Morning Briefing: A Note From Our CEO

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In the wake of international protests against systemic racism and police brutality, Southern California Public Media’s leadership has issued a statement to reflect the company’s stance. Here’s an excerpt, from President and CEO Herb Scannell:

For nearly a month, our country has been engulfed in conversations about racism. Southern California Public Radio (SCPR) is no different. Our discussions have been painful at times, as we reflect on how we treat one another, and how biases play out in our coverage.

Our longstanding mission has been to strengthen the civic and cultural bonds that unite Southern California's diverse communities. We do this by providing high-quality news and information and forming audience relationships that foster understanding, trust, loyalty and goodwill. We have taken strides to be diverse, equitable and inclusive and we recognize we can and should do more.

As an organization we condemn systemic racism — and racism of any kind — and remain committed to reflecting the diverse communities we serve. With that in mind, we say the statement "Black Lives Matter" reinforces our commitment.

You can read the rest here.

Keep reading for more on what’s happening in L.A. today, and stay safe out there.

— Jessica P. Ogilvie

Coming Up Today, June 26

Tommy Mofid fled Iran in the 1980s and spent decades tending bar in L.A. before opening the Wrigley Tavern, which has become a neighborhood favorite in northwest Long Beach. This past weekend, LAist contributor Gab Chabrán reports that the bar reopened for the first time in three months, even as many neighboring businesses have closed for good.

Kyle Stokes spoke with 11 working high schoolers from across L.A. about their experiences balancing jobs and distance learning courses. Their interviews offered illuminating — and sometimes surprising — perspectives on several crucial issues facing schools next fall.

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The Past 24 Hours In LA

Policing The Police: L.A. Metro's board of directors will form a new committee to study how to reduce armed law enforcement on the county’s transit system.

Mental Health: The suicide rate is rising among young Black people.

Better Late Than Never: The Los Angeles Times is moving toward a settlement in a lawsuit over race and gender bias, and promises change. Disneyland is rethinking its Splash Mountain ride, which is currently based on characters from the film Song of the South – long shelved due to its racist overtones.

Money Matters: Angelenos who have lost jobs and income and have been protected from losing water, gas or electric service even if they don’t pay their bills, may be relieved of some of that debt. L.A. County's CEO has released a dire revised budget proposal that could result in the elimination of more than 3,200 positions and 655 layoffs, more than half of which could affect the sheriff's department.

Holding Power Accountable: Jose Huizar’s constituents in Boyle Heights, part of his City Council District 14, weigh in on his arrest on racketeering charges. An estimated 36,000 home child care providers in California will soon decide whether to unionize.

Coronavirus Updates: If you're like us, you might be feeling confused about the many, many mixed messages we've been receiving lately when it comes to reopening -- so we got some answers. As the Dodgers prepare to start training on July 3, the team's president of baseball operations said he fully expects COVID-19 to intrude.

Stop Scrolling And Do Something: Pick up a banjo and strum along to some queer bluegrass, sip a martini in old school style at Musso & Frank, or learn about the history of chocolate and vanilla at this week’s best online and IRL events.

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Photo Of The Day

The Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro will hold a virtual seal day on Saturday, and here are two seals kissing (as far as we are concerned).

(Karen Schuenemann)

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