In this recent article from Slate.com, writer Tom Vanderbilt points the the cultural status that cars represent, at least in the movies.  The most recent example?  The Ben Stiller dramedy, Greenberg.

Los Angeles has many attractions such as Hollywood, but what about gangs? Former gang member Alfredo Lomas has collaborated with community leaders and former gang members to help create a LA Gang Tour. The tour looks at the history, art, and seeks to educate those unfamiliar with Los Angeles gangs.  NBC4 Los Angeles recently covered the tour and it's highlights.

Matthew Kahn, a professor at the UCLA Institute of the Environment with joint appointments in economics and public policy, was quoted on July 7 in a Miller–McCune  article on the potential of bamboo houses to fight climate change, encourage economic growth and protect the poor from natural disasters.

Matthew Kahn, a professor at the UCLA Institute of the Environment with joint appointments in economics and public policy, was quoted on July 7 in a Miller–McCune  article on the potential of bamboo houses to fight climate change, encourage economic growth and protect the poor from natural disasters.

KPCC’s Crawford Family Forum in Pasadena, held on June 16, 2010, discussed the possible legalization of marijuana for recreational use—an issue that will come up before voters on this November’s California ballot.  The discussion, moderated by KPCC’s Larry Mantle, brought together the following speakers who hold views on both sides of the upcoming ballot measure:

• Hon. Jim Gray, Judge of the Superior Crt. (ret.) -- Pro Initiative
• Hon. Lee Baca, Sheriff, Los Angeles County -- Anti-Initiative

Urban Planning doctoral student John Scott-Railton has embarked on an ambitious and unusual fact-gathering summer project—creating his own aerial photography apparatus involving a remote control camera hoisted to high-flying kites.

"Aerial photography is generally quite expensive," says Scott-Railton, "which is what inspired me to think about creating a low-cost alternative."

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa proposes a tax exemption for new businesses in L.A., while announcing that the recent expansion of an enterprise zone in East Los Angeles helped convince a large pharmaceutical company to remain in the area.

Frank Gilliam, dean of the UCLA School of Public Affairs, added “This policy is sound and a very effective way for Los Angeles to demonstrate it wants to support business.”

Read more at the examiner.com