sports history.  Congress is debating funding for both Israel and Ukraine. French philosopher and filmmaker Bernard-Henri Lévy advocates doing both. Special Counsel Jack Smith wants the Supreme Court to weigh in — quickly — on Trump’s claim of absolute immunity in his election interference case. Arizona, Wyoming, and New Mexico’s Supreme Courts take up the future of abortion. Comedian Matt Rogers has created a satire of the celebrity Christmas album called “Have You Heard of Christmas?” He’s best known as the co-host of the podcast “Las Culturistas.”

Hanukkah begins tonight, as the Israel-Hamas war continues. Some LA Jews are afraid to put up decorations, but one rabbi says it’s key to celebrate their identities. Apple will make changes early next year to improve texting. It may be time for iPhone users to stop shaming green-bubble texters (aka Android owners). Critics review the latest film releases: “Poor Things,” “The Boy and the Heron,” “Origin,” and “Waitress.” December is often packed with to-do lists and invitations. Sometimes you need a break from going out and you want to outsource the cooking, or perhaps order to-go. 

Starting next year, instruction of cursive penmanship will be mandatory for all California elementary school children.  Bakersfield Republican Kevin McCarthy says he’ll resign from Congress at the end of the year, after being ousted from the House speakership. Does he leave with bitterness? Norman Lear died on Tuesday at age 101. He masterminded some of the most groundbreaking shows of the 1970s: “All in the Family,” “The Jeffersons,” “Maude,” and “Good Times.” Pulitzer Prize winner Michael Cunningham is out with his first novel in nearly a decade. It’s set during COVID, but the word “pandemic” doesn’t appear once. 

Three women over age 75 are topping the Billboard charts — Brenda Lee, Dolly Parton, and Cher. They’ve been making music for decades.  Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is peaking nationwide. And with holiday gatherings, COVID and flu numbers are rising too. What can you do to protect yourself? Last week, Congress expelled fabulist and alleged grifter George Santos. Screenwriter Marty Kaplan wrote that very movie, called “The Distinguished Gentleman,” 30 years ago. “The Star Wars Holiday Special” aired only once in 1978, and has never been officially released. It’s legendarily terrible. A new documentary examines its cult status.

Musician and cartoonist Dave Chisholm documents Miles Davis’ turbulent life in the new graphic novel, “Miles Davis and the Search for the Sound.”  Pro-Palestinian protestors accuse Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, as the death toll there nears 16,000. But “genocide” has a specific legal definition.  The Supreme Court seems likely to side with Purdue Pharma in a bankruptcy settlement that shields members of the Sackler family from current and future opioid-related lawsuits. The Oxford English Dictionary’s word of the year is “rizz,” slang for charisma. Is it worthy, or were words like “Swiftie” or “parasocial” better picks?

Critics review the latest film releases: “Godzilla Minus One,” “Eileen,” “Silent Night,” and “Candy Cane Lane.” Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger died on Wednesday at age 100. His carpet-bombing campaign in Cambodia helped give rise to a genocidal regime.  In the Netherlands, a far-right political party dominated last week's parliamentary elections. KCRW looks at what’s behind the rise ofTrump-like politicians from Europe to South America. X CEO Linda Yaccarino was brought on board ostensibly to temper Elon Musk's antics and soothe advertiser fears. It hasn’t gone well.

A crêpe is a thin pancake that’s pliable enough to fold or roll around a filling. Jacques Pépin’s method requires no blender and no putting the batter in the fridge to rest. The debate between Gavin Newsom and Ron DeSantis is Thursday. DeSantis wants to breathe life into his flailing presidential campaign, and Newsom looks to position himself as the top Democrat in 2028. Charlie Munger, Warren Buffet’s business partner and Berkshire Hathaway’s frugal guru, built an empire on buying “wonderful companies at fair prices.” He has died at age 99.  A new book explains how the Rothschild family became the center of conspiracy theories, from who controls the world’s banks to COVID’s origins.

Michelle Buteau talks about fighting patriarchal standards of beauty, uplifting audiences at her comedy shows, and navigating others’ opinions around her surrogacy.  Some actors, like Justine Bateman, are criticizing SAG-AFTRA’s contract with studios, particularly over its AI rules. Dec. 5 is the deadline to vote on the deal. Rap star Young Thug faces eight counts in a sweeping RICO indictment that paints him as the kingpin of a violent gang called Young Slime Life.  Over the course of 48 hours, The Wall Street Journal's Joanna Stern visited dozens of non-Tesla EV charging stations around LA County. A significant portion of them didn't work.

Monica Lee’s restaurant Beverly Soon Tofu is part of LA culinary history. Now she’s published a cookbook called “Sohn-mat: Recipes and Flavors of Korean Home Cooking.” The truce between Israel and Hamas is being extended for two more days, with the hope that Hamas will release more hostages and Gaza can get more aid. A New York doctor has sued NYU Langone Health over his firing as director of its cancer center. He was let go over his social media posts about the Israel-Hamas war. This month marks the 30th anniversary of the Wu-Tang Clan’s debut album “Enter the Wu-Tang: (36 Chambers).”

To find unique gifts for loved ones, browse Carla’s Fresh Market, Heath Ceramics, artisan pop-ups at Craft Contemporary and Green and Bisque Clay House, and more. Donald Trump's presidential campaign speeches have become more vengeful and autocratic. Now experts are warning about a rise in fascism ahead of next year’s election.  Holidays bring joy, yet family tensions loom with uncomfortable questions about marriage and politics. A licensed therapist offers tips on surviving the holidays.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Napoleon,” “Wish,” “Maestro,” “American Symphony,” and “Good Burger 2.”

United Airlines has implemented a new boarding process they’re calling “WILMA” (window, middle, aisle). The company says it’ll reduce bottlenecks.  Sixty years ago, President Kennedy met with Latino activists in Houston the night before his assassination. Historians believe it was the first time a sitting president acknowledged the importance of the Latino vote. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is one of the biggest landlords on Skid Row. A report from the LA Times has revealed squalid and dangerous living conditions. The explosive final season of Netflix’s “The Crown” spotlights Princess Diana's tragic death. It faces scrutiny for fictionalizing history. 

Lina González-Granados is conducting LA Opera’s “El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego.” She reflects on the show’s themes of love and forgiveness, plus her journey to U.S. orchestras. OpenAI, the company that created Chat GPT, unexpectedly ousted its chief executive Sam Altman on Friday. By Monday, Microsoft had hired him to run a new research unit. “A federal appeals court heard oral arguments today over whether a lower court’s gag order violates former President Trump’s free speech rights. KCRW hears how the film, TV, and theater business is going for Bill Veloric, a talent agent with Innovative Artists, and Carmen Cubah, an Emmy Award-winning casting director.

Consider a Thanksgiving menu of beans and sauerkraut, gnocchi, carne asada, and adobo chocolate chip cookies.  Critics review the latest film releases: “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” “Next Goal Wins,” “Fallen Leaves,” “May December,” and “Saltburn.” Both Israel and the U.S. say Hamas has been using Gaza’s main hospital complex as a control center and weapons storehouse. Hamas denies this.  From Hollywood to Washington D.C., protesters are calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Most U.S. lawmakers and the G7 have so far rejected using the word “ceasefire.” 

Tustin officials are letting the U.S. Navy hangar fire die out on its own and telling residents to stay inside, as crews with hazmat gear clean up public areas.  Makeshift businesses — like in mechanical engineering and textile industries — existed under the section of the 10 freeway that recently burned. Those workers lost everything. The 366-foot-tall Vegas entertainment orb known as Sphere is drawing crowds for its U2 residency. West Hollywood and Santa Monica are exploring building similar structures. Since the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision overturned Roe v. Wade last summer, anti-abortion measures have lost in every state where they’ve been on the ballot. Funghi trifolati, an Italian antipasti dish, features mushrooms sautéed in olive oil with garlic and parsley. Mushrooms can also be stuffed, and they go well in barley soup.

Comedian Aparna Nancherla, who’s been a staff writer on “Late Night,” talks about her new memoir called “Unreliable Narrator: Me, Myself and Impostor Syndrome.” Biden is facing calls from inside the government to end the violence in Gaza, but it’s unclear whether the US has the power to stop the bloodshed. What will come out of Wednesday’s meeting between President Biden and China’s Xi Jingping? The two leaders will likely discuss fentanyl, Taiwan, and global conflicts. “A Murder at the End of the World” follows a mystery at a tech billionaire’s Icelandic retreat and reflects the anxieties of our time.

The 10 freeway is closed through Downtown LA — after a fire damaged an overpass. A state of emergency is in place, and as of noon Monday, cleanup of the hazardous site is complete. The Supreme Court adopted its first-ever code of ethics on Monday. For months, the justices have faced criticism over conflicts of interest and a cratering of public trust. SAG-AFTRA actors didn’t want AI using their likeness without permission or payment. The new deal, on which they’ll start voting Tuesday, covers those concerns. California’s redwoods are some of the oldest and largest trees in the world. Some activists and scientists are hoping to save them by planting new redwoods in other places. On his new album “9,” BLKBOK merges classical and hip-hop music. The record is named after the Little Rock Nine, who desegregated their white school in 1957.

After 118 days, SAG-AFTRA has reached a tentative deal with Hollywood studios. Guild leaders say the agreement is valued at more than $1 billion.  Newly unsealed documents show Meta’s top brass repeatedly warned CEO Mark Zuckerberg that Facebook and Instagram needed more safety measures to protect the well-being of young users. He allegedly ignored them — repeatedly. Critics review the latest film releases: “The Marvels,” “Dream Scenario,” “It’s a Wonderful Knife,” “A Still Small Voice.” What kind of local food do you miss when traveling? For Evan Kleiman, she craves burritos, Mexican-style eggs, sushi, salad, and market-fresh produce. 

Five years after the Camp Fire destroyed Paradise, CA, about a third of the town has been repopulated, consisting of fire survivors and new residents. The documentary “Beyond Utopia” shows gripping details of some of the last-known attempts at defection from North Korea before the pandemic. It almost didn’t get made.  As the Smithsonian National Zoo’s three panda ambassadors return to China, what does this spell for U.S.-China relations? 

Diana Nyad’s dream was to swim from Cuba to Florida. She failed when she was 28, then retired, and at age 60, decided to try again. A new Netflix film tells her story.  As the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, a Thousand Oaks Jewish man died on Monday after sustaining injuries during a protest, and college campuses have erupted in sometimes violent demonstrations. Critics say Sam Bankman-Fried’s guilty verdict reveals the whole crypto charade, but evangelists see this as just another growing pain on the road to market maturation. Coworking and real estate company WeWork filed for bankruptcy on Monday. What does its demise say about the future of where and how people work post-pandemic?

Composer and jazz musician Miguel Atwood-Ferguson embodies a global influence in his debut album, Les Jardins Mystiques Vol. 1. As the death toll rises, Israel lacks clear plans for Gaza beyond crushing Hamas. What will become of the embattled territory and the occupied West Bank? Joe Biden is trailing Donald Trump in five of six key swing states that are likely to determine the 2024 presidential election, a recent New York Times poll shows.  A federal law bars people subject to domestic violence restraining orders from possessing guns. Does it violate the Second Amendment? The Supreme Court will consider this question on Tuesday. The justices also recently agreed to hear a challenge to a Trump-era ban on bump stocks.

Since Michel Shane’s 13-year-old daughter died on PCH in 2010, he’s been trying to make the road safer. He’s produced a documentary called 21 Miles in Malibu. The autoworkers’ strike is almost over. UAW President Shawn Fain employed aggressive tactics and unapologetic rhetoric to secure big gains for the union and the labor movement at large. Ady Barkan, 39, died this week after battling ALS. KCRW replays an interview with him about the documentary Not Going Quietly, which tracks his fight against cuts to Medicare.  Critics review the latest film releases: Priscilla, The Killer, What Happens Later, and Rustin. 

Evan Kleiman explains how to make pasta using flour and eggs, called “la sfoglia.” It’s kneaded, rolled out, and can be turned into stuffed treats or long, flat noodles.  The Rafah border has opened for the first time since the Israel-Hamas war began, allowing foreign nationals and severely injured Palestinians to enter Egypt. In Let Us Descend, author Jesmyn Ward follows a young enslaved woman’s journey from the Carolinas to Louisiana in the pre-Civil War South.

Prestige TV brought ambitious shows like “Mad Men.” Peak TV meant an abundance of niche and weird programming like “Fleabag.” Now is post-TV here? Peter Beinart offers a view from the Jewish left on the war between Israel and Hamas, and why the ground offensive could make things worse for Israel. Civil rights attorney and former ADL leader David Lehrer passed away last week. He will be remembered for his unwavering optimism amid extreme darkness.  The Black Guy Dies First: Black Horror Cinema From Fodder To Oscar is a book that traces 50 years of Black characters and culture in scary movies.

KCRW DJ LeRoy Downs recommends new jazz tracks by A.K. Toney, Steve Lehman, Linda May Han Oh, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, and Samora Pinderhughes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised the total destruction of Hamas. Even with a bloody ground war, some experts say that may not be possible. The 14th Amendment bans insurrectionists from holding political office. A Colorado trial will determine if that applies to former President Donald Trump.  Journalist and author Nat Segaloff’s new book, “The Exorcist Legacy: 50 Years of Fear,” is a behind-the-scenes look at the iconic horror film and its standing power.

Chuck D explores life post-COVID through illustrations in his graphic novel “Summer of Hamn.” With the war in Israel, foreign policy is at the center of the California Senate race. KCRW looks at where the leading democratic candidates stand. Major record companies claim Anthropic’s chatbot spits out the same lyrics as their copyrighted songs. Legal experts say they have a good lawsuit. Critics review the latest films: Five Nights at Freddy's, Pain Hustlers, The Holdovers, and Fingernails.

This Halloween, film critic William Bibbiani recommends Cat People, The Fly, Elvira: Mistress of Evil, Ghostwatch, and Over the Garden Wall. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is defending himself against accusations that he was “justifying terrorism,” after remarks that included calling for a humanitarian cease-fire. The WGA West addressed the Hamas attack for the first time, calling it an “abomination” in an email to WGA members, and apologizing for not commenting sooner. A 300-year-old Shōya house from Japan was meticulously disassembled and shipped to the Huntington in San Marino, then put back together. The process took eight years. Bollito misto is the ultimate salute to meaty goodness. The key to this Italian dish: meats with different textures and flavors. It only has vegetables in the pot as aromatics.

Chef Sonoko Sakai’s new children’s book is inspired by her relationship with her grandmother and the journey to find a melon she lost in Japan. Despite rising U.S.-China geopolitical tension, California and China are cooperating in some areas on global warming. What can each side learn from the other? California and dozens of other states are suing Meta, alleging it intentionally built Facebook and Instagram with addictive features that harm young users. The series Little Bird is about the Canadian government systematically removing Indigenous children from their families so white people can adopt them.

For some teens nationwide, LinkedIn is currently the hot social media platform, not TikTok or Instagram. That’s according to Anya Kamenetz, a writer who covers parenting. China is increasingly wading into the Israel-Hamas conflict as a counter to the U.S.’ and its support of Israel. Majority-Muslim countries are welcoming China’s stance. Two prominent allies of former President Trump pled guilty to Georgia prosecutors for their roles in the 2020 election interference. SAG leadership turned away George Clooney and other A-listers who floated a plan they said could help bridge the two sides. SAG also walked back rules around Halloween costumes on the picket line. The duo Milli Vanilli was stripped of their Grammy for lip-synching their album. Unscathed: producers and record label executives who were in on it. A new documentary chronicles this story. 

For your holiday table, cut a long-necked butternut squash in thin slices but not all the way through. This hasselback style allows the glaze to penetrate. The dish is easily customizable. A State Department official resigned, protesting the Biden administration’s “blind support” for Israel. As Biden prepares to request more military aid, should that continue? Jim Jordan’s House speaker bid is quickly fading due to his hard-right politics and election denialism. That didn't stop all California Republicans from supporting him. Netflix's strategy to end account sharing led to blockbuster subscriber growth. Is this sustainable in the long run for the streaming giant?  Critics review the latest film releases: Killers of the Flower Moon, The Persian Version, More Than Ever, and Divinity. 

Laura Krantz, host of Wild Thing and author of Is There Anybody Out There?, talks about government programs on UFOs, scientists’ insights from telescope photos, and the changing story of the 1947 Roswell crash.  Jews and Muslims are seeing a surge of hate crimes in the U.S. after Hamas attacked Israel. What could this mean for foreign policy and unity at home? A new ProPublica podcast explores how The Federalist Society’s Leonard Leo spent decades building a pipeline for conservative talent that ends at the Supreme Court.

A recent online dating scam called “pig-butchering” is tricking people into giving away big bucks via cryptocurrency.  President Biden heads to the Middle East on Wednesday. He’ll have to walk a fine line of supporting Israel, while advocating for humanitarian needs in Gaza. Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel has been compared to 9/11. Is Israel risking a similar outcome with plans to march into Gaza to destroy the terrorist group?  In the 1980s, RJ Reynolds and Phillip Morris bought Kraft and Nabisco, pumping their food with sugar, fat, sodium, and other additives that made people crave them.  What comedy shows to watch this season? Consider Our Flag Means Death, Gen V, Shrinking, and Bob’s Burgers, says one critic. 

From rap videos to the Met Gala red carpet, high fashion and hip-hop are inseparable nowadays. A new book documents the melding of the two.   Rep. Jim Jordan, a far-right member of the Freedom Caucus, could become the next House speaker. He'll need to win over more moderate members of the caucus October 14 was the last day for Gov. Newsom to sign or veto hundreds of California bills. He approved ones that would tackle mental health and homelessness.  A federal judge imposes a gag order on Donald Trump over his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. And the feds and ACLU reached a settlement over the Trump administration's child separation policy. After asking for equal pay as her male co-star, Somers was fired from the sitcom Three’s Company. She went on to make millions as a health and fitness guru.

Talks between SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP broke down on Wednesday. Studios say the gap between the two sides is too great. SAG accused the other party of using “bully tactics.” Hamas’ mass slaughter of civilians in Gaza didn’t happen in a vacuum. There’s a long and complicated history in this conflict.  After another 100-win season, the Boys in Blue got swept by the Arizona Diamondbacks in their second first-round playoff elimination in two years.  Film critics review the latest releases: Anatomy of a Fall, My Love Affair with Marriage, Silver Dollar Road, The Mission. Pumpkin spice is an ubiquitous marker of the fall season. But many blends are more interesting: baharat, hawayej, garam masala, and gingerbread spice.

Gov. Newsom signed a law that makes it easier for owners to repair their devices. What does this mean for consumers and independent shops? Social media sites like X and Telegram are testing the limits of unmoderated content about violence in Israel and Gaza. How to separate false info from facts? Duane "Keffe D" Davis has been charged with the murder of Tupac Shakur. Grand jury testimony in this case has reshaped our understanding of what happened that night in 1996. Silver Dollar Road follows the Reels family’s battle to keep their North Carolina beachfront property, even at the cost of going to jail. 

In What About Men?, British columnist Caitlin Moran explores why they experience loneliness, higher rates of addiction, shrinking wages, and other struggles. Both Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Hamas' attack on Israeli civilians are an about-face on the norms abided by since the end of WWII.  For decades, attractive 20- and 30-somethings have tried to find love in various iterations of The Bachelor franchise. Now a 72-year-old is handing out roses. 

In the early 1990s, the U.S. portrayed sex as shameful, while Madonna’s album Erotica celebrated it. Her songs were more sentimental than sexual, says one professor.  Netanyahu’s government has retaliated after Hamas launched a multi-front attack. But will Israelis move towards a more moderate path and leader? While the U.S. continues to back Israel rhetorically and militarily, the war with Hamas could upend American peacebuilding in the Middle East.  President Trump's civil trial in New York enters its second week. He's accused of fraud for inflating the value of his assets to get more favorable loan terms and insurance deals. LA's iconic palm trees provide neither shade nor fruit, and many are dying as they reach age 100. Is it time to rethink this staple of LA's vegetative aesthetic?

California wants to transform math instruction in schools — focusing on individual students’ needs rather than requiring them to follow the same algebra-geometry-calculus track.  The House is at a standstill until the middle of next week when they elect a new speaker. That uncertainty and instability could be a sign that our democracy might be in trouble. Critics review the latest film releases: The Exorcist: Believer, Cat Person, The Royal Hotel, and Dicks: The Musical.  Katmai National Park’s brown bears are packing on the pounds ahead of winter hibernation. The public will crown one of them as the fattest ursine resident. 

Pollution from wildfire smoke has stalled, in some cases reversed, air-quality improvements in most states. That’s according to Stanford researchers. Smoke from wildfires has led to the wine industry losing billions of dollars. Researchers are trying to help vintners adapt. The House ousted Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Tuesday after roughly nine months on the job. What does this historic moment mean?  In Magnificent Jerk, family secrets are unearthed through the eyes of Maya Lin Surgarman, who discovered that her uncle’s past included drugs, gangs, and more. 

The Biden administration has introduced new plans meant to lower payments for federal student loan borrowers. Here’s how it works. “Deadlocked: How America Shaped the Supreme Court” looks at the decades leading up to the creation of the most conservative court in recent history. A century ago this week, the Mt. Wilson Observatory hosted one of science’s greatest discoveries. Today, volunteers fight to keep it afloat. Ford brought back the Bronco in 2021, and now the SUV could be the future of the federal government’s efforts to fight wildfires. Evan Kleiman offers a Moroccan salad that combines beets and tomatoes, adapted from Naomi Duguid and Jeffrey Alford’s cookbook, Flatbreads and Flavors. 

Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Laphonza Butler to complete Senator Dianne Feinstein's term in the Senate. Will she run for the full term?  U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, 90, died last week. The centrist sought bipartisan solutions and advocated for gun control, reproductive rights, and environmental issues.  The Supreme Court's term begins today, and this year the justices will consider big cases concerning the administrative state, free speech, voting rights, and guns. The Renaissance and Eras Tours are hitting the big screen. It’s an economic boost and a way for fans to access the musicians without spending big bucks on live concerts.  Corinne Bailey Rae talks about Black Rainbows, her most recent album that took seven years to make and was inspired by Chicago artist Theaster Gates. 

As the weather cools off, why not cozy up on the sofa with a good book? Recommendations include titles by Jesmyn Ward, Safiya Sinclair, Lisa Hamilton, and others.  Republicans in Congress might force the government to shut down when the fiscal year ends on Oct. 1. Why does this threat seem to come up each year?  The LAUSD board has ended its mandate that school employees be vaccinated against COVID. Workers who were laid off for defying the rule can reapply for jobs.Critics review the latest film releases: The Creator, Saw X, Fair Play, and Dumb Money. 

The WGA is back at work today as the union ends its nearly five-month strike. Meanwhile, SAG-AFTRA’s strike could wrap up by Thanksgiving, according to one prediction.  Many Americans aren’t happy about a Joe Biden v. Donald Trump rematch in 2024. One of them is Andrew Yang, a 2020 Democratic presidential candidate. Evan Kleiman and her friends spent 10 hours processing and canning 365 pounds of paste tomato varieties. The method involves precise rules — and stamina.

Exoticos, wrestlers who dressed in drag and served as comic relief in lucha libre, won over audiences thanks to Saul Armendariz (aka Cassandro). He’s the subject of a new biopic. The Federal Trade Commission and 17 states are suing Amazon, alleging that it holds a monopoly on online retail. This comes after the DOJ sued Google recently. Some 13,000 UAW workers are off the job, demanding better pay and more job security. Their key issue: the shift from gas powered-vehicles to electric.  New furniture is often made with cheap, flimsy materials, even those from West Elm and Restoration Hardware. Where can consumers find reliable, affordable options?

The Writers Guild and AMPTP reached a tentative deal, which includes increased pay from streamers and protection from AI. How did the agreement come together? Activists say a section of the 14th Amendment bars insurrectionists from holding public office. States are using this to keep Donald Trump off the 2024 ballot. Costa Rica, known for its “pura vida” lifestyle, is facing runaway drug violence as the cocaine trade ravages Latin America. LA bassist Thundercat is among the most influential players in music. Hear him break down learning bass, staying sober, and escaping comfort zones.

LA drivers are paying $6/gallon for gas on average. That’s partly due to rising crude oil prices and California’s gas taxes. Fox and News Corp scion Ruper Murdoch passes off the reins to his eldest son, who is even more conservative and sympathetic to Donald Trump. In Laguna Beach, a pet owner could be ticketed if their dog barks for 30 minutes straight or 60 minutes on-and-off within a 24-hour period. How to keep a dog quiet? Critics review the latest film releases: “Flora and Son,” “Invisible Beauty,” and “The Origin of Evil.” And they look back at “Stop Making Sense,” recently re-released in 4K IMAX.

The WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes are costing California billions of dollars. Could the governor and LA mayor help broker a fair deal between workers and studios? Andrew Leland talks about his fears of going completely blind, how it would affect his marriage and family, and how he lives in a world largely hostile to blind people. Unripe quince smells sweet but is terribly sour and rock hard. When cooked, it dramatically changes color, loses the fuzz on the peel, and becomes highly aromatic.

Boy band sensation *NSYNC reunited at last week’s MTV Video Music Awards, igniting strong feelings of early 2000s nostalgia. As Joe Biden and Volodymyr Zelensky speak at the U.N. General Assembly today, where does the war in Ukraine stand now, and can the U.S. afford to keep sending aid money there? What would a Chat GPT-generated college essay look like, and how much would it threaten the admissions process for prospective students? Tour de France women battled sexism, chauvinism, and stigma to start their own race in the 80s. Then decades passed without an official women's race until last year.

“You’ve Got to Learn,” a previously unreleased recording of Nina Simone’s set at the 1966 Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island, is now widely available.  California is suing five major oil companies and their trade association, alleging they conspired to deceive consumers about climate change-related harms for decades.  Wisconsin’s Republican lawmakers are threatening to impeach a state Supreme Court justice over redistricting, and attempting to oust the state's top election official.  After receiving social media outcry, Drew Barrymore, Bill Maher, Jennifer Hudson and hosts of “The Talk” are delaying further production of their shows’ new seasons. In Xbox’s role-playing game “Starfield,” players can explore over 1000 planets. Could realism, plus an old-fashioned quest, turn the game into a blockbuster?

Critics review the latest film releases: “A Haunting In Venice,” “Cassandro,” “Rotting In The Sun,” and “A Million Miles Away.” Pulitzer Prize winner Jennifer Senior chronicles her family’s reconnection with her Aunt Adelle, who was institutionalized as a baby due to a developmental disability.

A massive storm that’s killed thousands and caused two dams to collapse in Libya is a reminder of the danger of aging American infrastructure. Menopause can include hot flashes, night sweats, and depression. Black and Latino women could experience more severe and longer-lasting symptoms, research shows. In “The Underworld,” journalist Susan Casey takes readers into the deep ocean to explore volcanoes, trenches, and a booming ecosystem that’s vital to our survival. Figs are abundant at the end of summer. With sweetness and rich texture, they pair well with cheeses of all kinds and cured meats.

The U.S. poverty rate jumped to more than 12% as COVID programs helping with food, rent, and unemployment ended. Now food banks are seeing higher demand. Despite a slim GOP majority and looming government shutdown, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched an impeachment inquiry into President Biden. In the PBS show “America Outdoors,” journalist and comedian Baratunde Thurston takes viewers on nature adventures and engages locals in conversations.  Jacob Collier makes his Hollywood Bowl debut on September 13 with the LA Philharmonic. He talks to KCRW about the performance and his musical roots.

Grace Potter wrote her latest solo album, “Mother Road,” during cross-country trips that began in 2021. She left her LA-area home to reflect on life and COVID. The Justice Department is suing Google, claiming they have a monopoly on internet search. It’s the biggest tech antitrust case since Microsoft in the 90s. Over an 18 month period, federal prosecutors in one Texas district disproportionately prosecuted asylum seekers coming from Muslim-majority countries. An appeals court says the Biden administration likely violated the First Amendment as it tried to fight COVID disinformation. Coco Gauff won the women’s title at the U.S. Open over the weekend, and Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic won his 24th Grand Slam title.

Your car is spying on you and likely collecting more personal data than necessary, according to a new study from the Mozilla Foundation. The top candidates for Mexico’s 2024 presidential election are former Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum and Senator Xóchitl Gálvez. After states passed bans on abortion in the wake of Roe v. Wade’s fall, women are still seeking them in huge numbers in bordering states. Critics review the latest film releases: “Scrapper,” “El Conde,” “The Nun II,” and “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3.” Ratatouille shows off the best summer produce: squash, eggplant, peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes. The dish originates from Southern France.

Narcan, the nasal medication used to reverse an opioid overdose, will be available over the counter later this month. A two-dose box will cost about $45. Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years for his role in Capitol insurrection — the harshest penalty yet related to that attack. Chat GPT is worried that people will use OpenAI to generate targeted political ads filled with misinformation. That could spell bad news for U.S. politics. The late feminist bell hooks pushed feminism beyond white, middle-class concerns to include poor women of color. A new collection of her interviews is out now.

For decades, Californians have been able to earn associate degrees behind bars. This fall, a new slate of bachelor’s degree programs will start. More buses of migrants are arriving in LA, NY, Chicago, Boston, and other left-leaning cities, sparking tension between city Democrats and the Biden administration. Unemployment is low, inflation is going down, and the risk of recession is small too. So why do the majority of Americans think the economy is getting worse? States like Florida and Alabama are under fire for excluding Black-majority districts in their state congressional maps. What are the consequences? Two decades after the premiere of “The O.C.,” Alex Zaragoza talks about the problematic way that show portrayed her hometown of Tijuana.

Rotisserie chickens are affordable, convenient, and can be used in many ways. Include them in Mexican dishes, salads, or a grand aioli. The Biden administration proposed loosening marijuana restrictions and reclassifying cannabis as a Schedule III drug. It could open new avenues for research and change how pot is regulated and taxed. A new reproductive care clinic was scheduled to open in Beverly Hills. Then anti-aboriton activists started protesting. Critics review the latest film releases: “The Equalizer 3,” “Goldfish,” “The Good Mother,” “Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose.”

Hollywood’s below-the-line workers are not on strike, but they’re still out of work as writers and actors walk the picket lines. A prop master and a graphic designer share how they’re faring. Last week, Hollywood executives publicly released their latest contract offer to WGA members, who did not react well. And SAG officials haven’t met with studios since their strike began. A group of tech investors bought thousands of acres of NorCal land — for some $1 billion — to build a new city. They kept it a secret from locals.On Labor Day, a new documentary about Little Richard will air on TV. “Little Richard: I Am Everything” shows how rock and roll originated with Richard Penniman. It includes interviews with family members, musicians, and Black and queer scholars.

CA Attorney General Rob Bonta on Monday sued the Chino school district over its policy requiring staff to notify parents if students identify as a different gender at school. California banned single-use plastic bags seven years ago. But a new LA Times investigation shows we’re now using more plastic bags, not fewer. Ohio businessman Vivek Ramaswamy has been called Trump 2.0. But whether the brash contrarian can convert his early buzz into GOP primary wins is unknown. The Hollywood strikes have halted U.S. production. But if film/TV executives think international content will save them, they should think again. The US Open is taking place in Queens, New York. All eyes are on Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, who’ve been competing against each other all season.

Grammy winner Kirk Franklin is credited with shaping contemporary gospel. He talks about channeling heated emotions into songs, and making time for his kids while touring A judge set a March date for former President Trump’s federal election trial. Meanwhile, some of Trump's co-defendants in the Georgia election fraud case are requesting speedy trials. New COVID infections and hospitalizations are steadily increasing again, but deaths remain low. Will it remain this way with new variants and a fall booster? “Black California Dreamin’: Claiming Space at America's Leisure Frontier” is an exhibition that looks at how African Americans shaped recreation sites across the state. El Segundo defeated the country of Curacao to win the Little League World Series on Sunday, marking the first time a California team won the title in a dozen years.

Some 80 miles off California’s central coast, thousands of pearl octopuses have gathered near an extinct underwater volcano, an ideal place for mating and nesting. During Thursday night's first GOP presidential primary debate, newcomer Vivek Ramaswamy shined. Veterans Chris Christie, Mike Pence, and Nikki Haley held their ground. Frontrunner Donald Trump skipped it all for X. Japan began releasing nearly 8,000 tons of treated radioactive wastewater into the Pacific Ocean today. It’s the first step in a decades-long plan to clean up the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant. Critics review the latest film releases: “Gran Turismo,” “Retribution,” “Golda,” and “Bottoms.” Evan Kleiman talks about tomato sandwiches, which consist of four or five ingredients: a large and aromatic summer tomato, soft bread that’s white or wheat, mayonnaise, salt and black pepper.

The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers publicly shared its latest proposal to the Writers Guild of America. But writers don’t seem thrilled.  The economic fallout of Hollywood’s strikes goes beyond the entertainment industry. It’s hitting LA businesses like dry cleaners and prop houses, plus other cities nationwide. Harvard-trained attorney and former liberal Democrat Kenneth Chesebro turned himself in Wednesday. He faces charges in Georgia for concocting the fake elector scheme to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Actor Ben McKenzie is trying to convince anyone who will listen that the cryptocurrency world is a giant scam. He makes the case in the new book, “Easy Money.”

Shannon Lee talks about “Warrior,” which follows a martial artist who immigrated to San Francisco in the 1800s. It’s based on a TV pitch penned by her father.  Eight candidates will spar in Milwaukee at the first GOP presidential debate. Donald Trump, the front-runner, will be absent. How could this benefit the other contenders? Doctors have noted that some dementia patients suddenly take up painting, welding, wood carving —  even as their memory-loss symptoms worsen. Burning Man organizers have traditionally championed sustainability. The festival is now struggling to stay eco-friendly and adapt to climate change.

Preparing for natural disasters goes beyond stocking extra food and water. Secure your important financial documents and insurance plans too.  Today marks President Biden's first visit to Maui since wildfires devastated the city of Lahaina. The island now faces the daunting task of rebuilding. Former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows thinks he should be immune from prosecution in Georgia’s 2020 election interference probe, or possibly have his case moved to federal court. A kiss from a Spanish soccer official threatened to steal the spotlight from the nation’s Women’s World Cup victory. Before this, some players refused to play for the coach. Jalen Ngonda, an American artist based in London, mixes the sounds of Motown, classic soul, funk and R&B.

Boy George talks about 40 years of Culture Club, his influences, and how he’s handled fame. DJ Valida shares a special playlist inspired by Boy George and Culture Club. And critics review the latest film releases: “Blue Beetle” and “Strays.” 

Carla Morrison talks about mental health, taking a long break from music, and rediscovering her songwriting passion. Plus, DJ Ro Wyldeflower Contreras shares a special playlist inspired by Morrison. 

Ozomatli’s Ulises Bella and Raul Pacheco discuss the band’s origins, long-standing political activism, and transformation after losing family members. Plus, DJ Raul Campos shares a special playlist inspired by Ozomatli. 

Press Play is kicking off its week-long Summer Mixtape, featuring artist interviews and curated sets from KCRW DJs. Today, country rock star Lucinda Williams talks about her new album titled "Stories from a Rock N Roll Heart," continued recovery from a stroke, close relationship with her dad, and more. Plus, DJ Anne Litt shares a special playlist inspired by Williams.  

To satisfy hunger while staying cool, turn to cold and savory Korean noodle soups, tomato-centered gazpacho, and fruity granita. Critics review the latest film releases: “The Last Voyage of the Demeter,” “Jules,” “Medusa Deluxe,” “Men of Deeds,” and “Red, White, & Royal Blue.” Amid climate change, wildfires eviscerated the Hawaiian town of Lahaina this week. Thousands of people are now displaced. Open AI, the company behind Chat GPT, is leading artificial intelligence. What is it truly capable of?

After three long pandemic years, employers say recent college graduates lack the hard and soft skills needed for the modern workplace. Ohioans have rejected a measure that would make it harder to amend the state’s constitution. Abortion access was the subtext, leading up to a vote over the matter this fall. Amid health and political challenges, Senator Diane Feinstein and her daughter are suing the estate of Feinstein’s late husband over money for health needs. A new documentary tells the story of Doug Butler, a Vermont dairy farmer who risked losing his home to chase his dream of sled racing dogs in Alaska. Tesla’s Cybertruck may hit the streets as soon as September. After months of delays, will the vehicle be able to compete in the EV truck market?

Mayor Karen Bass has stayed neutral in this year’s Hollywood and LAUSD strikes. Now she’s involved in union negotiations with local government workers. UCLA, USC, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Arizona State and Utah are leaving the Pac-12, prompting concerns of whether the conference can survive. In his latest documentary, director Steve James tells the story of Ted Hall, a physicist who handed atomic bomb plans over to the Soviet Union. His motive? Compassion for the Soviet people. Some of today’s most influential voices in the food world are home cooks on TikTok, where creators show vulnerability and leave out the heavy editing. 

Musicians earn meager streaming residuals and are threatened by AI, but unlike Hollywood actors and writers, they don’t have a union that can fight for them. NBCUniversal is accused of abusing reality TV stars and crews by covering up sexual violence, exploiting minors, and using alcohol to “manufacture mental instability." Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” movie has grossed more than $1 billion at the global box office, making her the only woman director to achieve this on her own — without a male co-director. A woman has filed a federal lawsuit against Detroit’s police after facial recognition tech linked her to a carjacking. She was eight months pregnant at the time. A Texas judge struck down parts of that state’s restrictive abortion ban. The ruling is on hold as the state appeals. And a federal appeals court ruled Mississippi’s lifetime voting ban for felons is unconstitutional.

This Friday is a meeting to plan a meeting for the WGA and AMPTP. With writers and actors striking, some film releases are already pushed to next year.ESPN is still Disney’s cash cow to some degree, but profits are shrinking and opportunities for growth are fewer. Disney is considering selling off a partial stake in ESPN.The CDC says COVID hospitalizations started to tick up toward the end of July – to around 8,000 a week. How worrisome is this, and when could a booster vaccine roll out?Critics review the latest film releases: “Meg 2: the Trench,” “Passages,” “The Beasts,” and “Kokomo City.”No-churn ice cream recipes involve whipping air into the mixture to lighten it before freezing. To achieve smoothness and richness, use high-fat ingredients.

Hollywood studios are rushing to hire AI professionals, despite ongoing strikes and layoffs. What could this mean for the industry’s future? Donald Trump is simultaneously running for office and facing dozens of criminal charges. It's expensive. His PAC is nearly broke, and he's starting a legal defense fund. More than 7,500 pedestrians were killed by cars last year, marking a 40-year high, according to a preliminary report from the Governors Highway Safety Association. In a new memoir, former LA politico Zev Yaroslavsky reflects on his nearly 40 years in local office, first on the City Council, then on the Board of Supervisors.

The new documentary “The Deepest Breath” tells how Stephen Keenan  died six years ago while trying to rescue fellow freediver Alessia Zecchini.  Special Counsel Jack Smith today indicted Donald Trump for alleged conspiracy to overturn the 2020 presidential election and his role leading up to the Capitol insurrection. Congressional Republicans are threatening to torpedo the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). It's one of President George W. Bush's greatest achievements.  The U.S. Women's National Soccer Team is now in the final 16 of this year's World Cup. But the usually dominant squad is looking shakier than most people expected. Concertgoers have been increasingly throwing objects at performers while they’re on stage. Why? Blame “main character syndrome.”

Madonna’s debut self-titled album turned 40 years old last week. With hits like “Holiday” and “Borderline,” the icon created a subversive image and influenced women artists who came decades later. The U.S. is potentially losing billions of dollars of productivity amid weeks-long oppressive heat. People can’t work in excessive temperatures, businesses must crank up A/C, and customers are staying home instead.  Last week’s additions to an earlier indictment of former President Trump over the handling of classified documents could undercut his best defense. Lithium is the principal element needed to produce electric car batteries, and now there’s a gold rush for it in Afghanistan, spurred by the Chinese. This could give the country an edge in producing EVs.  

In “Owner of a Lonely Heart,” Beth Nguyen writes about being a refugee, feeling like an imposter as both American and Vietnamese, and being separated from her mom for 11 years. The ocean current system depicted in the movie “The Day After Tomorrow” could end mid-century, says a new study from the University of Copenhagen. Not everyone agrees on the timing. Critics review the latest film releases: “Haunted Mansion,” “Talk to Me,” “War Pony,” and “Sympathy for the Devil.” When it’s too hot to cook, but you want to eat something filling and protein-packed, consider Japanese and Chinese versions of cold tofu: hiyayakko and liangban doufu.

The family of musician Sinéad O’Connor announced today that she has died at age 56. The pop star became a pariah after criticizing the Catholic Church and its secrecy around child abuse. KCRW replays a conversation about the Showtime documentary “Nothing Compares,” that reflects that time in her life. The Department of Education is investigating Harvard’s legacy admissions. Critics say the practice disproportionately favors kids of white, rich alumni and donors. How a small-town lawyer is using the RICO Act, a law designed to go after the mafia, to sue oil companies. She says they knew fossil fuels were causing climate change and hid the info. “Lazy girl job” is a bit of a backlash to “girl boss,” and it speaks to the attitude that many Amerians now have about pursuing more balance between work and life.

Meth patients would receive a gift card when their drug test comes back clean. California plans to roll out its “contingency management” program in 24 counties.  Elon Musk rolled out a complete rebrand of Twitter as “X” — part of his obsession with the letter and his vision for an "everything app" that dates back to his PayPal days. A new film on PBS’ Frontline, “20 Days In Mariupol,” chronicles Russia's siege of the Ukrainian port city of Mariupol during the early stages of the war.  LA Times Food Editor Daniel Hernandez is out with a comprehensive guide to visiting Mexico City. He talks about the city’s customs, food, and its relationship with tourists and new expats.