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Los Angeles

The Best Adult Arcades in Los Angeles: A Nightlife Guide

by Rachel Morgan News Editor July 8, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Los Angeles is seeing a shift in its nightlife scene as venues increasingly cater to adults through a mix of vintage arcade gaming, pinball, and bar culture. From specialized 21+ “barcades” to multi-activity entertainment centers, these locations offer curated social environments that move beyond traditional nightlife options, according to local listings.

Where to find arcade gaming in Los Angeles

The city’s gaming landscape is divided between strictly adult-focused venues and spaces designed for broader audiences. In the Arts District, the 21+ venue EightyTwo features a collection of more than 55 classic arcade games and pinball machines, paired with a full bar and patio. Similarly, North Hollywood’s Player One offers vintage games from the ’80s and ’90s alongside themed cocktails, while Barcade in Highland Park focuses on combining console favorites and pinball with an extensive craft beer selection.

For those seeking a broader range of activities, XLanes in Little Tokyo provides a multi-purpose environment that includes bowling, billiards, and karaoke alongside its arcade offerings. Meanwhile, the all-ages venue Revenge Of in Glassell Park integrates a comic book shop with a pinball collection, and Walt’s Bar in Eagle Rock caters to pinball enthusiasts with a rotating selection of machines and a food menu featuring hot dogs.

How these venues compare

While most of these locations focus on retro gaming, they differ in their specific amenities and demographic focus. A primary distinction exists between the 21+ bar-centric models and inclusive spaces:

82 EightyTwo Barcade / Arcade Pinball Los Angeles

Age-Restricted (21+): EightyTwo, Player One, Walt’s Bar, and Barcade. These venues emphasize bar services, craft drinks, and late-night social atmospheres.
All-Ages or Group-Oriented: Revenge Of and XLanes. These locations prioritize diverse entertainment options—such as comics or bowling—to accommodate a wider range of patrons.

What happens next for the local scene

As Los Angeles continues to build its nightlife sector, it is likely that the trend of pairing classic gaming with hospitality services will expand. Because these venues currently leverage nostalgia and social activities to drive traffic, future developments may see more integration of live music, trivia nights, and tournaments—as seen at Player One and Walt’s Bar—to maintain engagement. If the current demand for “barcades” persists, additional venues may adopt similar hybrid models to compete for space in the city’s nightlife market.

July 8, 2026 0 comments

News

VCA Animal Hospitals Laying Off Nearly 200 Employees in California

by Rachel Morgan News Editor July 7, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

VCA Animal Hospitals is laying off nearly 200 employees across its corporate and clinical divisions as the company restructures its operations in California. The layoffs include 100 corporate staff members in Los Angeles and 90 clinical workers following the closure of a San Leandro hospital, according to filings with the state’s Employment Development Department and company representatives.

Corporate and Clinical Staff Reductions

The company, a unit of Mars Petcare, confirmed that 100 corporate positions at its Sawtelle headquarters in Los Angeles will be eliminated between September 1, 2026, and November 15, 2026. According to VCA divisional people and organization director Maria Druse, the office itself will remain open, but specific roles including database administrators, IT personnel, and staff in purchasing and accounts payable are affected.

Separately, the chain closed its VCA Bay Area Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Hospital in San Leandro earlier this year. Human relations director Katie Baumgarten stated that the closure impacted 90 employees, including veterinarians, medical specialists, and technicians. Additionally, a VCA hospital in Santa Barbara was permanently closed in March due to what a company spokesperson described as “operational challenges.”

Did You Know?
VCA was acquired by McLean, Virginia-based Mars Inc. in 2017 for $9.1 billion. The parent company, a privately-held manufacturer of chocolate and confectionery products, generates $50 billion in annual revenue.

Industry Pressures and Market Realignment

The restructuring occurs amid a broader shift in the veterinary industry. Matt Salois, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, noted that the current workforce landscape is “nuanced” rather than a simple national shortage. While some regions face recruitment difficulties, others are experiencing “softer demand, affordability pressures, productivity challenges, and margin compression,” according to Salois.

The biggest misconception about working at VCA Animal Hospitals

Salois suggested that large, corporate-owned veterinary groups are particularly susceptible to these pressures. He observed that the growth models built on rapid consolidation and low borrowing costs are struggling to adapt to an environment defined by higher interest rates and tighter household budgets. This shift contrasts with the expansion seen during the previous period of rapid consolidation in the veterinary sector.

Expert Insight:
The consolidation of the veterinary industry, which saw rapid growth through private equity and corporate acquisition, now faces a structural test. As organizations like VCA and PetVet Care Centers navigate layoffs, the industry may see a continued move away from the high-growth, debt-reliant expansion model toward more localized operational efficiency.

What May Happen Next

While VCA maintains a network of more than 1,000 hospitals and laboratories, the company has not provided details on the full scope of its restructuring in California. Impacted employees may be eligible for transitions into other roles within the VCA network, as the company stated it is committed to keeping staff within the organization where possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is VCA closing its corporate and clinical locations?
The company stated that the changes are part of an effort to ensure it can continue investing in its people, advancing veterinary medicine, and delivering value to pet owners, while a spokesperson cited “operational challenges” for the Santa Barbara closure.

Which positions are affected by the layoffs?
Corporate layoffs include database administrators, IT personnel, and purchasing staff. Clinical layoffs in San Leandro included veterinarians, technicians, and specialists in oncology, cardiology, and surgery.

Are other veterinary chains experiencing similar issues?
Yes, the industry is seeing a period of recalibration. A rival chain, PetVet Care Centers, recently reported layoffs in Washington, and the American Veterinary Medical Association noted that corporate-backed veterinary segments are facing margin compression and softer visit volumes.

How do you think these corporate restructuring efforts will change the quality of care available at local veterinary clinics?

July 7, 2026 0 comments

Sport

2026 NBA Offseason: Fantasy Basketball Winners and Losers

by Chief Editor July 7, 2026

written by Chief Editor

The 2024 NBA offseason reshuffled fantasy basketball rosters, with high-profile trades and sign-and-trade deals creating significant shifts in player value. Analysts highlight Walker Kessler’s move to the Los Angeles Lakers and Derrick White’s expanded role in Boston as primary factors for managers to monitor. These adjustments, alongside team-wide roster overhauls in Washington and Charlotte, necessitate a recalibration of draft strategy for the upcoming season.

Which players gained the most fantasy value this offseason?

Walker Kessler stands to benefit significantly from his move to the Los Angeles Lakers. Acquired in a sign-and-trade to replace the production lost in the Anthony Davis deal, Kessler fills a void in the paint. Without direct competition for minutes at center, he is projected to provide elite rebounding and shot-blocking. According to analysts, Kessler is a strong candidate for a top-50 fantasy season, with potential averages exceeding 15 points and 10 rebounds per game.

Derrick White’s fantasy outlook in Boston also improved following the trade of Jaylen Brown. Data shows that in 50 games played without Brown since the 2021-22 season, White averaged 18.1 points, 5.5 assists, and 1.6 stocks. With his usage rate expected to jump to 23.5%, White is positioned to serve as the Celtics’ secondary playmaker, making him a viable selection by the fourth round.

Pro Tip: Look for players whose usage rates increase due to roster departures. In fantasy basketball, opportunity is often the single greatest indicator of a breakout season.

How do team overhauls affect fantasy depth?

Major roster changes in Washington and Charlotte have created new opportunities for primary facilitators and scorers. Trae Young, now with the Washington Wizards on a four-year, $212 million contract, is expected to return to 20-point, 10-assist territory. He will lead a young core that includes Alex Sarr and AJ Dybantsa.

In Charlotte, Naz Reid’s situation has improved following the departures of LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges. Reid’s production is historically tied to his time on the floor; when playing at least 30 minutes, he averages 18.5 points and 8.5 rebounds. As a projected starter, he offers floor-spacing capabilities that could make him an undervalued asset.

Who are the biggest fantasy losers this offseason?

Several veterans have seen their fantasy value decline due to trades or roster crowding. DeMar DeRozan, currently a free agent after being waived by the Sacramento Kings, faces uncertainty regarding his role and team fit at age 36. Similarly, Tobias Harris has moved to a San Antonio Spurs lineup already crowded with high-usage players like Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox, likely capping his scoring potential.

Walker Kessler trade is a 'massive deal' for Los Angeles Lakers, Utah Jazz | NBA on NBC

Other players facing a reduction in fantasy appeal include:

VJ Edgecombe: The addition of Jaylen Brown in Philadelphia narrows his path to a usage increase.
Kevin Porter Jr.: A crowded backcourt in Milwaukee, featuring Tyler Herro and Kasparas Jakučionis, suggests a reserve role.
Deandre Ayton: Playing behind Anthony Davis and Alex Sarr in Washington limits his ceiling.
Anfernee Simons: A move to a bench role in Philadelphia will likely restrict his playing time.

Did you know? Day’Ron Sharpe ranked 38th overall in fantasy points per minute (FPPM) last season, outperforming established stars like Jamal Murray and Pascal Siakam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I draft Brandon Ingram higher than his current ADP?

Ingram is a prime candidate to outperform his 60-70 draft slot. With the Clippers lacking offensive firepower outside of him and Darius Garland, he is set to take on a primary scoring role.

Is Keegan Murray a bounce-back candidate?

Yes. The waiver of DeMar DeRozan in Sacramento opens up more touches for Murray. He is considered a strong target for 9-cat leagues, with an anticipated ADP in the 110-120 range.

Why is Day’Ron Sharpe considered a sleeper?

With Nic Claxton traded to Chicago, Sharpe is expected to assume the starting center role in Brooklyn. His high efficiency in limited minutes suggests he could provide significant value if his playing time increases.

Which players are you targeting in your upcoming drafts? Join the conversation in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for weekly fantasy updates.

July 7, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Why Ali Larter Left Los Angeles for a Simpler Life in Idaho

by Chief Editor July 5, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Landman star Ali Larter has transitioned to a “simpler” lifestyle in Sun Valley, Idaho, moving her family from Los Angeles to prioritize time with her children. According to interviews with Fox News Digital, Larter cited the heavy professional demands of life in the entertainment industry as a primary factor in her decision to relocate permanently following a temporary move during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why Are High-Profile Figures Moving to Idaho?

The shift toward remote or secondary locations is becoming a notable trend among industry professionals. For Larter and her husband, Hayes MacArthur, the decision was initially born of necessity. During the 2020 lockdowns, the couple relocated to Idaho, where schools remained operational. Larter told Fox News Digital that being able to enroll their daughter in kindergarten and build community ties “organically” through the school system solidified their desire to stay.

Unlike the high-pressure environment of Los Angeles, where Larter noted actors are “expected to show up for so many things,” the Sun Valley lifestyle allows for a focus on family activities like skiing, biking, and hiking. While she maintains that her “heart will always be” in Los Angeles, the trade-off for a more grounded daily routine proved decisive.

Did you know?

Ali Larter and Hayes MacArthur are parents to two children: 15-year-old Teddy and 11-year-old Vivienne.

How Does Lifestyle Change Impact Career Demands?

The balance between high-stakes acting roles and personal life is a recurring theme for performers. Larter, who stars as Angela in the Paramount+ series Landman, continues to work in the industry while living outside of the traditional Hollywood hub. She described her character, Angela—the ex-wife of Billy Bob Thornton’s character—as a “wildcat,” noting that the role is one she enjoys stepping into precisely because it contrasts with her current, more tranquil home life.

Industry observers often point to this “de-urbanization” of celebrities as a response to the constant scrutiny and networking requirements of major media centers. By choosing Sun Valley, Larter has effectively separated her professional identity from her domestic environment, a move that is increasingly common for families seeking to mitigate the “demands” of a city-based career.

Common Questions About Celebrity Relocation

Why did Ali Larter choose Sun Valley?

Larter moved during the COVID-19 pandemic and chose to stay because she valued the educational opportunities for her children and the ability to engage in a community-focused, family-oriented lifestyle that was less demanding than her life in Los Angeles.

Ali Larter Talks ‘Landman’ New Season, ‘Varsity Blues,’ Eagles & More w/ Rich Eisen | Full Interview

Does living in Idaho affect her acting career?

Larter continues to maintain a professional acting career, appearing in the series Landman. She noted that while LA is the hub of the industry, she prefers to prioritize family time when not actively working.

What is the biggest difference between her life in LA and Idaho?

According to Larter, life in Idaho is “simpler.” She highlighted a shift from the pressure of frequent auditions and event appearances in Los Angeles to outdoor activities like cold plunging in rivers, biking, and spending extended time with her children.

Pro Tip:

If you’re considering a move to a quieter area, look for communities that offer strong, organic local networks—like school systems or local recreational clubs—to help facilitate a smoother social transition.

Have you considered moving to a smaller town to simplify your family life? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for more stories on lifestyle shifts and entertainment industry news.

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July 5, 2026 0 comments

Sport

Angel City FC Match Chaos: Pyrotechnics Blast Into Crowd During 4th of July Celebration

by Chief Editor July 4, 2026

written by Chief Editor

A Fourth of July weekend pyrotechnics display at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles malfunctioned Friday, sending mortars into the crowd and forcing spectators to scramble for cover. While no major injuries were reported following the Angel City postgame show, multiple witnesses described the scene as “terrifying,” with reports of fireworks striking a stadium security guard and landing near team staff.

What caused the BMO Stadium pyrotechnics malfunction?

The incident occurred shortly after Angel City secured a 2-0 victory over the Orlando Pride. According to eyewitness accounts shared on social media platforms like X and Reddit, the pyrotechnic mortars failed to launch vertically into the sky. Instead, they reportedly fired horizontally across the pitch and directly into packed seating sections. One spectator noted that a stray firework narrowly missed a security guard on the field before striking an advertising board.

How did fans and stadium staff react to the danger?

The malfunction triggered immediate panic among attendees. One Reddit user reported that they remained shaken hours after the event, stating that a father sitting nearby dove to cover his children as the explosives headed toward them. The section where Angel City co-founder Julie Uhrman, team staff, and family guests were seated was reportedly in the path of the errant fireworks. Despite the chaos, early reports from the scene confirmed that everyone appeared to escape without major physical injury.

Did you know?

BMO Stadium, located in Exposition Park next to the University of Southern California, has faced prior scrutiny from fans regarding the safety of postgame pyrotechnic displays. Some attendees have expressed concerns that these shows are frightening for younger children.

Will this impact future NWSL stadium entertainment trends?

The incident highlights the ongoing tension between high-production sports entertainment and fan safety. Angel City leads the NWSL in attendance, sponsorship revenue and merchandise sales, maintaining a strong commercial brand associated with its Hollywood ownership. However, the malfunction may force a reevaluation of how clubs integrate live pyrotechnics into their post-match celebrations. The failure at BMO Stadium serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in live explosives in confined, high-occupancy environments.

Angel City soccer star collapses on field mid-game

Frequently Asked Questions

Were there any serious injuries reported at BMO Stadium?

No, early reports indicate that no major injuries occurred, and all spectators appeared to escape safely.
What specifically went wrong with the fireworks?

According to witness reports, the mortars fired sideways toward the stands rather than vertically into the air.
Has Angel City responded to the incident?

The club was contacted by The California Post for comment regarding the malfunction.

Have you attended a match at BMO Stadium recently? Share your thoughts on stadium safety and entertainment in the comments below. For more updates on NWSL operations and stadium news, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

July 4, 2026 0 comments

Sport

Dodgers vs. A’s Live Game Thread

by Chief Editor July 2, 2026

written by Chief Editor

The Oakland Athletics seek to avoid a series sweep against the Los Angeles Dodgers in tonight’s series finale. Right-handed pitcher J.T. Ginn will start for the Athletics, facing a Dodgers squad that has recorded 18 runs over the first two games of the matchup. The Athletics aim to secure their 41st win of the season in this final contest.

What is the pitching matchup for tonight’s game?

J.T. Ginn takes the mound for the Athletics with a 3.15 ERA on the year, a mark that currently ranks 7th in the American League. While Ginn’s recent outings have not shown the same dominance as earlier in the season, he previously split contests against the Angels. His performance tonight follows a series of difficult games where the Dodgers’ offense has been highly productive.

The Dodgers have opted for a bullpen game rather than a traditional starting pitcher. According to the team’s updated plans, Shohei Ohtani will not pitch tonight; the organization has decided to push his start back to provide him with additional rest during the long season. Left-handed pitcher Jack Dreyer is expected to lead the Dodgers’ relief effort, likely pitching only the first inning.

Did you know?

J.T. Ginn’s 3.15 ERA places him among the top seven pitchers in the American League for the current season.

How will the Athletics’ lineup be structured?

The Athletics will utilize a lineup featuring several key players and a notable prospect debut. The order begins with Shea at the leadoff spot, followed by Kurtz, Colby Thomas, and Jonah Heim, who will serve as the catcher for the evening.

In a significant roster move, prospect Joshua Kuroda-Grauer will make his first start at third base. He takes the place of Max Muncy, who moves to the bench for this game. Kuroda-Grauer will also move up in the batting order to the fifth position. The remainder of the lineup consists of Butler, Bolte, Jeff McNeil, and Alika Williams.

Athletics Starting Lineup Order:

Shea (DH)
Kurtz
Colby Thomas
Jonah Heim (C)
Joshua Kuroda-Grauer (3B)
Butler
Bolte
Jeff McNeil
Alika Williams

What changes are occurring in the Dodgers’ lineup?

The Dodgers are also implementing tactical changes to their starting nine. Mookie Betts, who was originally scheduled to start, will instead sit on the bench. Veteran Miguel Rojas will take over at shortstop for the series finale.

J.T. Ginn 2025 MLB Highlights!

Despite the absence of Betts, the Dodgers’ lineup remains a significant challenge for Ginn, having already put up 18 runs in the previous two games of this series. The decision to use a bullpen game instead of Ohtani suggests a strategic focus on player longevity as the team moves toward the postseason.

Pro Tip: When facing a bullpen game, pay close attention to how hitters approach relief specialists early in the game, as the starting pitcher may only last one inning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Shohei Ohtani pitch in tonight’s game?

No. The Dodgers have decided to use a bullpen game to give Ohtani an extra breather during the season.

Who is making his first start for the Athletics tonight?

Infield prospect Joshua Kuroda-Grauer will make his first start at third base in place of Max Muncy.

Where can fans watch or listen to the game?

The game can be watched on NBCSCA and listened to via Talk 650 KSTE, KVMX 92.1/105.5, or the A’s Cast.

Will the Athletics manage to salvage a win against the Dodgers? Leave your score predictions in the comments below and subscribe to our newsletter for more game updates.

July 2, 2026 0 comments

News

Andrés Chait Named New LAUSD Superintendent After Alberto Carvalho Resignation

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 27, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board of Education has unanimously appointed Andrés Chait as the district’s permanent superintendent. Chait, a 30-year veteran of the nation’s second-largest school district, assumes the role following the June 21 resignation of Alberto Carvalho. Carvalho’s departure occurred while he was on paid administrative leave, a status he held since February 27, 2026, following a federal investigation into his ties to the now-defunct AI chatbot firm, AllHere.

Chait’s Path to Leadership

Andrés Chait ascended to the permanent superintendent position after serving as acting superintendent for four months. An immigrant from Chile who arrived in the U.S. in the early 1980s, Chait began his career nearly 30 years ago as a kindergarten teacher at Queen Anne Elementary. Throughout his time at LAUSD, he has held various leadership roles, including assistant principal, principal, Local District superintendent, and Chief of School Operations.

View this post on Instagram about Queen Anne Elementary, Local District

From Instagram — related to Queen Anne Elementary, Local District

Did You Know? Andrés Chait’s career in public education spans nearly 30 years, beginning in the classroom as a kindergarten teacher before he advanced through the district’s administrative ranks to the top leadership post.

Financial Stability and Safety Measures

Chait’s administration faces immediate pressure to maintain fiscal and physical security across the district. Recently, he collaborated with United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA) to finalize a budget agreement that brought over a billion dollars in additional revenue to the district via the state’s May budget proposal. Chait has publicly committed to protecting critical programs, including food services that provide up to three meals daily for students.

Longtime LA educator Andrés Chait named LAUSD superintendent

Regarding campus safety, Chait has emphasized the use of existing security protocols. These measures include maintaining locked campuses with single points of entry managed by office “buzzer systems,” as well as utilizing patrols from school police and contracted community safe-passage teams.

Ongoing Investigations and Future Outlook

The transition in leadership occurs under the shadow of an active federal probe. Specific allegations regarding the FBI’s investigation into the failed AllHere chatbot venture remain undisclosed to the public. Because the investigation is ongoing, the full scope of the potential impact on district operations remains uncertain.

Moving forward, Chait is shifting his focus toward community engagement and the “Summer of Learning” program. This initiative is currently serving over 70,000 students through academic intervention, enrichment, and acceleration activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Andrés Chait the new superintendent?
The LAUSD Board of Education unanimously appointed Chait to the position on Wednesday after he served as acting superintendent for four months following the resignation of Alberto Carvalho.

What is the status of the investigation into the former superintendent?
The FBI investigation remains active. It centers on the failed AI-chatbot venture with the company AllHere, which has since folded. No specific details or allegations have been publicly disclosed.

What are the immediate priorities for the district under the new leadership?
Chait is focusing on regional community engagement and the administration of the “Summer of Learning” program, which currently supports over 70,000 enrolled students.

How do you believe the district should prioritize its resources to regain public trust during this leadership transition?

June 27, 2026 0 comments

News

Melanie Posner’s New West Hollywood Mural Celebrates Sapphic Love

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 26, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Los Angeles-based muralist Melanie Posner has completed a new neon-themed mural at the SweetWater nightclub, located at 8869 Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood. The artwork, which features two women, serves as a public representation of the local LGBTQ+ community, according to Posner. The project coincides with broader regional efforts to support APLA Health and AIDS Walk Los Angeles.

What the mural represents

The new installation utilizes neon pink and purple hues to depict two women. According to Posner, the work was specifically designed for the venue, which she identifies as a “sapphic club.” Posner stated that her goal was to create an illusion of being “out and about in WeHo,” utilizing neon effects to mirror the surrounding nightlife environment. The artist is known for painting photo-realistic portraits intended to celebrate LGBTQ+ stories.

Connection to local advocacy

The mural is part of a larger pattern of visibility for Posner’s work within the Los Angeles area. Earlier this month, Posner unveiled designs for an official Pride Month t-shirt in partnership with ABC7 and Smile South Central. According to the reporting, sales from this merchandise line are designated to support APLA Health and AIDS Walk Los Angeles. The AIDS Walk is scheduled to return to West Hollywood Park on Sunday, Oct. 18.

What could happen next

As the Oct. 18 date for the AIDS Walk approaches, the visibility of Posner’s work—both at the SweetWater nightclub and through the ABC7 Pride Collection—may serve to increase public awareness of the associated charitable causes. If the mural continues to draw attention, it is likely to remain a focal point for visitors to the Santa Monica Boulevard corridor. Future community interest may also follow the success of the current merchandise sales, potentially influencing how local businesses and media outlets collaborate on similar art-based advocacy projects in the future.

Meet Melanie Posner: Artist/Muralist in St.Pete, Fl.

June 26, 2026 0 comments

News

Space Shuttle Endeavour: A First Look at Its New L.A. Home

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 24, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The California Science Center provided a first look at the Space Shuttle Endeavour in its new “ready-to-launch” vertical display on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Housed within the upcoming Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center in Los Angeles, the 20-story-high exhibit marks the first time a space shuttle has been displayed anywhere in a full vertical launch configuration, complete with solid rocket boosters and a liquid fuel tank.

What to expect at the new facility

Visitors to the center will begin their experience in a small room featuring a five-minute film about the NASA shuttle program. According to museum curator Perry Roth-Johnson, the presentation concludes with a sequence simulating launch fog and water vapor, followed by a dramatic reveal as wide doors open to expose the Endeavour in its vertical position. The facility offers multiple viewing angles, including a glass elevator that allows guests to observe the shuttle from the engines at the bottom to the payload deck at the top.

Did You Know? The Endeavour orbiter, which completed 25 missions and traveled approximately 223 million miles, was named after the ship captained by James Cook in 1768.

Project scope and construction challenges

The display is the centerpiece of a 200,000-square-foot expansion that nearly doubles the size of the existing museum. Project officials, led by President and CEO Jeffrey Rudolph, note that the effort to stack the spacecraft was the most significant challenge of the $450 million project. The assembly required specialized cranes to raise the orbiter in 2023, with the dome-shaped steel roof constructed around the spacecraft only after the fuel tank and boosters were secured in place.

Space Shuttle Endeavour hoisted for vertical display at California Science Center

Expert Insight: The decision to display the shuttle in a vertical “ready-to-launch” configuration represents a shift from traditional museum preservation. While most retired spacecraft are exhibited horizontally, this installation forces a perspective shift that highlights the engineering requirements of the shuttle program, specifically the massive scale of the fuel tank and boosters required to reach orbit.

What happens next

While the preview signaled the end of major construction, the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is not scheduled to open to the public until November 13, 2026. Officials expect to offer advance tickets in the fall, with priority access granted to museum members. Following the opening, the museum plans to feature approximately 100 additional historic artifacts, including the 1902 Wright Glider and a life-sized model of the Viking 1 Mars lander.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the new space wing free to enter?
Yes, the California Science Center and most of its exhibits are free to enter, though certain activities and parking require payment.

When will the public be able to see the Endeavour?
The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is currently scheduled to open on November 13, 2026, with potential soft openings expected before that date.

What is the total cost of the project?
The entire project is estimated to cost $450 million, with $410 million in funding already raised.

Are you planning to visit the new center when it opens to the public this November?

June 24, 2026 0 comments

Business

LA City Council Votes to Phase Out Urban Oil Drilling

by Chief Editor June 24, 2026

written by Chief Editor

The Los Angeles City Council voted 14-0 on Tuesday to advance a plan that would phase out oil drilling across the city. The proposed ordinance directs the city attorney to prohibit new oil and gas extraction and classify existing operations as nonconforming uses, following new state-level legal authorities that grant cities broader regulatory power.

Why is the Los Angeles City Council targeting urban oil wells?

Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky, who led the measure, cited significant public health concerns as the primary driver for the vote. According to Yaroslavsky, more than 500,000 Los Angeles residents live within a quarter mile of an active oil well.

In a statement to The California Post, Yaroslavsky linked proximity to drilling sites to specific health outcomes. She noted that residents in these areas face higher rates of asthma, increased use of oxygen tanks among seniors, and higher risks of preterm labor for pregnant women.

The council’s action aims to address these health issues by moving toward a complete elimination of urban drilling. The current plan does not shut down operations immediately but establishes a legal framework to prevent new wells from opening and to phase out existing ones.

Did you know?

Los Angeles currently has more than 2,000 active oil wells. Many of these sites are located near residential neighborhoods, schools, parks, and places of worship, according to city officials.

How does this differ from the 2022 drilling ban attempt?

The Tuesday vote represents a strategic shift in how the city approaches oil regulation. In 2022, Los Angeles attempted a similar citywide phase-out, but the effort was halted by the courts.

During that previous attempt, oil companies—including Warren Resources, E&B Natural Resources Management Corp., and Hillcrest Beverly Oil Corp.—challenged the measure. A Los Angeles Superior Court judge eventually ruled against the city, stating the municipality had failed to adequately review the impacts of the ban.

The current legislative push succeeds where the 2022 attempt failed due to a change in state law. In 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 3233. Authored by Assemblymember Dawn Addis, this legislation provides cities and counties with expanded authority to regulate, limit, or prohibit oil and gas activities within their jurisdictions.

Yaroslavsky stated that this new legal landscape makes the city’s authority “unequivocal,” providing a clear path to revisit the drilling ban without the same legal vulnerabilities faced two years ago.

What are the potential impacts on energy and gas prices?

The move to restrict local production has met resistance from industry groups concerned about energy stability. Critics argue that limiting the supply of locally produced crude oil will increase California’s reliance on imported oil.

LA goes to war with oil companies as City Council advances plan to phase out urban drilling

Industry representatives have warned that these restrictions could contribute to higher gas prices for consumers. This warning comes at a time when many residents are already experiencing anxiety regarding fluctuating fuel costs.

Councilwoman Yaroslavsky addressed these concerns by suggesting that oil companies prioritize price-related fears over community health. She told colleagues that companies would “rather scare people about gas prices than answer for why their operations are making communities sick.”

Why it matters:

The outcome of this ordinance will set a precedent for how other major California cities handle the tension between local environmental health mandates and state-wide energy supply requirements.

What is the next step for the proposed ordinance?

The City Council has approved the environmental findings associated with the proposal. The City Attorney is now tasked with drafting the formal ordinance based on the council’s direction.

Under the proposed rules, any new oil and gas extraction would be prohibited throughout the city. Existing wells would be classified as “nonconforming uses,” a zoning designation that allows them to continue for a period but prevents them from expanding or being rebuilt if they cease operation.

The ordinance is expected to return to the Los Angeles City Council for a final vote later this summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the oil wells in Los Angeles close immediately?

No. The ordinance begins a process to phase out existing operations rather than forcing an immediate shutdown of all 2,000+ active wells.

Is the city legally allowed to ban drilling?

Yes, according to council members. The 2024 signing of Assembly Bill 3233 by Governor Gavin Newsom granted cities and counties broader authority to regulate or prohibit oil and gas activities.

How many people are affected by proximity to oil wells?

According to Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky, more than 500,000 Angelenos live within a quarter mile of an oil well.

Stay informed on local policy changes.
Do you think cities should have the power to ban oil drilling? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on California legislation.

June 24, 2026 0 comments

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