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Makenna Sievertson
What I cover
I cover the daily drumbeat of Southern California — the events, processes and nuances that make it such a unique place to call home. I break down government meetings, evolving policies and community events with a focus on the housing and homelessness challenges confronting some of our most vulnerable residents.
My background
I’ve been helping audiences make sense of Southern California since I started at LAist in 2023. After growing up in Eagle Rock, I wrote and reported for L.A.-area radio stations, covering emergency services and entertainment and more. I defected to the East Coast for a few years to coordinate broadcast media coverage in the U.S. Capitol.
My goals
I want my reporting to help readers make sense of everything the region has to offer and feel more connected with their neighbors — whether they’re across the street or across the county.
Best way to contact me
I would love to hear your feedback, questions and ideas. You can reach me by email at msievertson@laist.com. Or if you have a tip you’d like to share more privately, you can reach me on Signal. My username is @makennas.78. You can follow this link to reach me there or type my username in the search bar after starting a new chat. For instructions on getting started with Signal, see the app's support page.
Stories by Makenna Sievertson
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We compiled a few especially creative ideas with help from LAist’s audience.
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Students at UCLA set up in front of Royce Hall at the center of the Westwood campus.
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California newts are a species of special concern in the southern part of the Golden State, but we have some tips for spotting the semi-aquatic amphibians.
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A city’s homelessness strategy in southern Oregon has all eyes on the highest court in the country.
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The parents have been caring for a pair of healthy chicks, but Cleveland National Forest officials want to make sure others don’t get too close.
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The species has been federally endangered for decades, but its population has struggled in Southern California.
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Getting rid of the bulky debris can be a journey. Nearly every city has different rules for how to handle the bulky items, but we’ve got some helpful tips.
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The bill would bar local and state officials from voting on contracts that benefitted close relatives.
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A group of unhoused people and a community organization claim the city has violated their constitutional rights by seizing and destroying property.
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The new restrictions span four city council districts, making it more difficult for people living in RVs to find places to park overnight.
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The famous feathered family’s saga has gotten quite a reaction from their human fans.
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All southbound lanes in Agoura Hills will be affected by construction starting next week.