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The Fight Against Billboards in Los Angeles: It's Like SciFi
"The billboard industry is like a creature in a science fiction movie that expands to fill any space that you make for it, and then asks, 'Have I got your attention yet?' Yes, the city believes it is fighting 'Swamp Thing.' An extremely wealthy Swamp Thing." That's City Planning Commissioner Michael Woo, as quoted by Curbed LA, at today's billboard press conference dealing with new legislation that proposes to place a two-year moratorium on digital billboards until safety studies come out. As usual, lawsuits from the billboard industry are expected to be filed against such an action. (Photo of digital billboard via Ban Billboard Blight)
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
