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The Kennedy Centers proposed renaming to include former President Trump is a controversial move, as its legally unenforceable due to federal law protecting its original name. Critics view it as a marketing stunt to associate Trumps legacy with the institution. Meanwhile, Rivian shareholders are urged to overlook recent stock drops, as the companys innovative technology and vertical integration model could set industry standards. Lastly, the National Park Services decision to add Trumps birthday to free admission days, while removing Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth, is met with strong disapproval, deemed un-American and disrespectful to all Americans contributions.

Alameda County is grappling with a violence crisis, particularly among young people, despite overall trends showing a decrease. The county has allocated additional funds to combat this issue, with a focus on addressing racial and economic disparities. Homicides are down, but domestic violence-related deaths are on the rise. Collaboration between communities is seen as a positive step forward.

Sierra Nevada resorts, including Boreal Mountain, temporarily close due to a powerful winter storm. High winds and unfavorable temperatures make operations unsafe. The resort plans to reopen Tuesday, optimistic about expanding terrain post-storm.

Judge Orders LA Mayor and City Council President to Mediate on Homelessness Dispute A federal judge has mandated that Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson attend a mediation session next week to resolve a dispute with downtown residents and business owners over the citys handling of the homelessness crisis. The judge is seeking a settlement following an evidentiary hearing that began last month, which aimed to determine if the city should be held in contempt of court for allegedly failing to meet its obligations under an agreement with the L.A. Alliance for Human Rights. The court has heard from various parties, including city officials and attorneys, and the hearing will continue on January twelfth if the mediation doesnt resolve the issue. The judge had previously approved a settlement in September 2021, but the L.A. Alliance later claimed the city wasnt fulfilling its part of the deal. City Councilmember Nithya Raman has expressed concerns that the litigation is becoming a distraction from the actual goal of housing people and adding significant costs to the system.

The historic Mayan Theatre in downtown Los Angeles is set to reopen as a nightclub in early 2026, after its closure earlier this year. The iconic venue, which has served the city for nearly a century, will maintain its status as a downtown nightlife cornerstone. The new operators have promised to revive the Mayan, preserving its rich history and distinctive Mayan Revival interior. The theatre, originally opened in 1927, has transformed over the decades, hosting various acts and films. Its reopening in January 2026 will continue its long and varied history in the city.

Bubble Planet is a new immersive experience in Los Angeles, using bubbles to create a relaxing and playful environment. The twenty-five-thousand-square-foot pop-up features six rooms inspired by bubbles, including an LED room that responds to movements and a Bubble Ocean for playing with pink balloons. The experience, which launched in 2023, aims to inspire and uplift guests, running in Los Angeles for at least six months.

Tarascon Stagecoach, a Van Gogh masterpiece, joins LACMAs collection, marking the museums first-ever Van Gogh painting. This Impressionist piece, donated by the Pearlman Foundation, is now on display in the Collecting Impressionism at LACMA exhibition. The acquisition benefits both the museum and the public, with art professor Summer Sloane-Britt highlighting the value of in-person art viewing. Art enthusiasts can embark on a Van Gogh road trip across Los Angeles County, visiting LACMA, the Hammer Museum, the Getty, and the Norton Simon Museum.

LACMA Acquires Van Gogh Painting: A New Exhibition Highlights Impressionist Art - The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has received its first Van Gogh painting, Tarascon Stagecoach, a significant work from the Impressionist movement. This painting, along with 100 others, is now on display in the new exhibition Collecting Impressionism at LACMA. The arrival of this Van Gogh painting is a major event, especially for students, as it offers a unique opportunity to see original artworks in person. The exhibit also serves as a starting point for a four-stop Van Gogh road trip within Los Angeles County.

Orange County officials warn of a new scam targeting pet owners. Scammers pose as officials, claiming pets were injured and demanding payment for their release. They often push for immediate payment through untraceable digital platforms. Officials advise not to send money and to directly contact the agency using their official website. Stay vigilant and avoid falling for these deceptive practices.