LA Times editorial page editor Mariel Garza resigned Wednesday after the paper’s owner Patrick Soon-Shiong ordered the Times not to endorse a presidential candidate. Two Sudanese brothers are accused of targeting Israel’s warning system during the Hamas attack last October 7. They also attacked Cedars-Sinai hospital, an indictment says. Oscar-winner Morgan Neville goes behind the scenes of directing a LEGO movie that chronicles Pharrell’s musical journey from discovery to stardom.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Venom: The Last Dance,” “Conclave,” “New Wave,” and “No One Asked You.” 

Donald Trump’s longest-serving chief of staff, John Kelly, recently spoke to news media about concerns that the former president would govern as a dictator if re-elected.  James Carville was part of the campaign to get Bill Clinton elected in 1992 — and an early critic of Joe Biden’s choice to run for a second term. He talks about the high stakes in the Nov. election.  Longtime Dodgers pitcher Fernando Valenzuela died on Tuesday at age 63.  “Fernandomania” in 1981 left an indelible mark on LA and its Mexican American community. Evan Kleiman offers a recipe for flavoring your whole chicken with rosemary-infused maple syrup and combining it with a melted butter baste. It’s inspired by Colu Henry and Samin Nosrat. 

The medical diagnosis used to convict a Texas death row inmate has drawn growing skepticism. At least 30 others similarly convicted have been exonerated. California’s Proposition 6 would end forced labor in prisons. Currently incarcerated people can be required to work, sometimes for pennies per hour or nothing at all, and face punishment if they refuse. Millions of square feet of online shopping warehouses are popping up in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Residents are fighting new developments. A developmentally disabled woman wants to marry her partner, but they'll lose their medical benefits and social security if they wed. Now they're fighting to change federal law.

The Dodgers are back in the World Series after a wild win over the Mets. Now they’re set to face the Yankees in a matchup that’s pure baseball magic. Days after Yahya Sinwar’s death, Secretary of State Antony Blinken travels to the Middle East to bring calm to the region. But prospects for peace don’t look good. Elon Musk is offering swing state voters $1 million to sign his petition. But some election law experts worry that Musk is trying to buy votes for Donald Trump. “New Wave” is a documentary about Vietnamese refugees leaning into Eurodisco as they built new lives in SoCal after the fall of Saigon. It also speaks to generational trauma and grief. 

Congressman Adam Schiff was Donald Trump’s chief antagonist during 2017-2021. He responds to Trump’s latest attacks on him, and reacts in real time to the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Critics review the latest film releases: “Smile 2,” “Anora,” “Woman of the Hour,” and “Tom Petty: Heartbreakers Beach Party.” KCRW's new host talks about the pop culture latest, including the likelihood of Charli XCX stretching "brat summer" into fall, and the "car crash" appeal of Francis Ford Coppola's "Megalopolis."   Donnie and Joe Emerson recorded “Dreamin’ Wild” as teenagers in 1979. It took decades to become a hit. Now Donnie and his wife are on their first West Coast tour. 

Voter suppression tactics now include strict voter ID laws, reduced early voting times, and limits on mail-in ballots. VA and AL are facing lawsuits related to purging voter rolls.  Lilly Ledbetter, who passed away last Saturday, was instrumental in pushing for equal pay between the sexes. So why has the gap remained roughly the same over two decades? The new book “Den of Spies” chronicles the Reagan campaign’s efforts to delay the release of U.S. hostages in Iran to hurt President Jimmy Carter’s re-election chances. 

Kamala Harris is doing worse among Black voters than Joe Biden did in 2020 — Black men are driving that decline, according to a new poll. Today Harris is unveiling an economic plan aimed at Black men.  The Department of Justice sued Virginia and Alabama, claiming the states violated federal law by removing voters from their rolls too close to an election.  “Traveling: On the Path of Joni Mitchell” chronicles the singer’s experiences of loss and sacrifice — and the songs marking turning points in her life. 

After back-to-back major hurricanes hit the Southeast U.S. in two weeks, can FEMA and other federal agencies handle the response? KCRW looks at how Hurricanes Helene and Milton have affected the political fortunes of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, and what the latest polls and focus groups are saying about the presidential candidates.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Piece by Piece,” “The Apprentice,” “We Live in Time,” and “The Last of the Sea Women.” Linguine with clam sauce is a classic dish. Use a transparent sauce of clam juices, white wine, garlic, red chile, and lemon.

In Tuesday’s debate, Republican Steve Garvey and Democratic Congressman Adam Schiff tried to use Donald Trump against each other. They’re vying to fill Dianne Feinstein’s Senate seat.  CA Attorney General Rob Bonta has expressed concerns that Latino voters aren’t fairly represented in the city. The LA Times reports he’s urging the council to redraw district maps. “The Apprentice” shows how notorious lawyer Roy Cohn helped turn Donald Trump into who he is today. After it aired at Cannes, the former president threatened to sue. It’s do or die for the Dodgers in tonight’s playoff game against the San Diego Padres. If they win, there will be another game. If they lose, that’s it for them.

Hurricane Milton intensified from Category 1 to Category 5 in just nine hours. An unseasonably warm Gulf of Mexico is one reason such a powerful storm is headed toward Tampa Bay’s 3 million residents. CalTech professor John Hopfield and Google scientist Geoffrey Hinton’s discoveries taught computers to learn the same way humans do, paving the way for A.I. Benjamin Kersten, a graduate student and UCLA chapter leader for Jewish Voice for Peace, talks about his support for Palestine.  Lyle and Erik Menendez murdered their parents in 1989. New Netflix series are focusing on the case, and LA’s district attorney is reviewing evidence that may shed new light. HBO’s “Chimp Crazy” revolves around a woman who’s trying to raise a primate in Missouri. She unsuccessfully fights PETA’s legal efforts to move the animal to a sanctuary. 

Bar Hinitz, 27, lost his best friend, Dan, during the Hamas attack at the Nova Music Festival in Israel. He wants to keep Dan’s memory – and humanity – alive.  A Palestinian American who’s lost dozens of family members in Gaza is trying to forge a new way forward without Hamas and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.  KCRW previews the new Supreme Court term, which will see big cases on ghost guns, transgender rights, and likely the 2024 presidential election. John Lennon and Yoko Ono hosted the “Mike Douglas Show” for a week in 1972, using it to discuss women’s liberation, peace, and inclusion. But Richard Nixon saw it as a threat.

A 165-page court filing unsealed on Wednesday outlines special counsel Jack Smith's new strategy to cast Donald Trump's actions on January 6 as those of a private citizen and not a president. A new California law bars public schools from serving snacks with synthetic food dyes that have been linked to behavioral disorders in children. People who are at high risk of diabetes and heart disease could drop weight and lower their blood sugar and cholesterol if they intermittently fast, new research shows.   Critics review the latest film releases: “Folie a Deux,” “Salem's Lot,” “It's What's Inside,” and “The Outrun.” Tzimmes is the Yiddish word for making a big fuss. It’s also a stew of sweet root vegetables and dried fruit, often served for Rosh Hashanah.

South Carolina Republican Bob Inglis is dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. But for years, he’s been trying to change his party’s stance on climate change. Wall Street Journal technology columnist Joanna Stern and her colleagues built a chatbot for iPhone recommendations. Then came the movie reviews, recipes, and Nazis. Journalists Hanna Rosin and Lauren Ober discovered their new neighbors had ties to key figures in the January 6 insurrection. Their new podcast and companion piece in The Atlantic chronicles how they connected with people they fundamentally disagree with.

Iran’s second missile barrage against Israel this year escalates a regional conflict that could increase tensions among the U.S., China, and Russia.   Tonight’s debate between J.D. Vance and Tim Walz might be the last chance for voters to see both campaigns on the same stage. What can viewers expect? Hurricane Helene dumped up to 30 inches of rain in some areas of Western North Carolina. The death toll is rising as many are still without power and cell service. Kim Gordon is out with a second solo record, which combines her signature noisy sound with distorted trap beats and stream-of-consciousness rapping.  Breast reduction surgeries have surged 64% since 2019, driven by younger women seeking health benefits and challenging beauty standards.

With immigration a top issue in the presidential election, KCRW looks at plans from Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, plus the reality for migrants on the ground. Gov. Gavin Newsom recently signed a bill to protect tech consumers. The same privacy law that regulates DNA and fingerprints now covers the info that neurotech companies gather about their users. Kris Kristofferson, an acclaimed singer-songwriter in Nashville and a movie star in Hollywood, died on Saturday at his home in Maui. He was 88 years old.

California may be deep blue in this fall’s presidential contest, but further down the ticket, a handful of House races in Southern California could determine whether the GOP or Democrats control the House.  Prop 33 would expand rent control. Prop 34 focuses on health care reform. These seemingly unrelated measures are masking a fight between CA’s landlord lobby and the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Critics review the latest film releases: “Wolfs,” “Megalopolis,” “The Wild Robot,” and “Saturday Night.” The benefit of making your own chocolate chip cookies is customization. Crispy or chewy? Nuts or not? Can you wait 24-36 hours for the dough to “age,” thus ensuring a more flavorful result, or do you need them now?

After polling missed the extent of Donald Trump's appeal in 2016 and overstated Joe Biden's strength in 2020, why should we believe what polls are telling us now? LA DA candidate Nathan Hochman explains his party affiliation change, defending Sheriff Lee Baca, and his “hard middle” approach to crime.   Filmmaker Agnes Varda shaped the French New Wave in the ‘60s, and was known as a “punk grandma” in her later years. A new biography traces her art-filled life.

CA Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed a law banning plastic grocery bags. Attorney General Rob Bonta is suing ExxonMobil. This is a big week in the state’s fight against plastic. LA District Attorney George Gascón talks about the impact of his progressive policies on Angelenos, Prop 36, and his standing among members of his own office. Michigan is beating California in legal weed sales, despite having only a quarter of the population. Many of its customers are out of state.  The fall TV season includes new series like “The Penguin” and “Disclaimer,” alongside a fresh take on “Matlock.”

As UCLA begins its fall quarter, new rules are in place to prevent future violent confrontations about the Israel-Hamas war. The UC Board of Regents approved extra non-lethal weapons for campus police. On Friday, the Georgia State Election Board voted 3-2 along partisan lines to require counties to hand-count every ballot cast on Election Day. Shohei Ohtani became the first MLB player to hit 50 homers and steal 50 bases in one season. Plus UCLA and USC struggle in Big Ten, and the WNBA announces its MVPs. A new documentary series examines the world of 1980s hair metal. KCRW talks to director Jeff Tremaine and founding Guns N’ Roses member Tracii Guns. 

The Federal Reserve announced a half-a-percentage point cut in interest rates on Wednesday. Mortgage rates had already been falling, but the median home price in LA is $1 million. The attack on Hezbollah, using tampered pagers and walkie-talkies, reveals vulnerabilities in our globalized electronics supply chain. “Colored Television” follows a broke novelist who struggles to write about the mixed race perspective for Hollywood.  Critics review the latest film releases: “The Substance,” “A Different Man,” “In the Summers,” and “The Falling Star.”

The U.S. says Israel was behind this week’s remote detonations of Hezbollah’s communication devices. How was the operation pulled off? Gov. Newsom signed several AI bills on Tuesday that protect Hollywood actors, and try to prevent voters from being duped by deepfakes ahead of the November election. San Francisco’s political landscape is shifting as the mayoral race approaches. A once-liberal city is leaning centrist on crime and homelessness. Best-selling author Rumaan Alam’s new novel follows a young Black woman who starts working for an elderly billionaire at his philanthropic foundation, then starts to covet his lifestyle. The moistness of zucchini adds a lot to bakes, creating a more tender crumb. The veggie also boosts longevity and nutrition. And its neutral flavor makes it easy to pair with ingredients.

Under President Obrador’s new constitutional amendment, thousands of appointed judges will lose their jobs and face election. Opponents fear a threat to democracy. Chief Justice John Roberts penned three Supreme Court rulings related to January 6 that benefit former President Trump. His role is the focus of a New York Times investigation. “Art and science collide” is the theme of this year’s PST ART, a Getty-sponsored event featuring more than 800 artists and at least 70 art institutions around SoCal.  The Soweto Gospel Choir of South Africa’s latest album reimagines popular dance tracks of the last 50 years. Some of the lyrics are in Zulu, and traditional house beats are subbed for African rhythms.

The Bridge Fire is now the largest wildfire in Southern California. How are residents and small businesses in the path of the flames faring? This morning’s earthquake is a reminder of the importance of retrofitting buildings. The LA Times discovered the city has had trouble reporting accurate data on this. Alimento’s owner, Zack Pollack, explains why he closed his 10-year-old Italian bistro, and what it takes for today’s neighborhood restaurants to survive.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Speak No Evil,” “My Old Ass,” “The Killer's Game,” and “Look Into My Eyes.”

On this 9/11 anniversary, KCRW looks at what has happened in Afghanistan since U.S. forces withdrew, particularly the ongoing erosion of rights for women under the Taliban. In 2020, many prominent Black women became executives for major book publishers. But four years later, some of the most notable hires no longer have those jobs. In "Question Everything," Brian Reed looks at questions around journalistic standards following criticism he received for his approach to "S-Town." Learn how to make a traditional sheet pan dinner, a savory tray bake from a Cypriot-Turkish tradition, and an upside down baking technique.

SoCal is facing three big wildfires amid a historic heat wave, including the Line Fire, which has burned more than 26,000 acres. How are firefighters coping? A UC Davis scientist is trying to bioengineer cow microbes so they produce less methane. Changing how the animals process their diet — through gene editing — could help delay global warming. With the launch of its new, artificial intelligence-powered iPhone 16, Apple is hoping to boost smartphone sales, which have been sluggish lately.  With the rising popularity of medical content on streamers like HBO and Netflix, New York’s Northwell Health has launched its own film and TV production studio.  Actor James Earl Jones died Monday at age 93. He’s best known as the voice of Darth Vader and Mufasa. But his best work, and maybe least well-known, came on stage.

Kamala Harris will take on Donald Trump this Tuesday in what could be their one and only debate. They’re currently tied in the polls A blistering decision by a federal judge on Friday could lead to housing for thousands of homeless veterans in Los Angeles. The Academy Museum is hosting a film series in honor of James Baldwin. KCRW reairs an interview with the filmmakers of the ground-breaking "I Am Not Your Negro."  Before streaming music, full albums were released on Tuesdays and required great preparation. KCRW examines the impact of a Sept. 11, 2001, release date on a few high-profile LPs.

The Department of Justice is making a big push to curb Russia’s interference in U.S. elections, something we’re also seeing from Iran and China. Hope Solo is one of the greatest soccer players of all time — and one of the most controversial. She tells her story in a new Netflix film. Critics review the latest film releases: “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” “The Front Room,” “The Thicket,” “His Three Daughters,” and “Seeking Mavis Beacon.”  Tonight’s dinner could be partly saved and repurposed for your kid’s school lunch the next day. Here are ideas to put in bento-style boxes and thermoses.

SoCal is bracing for a blistering heat wave over the next few days. What can cities like LA and Phoenix do to adapt to extreme temperatures amid climate change? Parts of Rancho Palos Verdes are sliding closer to the ocean, and residents are facing power cuts and property damage. KCRW hears from a homeowner and a geologist. California's oldest family rice farm is shutting down after nearly a century in business. Koda Farms is known for a special heirloom grain of rice cherished by chefs.  Charles Duhigg outlines the qualities of "supercommunicators" and the science behind their ability to connect deeply with others. This is an excerpt from "Life Examined."

Israelis took to the streets to protest the deaths of six hostages kidnapped by Hamas. How does this growing pressure change the calculus for Netanyahu and the U.S.?  Election lawsuits in Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, and other battleground states could complicate the aftermath of a close presidential election in November.  ABC’s “Abbott Elementary” is a mockumentary that portrays the chaos within an inner-city school. Janelle James talks about playing the brash, self-centered principal. USC and UCLA won their openers as new members of the Big 10 Conference. NFL season begins Thursday. And LA Dodgers’ Shohei Otani returns to his old stomping grounds in Anaheim tonight. 

Both COVID and mosquito-borne diseases are spreading this summer. A Pasadena-based doctor talks about the latest coronavirus vaccine and other protective measures.  Over the last quarter, Hollywood’s reality TV production is down nearly 60% compared to last year. Is this a temporary contraction or a permanent shift in the industry? Critics review the latest film releases: “1992,” “Reagan,” “You Gotta Believe,” and “The Deliverance.” Picnicking during Labor Day weekend? Consider the niçoise pan bagnat, a portable sandwich. Another good choice is ratatouille, a stew celebrating summer ingredients.  

Imagine looking at a friend’s face — and their eyes, cheeks, and lips begin to distort, instantly or gradually. It’s the result of prosopometamorphopsia (PMO). In December, a distinguished scholar of genocide told KCRW there wasn’t proof of Israel committing genocide in Gaza. He’s since changed his mind. AI could make human college counselors obsolete. But it may help students and families who can’t afford a higher education coach. Along the California-Oregon border, the largest dam removal project in U.S. history finished today. Native tribes spent years pushing for it.

The Democratic Convention kept the good times rolling for Kamala Harris and a rejuvenated Democratic Party. But with 10 weeks until Election Day, the race is tied.  Thanks to a little-known provision in the law that compensates whistleblowers for the fraud they expose, one man has turned it into a lucrative business. The groundbreaking TV show “My So-Called Life” made waves 30 years ago, especially because of Wilson Cruz’s portrayal of biracial, queer teenager Rickie Vasquez. After a 15-year hiatus, Liam and Noel Gallagher are reuniting Oasis. The brothers are known for their decades-long feud that has troubled the band’s reputation.

Jimi Hendrix built the Electric Lady recording studio in New York, but died a few weeks after it opened. A new documentary shows how later generations of artists made it a sanctuary. In deposition tapes obtained by NPR, former LA Mayor Eric Garcetti says he didn’t know about his aide Rick Jacobs’ alleged sexual misconduct. Former city staffers say Garcetti is lying. An Ohio judge ruled that several abortion laws now violate the state constitution — after voters approved an amendment last year guaranteeing the right to an abortion. From Vice President Harris’ bespoke suits to Senator Vance sporting the first beard in decades, KCRW looks at the messages politicians are sending through their fashion choices.

While most voters know Kamala Harris is the vice president, polling suggests few know much more about her. The presidential candidate’s nomination speech gives her an opportunity to change that. Democrats worry that sexism will prevent Kamala Harris from beating Donald Trump. But research shows that Americans vote for women at the same rates they vote for men.  Critics review the latest film releases: “The Crow,” “Blink Twice,” “Between the Temples,” and “The Killer.” Tennis star Jannik Sinner tested positive earlier this year for a banned substance. Authorities said it wasn’t intentional, but it does cast a shadow over this year’s U.S. Open.

A hotdish must be a main dish that includes protein, starch, veggies, and a creamy element. Evan Kleiman takes on the recipe for Tim’s Turkey Taco Tot Hotdish. The Harris-Walz ticket gives Democrats a chance to coalesce in a way they’ve struggled to since losing to Donald Trump in 2016. Franklin Foer makes the case in his latest “The Atlantic” piece. USC Professor Geoff Cowan played a pivotal role in the reforms that came out of the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago. Now he’s back in the Windy City for 2024’s DNC.   The far-right majority of Georgia’s election board is passing new rules that could let counties refuse to certify election results if Kamala Harris wins. Earlier this year, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. polled higher than any third-party candidate in decades. Now his running mate says they're considering dropping out.

Protests against the war in Gaza may look different this school year. The UC system is banning encampments, protests that block campus pathways, and masks that hide demonstrators’ faces. Kamala Harris’ economic plan focuses on alleged price gouging by food manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. She’s also taking on prescription drug prices and housing costs. Kamala Harris’ campaign has momentum, and some credit her late entrance into the presidential race. Could this mean long campaigns will be a thing of the past? Netflix’s “Daughters” focuses on a program in a Washington, D.C. jail that connects families through a daddy-daughter dance inside the jail’s walls.

Riverside native Ivan Cornejo fuses folk and rock with regional Mexican music. The 20-year-old’s first arena tour starts on August 23. Protests and violence marred the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Could this year’s convention, also in Chicago, see similar alienation and division? Former Republican Congressman George Santos pleaded guilty to wire fraud, money laundering, and identity theft today. It ends a long saga that began before he took office. Phil Donahue died on Sunday at age 88. For decades, he hosted TV shows that let audiences interact with interesting, controversial, and famous people.

Cucumbers are a perfect foil for condiments of all kinds, so it’s not surprising that TikTok’s cucumber king, Logan Moffitt, is going viral with every cucumber salad recipe he posts. Vice President Kamala Harris hasn’t offered many details on her policy positions yet. Some Democrats have been urging her to keep it vague. Music is a key component in the 2024 election. Harris has been playing Beyonce’s “Freedom.” Meanwhile, many artists have asked former President Donald Trump to stop playing their music.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Alien: Romulus,” “Rob Peace,” “Skincare,” and “Close to You.”

A Los Angeles mom shares how receiving $1000 per month for a year — from the BIG: LEAP program — allowed her to take better care of her son and her own mental and physical health.  Vice presidential candidate Tim Walz doesn’t own stocks or property. Whether that’s a good thing depends on whom you ask. Sde Teiman has become Israel’s most infamous military prison. Former prisoners and whistleblowers allege rampant human rights abuses, including gang rape.  One in 10 Americans over age 65 has dementia, an umbrella term for symptoms of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons. One journalist is documenting how patients continue to live with dignity and joy.

Mayor Karen Bass returned from Paris to LA on Monday, bringing the official Olympic flag with her. She talks about preparing LA for the 2028 Games and what it will mean for homelessness.  The epicenter of Monday’s 4.4 magnitude earthquake was in El Sereno on the Puente Hills fault system. While it's not as famous as the San Andreas fault, it could be more dangerous.   The documentary “Sugarcane” reveals the painful history of Catholic-run boarding schools in the U.S. and Canada, where thousands of Native children suffered horrific abuse. Many psychedelic mushroom edibles don't contain the active ingredient psilocybin, and have potentially harmful or illegal compounds, a recent LA Times investigation found. 

In 1994, new records from bands such as The Cranberries, Massive Attack, Beck, and Portishead made their way into the American mainstream, thanks partly to KCRW. LA’s 1984 Olympics were the pinnacle of organization, profitability, and viewership. Can LA’s 2028 Games build on that and the momentum from 2024’s successful Paris Games? Both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are hoping to mobilize youth support online through fan videos, candid clips, memes, and the language of TikTok.  Every state in the country allows no-fault divorce, meaning you don’t need a reason to get one. But some on the far-right are now trying to change that. In Utah, just a handful of school districts can get books pulled from school libraries. Literature by Margaret Atwood and Judy Blume are now censored for being “pornographic.”

After countless Olympic fans flew to Paris and American athletes insisted on A/C, France had a bigger-than-intended carbon footprint for the Summer Games. How can LA 2028 be sustainable?  Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams piloted the maiden voyage of Boeing’s Starliner spaceship. Now they're stuck at the ISS and might have to hitch a ride home with SpaceX.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Borderlands,” “Cuckoo,” “Good One,” and “It Ends with Us.” Don’t want to bother working the kitchen amid summer heat? Consider Mediterranean takeout from Papa Cristos, The Great Greek, Jerusalem Chicken, and Mini-Kabob.   

Hamas’ new political leader is the architect of the October 7 attacks on Israel. New Yorker Editor David Remnick recently profiled Yahya Sinwar. Progressive legislator Cori Bush lost her Congressional primary in Missouri on Tuesday. KCRW looks at the Democratic Party’s progressive wing and whether The Squad still operates as a bloc.  Mitrice Richardson, a young Black woman, went missing and died in Malibu nearly 15 years ago. A podcast sheds new light on the events, uncovering details that law enforcement missed.

Canadian singer Celine Dion’s vulnerable and resilient moments of navigating her life with stiff person syndrome are in a new Amazon Prime Video documentary. Kamala Harris has tapped Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate. He has a strong progressive record and a proven ability to speak to everyday Americans. Can he help her beat Trump and Vance?  Gender testing in sports is more complex than it sounds. Rose Eveleth of the podcast “Tested” explains why some elite female athletes face challenges to their ability to compete. Environmentalists are urging the Dodgers to drop a main sponsor, oil company Phillips 66, which owns the 76 chain of gas stations. As climate change worsens, some fans want an end to the “sport washing.”

LA native Ryan Bancroft leads several orchestras, including the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. He shares his journey from Lakewood to Europe. Anti-immigrant riots recently broke out in the U.K. after young girls were fatally stabbed in a grisly incident falsely attributed to a Muslim refugee. The Department of Justice sued TikTok, claiming the popular app allowed children under 13 to create and use accounts, illegally gathered data from them, and ignored parents’ requests to stop. In a federal lawsuit, veterans are demanding the construction of 4000 units of permanent housing and the nullification of outside leases at the West LA VA.  San Francisco Mayor London Breed is clearing the city’s largest encampments. People who refuse shelter could be arrested for living in public. 

The Academy Museum’s exhibit on Hollywood's Jewish founders was modified to remove language that some people deemed overly critical. Others argued that it painted an accurate picture of complicated men.  The Wall Street Journal’s Evan Gershkovich was among 16 prisoners released from Russia, including three other Americans. Putin got spies, fraudsters, and a hitman in return.  Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is reportedly on the Democratic vice presidential shortlist. KCRW discusses his record, what he brings to the ticket, and criticism he’s received from pro-Palestinian activists. Critics review the latest film releases: “Harold and the Purple Crayon,” “The Instigators,” “Kneecap,” and “Doctor Jekyll.”

“The Other Olympians” traces the history of queer athletes at the games, and how sex testing began with track before other sports adopted it.  A Hamas leader was assassinated in Iran after an Israeli strike in Lebanon killed a top Hezbollah military commander there. The deaths threaten to spark a wider regional war. The head of Project 2025 has stepped down, but the Heritage Foundation will continue pushing the conservative plan. Trump’s campaign is frustrated by the association.  Veggie fritters are an easy treat to make for yourself and friends. They require few ingredients, the mixture can be made in advance, and cooking takes minutes. 

A new documentary features 40 hours of newly discovered interviews and archival footage of Elizabeth Taylor, revealing her thoughts on work, love, and feelings of inadequacy.  The Secret Service’s new acting director testified before Congress today that he was "ashamed" of the organization's failure to protect former President Trump from an assassination attempt. Kamala Harris is half Indian American. What does her heritage mean to her — and Indian communities in the United States?  Lt. William L. Calley Jr. led Charlie Company in killing as many as 500 unarmed Vietnamese civilians in March 1968. He only served three years of mainly house arrest, and no one else was held responsible. 

Over the last decade, Airbnb renters submitted some 35,000 complaints over surveillance devices, CNN found. Airbnb banned indoor cameras in spring, but enforcement is weak. President Biden unveiled his plan for Supreme Court reform today. It includes term limits for justices and a binding code of conduct. Media mogul Rupert Murdoch wants his most conservative heir to control Fox News and the rest of his media empire. The other siblings have allied and sued.  The Olympic surf competition is underway in Teahupo'o, Tahiti, where athletes are riding 40-foot waves and risking crashing into razor-sharp coral.  KCRW DJ Anne Litt shares her new favorite tunes, plus talks about the legacy of The Chills’ Martin Phillips.

Want to grab food in Santa Ana before heading to KCRW’s Summer Nights at the Bowers Museum on Aug. 10? Consider Chapter One, Alebrijes, Heritage BBQ, and more. Gov. Gavin Newsom announced new efforts to clear homeless encampments on state land, and issued guidelines to California cities to do the same. Critics say the policy is unlikely to fix the problem.  Friday is the opening of The Paris Olympics, which includes a new competitive sport inspired by break dancing. It may be the last Olympics for some of the most dominant American athletes in recent history. Critics review the latest film releases: “Deadpool & Wolverine,” “Didi,” “The Fabulous Four,” and “Made In England: The Films of Powell and Pressburger.”

Vice President Harris, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, is searching for her running mate. At the top of the list: Josh Shapiro, Mark Kelly, and Andy Beshear. Actor Griffin Dunne grew up in Hollywood with a celebrity-obsessed dad. In his new memoir, he reveals what happened to his family after his sister died at the hands of her ex-boyfriend.   “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart” topped the Billboard charts for 14 weeks, won the Grammy for Album of the Year, and transformed standup comedy. Newhart died last week at age 94.

Kamala Harris is framing her presidential race against Donald Trump as prosecutor versus felon. What kind of a prosecutor was she in California?  The Israeli prime minister will address Congress on Wednesday, and meet with Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Donald Trump. But support for Israel among Americans has decreased. Critics have praised “The Bear” for its realistic portrayal of the high-stress restaurant world. But it’s also about what alcohol addiction does to families.  Kamala Harris has embraced Gen Z internet memes and pop star Charli XCX’s viral summer album “brat” to energize young voters.  

PJ Morton wrote his latest album during a 30-day trip across Africa, where he collaborated with local artists Mádé Kuti, Asa, the Soweto Spiritual Singers, and others.  President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek another term means his delegates are no longer pledged to a candidate. Many have already said they will back Kamala Harris.  Now that Vice President Kamala Harris is the Democratic frontrunner in November's race against Donald Trump, Republicans have floated legal challenges to her candidacy and access to President Biden’s campaign war chest. Kamala Harris’ campaign says she raised more than $50 million since Sunday, when President Joe Biden withdrew his reelection bid. But Donald Trump has some major Silicon Valley money behind him too.

Mexican tomatillo salsa, Indian green chutney, and Italian salsa verde — use them as condiments for grilled meat, fish, or tofu.  KCRW looks at the Republican Party platform and The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, which outlines deportations, massive cuts in government oversight, and strict limits on access to reproductive care.  LA county's health director says COVID cases, hospitalizations, and viral levels in wastewater have all doubled in the past month. Researchers warn that the new FLiRT variant is fueling the surge. Critics review the latest film releases Twisters, Oddity, Crossing, and Skywalkers: A Love Story.

The second day of the Republican National Convention featured tough talk against immigration. Latino voters are increasingly less concerned with that, compared to issues like the economy. Celebrated Canadian author Alice Munro died in May. But her daughter recently went public about being sexually abused by her stepfather and getting no support from her mom.  In Taffy Brodesser-Akner’s new novel, the patriarch of the Fletcher family establishes a lucrative business after escaping the Holocaust, then gets kidnapped. The focus is on inherited money and trauma.

JD Vance is the Republican vice presidential nominee. An Ohio political science professor discusses who he is, and what this pick means. After the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, many Democrats continue to have questions about Biden’s ability to win. But the incumbent isn’t stepping aside. At the height of #MeToo, Louis C.K. admitted that sexual misconduct allegations against him were true, then resumed his career nine months later. A new documentary looks at what his comeback says about how we view celebrities who’ve done wrong.  Ahead of the Olympics, Parisian officials are trying to convince people that it's safe for triathletes to swim in the Seine River. But recent water tests showed signs of E. coli bacteria linked to fecal matter.  

America is experiencing the worst spate of domestic violence since the 1960s and 1970s. July 13's assassination attempt against former President Trump should be a wakeup call. Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed the case against former President Trump over his handling of classified documents, saying the special counsel's appointment violated the Constitution. What’s next? Long Beach-based video artist Bill Viola died this past Friday at age 73 after being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease in 2012. Musician Reggie Andrews mentored hundreds of students at LA’s Locke High School, some of whom became stars, like Thundercat and Kamasi Washington. Andrews is the focus of the latest “Lost Notes” episode. 

One approach to a stone fruit salad: Be inspired by savory hot dishes that combine the peaches, nectarines, etc. with meat and spices. The possibility of a second Trump term loomed over this week’s NATO summit in Washington. KCRW looks at what’s on his foreign policy agenda if he wins in November. Historian William Gow has written a history of LA’s Chinatowns (plural) – and how they were influenced by Hollywood and the people who lived there.   Critics review the latest film releases: “Fly Me to the Moon,” “Longlegs,” “Sing Sing,” and “Sorry/Not Sorry.”

Even though President Biden says he’s committed to staying in the race, a recent poll puts Vice President Kamala Harris slightly ahead of Donald Trump, Biden, and other prominent Democrats. The last time a sitting president chose not to run for reelection, the country was deeply mired in an unpopular war. Presidential historian Tim Naftali explains how Lyndon Johnson’s 1968 decision resonates today. San Jose is allowing the sale of accessory dwelling units, which it hopes will provide more options for buyers and lower housing costs. KCRW looks at the potential impact and what other cities could follow. Las Vegas’ Mirage hotel and casino, built in 1989, is set to close next week. It hosted Siegfried and Roy and their white tigers, plus a 40-foot-high erupting volcano and a dolphin habitat.

Screenwriter Meg LeFauve explains why Anxiety, Embarrassment, Envy, and Ennui were added as new characters in “Inside Out 2,” plus why she personally thanks Anxiety.  Phoenix, Arizona is a microcosm of America’s rising challenges: hyper-partisanship, conspiracy theories, and culture wars exacerbated by drought and extreme heat.  Jury selection starts today in the trial of Alec Baldwin, who’s facing involuntary manslaughter charges related to the fatal shooting on the set of his film “Rust.” Americans eat about $9 billion worth of berries each year, mostly the bland supermarket kind. California-based Driscoll’s is betting people will pay more for a super-sweet variety.

Compton native Channel Tres, known for mixing West Coast rap and classic house, is out with a new album titled “Head Rush.” In a letter to House Democrats today, President Biden said he is “firmly committed” to running against Donald Trump. But more Democrats are privately calling for him to step aside. What if President Biden doesn’t voluntarily end his reelection campaign? The 25th Amendment lays out what to do if a president is “unable to discharge the powers and duties” of the office. As temperatures rise this season, the city is creating more bus shelters and cooling centers, and mapping all public hydration stations on an app.

Hwachae is a quenching drink that includes fruit (often watermelon), sugar, and ice. Some mixes include a tart-sweet fizzy soda or milk. President Joe Biden met with Democratic governors today as voters are increasingly worried about his age and job performance. In the polls, Trump is widening his lead against Biden, nationally and in key swing states. A few startups are (or will be) offering women of child-bearing age the chance to test period blood — to help them better detect diabetes, fertility issues, and HPV. Critics review the latest film releases: “Despicable Me 4,” “MaXXXine,” “Space Cadet,” and “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.” Robert Towne died on Monday at age 89. He won an Oscar for the screenplay of “Chinatown,” and worked on one of the first mainstream Hollywood flicks about a lesbian relationship.

MoviePass allowed customers to see one film per day in theaters — for $10/month. But its Black founders were ousted. And the new leaders — who ran it into the ground — now face fraud charges. Nationalist parties are controlling governments in Italy, Finland, and The Netherlands. France’s far-right party could also take power after Sunday’s elections. The Supreme Court ruled that courts no longer have to defer to experts when considering challenges to federal regulations. This could affect financial, health, and environmental regulations. Legal cannabis in California often contains banned pesticides, according to an LA Times investigation. Regulators recently pulled a vape product from the market.

Maurice Sendak, author of “Where the Wild Things Are” and “Alligators All Around,” is the focus of the Skirball Center’s new exhibit, which includes original art and first editions of his books.  The Supreme Court ruled that former President Trump has immunity for some of his official acts. How will this affect his federal trial regarding the January 6 insurrection?  The Supreme Court recently ruled that cities have the right to break up encampments of unhoused people under anti-camping ordinances. What does the Grants Pass v. Johnson ruling mean for LA? Press Play rebroadcasts our ur last in-person interview at the beginning of the COVID pandemic — it was with musician/humorist Kinky Friedman. He died last week at age 79.

Ceviche is a good option when summer tamps down on cravings for hot and rich food. Here are the top local restaurants and trucks offering the raw fish/seafood tossed with citrus juices.   It took years to negotiate a settlement between Purdue Pharma and victims of the opioid epidemic. Today, SCOTUS ruled that bankruptcy law shouldn't be used to shield the company's owners from future lawsuits. Some health researchers want the current alcohol consumption guidelines — two drinks a day for men, one for women — reduced to two drinks a week. Critics review the latest film releases: “A Quiet Place: Day One,” “Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1,” “Daddio,” and “Janet Planet.”

Ceviche is a good option when summer tamps down on cravings for hot and rich food. Here are the top local restaurants and trucks offering the raw fish/seafood tossed with citrus juices.   It took years to negotiate a settlement between Purdue Pharma and victims of the opioid epidemic. Today, SCOTUS ruled that bankruptcy law shouldn't be used to shield the company's owners from future lawsuits. Some health researchers want the current alcohol consumption guidelines — two drinks a day for men, one for women — reduced to two drinks a week. Critics review the latest film releases: “A Quiet Place: Day One,” “Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1,” “Daddio,” and “Janet Planet.”

The new book “Hollywood Pride” is an encyclopedia of queer artists on-screen and behind the camera, spanning the late 1800s to today. Author Alonso Duralde gives a walkthrough.  For the first time in nearly 40 years, the Commission on Presidential Debates is not setting the rules of engagement for candidates. In Thursday’s debate, CNN will control the guidelines.  A majority of Supreme Court justices would reinstate a lower-court ruling that paused Idaho’s near-total abortion ban, suggested a document posted to the court’s website.  

The new book “Hollywood Pride” is an encyclopedia of queer artists on-screen and behind the camera, spanning the late 1800s to today. Author Alonso Duralde gives a walkthrough.  For the first time in nearly 40 years, the Commission on Presidential Debates is not setting the rules of engagement for candidates. In Thursday’s debate, CNN will control the guidelines.  A majority of Supreme Court justices would reinstate a lower-court ruling that paused Idaho’s near-total abortion ban, suggested a document posted to the court’s website.  

KCRW looks at barriers to accessing clinical trials for Black and Latino people. Plus, one cancer patient explains how his life changed after becoming involved in a trial.  Folks who dislike both Donald Trump and Joe Biden make up 1 in 5 voters in swing states. How they go, so may the country.  Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, who already faced a recall, defended herself on Monday after the FBI raided her home. Her city is facing high rates of crime and homelessness. “The Big Cigar” (Apple TV+) follows Black Panther co-founder Huey Newton's 1974 escape to Cuba, aided by a Hollywood producer who disguised the plan as a film production.

KCRW looks at barriers to accessing clinical trials for Black and Latino people. Plus, one cancer patient explains how his life changed after becoming involved in a trial.  Folks who dislike both Donald Trump and Joe Biden make up 1 in 5 voters in swing states. How they go, so may the country.  Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, who already faced a recall, defended herself on Monday after the FBI raided her home. Her city is facing high rates of crime and homelessness. “The Big Cigar” (Apple TV+) follows Black Panther co-founder Huey Newton's 1974 escape to Cuba, aided by a Hollywood producer who disguised the plan as a film production.

LA LOM creates a nostalgic feel through their music, inspired by cumbia, bolero, and retro soul. The instrumental trio’s debut album features songs named after Los Angeles streets. A ceasefire in Gaza seems unlikely. With escalating conflict involving Israel and Hezbollah, U.S. officials fear this could lead to a broader Middle East war. The Lakers’ new hire, JJ Redick, has never coached a team, aside from his son’s youth basketball squad. Did his relationship with Lebron James make all the difference in his latest job? Waymo robotaxis have been cruising LA for about three months. Despite concerns about safety and logistics, one transit writer says it's only a matter of time before Angelenos widely accept them.

Customization is endless when it comes to baking pizza. Here’s a breakdown of what tools you need, how to make dough, and which toppings to choose.  Louisiana’s governor says all public schools in his state must display the Ten Commandments. Civil liberties groups have announced an intent to sue, saying the move violates the First Amendment’s establishment clause.  LAUSD leaders recently voted yes on a cellphone ban for students. Board member Nick Melvoin explains how this would work and what safety concerns might arise.   Critics review this week’s new films: “The Bikeriders,” “Kinds of Kindness,” “Fancy Dance,” and “Thelma.”

Julia Louis-Dreyfus talks about her new film role as a mom struggling to accept her daughter’s death. She also shares wisdom from conversations with women ages 70 and up.  California’s early-season fires might be a sign of more intense blazes to come. A scientist explains how climate change is fueling natural disasters locally and nationally.  The widow of casino magnate Sheldon Adelson has helped fund right-wing causes in the U.S. and in her native Israel. She’s expected to give more than $90 million to a pro-Trump super PAC. Actress Anna May Wong’s career spanned more than 60 films across the silent era and the talkies. Her life is now the focus of an exhibition at the Chinese American Museum.

“Traveling: On the Path of Joni Mitchell” chronicles the singer’s experiences of loss and sacrifice — and the songs marking turning points in her life.  The surgeon general wants health warnings on social media platforms, similar to tobacco products. A psychologist explains how the platforms can harm teen mental health. A Houston bankruptcy judge ordered conspiracy theorist and right-wing provocateur Alex Jones’ personal assets be liquidated and sold to satisfy a defamation case brought by Sandy Hook parents. 

At five can’t-miss pop-ups this summer, treat yourself to Texas-inspired BBQ, vegan mofongo, hand-rolled bagels with homemade cream cheese, crispy duck mole, and more. The Supreme Court today upheld access to the abortion pill mifepristone, and issued rulings on labor and trademark cases. Russian prosecutors indicted Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich on charges of espionage. If convicted, he could get up to 20 years in prison. Bird flu is spreading among cattle — as more people are drinking raw milk. Pasteurization is what kills off diseases. So why are folks choosing the unprocessed route, despite health concerns? Critics review the latest film releases: Inside Out 2, Treasure, Ghostlight, and Tuesday.

Great white sharks call Southern California shores their home. Carlos Gauna, a photographer and drone pilot, documents the hot spots and shares safety tips.  A measure to create harsher penalties for some drug and theft crimes has qualified for the November ballot. It comes as California lawmakers debate rising crime. Jerry West, the perennial NBA All-Star and architect of the Lakers’ “Showtime” and Shaq/Kobe eras, dies at 86. The cookbook “Kismet” features family recipes and favorites from the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants owned by Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson. 

Apple is the latest tech company to unveil AI tools for its most popular products. Will this be truly helpful, or is it another ploy to sell more iPhones? An FDA advisory committee has rejected a company's bid to use MDMA, or ecstasy, to treat PTSD. The panel was concerned about the strength of the evidence, allegations of participant abuse, and ill-defined therapeutic protocols. A new documentary looks at George Coulam's multi-million dollar Texas Renaissance Festival. He’s ready to step down, and a fight is brewing over who will step up.  University of Connecticut basketball coach Dan Hurley said, “Thanks, but no thanks” to a reported six-year deal to be the Lakers’ new coach. The offer would’ve doubled his salary.

Mdocu Moctar’s “Funeral for Justice” is a blend of desert blues and sociopolitical commentary about his West African home country of Niger.  French President Emmanuel Macron has called for snap elections after far-right victories over the weekend. What's behind his risky strategy? An Orange County judge temporarily halted University of California academic workers’ strike. They walked off the job in response to the UC system’s response to pro-Palestinian demonstrations. The U.S. has spent millions on counterterrorism in West Africa since 9/11, but poverty and unrest are leading to military takeovers and the growth of Al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates.   

Popsicles should be ice-cold but not ice-hard. Texture and flavor are equally important. The goal: Keep ice crystal formation small, which will produce a softer texture. On the 80th anniversary of the storming of the beaches of Normandy, France, a new book chronicles the experiences of those involved — from generals and troops to allies and enemies. The GA appeals court issued a stay on the Fulton County case. None of Trump’s remaining three criminal trials are likely to conclude before the November election.   Critics review the latest film releases: “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” “Robot Dreams,” “Handling the Undead,” and “The Watchers.”

Many touring musicians say they’re earning less than ever. How has the industry changed since COVID, and what strategies are some artists using to keep performing live? Donald Trump insists he won’t ban contraception in a potential second presidential term. But he and his allies are drafting policies that would come close. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi won a third term, but the smaller margin of victory says a lot about how the world’s biggest democracy views him today.  A series of recent rule changes in the LDS Church have made missionary work more appealing to young members, but many still face mental health challenges. 

Gillian Anderson talks about playing Margaret Thatcher, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Emily Maitlis, the BBC anchor who did the exclusive 2019 interview with Prince Andrew. President Biden signed an executive order temporarily barring undocumented immigrants from seeking asylum. It’s what Trump tried to do in his first term.  Amid a largely self-censored media landscape, Israel’s leading left-wing publication Haaretz critiques the country’s government and provides an unflinching view on the war in Gaza. One in five employers is less likely to hire recent college grads who took part in pro-Palestinian protests, a new survey shows. But other employers seem to support protest involvement.

The Flaming Lips’ “The Soft Bulletin” is 25 years old. Critics have called it a rock masterpiece for the trippy experimental sounds and big, sweeping orchestral pieces.  Mexico’s new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has promised to continue her mentor Andrés Manuel Lopéz Obrador’s leftwing policies, but must contend with rampant cartel violence and corruption. Plus, how will she work with (or against) President Biden or a future President Trump? Jury selection began today for Hunter Biden’s federal gun case. Charged with three felonies, he allegedly lied about his drug use to buy a gun in 2018. The CDC recommended six feet of social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The decision pushed schools online, but wasn’t backed by data.

Sea otter 841 went viral last summer for stealing surfboards and evading authorities. Now she’s returned to the Santa Cruz waters where she made her name.  Can Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito and Juan Merchan, the judge presiding over Donald Trump’s hush money trial, be impartial about the former president, given their actions outside the courtroom that could be perceived as political bias? Noah Gittell’s new book, “Baseball: The Movie,” traces the lineage of and connection between two great American pastimes — baseball and film. Critics review the latest film releases: “Young Woman and the Sea,” “Jim Henson Idea Man,” “In A Violent Nature,” and “The Young Wife.”

Some travel tips for summer: Set price tracking alerts based on locations or dates, fly earlier in the day, and consider cargo pants/vests for extra storage space.  The White House says the latest Israeli airstrikes in Rafah didn’t cross the red line, in spite of civilian casualties and the growing humanitarian crisis.  The French Open kicked off on Sunday. Rafael Nadal lost in the first round, Coco Gauff advanced, while Naomi Osaka fell to Iga Swiatek in an intense match. Decades worth of Negro League figures are now part of the Major League Baseball’s record books. Poet, historian, and author Rowan Ricardo Phillips argues that MLB should do more. Chow down on cherries — dozens of varieties exist — while they’re still in markets for the next few weeks. Use them in pudding, salads, pies, and more.

TV critics share the best shows to watch, including “We Are Lady Parts,” “Lady in the Lake, ”The Acolyte,” and the 2024 Summer Olympics.  UCLA academic workers are protesting the school’s response to its Gaza Solidarity Encampment — days after Congress members grilled Chancellor Gene Block on the unrest. Last week the Supreme Court upheld a voting map in South Carolina that concentrates Republican power. The ruling will make it harder to bring challenges on grounds that districts are racially gerrymandered. A bit of sun exposure can benefit many people — Australia recently updated its public health guidelines to reflect this. So how much — or little — sunscreen should you wear?  Bill Walton, a UCLA star-turned-Clippers player, died on Sunday. After shooting hoops in the NBA, he became an ESPN broadcaster known for colorful commentary.

As Disney plans to pour $1.9 billion into upgrading its Anaheim resort, workers say the company needs to look out for them too. The Department of Justice and more than two dozen states want to break up Live Nation-Ticketmaster. Joe Biden’s former trust-busting architect discusses what it means. The LA Sparks host the Indiana Fever (and phenom Caitlin Clark) on Friday. They’ve moved the game from the 5,000-seat Walter Pyramid in Long Beach to the Crypto.com Arena in Downtown LA, which seats close to 20,000. Critics review the latest film releases: “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” “Taking Venice,” “Hit Man,” and “Queen of the Deuce.”

The California coast spans 840 miles and boasts diverse flora and fauna. Pat Krug’s new book explains why these creatures live where they do, and gives tips on how to spot them.  Scarlett Johansson says ChatGPT’s new AI assistance, “Sky,” sounds alarmingly like her. She previously declined a request from OpenAI to be its voice.   Film critic Tim Grierson reviews what’s new at Cannes, including works from Francis Ford Coppola and Yorgos Lanthimos. A Donald Trump biopic is also in the lineup.  Alyse Whitney’s new cookbook is exuberant, fun, and filled with recipes for all kinds of dips — classics, five-minute ideas, plus light and healthy fare. 

The first laws criminalizing stalking in California stemmed from the 1991 trial of Tucson resident Robert Bardo, who tracked down and killed LA actress Rebecca Schaeffer.  Nevada is crucial for another Biden presidential victory in November. But an emerging group of evangelical Latino voters could deliver a win for Trump, who leads in the polls. After closing arguments next week, Trump’s legal fate will be with a New York jury. They must decide whether he ordered a hush money payout and falsified business records to cover it up.  A new HBO docu-series looks at the rise of Stax Records. The label that boasted Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes couldn’t survive the cut-throat music industry.

LA officials are increasing law enforcement presence on the county’s Metro system following a spike in violence over the last few weeks.  Iran’s president Ebrahim Raisi died in a helicopter crash on Sunday. His death leaves two major roles to fill in Iran’s regime. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito blamed his wife for displaying a "stop the steal" symbol at their home after the January 6 insurrection. It's just the latest example of a justice wading into partisan politics.  The LA City Council declared May 19 “Father Greg Boyle Day,” and Joe Biden recently awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Boyle for his anti-gang violence work. KCRW re-airs an interview with Boyle from 2022.

Critics review the latest film releases: “Back to Black,” “IF,” “Gasoline Rainbow,” and “Babes.” Google will start putting AI-generated answers at the top of search results. Content creators and media outlets say this will cost them clicks. A military historian and retired Army colonel discusses Benjamin Netanyahu’s strategy against Hamas, and what the war in Gaza means for Israeli politics domestically and globally.  How are various sugars made, and what textures and flavors do they add to baked goods and other dishes? Evan Kleiman walks you through her library of sugars.

Billions in the UC system’s portfolio are tied to holdings targeted by pro-Palestinian protests. Plus, did CHP officers break California law during its UCLA encampment sweep? Cartels in Mexico have created one of the deadliest election years in the country’s history. What will this mean for voters heading to the polls next month? The 401(k) has increased the wealth of millions while exacerbating income inequality among older Americans. What can be done to close that gap? Growing up in mostly white, small towns in Ohio, Jamie Figueroa felt cut off from her Puerto Rican heritage. She chronicles her journey to connect with her Boricua roots in a new book.

Decades of erosion and climate change constantly shut down Highway 1 through Big Sur. The damage is worsening as more intense storms hit the coast. President Biden today announced higher tariffs on Chinese goods, saying the aim is to protect the U.S. economy from overseas competitors. Trump has taken aim at U.S.-China trade policy as well.  The New York Times spoke to dozens of people who reported COVID side effects, ranging from shingles to brain damage, as part of a year-long probe. Despite reports to the CDC, concerns have gone unanswered. Comedian Richard Gadd says “Baby Reindeer” is a true story of his stalker. That woman says Gadd exaggerated greatly and is threatening to sue.

LA Philharmonic Music and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel talks about conducting Beethoven's only opera, plus his choice to start leading the New York Philharmonic in 2026. The New York Times/Siena College polls show Biden losing to Trump in Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Arizona and Georgia. Biden has lost support with key Democratic demographics.   The state of California tried to stop a lawsuit relating to a fatal COVID-19 outbreak at San Quentin prison. Today, the Supreme Court allowed it to go forward. Roger Corman, who died last Thursday, helped launch the careers of directors like Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard, and James Cameron.

Andrea Nguyen, Clarissa Wei, and Hetty Lui McKinnon have all been nominated for a James Beard Award. Try their cookbook recipes during this AAPI Month. The new book “White Rural Rage” explores anger in the heartland and the threat it poses to American democracy.  Critics review the latest film releases: “The Poolman,” “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” “Last Stop in Yuma County,” and “Power.”  Though he hated being called a “producer,” Steve Albini was behind albums by The Pixies and Nirvana. He helped create a D-I-Y, analog sound in rock music that influenced others. 

In “Help Wanted,” part-time employees of a big-box retail store in New York are barely making a living. Author Adelle Waldman’s own job experiences inspired the novel.  Ryan Crocker, a former U.S. ambassador to Middle Eastern countries, says Israel should heed the message behind the Biden administration’s withholding of bombs. Hollywood’s summer box office season is here. So far, it pales in comparison to last year’s $4 billion bonanza brought in by  “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.”  Actor Chris Pratt razed an architecturally significant house. Another wealthy homeowner wants to demolish Marilyn Monroe’s former home. What are LA’s historic preservation rules?

Lookout Santa Cruz has earned the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Reporting. The winning coverage was about the flooding and mudslides along the Central Coast last January. Once viewed as a progressive movement for a Jewish state, Zionism has taken on a settler colonialist connotation for many pro-Palestinian protestors.  One reason for sky-high veterinary bills? Private equity funds and big corporations have been gobbling up small, independent vets. Maya Rudolph spent eight seasons on “Saturday Night Live” doing impressions. In her latest show, she’s a billionaire determined to donate her fortune.

Joan Baez talks about her poetry, memories of abuse, living with dissociative identity disorder, and abstaining from the Gaza protests on college campuses.  After violence broke out between pro-Palestinian activists and counter-protestors at UCLA, campus officials are launching its new Office of Campus Safety.  Student protesters are demanding universities divest from Israel. But in California, divestment may not be legally achievable because of a little-known civil rights law.  Six months after the Hollywood strikes, film and TV productions are still down. Now IATSE is at the table with the AMPTP. Could a strike be on the horizon? 

Critics review the latest film releases: “The Fall Guy,” “I Saw the TV Glow,” “Evil Does Not Exist,” and “Mars Express.” Police arrested more than 130 people at UCLA after law enforcement dispersed protesters and dismantled a pro-Palestinian encampment. The demonstrations have taken attention away from the actual war in Gaza.  Arizona's Republican-led legislature repealed the state's Civil War-era abortion ban, reverting to a 15-week limit. Meanwhile, Florida enforces a six-week ban. Shows that have all the trappings of prestige TV — the cinematic look, the big names — are everywhere on streaming services. But one critic says they’re all average.

Strawberries are easy to transform into a dish that’s like a gift. To kick them up a notch, marinate them with a drizzle of flavorful balsamic vinegar. After violence between pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian sides broke out at UCLA overnight, two Dartmouth lecturers with differing views on the war offer a model for cooperation. The Department of Justice proposed making cannabis a Schedule 3 drug, acknowledging after decades of illicit use that it has medical value and a lower risk for abuse. It’s currently Schedule 1, along with heroin. The daughter of late film critic Gene Siskel is out with a new poetry book, “Two Minds,” about grief and the sudden death of her father when she was 12 years old.

Trader Joe’s works with global suppliers to make eclectic products, but some small food producers say the company rips them off, reports Adam Reiner, founder of Restaurant Manifesto.  Campus protestors nationwide are demanding universities divest of financial ties to Israel. Is that possible in today's complex, global economy?  The NLRB has accused Trader Joe’s, Starbucks, Amazon, and SpaceX of harassing and intimidating workers. The companies are challenging the power of the board to protect workers’ jobs.  Author and USC professor Viet Thanh Nguyen won a Pulitzer Prize for his 2015 novel “The Sympathizer.” It’s been adapted into a new limited series from HBO. After the Denver Nuggets eliminated the Lakers from the NBA playoffs on Monday night, Lebron James refused to say whether or not he’ll be wearing purple and gold next season.

USC journalism professor Sandy Tolan talks about what he witnessed when visiting Gaza protest encampments on campus. He also responds to the commencement cancellation.  Despite tense moments between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel demonstrators at UCLA over the weekend, school administrators and police mostly stayed out of it. Hundreds of demonstrators have been arrested nationwide amid protests on college campuses. Law professor Jessica Levinson explains the free speech issues and how these schools have responded. Brian Eno pioneered “ambient music” and helped create the sounds of U2, David Bowie, and other rock stars. Multiple versions of a new documentary show his life and work.

Critics review the latest film releases: “Challengers,” “Uncropped,” “Egoist,” and “Alien” (re-release).  The Supreme Court justices grant that presidents have some immunity when it comes to prosecution, but differ in how much and when it applies. A New York appeals court has overturned the rape conviction against Harvey Weinstein, saying a judge mistakenly allowed women who were not part of the charges to testify that the former Hollywood producer abused them. More than a dozen horses died during the 2023 racing season at events like the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes. A new documentary looks at what’s behind the crisis.

Fava beans are one of the most ancient plants and among the easiest to grow. They’re key in Mediterranean and Middle East food cultures.  Biden’s new legislation is forcing TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell the social giant to a U.S. company. TikTok plans to challenge this in court. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author David Sanger’s new book chronicles America’s plunge into simultaneous confrontations with two very different adversaries — China and Russia.

LACMA has signed on as a partner in the development of Las Vegas’ only standalone art museum. Pieces from LACMA will be on rotating loan in Vegas once the museum is complete.  Protests over the war in Gaza have engulfed college campuses across the country. Faith leaders offer guidance in these contentious times. Tesla sales are slumping. Its trucks have been recalled to fix a safety issue. And Elon Musk seems to be alienating potential buyers with his remarks on social media.  In PBS’ “Art Happens Here,” actor John Lithgow goes back to high school to explore the power of arts education — dance, ceramics, silk-screen printing, and vocal jazz ensemble. 

Erick Elliott’s (a.k.a. Erick the Architect) first solo album, “I’ve Never Been Here Before,” features big-name collaborators like James Blake and George Clinton.  The Supreme Court appeared divided after oral arguments over a Grants Pass, an Oregon law that bans camping in public areas. Lower courts say it amounts to “cruel and unusual punishment.” Private companies are buying farmland in rural Arizona. The goal isn’t to farm crops but to access water from the Colorado River. In Las Vegas today, construction began on a train that would get travelers from Rancho Cucamonga in San Bernardino County to the Las Vegas strip in about two hours. 

Charoset is a melange of dried and/or fresh fruits plus nuts — all chopped or ground to a paste. It’s typically prepared for seders or Passover ritual dinners. Two Boeing whistleblowers testified about their safety concerns in a Congressional hearing this week. KCRW looks at how the company became mired in safety issues.  The World Health Organization is warning of the dangers of bird flu, should it jump from animals to humans. Last month, a second person in the U.S. contracted the disease. Critics review the latest film releases: “Abigail,” “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,” “We Grown Now,” and “The People's Joker.”

The Monterey Bay Aquarium has been fostering abandoned sea otter pups for release into the wild. Now the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is joining the effort, rehabbing its first orphaned baby.    After months of pressure, House Speaker Mike Johnson has called a series of votes on foreign aid packages. Hard-right Republicans threaten to oust him if he follows through.  After an unsuccessful attack on Israel, Iran faces more sanctions from the West and more retaliation from Israel. How do ordinary Iranians feel about this conflict? The Federal Bureau of Prisons announced this week that it will close the women’s prison in Dublin, California — where prison staff have reportedly assaulted inmates. The fourth season of the award-winning “Serial” podcast tells the stories of Guantánamo Bay, from the prisoners and the people who worked there. Host Sarah Koenig shares what she uncovered. 

Hilton Carter, a.k.a. The Plant Doctor, is out with “The Propagation Handbook.” He shares his tips on how to propagate plants such as pothos, ficus, succulents, and more. USC has barred valedictorian Asna Tabassum from speaking at commencement next month. The school’s reasoning: safety concerns after groups criticized her pro-Palestinean views.  Leading the GOP coup against House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and a sex scandal have defined Matt Gaetz’s tenure in Congress. Yet the Florida Republican maintains influence with his party’s standard-bearer, Donald Trump. ABC’s “Abbott Elementary” is a mockumentary that portrays the chaos within an inner-city school. Janelle James talks about playing the brash, self-centered principal. 

The southbound 101 freeway in Agoura Hills will be closed nightly for the next few weeks — as Caltrans continues building a massive wildlife bridge. Donald Trump is now the first U.S. president to stand trial in a criminal case over charges he falsified records to cover up a $130,000 payment to buy the silence of adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. After Iran’s unsuccessful missile attack, how will Israel retaliate? Plus, how long can Ukraine stave off Russian attacks? The Wall Street Journal’s Yaroslav Trofimov weighs in. KCRW DJ Ro Wyldeflower Contreras recommends new songs from Chicano Batman, Reyna Tropical, Baby Rose, Brainstory, and Hiatus Kaiyote. 

OJ Simpson, 76, died on Wednesday. Thirty years ago, his murder trial and acquittal became a flashpoint of celebrity, race, and jurisprudence. Mexico City, home to 22 million people, is facing drought, drying reservoirs, and leaky infrastructure. Some parts of the city have no running water at all.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Civil War,” “In Flames,” “Sting,” and “Sasquatch Sunset.” Love to eat artichokes but dread cooking with them just by looking at the spiny cones? Enter frozen and marinated artichoke hearts.

All 371 locations of 99 Cents Only stores will close permanently, which means a big loss for those who rely on a low-income brick-and-mortar retailer in their neighborhood. The Arizona Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that a 160-year-old abortion ban may be enforced. Meanwhile, polling suggests voters feel strongly about abortion — mostly favoring it — but that doesn’t necessarily translate into votes for Democrats. A neuroscience professor explains how episodic memory works and why our brains sometimes hold onto inane information. He also gives tips on strengthening your power of recall.  LA’s animal shelters are so overcrowded that the City Council has paused issuing dog breeding licenses. The president of a local rescue explains what’s going on. 

The group Open Books is giving what it calls “LGBTQ+ affirming literature” to public schools, including every elementary campus in the LAUSD. Rory Kennedy talks about “Synanon Fix,” a four-part documentary series on HBO about the drug rehab center that turned into a cult. KCRW also asks about her presidential candidate brother. California lawmakers revealed a slate of bills aimed at reducing retail theft. It’s an attempt to fight crime without violating Prop 47, the criminal justice reform passed in 2014. RFK Jr. is running an uphill campaign trying to pull from anti-establishment Democrats and Republicans, but liberals are worried that his campaign is a Biden spoiler.

Rudy Mancuso’s synesthesia means daily sounds transform into layered rhythms and melodies. He explores that beautiful and frustrating experience in “Música.” House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing pressure from Democrats and foreign leaders to pass more aid to Ukraine, while hard-right members of his own party threaten his speakership.  Former DOJ official Jeffrey Clark faces disbarment after his schemes to overturn the 2020 election. He’s just one of nearly a dozen lawyers facing legal action for their work with Trump. HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” ended its 12th and final season Sunday night. We review the episode and discuss how Westside Los Angeles featured prominently in the show.

Sonoran white wheat is core to making flour tortillas. It has resurged in the past decade thanks to its versatility in baked goods, sweet flavor, and white color.  If re-elected, Trump has vowed not to defend NATO countries that haven’t paid their full share if Russia attacks. NATO leaders are scrambling to “Trump-proof” Ukraine aid. The proposed Right to Disconnect bill allows CA employees to ignore after-hours texts from bosses. It defines nonworking hours and imposes fines on violators. Critics review the latest film releases: “La Bête,” “Monkey Man,” “Girls State,” and “Musica.” A total solar eclipse will trace a path from Texas to Maine on April 8. One zoo curator explains how her animals responded last time. 

The LA Festival of Movies debuts this week, featuring brand new films, world premieres, older independent flicks that may deserve a second look, and titles that haven’t played within the circuit yet.  The damage is still unfolding from Taiwan’s 7.4 magnitude earthquake. But strong building codes and community preparedness helped lessen the disaster. We look at how LA compares. California auto-loan tycoon Don Hankey provided a $175 million bond to Donald Trump as he appeals a civil fraud charge. He says the deal is just good business.  With a raspy voice and raw lyrics, Lola Young is poised to be one of the next major British pop artists. She shares her inspirations and career hopes.

Atlantic writer Franklin Foer examines rising antisemitism from the political left, and why what he describes as a “Golden Age for American Jews” is over. An Israeli airstrike killed seven World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza on Monday, and the U.N. is warning that a famine might be imminent.  The Florida Supreme Court enacted one of the strictest abortion bans in the country this week. Abortion access is now going to be on the state’s 2024 ballot.  Amy Chozick covered Hillary Clinton’s 2008 and 2016 presidential campaigns. Her memoir “Chasing Hillary” is the basis for the new Max series “The Girls on the Bus.”

Technology has devastated kids’ abilities to connect and learn. Pew data from 2022 says nearly half of teens were online almost constantly.  The state’s mandatory $20/hour minimum wage for fast food workers goes into effect on April 1, but some say that amount isn’t enough. Higher menu costs and layoffs might come.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” “La Chimera,” “The Shadowless Tower” and “Wicked Little Letters.” The Dodgers' home opener is today as a cloud hangs over star player Shohei Ohtani due to allegations that his now-former interpreter stole millions from Ohtani to cover gambling debts. 

The Santa Monica City Council recently voted to explore compensating the descendants of a Black man named Silas White for his plot of land on Ocean Ave. New analysis from the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that Medicare spending on weight loss drugs like Ozempic rose to $5.7 billion in 2022 — up from $57 million in 2018. LA City Council officials have announced plans to eliminate traffic lanes, widen sidewalks, and add bike and bus lanes to the storied Hollywood Boulevard. An excerpt from KCRW’s Life Examined talks about building community despite our isolated lifestyles. Plus, hear practical tips for forging meaningful connections. When vegetables begin to flower, they’re reaching the end of their life cycles. But you can still eat the plants, which have an added sweetness or bitterness.

Judy Baca’s collaborative effort to create “The Great Wall of LA” is the subject of a new LA Times short documentary. The mural is being extended to another half mile.  Four men accused in Friday's terrorist attack at a Russian concert hall appeared in court bruised and bandaged — an example of Putin’s regime using violence to exert political control. The LA Innocence Project is pushing for new evidence and DNA testing in Scott Peterson’s quest for a retrial. Peterson was convicted of murdering his wife and their unborn son two decades ago.  Beyoncé topped Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with a single from “Cowboy Carter,” but the album has drawn backlash over who’s qualified to make country music.

A new AI company called Suno wants everyone to be able to produce their own pro-level songs. What does that mean for artists? The U.N. Security Council called for a ceasefire in Gaza, with the U.S. abstaining from the vote. Will it make a difference in the conflict? The Supreme Court will hear arguments challenging the major abortion drug mifepristone, which is used in more than half of all abortions in the U.S.  Alynda Segarra latest’s album, “The Past is Still Alive,” honors people, places, and moments from their travels. The songs also talk about substance addiction.

Regarding Her, a nonprofit accelerating the growth of women entrepreneurs and leaders in food and beverage, is sponsoring a spattering of events this March.  California voters narrowly passed Prop 1, Newsom’s signature mental health initiative. It’s poised to overhaul treatment for drug addiction and homelessness. What happens next? A risk calculator caught actress Olivia Munn’s aggressive breast cancer a year early, while regular screenings missed it. Should other women use the tool too? Pine Mountain Club, about an hour north of LA, has suffered hundreds of break-ins and thousands of dollars of bear-related damage over the past decade. Critics review the latest film releases: “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” “Shirley,” “The American Society of Magical Negroes,” and “Carol Doda Topless at the Condor.”

In “Problemista,” a Salvadoran immigrant longs to become a toy designer when he arrives in New York. The challenges of getting a U.S. work visa threaten his dreams. In Texas, Senate Bill 4 would allow local police to arrest people suspected of entering the country illegally. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit blocked it ahead of oral arguments.  After the ousters of anti-LGBTQ school board members in Orange County and a watering down of Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law, are the culture wars calming down?  Armed gangs are roaming Haiti’s streets, attacking government buildings and shutting down the main airport in Port-au-Prince. The prime minister says he'll resign.  Shohei Ohtani got two hits in his Dodger regular-season debut against the Padres. Plus, the NCAA women's basketball tournament is drawing more attention than the men’s competition. 

Aging pop stars Jennifer Lopez and Justin Timberlake are promoting new albums. Are audiences interested in new material, or just hoping they'll bring sexy back? Despite bans in 14 states, over 1 million abortions occurred in the U.S. last year, marking the highest number in a decade, per the Guttmacher Institute. It could soon be a lot cheaper to sell your home. A prominent industry group for realtors just agreed to lower commissions. What does this mean for the housing market? To make housing more affordable, President Biden is proposing new policies, some of which would need Congressional approval in an election year. Anthony Madu's ballet moves went viral in 2020, capturing hearts worldwide. His journey from Nigeria to a prestigious conservatory is told in the film “Madu.”

The world of 1970s Laurel Canyon is on full display in Ginny Winn’s book, “Grievous Angels, Trout Masks, and American Beauties: 1970s Rock & Roll Photography of Ginny Winn.” Gov. Newsom has made Prop 1, the mental health and housing bill, his signature piece of legislation in 2024. Though still expected to pass, a narrow victory is not what he was hoping for. A few swing states have decided recent elections. Third-party or independent candidates could impact Biden and Trump’s path to victory. KCRW looks at the latest developments in Trump’s multiple legal challenges, including the fate of the Georgia trial where he’s been accused of election interference. Conditions appear just right for a spring super bloom after a rainy winter, meaning colorful California hillsides and fields are coming. 

A classic fruit pie is vegan except for that buttery crust, which is the easiest part of the pastry to tweak. Several great plant butters are available. Some members of Congress view TikTok as a national security threat since it collects data on U.S. users, and the Chinese government could control the software.  If you’re driving a new car, data like how fast you accelerate and how hard you brake might be influencing your insurance premiums. How can you find out if it is? Critics review the latest film releases: “One Life,” “Arthur the King,” “The Animal Kingdom,” and “Little Wing.”

“High & Low” chronicles John Galliano’s rise with Givenchy and Christian Dior, then his downfall due to alcoholism and anti-Jewish remarks. Now his work for Maison Margiela is winning audiences.  An Atlanta judge has dismissed six charges against Trump and his co-defendants, but left most of the racketeering case intact. Will it delay his prosecution? Gemini, ChatGPT, and Grok — more Americans are concerned than excited about artificial intelligence. But how can these products make our lives easier and better?  Men get maximum health benefits if they log 300 minutes a week of moderate to vigorous exercise, while women need only 140 minutes, a new study shows.  Kanye West, now Ye, will headline the hip-hop festival Rolling Loud. Despite past controversies like his antisemitic remarks, the comeback hints at a forgiving audience.

Karen Bass talks about the efficacy of her signature Inside Safe program, preparing LA for the Olympics, and Measure HLA.  The Anaheim Planning Commission voted to change zoning laws to accommodate Disneyland. What does the city get in return, and what will the changes bring to the Magic Kingdom? On Monday, students and Jewish community members gathered at UC Berkeley to protest antisemitism. Last month, violence led to the cancellation of an Israeli lawyer’s speech. The Peanuts gang’s 50-year journey with Franklin goes from controversy to redemption in “Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin.” The new special is about acceptance.

The Grateful Dead has broken the record for most top 40 albums on the Billboard charts, beating Elvis Presley. What’s behind the band’s long-lasting popularity?   At the Oscars, Jimmy Kimmel tempted John Cena to bare all. Other than that, there were little surprises. “Oppenheimer” dominated with seven wins. A bill that would force TikTok to separate from its Chinese parent company is quickly advancing through Congress. First Amendment and national security issues could arise. On the fourth anniversary of the WHO declaring COVID a pandemic, what does the illness look like today, and what do we now know about long COVID?

In Montecito, Patrick Saville cut off Mark Olson when surfing, then accidentally kicked his board toward him, hurting Olson’s back. Olson sued but lost the case. Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer on the film “Rust” where the cinematographer was fatally shot while rehearsing in 2021, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter. Researchers examined the brain of mass shooter Robert Card and found significant damage. Card was exposed to thousands of blasts as an Army grenade trainer. Most human bodies today are filled with microplastics. The tiny particles are even found in arteries. That could have major cardiovascular risks, a new study suggests. Critics review the latest film releases: “Kung Fu Panda 4,” “Love Lies Bleeding,” and “American Dreamer.” They also make Oscar Award predictions. 

Rep. Adam Schiff wanted to run against Republican Steve Garvey for Senate — and got his wish on Tuesday night. George Gascón leads the pack for DA, but will face a battle in November. San Francisco voters passed measures — which Mayor London Breed supported — that will expand police powers and restrict welfare recipients. Can SF still be called a progressive city?  On Tuesday, Bitcoin’s value soared past previous records, largely because federal regulators started allowing it to be traded in exchange-traded funds (ETFs). “Wandering Stars” is a new novel by Tommy Orange that explores how addiction and trauma, such as the 1864 Sand Creek Massacre, ripple through a family for generations.  Instead of juicing citrus or eating them out of your hand, Evan Kleiman encourages you to add them to a beautifully composed salad that includes pink radicchio. 

“The New Look” (Apple TV+) explores the lives of respected fashion icons Christian Dior and Coco Chanel during the Nazi occupation of Paris. Kamala Harris has struggled to make a name for herself or win over voters. Are the criticisms and scrutiny of her fair, or just another consequence of being a vice president? The Israel-Hamas war is straining the historic Black-Jewish alliance. Some 34% of Black voters sympathize more with Palestinians, while it’s 28% for Israel, says a December poll. LA’s teachers union pulled their endorsement of school board candidate Kahllid Al-Alim, who promoted antisemitic social media content, the night before Election Day. The designer Iris Apfel, known for her elaborate personal style, died last week at age 102. Author and photographer Ari Seth Cohen talks about her legacy.

Tens of thousands of bird enthusiasts are watching Jackie and Shadow, a bald eagle pair, on a live camera. With three eggs laid, hatch time is imminent. The Supreme Court decided that states can't prohibit Trump from appearing on presidential primary ballots. Some voters argued he should be disqualified due to January 6.   With the help of television ads paid for by Rep. Adam Schiff, political newcomer Steve Garvey has pulled ahead of Democratic heavyweight Rep. Katie Porter. Vice President Kamala Harris called for an immediate six-week cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas. It continues a recent trend within the Biden administration.  Why did Universal Music Group pull its catalog from TikTok last month? The two are in bitter contract negotiations fueled by AI, viewership, and royalty payments. 

To get financial aid for college, prospective students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The process is now massively delayed. Fair Shake, a Super PAC backed by Silicon Valley money, is running attack ads against Democrat Katie Porter. Who are they, and why are they so against Porter? Critics review the latest film releases: “Dune: Part 2,” “Spaceman,” “Shayda,” and “Problemista.” Comedian Richard Lewis died Tuesday at 76. The stand-up was a late-night regular who had a career renaissance on HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Puntarelle is a slightly bitter, unusual variety of chicory. Their shoots are hollow, and when prepared in thin strips, they offer a satisfying crunch.

On Thursday, Biden and Trump will both head to the U.S.-Mexico border to address immigration. It’s the top issue in the nation, reports a new Gallup poll.  More than five years after the Trump administration implemented its family separation policy at the border, up to 2,000 children might still be without their parents.  The continued rise of grocery prices is partly why the FTC is planning to block the merger of mega-chains Kroger and Albertsons. In a new memoir, Leslie Jamison writes about ending her marriage and the demands of becoming a solo parent while balancing her career. It’s a story of simultaneous joy and grief.  Two recent fires in the Mojave Desert killed millions of Southern California’s Joshua trees. Camels are helping make sure the iconic yucca species survives. 

Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena opened in 1894. Now owner Joel Sheldon III is looking for a buyer who will keep catering to the local community. Sora can use a few word prompts to create one-minute videos showing full scenes, motions, and characters. A filmmaker who’s been tracking AI use was floored by Sora.  George Gascon became LA’s district attorney with a progressive vision of restorative justice. Now he faces a swath of challengers who say he's gone too far. Noel Fielding is known in the U.S. for co-hosting “The Great British Bake-Off.” In a new streaming show, he plays an infamous British highwayman, but with a twist.

For some LA public school kids, playing music has kept them afloat during hardships. “The Last Repair Shop” focuses on the craftspeople who’ve been fixing their instruments. The Supreme Court heard oral arguments today in two cases that deal with free speech on social media. They could have big First Amendment implications. The former head of DHS’ Disinformation Governance Board argues that we’re about to be bombarded with election disinformation, and the government has given up trying to fight it.

Sean Wang’s Oscar-nominated short documentary, “Nǎi Nai and Wài Pó,” follows the daily lives of his two grandmothers who live together and care for each other.  As Congressman Adam Schiff eyes a promotion to the Senate, 15 candidates are vying to replace him in the House. Who are the top contenders ahead of the primary? Five years ago, Saturday Night Live fired comedian Shane Gillis after revelations that he made racist and homophobic jokes on his podcast. But this weekend, he's scheduled to host the iconic comedy show. Critics review the latest film releases: “Drive-Away Dolls,” “About Dry Grasses,” “Perfect Days,” and “Io Capitano.”

The deluge of rain over California has created a unique, shallow lake in California's Death Valley National Park. Rangers are now welcoming kayakers. Could a gondola from Union Station to Dodger Stadium — about half a billion dollars to build — mitigate traffic? The LA Metro board will vote Thursday on whether to proceed. Amid the war in Gaza, Biden is losing support among Arab American voters — a key demographic that helped deliver his 2020 victory in states like Michigan and Georgia. In “Island in Between,” Leo Chiang explores how residents in Taiwan feel about the country’s relationship with China and the United States.   Looking for scones, finger sandwiches, and loose-leaf tea? Good Food host Evan Kleiman gives recommendations on where to get afternoon tea in LA. 

High-society women in 1960s New York, known as the Swans, befriended writer Truman Capote until his tell-all in Esquire. Their saga is depicted in Ryan Murphy's series “Feud.” Haaretz Editor-in-Chief Aluf Benn argues that the status quo between Israelis and Palestinians will inevitably lead to more violence in the future, even after the war.  With the murder of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, what's next for those against President Putin? Navalny’s wife says she'll take up her husband's cause. A new redistricting map in Wisconsin could undo a decade-plus of Republican control in the state's legislature. And an Alabama Supreme Court decision says frozen embryos are children.

“The ABCs of Book Banning” is an Oscar-nominated short documentary about the recent push by conservative states and school districts to ban books about race and gender identity on campuses Eighty-three Palestinian journalists and counting have died while documenting Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza. Here are their stories.  The Committee to Protect Journalists’ annual report says more journalists died in Gaza in just three months than in any single country over the span of a year — the most ever recorded.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Bob Marley: One Love,” “Madame Web,” “Drift,” and “This is Me… Now.”

The Oscar-nominated short documentary “The Barber of Little Rock” follows Arlo Washington, a barber who is trying to close the wealth gap in the city.  As Katie Porter exits her House seat, two Democrats vying to replace her are airing nasty attack ads. Could this swing the district back to a Republican?  In “Filterworld,” author Kyle Chayka examines how algorithms built into apps like Instagram, Spotify, and Netflix dictate our choices and erode our individual taste.  Red velvet cake tends to come up during Valentine’s Day. Beyond all the food coloring, the pastry’s biggest characteristic is its slightly tart flavor.

Peter McGraw, a 53-year-old singleton and author of “Solo,” talks about the benefits of being uncoupled, especially on Valentine’s Day. Violent crime in Oakland increased by more than 20% last year. Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price is teaming up with Gov. Gavin Newsom to address the issue. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. co-opted his uncle’s famous 1960 campaign ad for a Super Bowl spot. Many members of his family aren’t happy about it. True crime TV went from humble beginnings to global fame. Why are audiences so drawn to “America’s Most Wanted” and “Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story?”

San Francisco made history when it began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples 20 years ago. KCRW hears from one of the first 10 couples to get married that day. Composer John Williams received his 54th Oscar nomination this year. He’s known for music in blockbusters such as “Star Wars” and “Jaws.” KCRW looks at his smaller-scale tracks. A media frenzy ensued following last week’s special counsel report questioning Biden’s mental faculties. Is this deluge of coverage fair? State Supreme Court rulings on gun control and abortion rights rebuke recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions.

Critics review the latest film releases: “The Taste of Things,” “Lisa Frankenstein,” “Skeletons in the Closet,” and “Suncoast.” SCOTUS justices seem skeptical of Colorado’s decision to disqualify former President Donald Trump from the primary ballot. Their decision is crucial for the 2024 election. Designed to quickly channel water out to sea, the LA River protects lives and property but limits how much rain percolates into groundwater reservoirs.  Taylor Swift’s romance with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is bringing even more eyeballs to America’s most-watched TV event — the Super Bowl. 

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory plans to lay off 500 employees and dozens of contractors. How will that affect space exploration? For decades, the promise of higher education was the recipe for success. But many people today are now searching for an alternative to traditional college. A bipartisan immigration bill is paralyzing Congress. It leaves billions in aid for Ukraine in limbo, as their war with Russia grinds on.  Congress is stalling on more funding for Israel, which has been the largest recipient of U.S. aid of any country since its founding in 1948. Israel relies on that money to wage its war in Gaza.  The pineapple bun is a flaky, fluffy, and crumbly Hong Kong Cantonese snack. It’s made from a milk bread dough that’s enriched with butter, sugar, and eggs.

“The Big One” in California often refers to an earthquake. But seismologist Lucy Jones warns of another “Big One”: sustained rain storms that overwhelm flood control systems. Greenland’s Jakobshavn glacier is one of the fastest deteriorating glaciers in the world. But some researchers say they may have figured out a way to save it. Bipartisan group of senators announced an immigration deal with added funds for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Despite initial optimism, it’s now likely to fail. The 20-minute “In Living Color” special from 1992 paved the way for a modern Super Bowl halftime show. It featured young stars such as Jim Carey and Damon Wayans.

Parts of LA County are getting half a year’s worth of rain in a single storm. Santa Monica Mountain communities like Topanga and Malibu are getting hit the hardest. The 14th Amendment bans insurrectionists from holding political office. The Supreme Court will soon determine if that applies to former President Donald Trump. Trillions of dollars worth of lithium could be bubbling up from the ground in the Imperial Valley, which is one of the hottest and poorest areas of California. The Afro-Cuban musician Daymé Arocena has been a staple in Latin Jazz for nearly a decade. She’s now breaking barriers with her new pop album, “Alkemi.”

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.

With a banjo and an arpa llanera, Larry Bellorín and Joe Troop are fusing traditional Venezuelan and Appalachian folk music. Israel passed the first part of a deeply divisive overhaul of its judicial system, which limits the Supreme Court’s ability to block government decisions. Former President Trump faces a possible civil rights charge related to his alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election. His campaign and criminal defense are increasingly overlapping when it comes to fundraising. The only other time that both Hollywood actors and writers striked simultaneously was 1960. The industry was relatively new, and TV was the big disruptor.

The diversity chiefs at Netflix, Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences lost their positions over a span of 10 days. The Temecula Valley Unified School Board faces a $1.5 million fine after rejecting state-approved textbooks that mention slain LGBTQ rights icon Harvey Milk. Gov. Newsom vowed to send the books to the district anyway. Critics review the latest film releases: “Barbie,” “Oppenheimer,” “The Beanie Bubble,” and “They Cloned Tyrone.” Add these dips to your repertoire: One is based on labne, which is drained and thickened yogurt. The other is nut-based — full of protein and an easy light meal.

With SAG-AFTRA striking, actors aren’t allowed to promote their films. Business is also down for PR firms, agents, set workers, caterers, drivers, and restaurants. Arizona is facing unprecedented heat and drought, but it leased land and water to Saudi Arabia to grow alfalfa for its dairy cows back home. Theaters nationwide are struggling with an aging audience, the ongoing economic impact of COVID, and competition from TV streaming platforms. The film “Oppenheimer” focuses on the man who invented the atomic bomb. It’s based on the book “American Prometheus,” which was almost never published.

As the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes halt scripted production, the Milken Institute projects the delays could equal $4 billion in damages to Hollywood. Residuals (pay when a show re-airs) is an issue at the center of the SAG-AFTRA strike. A standard doesn’t exist for how they’re calculated for shows on streaming platforms. The centrist group “No Labels” signaled on Monday that it could launch a third-party bid for the White House in 2024. Democrats are panicking about the prospect. Scientists discovered low-frequency gravitational waves that bend and stretch space-time and distort all four dimensions of our universe. San Francisco’s Anchor markets itself as the oldest craft brewery in America. It has survived earthquakes, fires, prohibition, and depressions. Now it’s closing.

Jeff Goodell, author of “The Heat Will Kill You First,” explains that when your body temperature reaches 105 degrees, proteins that control cell functions begin to break down. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor faces ethics questions over her book royalties, and attorneys and activists want to possibly overturn the decades-old murder conviction of the Menendez Brothers. Hollywood writers, actors, and hotel workers are on strike. Before them, educators and dock workers pushed for higher pay. Why has LA become the center of labor activity? Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is expected to gross more than $1 billion, and local hotels and restaurants are seeing rising revenues as fans flock to cities for her concerts.

“We demand respect”: SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher slams Hollywood studios as actors prepare to join writers on the picket lines this Friday. SAG-AFTRA actor Parisa Fakhri (“SEAL Team” on Paramount+) explains why she voted to strike and what she wants to see in the industry going forward. The FDA announced it’s making a birth control pill available over the counter. It’s a daily hormonal pill that’s been available by prescription for decades. Critics discuss the latest film releases: “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One,” “Final Cut,” “Black Ice,” and “Theater Camp.” Corn is a seasonal summer treat that you can boil, grill, or eat raw. Slather it with butter and salt, or dress it up for Mexican elotes. Kernels have all kinds of uses once they’re cut off the cob.

Parts of LA are headed for triple-digit temperatures, and not everyone can access A/C or afford it. What can we do — on a policy and individual level — to stay safe? Cities are adopting LED bulbs for streetlights, billboards, and stadiums. But they create a lot of light pollution, obscuring stars and disrupting our sleep patterns. An Oklahoma judge has dismissed a reparations lawsuit filed by the last three survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. A new podcast digs into the crimes of Ed Buck, the political donor who abused gay men in West Hollywood. The show also delves into LA’s underground world of “party and play.” Emmy nominations are out — “Succession” leads with 27. Meanwhile, the writers’ strike is in week 10, and the Screen Actors Guild might strike on Thursday.

TV critics discuss hot new shows to look forward to, including “Secret Invasion,” “The Horrors of Dolores Roach,” and “I'm A Virgo.” Michelin recently added 10 new restaurants to its California Guide, including six in LA. Some of them could earn one to three stars next week.  Michelin awards stars to restaurants all over the world. But there’s not a single-starred restaurant in Mexico or Australia — nor in any country on the African continent. Meta says its platform Threads already has more than 100 million users. Can it actually replace Twitter? KCRW looks at the promise and perils it faces.  The LA Times dropped daily sports scores to focus on magazine-style profiles and investigations. The Times’ owner sold the San Diego Union-Tribune to a hedge fund known for gutting newspapers.

Nashville artist Kelly McKernan is part of a class-action lawsuit against two AI companies and DeviantArt. They say AI companies violate copyright laws.  Cluster bombs spread small grenades over a large area and can harm civilians. Most countries have banned them. On Sunday, Biden justified this decision to send them to Ukraine.  A federal appeals court decision on homelessness drew blistering dissents from conservative judges, and California’s Supreme Court says employers aren’t responsible for the spread of COVID in employees' families. Jake Shears is out with a new disco-heavy album, "Last Man Dancing.” It features big-name artists like Kylie Minogue, Big Freedia, and Iggy Pop. 

You can cook practically anything in an air fryer, which is a super efficient convection oven. But don’t use it for battered foods, which make a mess. Violent protests have died down in France after the police killing of 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk. But now the country’s far-right seems to have an opening. The new “Barbie” movie shows a world map where Asia is an amorphous blob featuring nine dashed lines, which Vietnam claims represents its disputed territory with China. Critics review the latest film releases: “Joy Ride,” “The YouTube Effect,” “Amanda,” and “WHAM!”

Book critics share their summer reading recommendations, including “All-Night Pharmacy,” “The Bee Sting,” Witness” and “Bridge.” To counter turmoil at Twitter, Facebook will be entering the micro-blogging space on Wednesday with its service called Threads. Will Twitter devotees switch? Hundreds of wildfires are raging across Canada. Will California face a similar fate — after a very wet winter that left lots of wildfire fuel? In the Mojave Desert, the sprawl of solar panels would help the U.S. get off fossil fuels, but it threatens habitats of native plants and animals.

David Bowie’s childhood best friend Geoff MacCormack’s photos of the glam rocker’s early tours are the subject of a new book. The Supreme Court rejected affirmative action, struck down Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan, and ruled in favor of a woman who wouldn’t design wedding sites for same-sex couples. Independence Day is Tuesday. For some people, the U.S. flag doesn’t symbolize unity, but instead division, MAGA Republicans, or jingoism. Go behind the scenes of multi-million dollar weddings with a former luxury wedding planner-turned-Atlantic staff writer.

In spite of billions of dollars spent on housing, services and intense policy attention, homelessness in LA remains stubbornly high. The Supreme Court struck down the use of affirmative action in college admissions. What will happen now to campuses and prospective students nationwide? Critics review the latest film releases: “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” “Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken,” “Every Body,” and “Prisoner's Daughter.” Red, white, and blue food displays can be striking, but don’t go overboard with gimmicks. Go for simple caprese salads, blue potato salads, pies, and pavlovas.

Nearly 20% of Americans identify as Hispanic or Latino, according to the U.S. Census. But the category is outdated and based on inaccurate and potentially harmful notions about race, says author Hector Tobar.   Now that Russian President Vladamir Putin has fended off a coup, what will happen with the leftover Wagner Group troops? How could this affect the war in Ukraine? Robotaxis are being tested in LA and Santa Monica. The CA Public Utilities Commission is expected to vote next month to allow Waymo and Cruise to bring driverless cars to those cities and others.  Ryan Seacrest will be the next host of “Wheel of Fortune.” Pat Sajak, who’s held the role since 1981, announced he’s stepping down after the show’s 41st season. 

BenDeLaCreme, a contestant on Hulu’s “Drag Me to Dinner,” talks about the legislative threats facing LGBTQ+ people, and offers support to young people. Justice Samuel Alito's undisclosed gifts became the subject of a ProPublica investigation. When asked to comment before publication, Alito instead wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal.  The contract between Hollywood studios and actors is expiring at midnight Friday. SAG-AFTRA has received a strike authorization from its members and is now negotiating with studios.  A drought in Mexico is driving a multi-year shortage of red peppers, which is needed to make Sriracha hot sauce. A bottle that used to be about $4 is now $20.  Hundreds of sea lions and dolphins off the coast between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obisbo have died this month, likely due to toxic algae called “red tide.” 

A raspy singing voice and steel guitar are essential to the songs of Nat Myers, who was raised in Kentucky by his Korean mom and white American dad. His new album is “Yellow Peril.” The LA Times received a thumbnail drive smuggled out of LA Men's Central Jail, containing videos showing stabbings, fist fights, suicide attempts, and graphic incidents. The Supreme Court rejected the congressional map from Louisiana officials that only included one majority-Black district, allowing the state to redraw the map.  Yevgeny Prigozhin, who leads the paramilitary force called the Wagner Group, led an open rebellion against President Putin’s military leadership over the weekend.

Tinned fish is an exploration of geography, tradition, ocean bounty, sustainability, and artful design. Here are different ways to eat them at home and at restaurants. Critics review the latest film releases: “Asteroid City,” “No Hard Feelings,” “Nobody's Hero,” and “Desperate Souls, Dark City, and the Legend of Midnight Cowboy.” Huntington Beach is among the cities nationwide that are considering or outright banning books about racism and sexuality. How do the bans tie into our historic fear of reading? With new USDA approval, two California companies will be able to start selling their lab-grown chicken. It could mitigate environmental impacts, but will consumers buy it?

Electric bills would be tied to not only how much electricity people use, but how much money households make, according to California Assembly Bill No. 205. It’s drawing praise and criticism. Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade a year ago, more than a dozen states have practically banned abortions, while other states enacted laws to protect the health procedure.  Why does America, the world’s richest country, have so many people in poverty? Sociologist Matthew Desmond says it’s a choice — in his new book “Poverty, By America.” Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe will compete in the Women’s World Cup, but the team is missing other key players who are injured. Of the 23 players, 14 have never been to the World Cup.

Alex Borstein’s new comedy special is a mix of musical theater and storytelling. She talks about its origins and reflects on “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” Donald Trump’s trial — over his handling of classified papers — is set for mid-August. Hunter Biden reached a deal with the feds to plead guilty to misdemeanor tax charges. Texas Governor Greg Abbott last week bused more than 40 migrants to LA. Mayor Karen Bass called the move a political stunt. KCRW learns about the conditions they faced on the long trip. In the need for profits, Reddit unveiled a plan to start charging some third-party developers for accessing its data. Volunteer moderators protested, shutting down thousands of forums.

Tariq Nasheed, founder of the Hidden History Museum, says he crowdfunded over $1 million in a month to show Black history from a grassroots perspective. Gray, dreary weather continues to dampen the mood of usually sunny SoCal. El Niño has returned. And fires in Canada are still burning out of control. Critics review the latest film releases: “Elemental,” “Blue Jean,” “The Blackening,” and “The Flash.” This Pride Month and beyond, check out LA businesses owned by people who identify as LGBTQ+ and are actively engaged with their communities.

Curren Price, known as a city council member who fights for low-income South LA communities, was charged with embezzlement, perjury, and conflict of interest. Former President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty to 37 federal charges on Tuesday in court. He’s campaigning as a victim of political persecution. Six out of seven major quakes along the San Andreas Fault over the last 1000 years occurred when the Salton Sea’s predecessor, Lake Cahuilla, was filled. Sam Irby’s fourth book of essays, “Quietly Hostile,” includes stories about being the perfect house party guest, incontinence on airplanes, growing up on food stamps, and more.

Composer Danny Elfman talks about his decades-long career, collaborations with Tim Burton, battle against hearing loss, and return to the stage at Coachella in 2022.  The Labor Department reports that price pressures are easing. But Americans are still paying more for necessities. Will this stave off another interest rate hike?  ​​Nikola Jokic just led the Denver Nuggets to their first NBA championship, and Novak Djokovic won his record 23rd tennis Grand Slam. Some scientific research suggests eating ice cream could protect people from diseases like diabetes. Is this too good to be true?

Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” came out 50 years ago, in late 1973, showing that glam rock was an escape from daily life, especially for men. Donald Trump will appear in a Miami federal court on Tuesday, facing 37 felony counts over his handling of classified federal documents after he left the presidency. Sixteen plaintiffs — ages 5 to 22 — are suing Montana lawmakers, claiming the state is violating their constitutional right to a clean environment and isn’t addressing climate change. More people are preferring to buy secondhand goods — through Goodwill, online platforms, and more — because it’s cheaper and better for the environment.

The Los Angeles Times joins a slate of news and media companies, including Spotify, Buzzfeed News, and NPR, that have laid off employees in recent months. Rising to fame in the 1980s, Keith Haring’s graffiti-inspired drawings became synonymous with HIV/AIDS activism. His legacy is the focus of a new exhibition at The Broad Museum. Critics review the latest film releases: “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” “The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster,” “Lynch/Oz,” and “Flamin' Hot.” At the height of World War II, Mexican American youth in LA were targeted in the Zoot Suit Riots. Many prominent Black Angelenos came to their defense.

In California, an estimated 1 in 5 community college applications are scams, amounting to hundreds of thousands of "ghost students” who are trying to steal financial aid. Hundreds gathered to protest and support the Glendale Unified School District’s decision to make June LGBTQ+ Pride month. Fighting erupted. Three were arrested. The book “Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma” explores questions about separating art from artists who’ve done horrible acts, such as Michael Jackson, Roman Polanski, Woody Allen, and others. Summer is Hollywood Bowl season. Whether you’re in a box or more affordable seat, there’s an overflow of good food to bring for dinner before the show.

Patricia Arquette talks about “High Desert,” a twisted comedy about a former drug dealer who struggles to remain sober and cope with her mom’s death. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie announced his presidential candidacy today, and former Vice President Mike Pence is expected to follow on Wednesday. On the Democratic side, anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is polling at 20%. Southwest and American Airlines’ pilots unions voted last month in favor of a strike authorization, as negotiations over a new contract are ongoing. Meanwhile, demand is high for travel this summer. On Monday, Apple unveiled its first major new product in roughly a decade. Its Vision Pro is a virtual and augmented reality headset that looks like fancy ski goggles — priced at $3500.

AI is reviving voices of deceased musicians and creating new tracks by contemporary artists. The tech could mean job loss, especially for people in technical roles such as mixing and mastering. The DGA reached a possible deal with Hollywood studios over the weekend. How could this affect the striking film/TV writers? South American migrants were bussed from Texas to New Mexico, then flown to Sacramento. California’s attorney general is evaluating criminal or civil action against people who sent those migrants. State lawmakers want to force big tech companies like Meta to pay for news articles that appear on their sites. Assemblymember Buffy Wicks sponsored a bill that would make this happen.

How serious is the threat of artificial intelligence replacing Hollywood writers? It’s a point of contention in the current Writers Guild strike. Senator Bernie Sanders says he’ll vote no on the debt ceiling deal. It passed the House on Wednesday with bipartisan support and is up for debate in the Senate. Nimbu pani, balanced between sweet and sour, uses optional spices and a funky black salt. Brazilian lemonade has creamy luxuriousness from sweetened condensed milk. Critics review the latest film releases: “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” “Past Lives,” “The Boogeyman,” and “Shooting Stars.”

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. State Farm, the largest home insurance provider in the state, will no longer issue new policies. It’s a sign that climate change is upending the economics of housing. With congestion pricing, the city would charge you for driving on busy roads or highways, maybe always or just during peak hours. LA Metro is expected to unveil details this summer. Casey DeSantis is among the few people her husband Ron takes political advice from. That makes her, according to some close to the couple, both his greatest asset and weakness. Automakers want to kill AM radio. Ford had plans to remove AM from all new vehicles starting next year, but backtracked after getting pressure from lawmakers.

Georgia Pritchett says the joy of writing “Succession” is seeing the characters develop, often in disturbing ways. She breaks down the series finale. Rufus Wainwright talks about his new album “Folkocracy,” his past operas, and his upcoming Walt Disney Concert Hall show. Big Supreme Court opinions usually drop in June, and there are several major cases left, including on voting rights, redistricting, and affirmative action. Prominent artificial intelligence leaders are warning that the technology puts humans at risk of extinction, on par with nuclear war and pandemics.

On this Memorial Day, Press Play rebroadcasts some favorite interviews from the year. In South India, a couple adopts an abandoned baby elephant named Raghu, showing how humans and animals can thrive together. Author Alex Prud’homme explores the appetites of more than two dozen U.S. presidents in “Dinner with the President: Food, Politics, and a History of Breaking Bread at the White House.” The documentary “Sometimes When We Touch” explores the rise of soft rock during the 1970s and 1980s.

Loquat trees seem to be everywhere in SoCal this season. Eat the egg-shaped, apricot-colored fruits fresh off trees, or use them to make jams, syrups, chutney, and more. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy says debt ceiling talks are continuing with President Biden. They went better on Wednesday, but lawmakers remain “far apart” on some issues. Tina Turner died on May 24 at age 83. KCRW replays an interview about a documentary that covers her relationship with Ike Turner, who physically and emotionally abused her for years. Critics review the latest film releases: “The Little Mermaid,” “You Hurt My Feelings,” “About My Father,” and “The Wrath of Becky.”

The LAPD will soon get a $280,000 robot dog that’s meant to help officers avoid dangerous and potentially violent encounters. Activists are raising privacy concerns. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis launches his long-expected presidential campaign on Twitter alongside Elon Musk. The move signals a shift in the conservative media landscape. British Thomas J. Price makes massive sculptures of ordinary people. They’re part of his first major U.S. exhibition at Hauser & Wirth’s Downtown LA gallery. LA restaurateur and author Bricia Lopez says her new Mexican-style grilling cookbook “Asada” is filled with “recipes that embody Los Angeles.”

The Dodgers reinvited the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to their Pride Night celebration, after disinviting them over conservative backlash. KCRW looks at the leveling of the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. Russia claims to control the once lively city, but Ukraine denies it. As California prepares for an EV future, KCRW looks at Norway, where nearly roughly 80% of all cars sold are battery-powered. “Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie” covers the actor’s childhood in Canada, movie and TV stardom, and struggle with Parkinson's disease.

This year, Missy Elliott will become the first woman rapper inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. KCRW looks at her influence from the 2000s to today.  Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s return to Washington D.C. was expected to bring relief to Democrats, but so far it’s intensified longstanding concerns about her health. A Supreme Court decision over copyright and artistic expression splits two liberal justices as they trade barbs in court opinions. After nearly a year of debate, California and neighboring states have agreed on a temporary plan to avert disaster on the Colorado River. Will it be enough? The Lakers’ chances to win a 17th NBA championship are now slim to none. But basketball in LA won’t stop thanks to major WNBA storylines.

Families of terrorist attack victims sued Twitter and Google for allowing ISIS to use their platforms. But the Supreme Court sided with tech companies. In docuseries “Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed,” a former member of the 80s boy band alleges he was raped by a Jose Menendez, a top executive at RCA Records. For lobster rolls, hot or cold, you want meat from the knuckle and claw. Don’t completely rely on the tail because its toughness doesn’t fare well in a roll. Critics review the latest film releases: “Fast X,” “Master Gardener,” “Sanctuary,” and “White Men Can't Jump.”

The California Constitution would be amended to guarantee housing as a fundamental right — if a new bill passes the state legislature and is signed into law. In her new dessert cookbook “Mayumu,” author Abi Balingit whips up confections inspired by her Filipino heritage and California upbringing. The U.S. Treasury warns that without a debt limit increase, the government will run out of money around June 1. What would this look like globally? In Half Moon Bay, gender equity and experience are at the heart of a fight over the future of the famed Mavericks big wave surf competition.

Millennials and Generation Z are eating more snacks daily compared to other generations. They want convenient fuel without the effort of cooking. Three tech leaders testified at a Senate hearing on artificial intelligence. The panel included Sam Altman, who runs the nonprofit that developed ChatGPT. The Frontline documentary “Clarence and Ginni Thomas: Politics, Power and the Supreme Court” looks at how the two became a power couple in GOP politics.

KCRW remembers Gloria Molina, the first Latina on the LA City Council, Board of Supervisors, and State Assembly.  Congresswoman Maxine Waters is being sued by former campaign opponent Joe Collins, who claims she defamed him. Will this case affect other political races? In terms of wealth, millennials are on par with Baby Boomers and Gen X, according to the new book “Generations” by San Diego State University Psychology Professor Jean Twenge. Paramount announced last week that it would cut MTV News due to budget concerns. Former correspondent Tabitha Soren talks about the program’s 36-year legacy.

Pavlova features a soft-centered crunchy meringue that plays with whipped cream and fresh fruit. This time of year, berries are the star.  Critics review the latest film releases: “Book Club: The Next Chapter,” “Blackberry,” “Monica,” and “L'immensità.” More than three years after the U.S. declared a public health emergency, KCRW looks at how COVID-19 has changed our lives. With Title 42 set to expire tonight, San Diego braces for a flood of asylum seekers. Tens of thousands of migrants are already gathered along the border with Mexico.  

New York Congressman George Santos has pleaded not guilty to 13 counts of financial crimes. He remains on the job for now, but faces decades in prison. A state corrections board is calling for the closure of two LA County juvenile halls amid staffing shortages and reports of drug use and increased violence. The story of how one woman brought down KKK leader D.C. Stephenson, one of the most powerful men in America, is the subject of Timothy Egan’s latest book.  A young black bear has moved in. His name is BB-12, and he’s been spotted around Malibu Creek State Park and in Point Mugu State Park.

Women should be receiving regular mammograms starting at age 40, according to new draft guidance from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Americans have conflicting views on anti-trans policies being pushed in Republican states, says a new Washington Post-KFF poll. KCRW looks at the nuances. The killer in the mass shooting at a Dallas-area mall was Latino, and according to reports, may have held white supremacist beliefs. Is that common? More than a dozen universities have closed in Japan due to its declining population. Could the U.S. be in store for the same fate, as college enrollment slips here? In Netflix’s “Beef,” two strangers get into a dispute in a parking lot, and the random encounter devolves into catfishing, kidnapping, and more.

California’s Reparations Task Force recommends billions in payments and a formal apology to descendants of slavery. A New York jury is set to begin deliberating a civil case against Donald Trump. E Jean Carroll is suing the former president for allegedly raping her in 1996. The Writers Guild and AMPTP aren’t close to a deal, but the studios agree that showrunners must cross picket lines to do the non-writing parts of their jobs. Miles Davis changed modern music when he released “Bitches Brew” 53 years ago. Today, a new project called “London Brew” pays homage to his legacy. Tonight at Crypto.com Arena, the Lakers will play the Golden State Warriors in Game 4 of the NBA Western Conference Semifinals.

Critics review the latest film releases: “Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 3,” “One Ranger,” “What's Love Got to Do with It,” and “The Eight Mountains.” After plotting the January 6 insurrection, four members of the Proud Boys were convicted of seditious conspiracy. What’s next for far-right groups? Eighth graders’ understanding of U.S. history and civics is declining, according to data out this week. The results may signal a democracy in trouble. Mattel recently unveiled the first Barbie with Down Syndrome. The doll is part of the fashionista collection that’s designed to be more inclusive. On May 6, Charles III will be crowned king — in Britain’s first coronation in 70 years. The religious ceremony will be filled with symbolic rituals.

Loneliness can be as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, says the U.S. surgeon general. It can also cause other health issues like heart disease, cancer, and accelerated aging. The controversial immigration policy known as Title 42 ends next week. What will happen to the thousands of migrants seeking asylum in U.S.? The most important thing to know about making paella is that the size of pan dictates the amount of ingredients. Here’s a recipe, plus list of local restaurants that serve it. A massive collection of fine jewelry — which has a controversial connection to Nazi Germany — is up for bidding at Christie’s auction house.

Arnold Lobel published his first book about the amphibian friends in 1970, and now his characters have a TV animated series. KCRW talks to Lobel’s kids, who work on the show. More than 11,000 film and TV writers hit the picket lines today. Their contract expired at midnight. WGA and AMPTP did not agree on new terms. In the 1950s-1960s, city officials in Palm Springs pushed out some 2,000 Black and Latino residents from their homes in an area called Section 14. Those families want reparations. Climate change could lead to hundreds more home runs in professional baseball, estimates a new study from Dartmouth. What will this mean for fans?

Indian mystic Sadhguru is a spiritual adviser to Hollywood celebrities and the ultra-rich. He gained U.S. fame partly thanks to social media. What’s his appeal? With “Thinking Out Loud,” Ed Sheeran is accused of copying the chord progression in Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On.” A forensic musicologist breaks down the trial. The presidents met at the White House today, sending a message to China that the U.S.-Philippines relationship is strong, despite the Marcos’ corrupt family history. Chief Justice John Roberts won’t testify at a congressional hearing on Supreme Court ethics rules. Plus North Carolina’s state Supreme Court recently overturned a ruling it made on gerrymandering.

A proper cherry pie is made with sour, not sweet, cherries. You want a flaky, buttery crust and a nicely thickened filling. Evan Kleiman offers a recipe to try. In a lawsuit, Disney is accusing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis of launching a “relentless campaign to weaponize government power” against the company. A Russian private military group with close ties to President Vladimir Putin has been expanding its influence in Africa for years. Now it’s likely arming Sudan’s paramilitary. Critics review the latest film releases: “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret,” “Big George Foreman,” “Sisu,” “Polite Society.”

Vicki Lawrence got her start on “The Carol Burnett Show” more than 50 years ago. She talks about her friendship with the lead actress and reflects on past sketches. Despite a temporary ceasefire agreement, fighting continues between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary group the Rapid Support Forces. Hundreds are dead. The W.H.O. says there’s a "high risk of biological hazard" in Khartoum following the lab’s capture. Experts say it’s time to improve global biosecurity. More than a dozen Google employees are concerned about the tech giant’s rush to release the AI feature Bard. What are their fears? 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.

Top Chef season 10 winner Kristen Kish’s new National Geographic series takes viewers to restaurants in some of the planet’s most remote corners.  Musician and activist Harry Belafonte, 96, died today from congestive heart failure at his New York home. KCRW’s Elvis Mitchell gives a remembrance.  If Biden is reelected, he will be 86 years old at the end of his second term. How much does brain health matter? A geriatric psychiatrist weighs in.  Prosecutors dropped criminal charges against actor Alec Baldwin in the shooting case on the “Rust” film set. New evidence suggests the prop gun was modified. 

Willie Nelson is performing at the Hollywood Bowl this weekend to celebrate his 90th birthday. KCRW’s Jeremy Sole shares some of his favorite tracks from the singer. Fox News is parting ways with host Tucker Carlson. This comes after Fox’s parent company settled a lawsuit against Dominion Voting Systems for nearly $787 million. The California Supreme Court declined to block Gov. Newsom’s CARE Court, a plan that could force people with severe mental illness into treatment. Jury selection starts Tuesday in E. Jean Carol’s battery and defamation lawsuit against Donald Trump. The writer accused him of raping her almost 30 years ago. With the growing popularity of Ozempic, Wegovy, and other drugs that can help people lose weight, the diet industry is facing an existential crisis.

Carrots, the sunny root vegetables, add crunch and sweetness. Try these recipes: Turkish carrot yogurt meze and Tunisian carrot salad. Biden’s nominee for labor secretary, Julie Su, faced a grilling from Senate Republicans on Thursday over the gig worker bill AB5 plus pandemic unemployment fraud. Former LA Mayor Richard Riordan, 92, died this week. KCRW looks at his leadership amid the Northridge earthquake and the LAPD Rampart corruption scandal. The Boy Scouts of America will start to pay $2.4 billion to more than 80,000 sexual abuse survivors. The BSA emerged from bankruptcy on Wednesday. Critics review the latest film releases: “Carmen,” “Little Richard: I Am Everything,” “Chevalier,” and “Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant.”

Mayor Karen Bass’ first city budget includes $1.9 billion for the LAPD. This comes as the agency faces a hiring and retention crisis. Fox settled its defamation suit with Dominion Voting Systems on Tuesday for $787.5 million. It could affect Fox’s coverage and the broader media landscape. Extreme restrictions on abortion access are putting GOP figures in a difficult political bind. The majority of Americans still support access to the health procedure. For decades, studies suggested moderate drinking might have some health benefits, like red wine boosting heart health. Now a new analysis debunks those myths. Researchers have discovered a new ecosystem growing inside the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which is about twice the size of Texas.

Hollywood writers are demanding better pay, and thousands could walk off the job in two weeks. If a strike happens, viewers can expect more reality TV content. Rafael Casal’s film-turned-TV series “Blindspotting” is set in Oakland, and uses humor, music, and dance to show what life is like when a loved one is incarcerated. Higher demand for adult ADHD treatment has fueled a broader shortage of meds. Psychiatrists are still figuring out how to assess and treat the disorder for adults. Promoters of the long-debunked theory that vaccines can cause autism have found powerful allies in MAGA conspiracy theory groups.

Rock and roll pioneer Little Richard’s legacy is the focus of a new documentary, which explores rock music’s roots in the queer, Black American experience. The fatal stabbing of Cash App Founder Bob Lee in San Francisco reignited fears that the city is becoming more dangerous. Crime data shows a different picture. Rupert Murdoch, 92, is in his final act, according to Vanity Fair’s Gabriel Sherman. His performance has been erratic, leaving Fox News and his family in disarray. The Supreme Court temporarily upheld the FDA's approval of the abortion drug mifepristone, and Justice Clarence Thomas still faces questions over financial disclosures.

Atayef (qatayef) asafiri, a pastry often eaten during Ramadan, is filled with thickened cream, and the ends are dipped in nuts. Here’s how to make them or buy them in LA. California Senator Dianne Feinstein, who is 89 and was diagnosed with shingles in February, is facing calls to resign. What could happen to her seat if she doesn’t? Opening arguments start on Monday in the biggest media defamation trial in decades: Dominion Voting Systems' $1.6 billion defamation suit against Fox News. Critics review the latest films: “Mafia Mamma,” “Suzume,” “Beau is Afraid” and “Renfield.”

A new book by photojournalist and Orange County native Gabriella Angotti-Jones explores what it's like to be a Black female surfer in sometimes hostile waters.  With states unable to agree on a plan to address water shortages on the Colorado River, the federal government has laid out three options to save the river.  At least a dozen winter storms have brought nearly 60 feet of snow to the Sierra Nevada ski town of Mammoth Lakes. KCRW talks to its mayor.  Before Roe v. Wade, the LAPD employed a special unit to investigate illegal abortion providers. The LA Times’ Brittny Mejia uncovered their history.  Thirty years ago, a different Super Mario Bros. adaptation hit theaters, and it flopped. Now it’s getting a second life with a new generation of fans. 

The White House is launching a $5 billion program to research the next generation of COVID vaccines and what it’ll take to bring them to market. Many Gen Zers are choosing milk alternatives over cow milk. The dairy industry is looking for ways to change that, including marketing milk as a sports drink. Pentagon officials are scrambling to contain the fallout after a trove of leaked documents about the war in Ukraine started spreading across social media. The PBS Frontline series “America and the Taliban” looks at four U.S. administrations’ worth of missteps, missed opportunities, and American hubris in the war in Afghanistan.

California is paying hefty fines for its handling of suicides at state prisons. A federal judge says corrections officials have long failed to fully implement court-ordered suicide prevention measures. Two federal judges handed down conflicting rulings on Friday over the abortion drug mifepristone. It could set up a Supreme Court showdown. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas didn’t disclose lavish gifts from a billionaire donor. The LA Times' David Savage flagged their relationship two decades ago. How long does it take before you change the station or hit “skip” if you don’t like a song? Seconds — according to researchers at New York University. A pivotal moment just happened for the Roy family. James Poniewozik, chief TV critic for the New York Times, unpacks it. Warning: major spoilers ahead.

Half a million people left California between April 2020 and July 2022, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Four of them explain what drove them out. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s tour of red states suggests presidential ambitions. What does he really gain from harping on GOP governors like Ron DeSantis? Sutherland Springs mass shooting victims reached a $144 million settlement with the government. But they feel neglected compared to victims of other attacks. Critics review the latest film releases: “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” “Air,” “Showing Up,” “How To Blow Up a Pipeline,” and “Paint.”

Artists, explorers, and scientists are recording audio of Antarctica sea ice melting, hoping the sounds help people sympathize with the environmental crisis. After months of heavy storms, California’s mountains now have some of the largest snowpacks on record. But how fast could the snow melt and produce flooding? After Janet Protasiewicz gets sworn in as a Wisconsin Supreme Court justice, the liberal minority there will become a majority. It could have implications for the 2024 presidential election. The arrest of American journalist Evan Gershkovich in Russia sparked outrage in the U.S. Moscow detained the Wall Street Journal reporter on espionage charges. Gefilte fish is a mixture of ground fish, onion and carrot, bound with egg and matzo meal, and seasoned with optional sugar, salt and white pepper. It’s traditionally cooked in a rich fish broth.

With Netflix losing some of its glow and reports of massive layoffs at Warner Bros. Discovery and Disney, is anyone making money at streaming? LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis withdrew a motion on Monday that would’ve declared LA County jails a “humanitarian crisis.” The plan drew backlash from law enforcement and criminal justice advocates.  House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is set to meet with Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen on Wednesday at the Ronald Reagan Library. And China isn’t happy about it. Many Black evangelicals have a complicated relationship with the church, and their white and politically conservative fellow congregants who are drawn to Christian nationalism. An LA-based company, which owns mixed-martial arts league UFC, is now acquiring World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). What will the new company look like?

Donald Trump is now the first American president to face criminal charges. He is set to surrender in Manhattan on Tuesday. What political consequences will he face? The judge in Dominion Voting Systems’ $1.6 billion defamation case against Fox News says that lawsuit will go to trial. But this judge has suggested he disagrees with many of Fox’s arguments. LA City Councilmember Kevin de León survived a recall attempt. He’s refused to step down, and now will likely remain in office until the end of his term. “Louder Than A Riot” explores racism and sexism against Black women in hip-hop culture. The impetus: the trial of rapper Tory Lanez, who was found guilty of shooting Megan Thee Stallion. Musician and composer Ryuichi Sakamoto passed away last week. Though he’s considered an early pioneer of electronic music, he fused together many genres.

Some of LA’s most long-standing restaurants include The Original Pantry Cafe, El Cholo, Canter’s Deli, and more. They’re part of the book “L.A.’s Landmark Restaurants.” There’s been so much flooding that Tulare Lake has re-emerged. It was once the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, and was mostly dry for more than a century. Thousands die annually while waiting for a heart, kidney, or liver transplant. The U.S. government now says it wants to overhaul the nation’s organ transplant system. Critics review the latest film releases: “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves,” “Rye Lane,” “A Thousand and One,” and “The Five Devils.”

In 1984, a software engineer in Soviet Russia created Tetris for fun. The story of how it became a worldwide success is the subject of a new Apple TV+ movie. An AR-15-style rifle has been used in most of the last decade’s mass shootings, including at a Nashville school this week. How did it become so popular? The FDA approved Narcan for sale in supermarkets, gas stations, online stores, and more. The drug can prevent overdose deaths. Will stores agree to sell it? The most exciting ticket in sports now is women’s college basketball. Undefeated South Carolina takes on Iowa’s dynamic Caitlin Clark. For men, San Diego State is in the Final Four.

“Storming Caesars Palace” is a new PBS documentary that follows a group of poor women who fought back against the racist stereotype of welfare mothers.  Dozens of people died in a fire at a migrant detention facility in Mexico. President López Obrador says migrants started it, but many details remain unclear. Starting April 1, there will be a one-time sales tax on properties worth over $5 million. To avoid the charge, Angelenos are rushing to sell their mansions. To celebrate spring, Evan Kleiman shares how to make risotto with the triad of spring vegetables —  asparagus, leeks and peas — and another one with strawberries.

Violinist Randall Goosby rose to fame when he was 13 years old. Now he’s working to make classical music more inviting to other kids of color. Hundreds of thousands of Israeli protestors succeeded in stopping Prime Minister Netanyahu’s imminent overhaul of Israel’s judicial system. But for how long? As we wait for an indictment of former President Trump in the Stormy Daniels case, Loyola Law Professor Jessica Levinson untangles the looming legal clouds. The pill naltrexone is already approved for severe alcohol use disorder, but a new study suggests it could also help reduce the occasional binge.

TikTok CEO Shou Chew testified before a House Committee looking at the social media platform’s data security and relationship with the Chinese government. William Kentridge is best known for his charcoal illustrations and unique animation style, where he draws a picture, films it, then erases and redraws. Critics review the latest film releases: “John Wick: Chapter 4,” “A Good Person,” “Tori and Lokita,” and “The Lost King.”

A new book called “The Black Guy Dies First: Black Horror Cinema From Fodder To Oscar” traces 50 years of Black characters and culture in scary movies. What pies could constitute a full dinner? Consider a savory one with swiss chard for the main course, and a sweet one with rhubarb and raspberries for dessert. The Sklar Brothers talk about Japan topping the U.S. in Tuesday night's World Baseball Classic, and March Madness. The Federal Reserve raised interest rates, while juggling banking turmoil and ongoing inflation. What does this say about the health of the U.S. economy?

The LAUSD strike has started. KCRW hears from a special ed assistant teacher who says she makes $37,000/year. She says her classroom has too many students and not enough resources. This tax season, personal finance columnist Michelle Singletary explains how to claim adult dependents, get deductions for classroom expenses, and find an accountant. A Fox News producer is suing the network, alleging its lawyers coerced her to give misleading testimony in the legal battle over Fox's coverage of Dominion Voting after the 2020 election.The band Blood, Sweat, & Tears says the State Department blackmailed them into touring communist Yugoslavia, Romania, and Poland in 1970. A new film tells the story.

Gov. Newsom wants to transform the state’s oldest prison — San Quentin — into a rehabilitation center inspired by prisons in Scandinavian countries like Norway. Earth is approaching catastrophic levels of global warming and irreversible damage within the next decade, but there’s still a little time to avoid calamity, says the U.N. COVID-19 may be linked to raccoon dogs that were illegally being sold at a seafood market in Wuhan, China. That’s according to a team of international researchers. Wyoming recently became the first state to ban the pills used for medication abortions. Drugs like mifepristone and misoprostol are the most common way to end a pregnancy. The Persian New Year is a time to celebrate spring and fresh beginnings. Nassir Nassirzadeh, a first-generation Iranian American and KCRW DJ, shares songs for the holiday.

SEIU Local 99 — the union representing LAUSD staff like bus drivers, janitors, cafeteria workers, and teacher aides — could be on the verge of a three-day strike. Sunday is the 20th anniversary of the start of the Iraq War. Along with the government con to sell it to the public, the war launched a still-current age of grift. Critics review the latest film releases: “Shazam! Fury of the Gods,” “Inside,” “La Civil,” and “Wildflower. Wouldn’t it be lovely to cultivate a pot or two of easy-to-grow plants just for the visual pleasure of their flowers, then snip a few to enhance a familiar dish at the table?

Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award-winning actress Lily Tomlin reflects on her biggest roles and female representation in Hollywood. In Texas today, a federal judge heard a case that could undo the Food and Drug Administration’s decades-old approval of the abortion pill mifepristone. LA Metro’s trains and buses are facing a huge increase in crime and drug overdose deaths. Fewer commuters are using public transportation now. Gustavo Dudamel will leave for the NY Philharmonic in three years. One of his greatest legacies in LA is spreading youth music education. Who might replace him?

Morgan Cooper’s drama “Bel-Air” has the same premise as the 1990s sitcom, but differs in format and characters’ journeys, and relies heavily on music. A California state appeals court has upheld Proposition 22, which defines workers for companies like Uber, Lyft, and Postmates as independent contractors. The U.S. Justice Department is reportedly investigating the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. Its failure is the latest problem hitting the tech industry. Lawmakers have already introduced more than 400 bills targeting LBGTQ rights this year, according to the ACLU.

The Food and Drug Administration is trying to crack down on food labels and more clearly define what actually is healthy, particularly when it comes to added sugar. President Joe Biden says the American financial system is safe, as regulators rushed to secure two regional banks that failed in the last week. KCRW gets the latest in Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s case that looks into whether Donald Trump broke campaign finance laws and falsified business records. Thee Sinseers is keeping Chicano soul — a sound defined by dreamy, sunny, and romantic ballads — alive. Its lead singer Joey Quiñones talks about the band’s inspirations.

California will not renew a $54 million contract with Walgreens after the chain announced it would not dispense mifepristone in at least 20 states. The U.S. Department of Energy announced an accidental lab leak was the most likely origin of COVID-19, but added a caveat of having “low confidence.” Critics review the latest film releases: “Scream VI,” “Fugue,” “Champions,” “Pacifiction.” Michael Schulman’s new book, “Oscar Wars,” looks at some shocking moments and controversies in the Academy Awards’ 95-year history.

LA Mayor Karen Bass talks about her first three months on the job, including her work to address homeless and housing, plus safety and policing on public transit. The FICO scores of credit card users in the South were lower than anywhere else in the nation, researchers found when reviewing more than 200 million credit cards. Former President Jimmy Carter is 98 and now in hospice care. Press Play reflects on what may be the biggest accomplishment of his presidency: the 1978 Camp David Accords. Irish stew — made with lamb, not beef — is a perfect low and slow braise for a still nippy spring evening, and it’s an economical way to feed the family.

Another atmospheric river storm system is expected to hit California this week. It’s the latest in a series of storms that have pummeled the Golden State. The drug Ozempic has become an appetite suppressant for some rich and well-connected people. It's changing the definition of thinness and what it takes to achieve it. "The Martha Mitchell Effect" shows how the wife of President Nixon's campaign manager blew the whistle on Watergate and helped bring down his presidency. Now 16 years after the 2007 writers’ strike, friction remains over how much writers should earn when their work appears in non-traditional formats.

Emergency crews are still trying to free Californians who have been trapped by record snowfall. One resident shares his story of fleeing home. The U.S. Supreme Court may throw out an election law case from North Carolina that would give state politicians unprecedented power. In “The Elephant Whisperers,” a South Indian couple adopts an abandoned baby elephant named Raghu, showing how humans and animals can thrive together. This year’s Latin Grammys will take place outside the U.S. for the first time — in Spain. However, some people are upset because, well, Spain is not in Latin America.

“How Do You Measure a Year?” is a window into the intimate moments between a parent a child and their love for each other. Drugmaker Eli Lilly announced on Wednesday that it’ll slash the price of insulin. Why does diabetes continue to increase around the globe? As the GOP anticipates Ron DeSantis announcing a 2024 presidential run, KCRW assesses what his campaign could look like, and whether his brand of politics will play as well nationally. Critics review the latest film releases: “Creed III,” “Palm Trees and Powerlines,” “Blueblack,” and “Operation Fortune.”

The Oscar-nominated documentary short “Stranger at the Gate” focuses on a military veteran who planned to bomb a mosque, but ultimately became its president as he converted to Islam. Tens of thousands are protesting an overhaul of Mexico’s election laws that critics say would cripple its independent election watchdog and threaten its democracy. In LA, road rage is the worst it’s been in a decade and has become more violent, according to number crunching from the news outlet Crosstown. KCRW’s beloved annual event will be on April 30 at UCLA, where bakers, pie aficionados, and families can compete, taste, shop, learn, and hang out.

The Oscar-nominated documentary short "Haulout" follows a Russian scientist who tracks the lives of walruses, a species increasingly struggling amid climate change. “Party Down” — about a catering company staffed by aspiring actors, writers, and lost souls — has been rebooted. If semiconductor chip manufacturers want new federal subsidies, they’ll have to meet certain requirements like ensuring affordable child care for their employees. In summer, California’s power grids are strained by heat and fires, but they’re vulnerable to winter storms too. The problem will likely grow with climate change.

Two California lawmakers want to ban the use of police dogs to arrest or apprehend suspects. A historian shares the history of dogs in law enforcement. American officials are increasingly concerned that China will supply Russia with weapons as the war in Ukraine enters its second year. The Supreme Court will soon hear oral arguments in a pair of challenges to Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan. Nearly half-a-trillion dollars worth of debt relief is at stake. This year’s Oscar nominees for Best Original Song include works by Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Diane Warren, and more. Press Play gets reviews from Noah Gittell, a freelance film critic.