California

SpaceX Falcon 9 Launch Delayed, ‘Space Jellyfish’ Phenomenon Unlikely

Learn about the delayed SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch from California and the potential to witness a ‘space jellyfish’ visual phenomenon. The rocket, carrying Starlink internet satellites, was rescheduled for Thursday evening. Although viewers in Southern Utah may have a chance to see the launch, the ‘space jellyfish’ effect is not expected. Stay updated for more information on the rescheduled launch.

California’s New Law to Impact Restaurant Menu Prices

California restaurants are bracing for price hikes as a new law banning ‘junk fees’ is set to take effect. With surcharges and fees for employee benefits no longer allowed, owners are left with no choice but to raise menu prices. The industry faces uncertainty as establishments must decide between reducing wages or significantly increasing prices to comply with the regulations.

Tuberculosis Outbreak Declared Public Health Emergency in Southern California

A public health emergency has been declared in southern California after a tuberculosis outbreak in Long Beach. City officials have confirmed 14 cases with 170 others potentially exposed. The outbreak is localized to a specific population facing significant barriers to care, with low risk of exposure to the general public.

California Bill Targeting Airport Security Vendor CLEAR Advances in State Senate

A bill targeting airport security screening company CLEAR has passed its first hurdle in the California state Senate Transportation Committee. The amended bill aims to restrict CLEAR from expanding to new airports, requiring them to establish dedicated security lanes first. Despite industry opposition, Sen. Josh Newman is championing the proposal, which has received support from labor unions but faced criticism from major airlines and business interests.

Warning issued for Vietnamese hemorrhoid ointment containing dangerous amount of lead

California health officials issue warning about Vietnamese hemorrhoid ointment containing dangerous levels of lead, resulting in a woman’s death. Residents urged to refrain from using the product and seek blood lead testing. Health officials emphasize the potential dangers of unregulated products and the importance of exercising caution when purchasing items.

Circle K Offers 40-Cent Discount on Fuel at California Locations

Circle K is offering a special promotion this week, providing drivers with a 40-cent discount per gallon of fuel during their ‘Fuel Day pop-up event.’ The promotion will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday at participating California Circle K locations. Additionally, Circle K is also offering 50 percent off car washes at their locations throughout California, Oregon, and Washington on Thursday.

California Fast Food Workers to Receive Minimum Wage Boost

California fast food workers are getting a minimum wage increase to $20 an hour, prompting concerns from business owners about potential price hikes. McDonald’s warns of necessary price increases to offset higher labor costs, despite reporting strong sales growth in 2023. The wage hike also extends to health care employees, sparking debate about the economic impact of raising minimum wages.

Rare Celestial Spectacle: Northern Lights May Be Visible as Far South as California This Month

Get ready to witness a rare celestial spectacle as the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, may be visible as far south as California this month. March is expected to be the best month in two decades to see the curtains of mostly green, but also pink, purple, and red lights that are typically confined to areas around Earth’s North Pole. Don’t miss out on this ethereal display!

Waymo Receives Approval to Expand Robotaxi Operations in California

Waymo has received approval to expand its robotaxi operations in California, allowing its self-driving vehicles to operate on highways in parts of Los Angeles and the Bay Area. Despite concerns about safety, the California Public Utilities Commission has granted permission for Waymo to commence its expansion immediately.

Rising Mortality Rate Among Homeless in California

California is facing a crisis as the mortality rate for unhoused Americans has more than tripled in the last decade, making it significantly more deadly to be homeless. A recent study revealed that the death rate among homeless individuals soared between 2011 and 2020, highlighting the urgency of addressing the homelessness crisis. The study, conducted by the University of Pennsylvania, found that the mortality rate for homeless individuals increased by 238%, a trend described as ‘astonishing’ by co-author Matthew Fowle. The rise in deaths was attributed to overdoses, as well as increased rates of preventable causes such as heat and cold exposure, traffic injuries, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.