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In 2003 Life & Times left the studio and went into the field, driving from place to place covering issues and people that make southern California interesting. We look back at our best stories, the most fascinating places, and the most remarkable people we've had the privilege of meeting. And let me tell you, southern California is full of smart, creative, dedicated and wacky folks!
Tonight we visit with Warren Olney and Jess Marlow, who together with Val Zavala took Life & Times into a news format. What are Warren and Jess up to today? And what were their favorite interviews? We look back at moments in the KCET studio some great, some not so great, some pretty crazy.
We begin our look back at 16 years of Life & Times. Tonight we talk with Hugh Hewitt, Patt Morrison, Kerman Maddox and Ruben Martinez who were the first hosts of Life & Times when it started in 1992. What are they doing now? What were their favorite moments? It's a fun look back at interviews and lively debates about L.A. politics in the '90s.
THE BUSINESS OF BEING SANTA
Scores of Santas have learned how to "Ho Ho Ho," chat with kids and avoid lawsuits. In this litigious age, being Santa can be a liability. Hena Cuevas goes to a Santa Claus class held early in the season for an inside look at Santa "clauses."
HOW ONE MAN CHANGED CHRISTMAS
He was a good-looking, outgoing 22-year-old living in Boyle Heights in the 1930s. Then he was struck down by polio. What does this have to do Christmas? Just watch to see how George Skinner said thanks and started a national tradition.
CLASSICS REDUX
This theater group would make the great William Shakespeare sit up in his grave or die of laughter. Paul Vercammen takes us to a theater where Jack Frost meets Michael Jackson in "Jackson Frost", and the Doobie Brothers meet the Bard in "Much Adoobie Brothers About Nothing."
ANNUAL LIGHT SHOW
When it comes to holiday lights, who can do a better job than the company that keeps our lights on all year? For 12 years the L.A.D.W.P. has put on the Holiday Light Festival, drawing tens of thousands of visitors. We get a look with Kim Hughes from the L.A.D.W.P. (Lights up through Dec. 30th)
LAUNCHING SATELITTES FROM THE SEA
What can you do with an old oil platform? A unique Long Beach company has taken a platform and converted it into a launching pad for commercial satellites. But earlier this year one launch became a fiery disaster. Many said Sea Launch would be out of business. But as Roger Cooper tells us, Sea Launch is ready to try again.
ROAD TO 9-11
Osama Bin Laden is a household name. But his "evil mentor" is an Egyptian doctor named Ayman al Zawahiri. Zawahiri is one of four people that writer and reporter Lawrence Wright profiles in his Pulitzer Prize winning book, The Looming Tower: al Qaeda and the Road to 9/11.
A MUSICAL EVOLUTION
Is it flamenco? Jazz? Rock? Blues? Classical? The music of master guitarist Luis Villegas is a fusion of all those styles and the result of an interesting musical evolution. Val Zavala meets Luis Villegas and his band, a master guitarist who grew up listening to traditional Mexican ranchero music. (You can hear him at luisvillegas.com)
THE MAYOR GETS HIS SCHOOLS
Parents and teachers from six low performing schools have cast their children's futures with L.A. Mayor Villaraigosa. They voted to be governed by a non-profit organization under the Mayor's leadership. But the plan is still vague. Will he be able to do what L.A. Unified has not? Sam Louie visits a school that is hoping change is on the way.
FAST FOOD BAN IN SOUTH L.A.?
Will banning additional fast food restaurants in south L.A. improve the health of residents, or just limit choices? The L.A. City Council will vote on that proposal early next year. In the meantime, our kitchen debate features public health advocate Aurora Flores who defends the ban, and Onkar Ghate with the Ayn Rand Institute who gives it a thumbs down. Our conversation is moderated by David Lehrer of CommUnity Advocates.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle of KPCC radio and his film critics tell us about Charlie Wilson's War, Sweeney Todd, The Great Debaters, There Will Be Blood.
NUCLEAR BIOMEDICAL WASTE BURIED IN BRENTWOOD
In the '50s and '60s biomedical waste including hypodermic needles and the cremated remains of radiated lab animals was buried on Veteran Administration land in Brentwood. That land is now being used as a dog park and private school athletic field. Is it still dangerous? That's the question Hena Cuevas set out to answer.
$50,000 TO ANY REAL PSYCHIC
The Center for Inquiry is offering $50,000 to any psychic who can actually do what he or she claims. The Center is dedicated to debunking paranormal claims and bringing rational thinking to a world that is easily fooled. Val Zavala visits the Hollywood-based organization to see how they put psychics to the test.
GREAT PUBLIC ART UNDERGROUND
Some of southern California's best public art is underground. But to see it you'll have to get out of your car and hop on the subway. That's what Vicki Curry did to see the creative side of Union Station, Civic Center and Metro Center. (For free MTA art tours check out www.metro.net/art)
SAVING LITTLE SAIGON
Orange County's "Little Saigon" has the highest concentration of Vietnamese-Americans in the U.S. But keeping it that way is a challenge. A younger generation has been moving to other areas. Will lofts and high end shops draw them back home? Orange County reporter Roger Cooper looks at efforts to save "Little Saigon."
RACE AND THE BAR EXAM
Blacks are six times less likely to pass the bar exam as whites. Some say it's due to the "mis-match" theory. Now some researchers want the California Bar to release data on bar exam passage rates. Bar officials have said no. A lively debate ensues around our kitchen table between Professor Richard Sander of ULCA and Holly Fujie of the State Bar Board of Governors, moderated by Joe Hicks of CommUnity Advocates.
STUNNING CHINESE GARDEN AT THE HUNTINGTON
It's destined to become a must-see attraction in southern California the largest Chinese garden outside of China. This meticulously constructed garden has been ten years in the making. Val Zavala gets a preview of the "Garden of Flowing Fragrance" at the Huntington were poetry is infused with nature. (Opens to the public on February 23, 2008)
HOSPITAL EXPANSION BATTLE
Over the past five years 11 hospitals have closed in L.A. County. Now one is bucking the trend with plans to expand. So what's holding things up? Sam Louie goes to Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in the northeast San Fernando Valley to find out.
GREEN MACHINES
How do new cars stack up when it comes to lower emissions? With global warming on the near horizon are car makers doing their part, or making things worse? Hena Cuevas visited the L.A. Auto Show earlier this month to get a look at some green machines.
STAINED GLASS SPECTACLE
Twenty-eight stunning stained glass windows at a church in Koreatown are unusual. They convey religious themes, as you would expect, but also a bit of local history and 20th century life. Vicki Curry visits St. James of the City Episcopal Church for a look at these gorgeous windows that were 75 years in the making.
A DRIVING FORCE
She uses her own money to go the extra mile for underprivileged kids, putting them on the road to college -- literally. Is she a counselor? A teacher? A recruiter? None of the above, as Toni Guinyard found out after meeting the remarkable Tanya Walters.
BROKAW RELIVES THE '60s
Former NBC news anchor Tom Brokaw looks back at the '60s, the decade that changed America and is still being debated today. He looks at the '60s through the experiences of scores of Americans, everyone from Gloria Steinem to Karl Rove. Val Zavala talks with Brokaw about the parallels between what the country was going through then and now.
THE BIRTH OF COOL
Those kidney-shaped coffee tables your parents loved are popular again. Mid-century modernism took off in southern California, launched in part by local designers. A new exhibition at the Orange County Museum of Art explores "Birth of the Cool" in all its fun facets. Vicki Curry gets a tour from the exhibition's curator. (Exhibit up through January 6, 2008)
MORTGAGE MELTDOWN'S CONSEQUENCES
Foreclosures affect communities in surprising ways. They can create public health hazards. How does this happen? Jeffrey Kaye goes to Hemet in the Inland Empire, a town hit hard by the subprime crisis. There he sees some unexpected consequences that impact more than homeowners.
CHILDREN LEFT BEHIND AT L.A. SCHOOLS
Congress passed the "No Child Left Behind" law requiring every school in the country to meet certain education standards. Will California schools make the grade? About 100 school districts, including LAUSD, have reason to worry. Val Zavala talks with the state schools chief, Jack O'Connell, about what the federal standards mean for local schools.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle and his film critics give us their takes on I Am Legend, The Kite Runner and Youth Without Youth.
WAITING FOR JUSTICE: EXECUTIONS ON HOLD
Her parents were stabbed to death, their throats slashed by a neighbor who came demanding money. That was 12 years ago. Today the convicted murderer is still sitting on death row. California has the longest waiting period for executions than any other state. Now some attorneys are proposing a ballot initiative to speed things up. But will it make a difference? Sam Louie reports.
PRESSING FOR PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Our kitchen table debaters discuss divisions within the local Jewish community over the possible "sharing" of Jerusalem. As the Middle East talks resume, does a willingness to compromise weaken one's position? David Lehrer of CommUnity Advocates mixes it up with Rabbi Chaim Seidler-Feller and columnist David Suissa.
THE STORY BEHIND THE CHRISTMAS SONG
The amazing popularity of The Christmas Song ("Chestnuts roasting on an open fire... ") is not only because of Nat King Cole's velvet voice. It was written by Mel Torme and Robert Wells. Vicki Curry gets the charming story behind this musical phenomenon from Daisy Torme, daughter of the beloved singer.
LETHAL PLASTICS - VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE
Our disposal of everything plastic is killing sea birds and polluting our oceans. Scientists have found birds dead from starvation but with stomachs filled with plastic toys, bottle caps and other intact items. And tiny bits of plastic floating in the ocean mix with plankton for a toxic blend. Toni Guinyard takes a closer look at how plastics can be fatal.
DISASTER CAPITALISM
Companies like Blackwater and Halliburton are finding that war, tsunamis and hurricanes can be excellent for business. Private firms are now providing disaster relief faster than government can but at a price. And countries in emergency mode are passing pro-business laws and transferring valuable public assets into private hands. Val Zavala talks with Naomi Klein, author of Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism about this disturbing trend.
A CHRISTMAS TRADITION: THE MIRACLE OF THE VIRGIN OF GUADALUPE
For the 7th consecutive year the beautiful story of the appearance of the Virgin Mother to a Mexican peasant is told with spectacle, music, stunning costumes and a top notch cast. The year is 1531 when the Virgin appears to Juan Diego who struggles to convince church officials the apparitions are true. Val Zavala talks with lead actor Sal Lopez, and director Jose Luis Valenzuela. (Performances at the New Latino Theater Company thru Dec. 22. Info at thenewlatcstore.com)
30,000 WORDS A DAY
Every parent wants to give their child a leg up in life. And experts say vocabulary in the early years is crucial. Now there's a device that records how verbal your child's daily experience is. Does it really give a toddlers and intellectual boost? As Roger Cooper tells us, some parents aren't waiting for an answer.
THE MEXICAN MELTING POT
Even before Mexicans came to the U.S. and began assimilating, they were a blend of European and Indian blood. Writer and historian Gregory Rodriguez explores the roots of Mexican identity in Mongrels, Bastards, Orphans and Vagabonds: Mexican Immigration and the Future of Race in America.
PAINTER PATSSI VALDEZ
Her work is rich with color and movement, capturing the essence of Mexican-American homelife as she sees it. Dan Guerrero goes to the studio of this acclaimed artist to see her latest work and discover her surprising past.
REHAB WORTH THE MONEY?
The saying goes: "You get what you pay for." But is that true when it comes to drug rehabilitation programs? L.A. is home to some of the world's most luxurious and expensive rehab centers. But does paying as much as $65,000 to detox increase your chances of staying clean and sober? Sam Louie found both happy and unhappy clients.
IS THAT PRODUCT REALLY ECO-FRIENDLY?
More corporations and manufacturers are climing aboard the "green" bandwagon. But can you trust what they say about their own products? Enter "Green Seal", a non-profit independent organization that evaluates products, giving the best their "green seal" of approval. Val Zavala talks with Arthur Weissman, President of Green Seal. (info at greenseal.org)
L.A.'S IMAGE MAKER
He defined architectural photography and made L.A.'s modern homes famous the world over. At age 87 Julius Shulman is still taking pictures and has two exhibits showing his recent and classic work. Vicki Curry talks with Shulman about his illustrious career.
A NEIGHBORHOOD TRANSFORMED
Meet a remarkable group of residents in a Latino neighborhood who got fed up with gangs, pollution and illegal businesses in their neighborhood. When others would've moved, they learned how to work the levers of power that set their community on a path toward major change. Hena Cuevas has the story from the Florence -Firestone area of Los Angeles.
DO JOBS STOP GANGS?
Cities have invested millions of dollars in anti-gang programs. Many of them focus on employment and job training. But does "giving a thug a job" stop gang violence? L.A. City Councilman Jack Weiss, Paul White who runs a high school for troubled kids and Joe Hicks of CommUnity Advocates gather 'round our kitchen table for a lively debate.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle of KPCC and his movie critics review The Golden Compass, Juno, and Atonement.
FIGHTING A WAR REMOTELY
It's hard to believe, but "soldiers" sitting in a control room in Riverside can protect our troops thousands of miles away in Iraq. It's possible through remote-controlled military drones. Roger Cooper takes a closer look at these unmanned flying gadgets that are being used in more than war zones.
FORGOTTEN MURDERS
She's a crime reporter for the LA. Times who realized that too many of the 1000+ murders each year go completely unreported. So she took it upon herself to commemorate ther victims on a blog. Vicki Curry talks with Jill Leovy who says the typical murder is very different from the one that makes headlines.
CLIMB ABOARD NOAH'S ARK
This amazing walk-through rendition of Noah's Ark is opening soon at the Skirball Cultural Center. Children will be enthralled as they explore, climb and discover what it takes to survive in an ark, not unlike our diverse and challenging world. Val Zavala gets a tour of this marvelous menagerie from Skirball CEO, Uri Hersher. (Info at skirball.org)
ULTIMATE LIGHT SHOW
When it comes to Christmas lights, who could do a better job in southern California than the company that keeps our lights on all year? For over ten years the L.A.D.W.P. has put on the Holiday Light Festival. And each year it draws tens of thousands of visitors. We get a look with tour guide Kim Hughes from the L.A.D.W.P. (Lights up through Dec. 30th)
HIRE A VET
Finding a job is a challenge for anyone, but try convincing someone to hire you if you went to war straight out of high school. Some 12-thousand veterans enter California's job market every year. Toni Guinyard catches up with some Iraq War vets at a job fair, and others who are taking a more unconventional route to employment.
MEXICAN MAFIA INFLUENCE SPREADING
One of the most powerful gangs in the country is not on the streets of Los Angeles. It's in our prisons. Despite being behind bars the Mexican Mafia is responsible for hundreds of gang killings each year. Now a new book looks at how the Mexican Mafia is corrupting gang prevention programs and even some local politicians. Saul Gonzalez talked with author Tony Rafael, a Los Angeles writer who has spent ten years researching gangs.
THE PRESIDENT'S PILOT
He flew the President at one of the most crucial moments in U.S. history the day the only American President ever to resign left the White House for the last time. Richard Nixon's pilot has also been instrumental in preserving that history. Orange County Correspondent Roger Cooper takes us onboard the Presidential chopper which is now on display at the Nixon Library.
CIVIL WAR OVER MARIJUANA
The Feds are taking machetes to marijuana gardens growing in U.S. forests. At the same time local officials are granting permission to dispensaries to give out marijuana as medicine. KCET's Jeffrey Kaye takes a look at the conflicts over pot that started years ago when Californians approved the medical marijuana law.
TOO FEW STUDENTS?
For years we've been hearing about overcrowded classrooms. Now a different trend is emerging declining enrollments. In fact, half the districts in California are facing a drop in the number of students. That presents some serious new problems. What's causing the decline? Val Zavala gets answers from Mary Boger, a member of the Glendale school board.
LEATHER IS HIS CANVAS
For decades he's been carving and decorating saddles, belts, cowboy hats and more. Each one with the care and patience of a master craftsman. Hena Cuevas meets the unforgettable Al Shelton, now in his 80s he thinks.
AVOCADO FARM FIRES
The wildfires may give a boost to home construction. But agriculture will be feeling the pain for years to come. Avocado growers were hit especially hard. Hena Cuevas goes to northern San Diego county where the $100 million dollars avocado industry is concentrated.
TOO FEW ANTIBIOTICS
Part of the war against drug-resistant infections is the development of new antibiotics. But over the past several years there has been a decline in the number of antibiotics drug companies are producing. Why? It has to do with profits. Toni Guinyard talks with Dr. John Edwards, head of infectious medicine at Harbor UCLA Medical Center.
MUSICAL CROSSCURRENTS: LUIS VILLEGAS
At the intersection of jazz, Latin music, flamenco and rock you'll find the Luis Villegas Band. This remarkable guitarist from East L.A. has gone through an evolution starting with a youth spent playing heavy metal. Now he's one of the few Latino musicians popular on smooth jazz stations. Val Zavala talks with Luis about his musical journey.
SEX WORKERS IN TIJUANA
The number of people in Tijuana with AIDS is rising and many sex workers are among them. In the final report in our series on AIDS in Tijuana, James Hill takes a closer look at how women end up in this high risk profession.
THE TAX MAN COMETH
It's that time of year again. Property taxes are due Dec.10th. Will the decline in home values impact public coffers? And what is all that real estate worth anyway? Val Zavala gets some answers from L.A. County's top tax man, Rick Auerbach.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle and his film critics size up The Savages, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, Sex and Breakfast and Badland.
AIDS ALONG THE BORDER
HIV rates are lower in Mexico than in the U.S. But there is one exception. Tijuana is showing a disturbing increase in AIDS cases. Why is the risk of AIDS higher along the border? We find out in the 2nd part of our series from James Hill, reporter/professor at Cal State Northridge's Department of Journalism.
MORE AIR POWER
Why is a huge air bomber carrying cargo instead of dropping water on fires? Other technology like night vision goggles and GPS could also help. Why isn't it available to firefighters? Hena Cuevas talks to the head of a non-profit group trying to bridge the bureaucratic gap between firefighting tools and the front lines.
A DAY AT THE OPERA FOR TEENAGERS
It's a daring notion. Bring 3000 middle and high school students into the down music center and open the curtain on "Tosca." Can this iPod generation really appreciate Puccini? Val Zavala goes along to see what happens when teens meet Tosca. You may be surprised!
NEW HABITAT FOR GORILLA FAMILY
Imagine a $19-million dollar home renovation with a lushly landscaped 3/4 acre spread, spacious accommodations for six, a sunny yard, garden retreat and even a waterfall. We get a peek at the new gorilla reserve at the L.A. Zoo.
INSIDE A TIJUANA AIDS HOSPICE
Tijuana is plagued by crime and poverty an now an increase in AIDS. With Worlds AIDS Day this Saturday, we take you inside an AIDS hospice in Tijuana. It's the first of a three-part series from reporter and professor James Hill from California State University's journalism department.
BRACERO HISTORY CAPTURED
Braceros were Mexican laborers recruited by the U.S. to work in the fields during World War II. Now the National Archives has launched a project to capture first-person stories from workers before they are lost forever.
VIDEO ARTIST'S INSPIRATION
The stunning work of video artist Bill Viola is inspired by 15th century paintings. We look at why he chooses to render his masterpieces in super slow motion.
GOING OVERSEAS FOR MEDICAL CARE
A woman from Culver City flew to Thailand for surgery and it wasn't cosmetic surgery. The procedure cost her about half of what it would have in the U.S. But how did she know if the doctors could be trusted? Hena Cuevas looks at a growing trend Americans getting less costly medical care overseas.
ELIMINATE TAX ON CORPORATIONS?!
That advice comes from would you believe it one of America's foremost liberals, Robert Reich. The former Secretary of Labor and now an economics professor at Berkeley. Reich says if we want to clean up corporate culture, hating Wal-Mart won't work. So what will? Val Zavala continues her conversation with Reich about his new book Supercapitalism.
NOT YOUR TYPICAL HOME REPAIRS
It's been over 13 years since the Northridge quake and repairs are finally finished on an Encino home. Why did it take so long? Vicki Curry takes us to Los Encinos Adobe for a look at this a historic site and how the quake may have been a blessing in disguise.
YOUNG, HOMELESS, GAY AND ON METH
It's a dangerous combination gay homeless youth who are tempted to try highly-addictive crystal meth. Why do they do it? And how can they stop? Hena Cuevas talks to a young man who got hooked, and counselors who say meth helps them survive on the streets.
FROM THE PIPELINE TO THE PUMP
She has followed the flow of oil from Nigeria to the gas station looking for answers to all your pressing oil questions. Who controls the price of gasoline? Are consumer getting gouged? And why do they always list the price in tenths of a cent? Saul Gonzalez talks to Lisa Margonelli, the intrepid author of Oil on the Brain.
NORWALK GIRL MAKES IT BIG IN ART
Her sculptures are unforgettable creations, wires turned and twisted by hand. Vicki Curry gives us a look at the innovative artistry of Ruth Asawa.
WHEN AFFLUENCE ISN'T ENOUGH
He was earning more than half a million a year as a successful Hollywood producer. Why would he want to turn his back on the good life to stare poverty in the face? Hena Cuevas profiles Gerard Straub who travels to the world's poorest countries with a camera that doesn't blink.
FROM PAIN TO PURPOSE
She was living the American dream, a beautiful family and a comfortable life in Beverly Hills. But nothing prepared Brenda Freiberg for the loss of not one, but two sons to AIDS. Her journey took her half way around the world, where she works to relieve the pain of this relentless epidemic.
UNUSUAL DOCTORS' ROUNDS
A remarkable group of health professionals makes "house calls" to those without homes. Hena Cuevas went along to see how they administer health care on skid row.
PASADENAS RACIAL TENSIONS
Pasadena has great architecture, universities, museums, and a vibrant downtown. But it also has growing tensions between blacks and browns. The tension has surfaced in a series of attacks on Latino men. What's behind the attacks? And how is Pasadena responding? Sam Louie has our story.
ROBERT REICH ON CORPORATIONS
Corporations are not people. That's the myth that economist and writer Robert Reich would like all Americans to understand. Corporations, he says, are not human beings. So we cant expect them to be kind, generous or ethical. Val Zavala talks with Robert Reich about his new book Supercapitalism.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
We're on Wednesday this week to give you the jump on the holiday weekend releases. This week our critics look at August Rush, I'm Not There, and Margo at the Wedding.
HOSPITAL EXPANSION BATTLE
Over the past five years 11 hospitals have closed in L.A. County. Now one is bucking the trend with plans to expand. So what's holding things up? Sam Louie goes to Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in the northeast San Fernando Valley to find out.
GREEN MACHINES
How do new cars stack up when it comes to lower emissions? With global warming on the near horizon are car makers doing their part, or making things worse? Hena Cuevas visits the L.A. Auto Show to get a look at some green machines.
STAINED GLASS SPECTACLE
It's finally finished after 75 years. The last of 28 stained glass windows at St. James in the City Episcopal Church in Koreatown. Vicki Curry visits St. James for a look at the stunning results and city history reflected in these beautiful windows.
POST TRAUMATIC STRESS IN CHILDREN
Post traumatic stress disorder is usually associated with soldiers in a war zone. But now researchers are finding it in a very different population school children. Many have witnessed accidents, domestic violence, even murders. So how do we treat them? As Toni Guinyard tells us PTSD is very different when it impacts children.
SOUTH GATE CORRUPTION
He could win the prize for the most corrupt politician in modern times in the L.A. area. But youve probably never heard his name. He is Albert Robles. He's now behind bars, but not after nearly bankrupting the small town of South Gate. Val Zavala talks with author Sam Quinones who tells the story of brazen corruption, one of many in his new book Antonio's Gun and Delfino's Dream.
GO RIGHT TO THE SOURCE
It was one of the most popular shows on television in the early 1960s, and it's gained legions of new fans on cable. It's about a horse who can talk. And over the years Mr. Ed kept Americans entertained and wondering, "How did they get that horse to move his lips?!" Val Zavala got some answers straight from Wilbur's mouth.
SAVE OUR H2O
Long Beach is already taking drastic measures and other cities across Southern California may soon follow suit. Experts say we're headed into a drought and now is the time to enforce strict water saving rules. But it's not just the lack of rain that's producing a water crisis Orange County reporter Roger Cooper found out it also involves a tiny fish.
THE PROMISE OF SIGHT REGAINED
Life was going just fine for Terry Byland. He had a good job, nice family, a good middle class life. And then got word that within a matter of years he would be completely blind. Life as he knew it was over. But then a new technology came along, one that he is helping to advance. It gives him back some of his sight and offers a bit of light at the end of the tunnel. Val Zavala has his story.
3-D REVOLUTION
Hollywood is making another attempt at 3-D. You may remember the first time moviegoers would go into a theater and put on those wacky glasses. Well now filmmakers are trying out a whole new technology. Hena Cuevas takes us to a company on the cutting edge of 3-D.
30,000 WORDS A DAY
Every parent wants to give their child a leg up in life. And experts say word acquisition in the early years is crucial. Now there's a device that records how verbal your child's daily experience is. Does it really give a toddlers and intellectual boost? As Roger Cooper tells us, some parents aren't waiting for an answer.
THE MEXICAN MELTING POT
Even before Mexicans came to the U.S. and began assimilating, they were a blend of European and Indian blood. Writer and historian Gregory Rodriguez explores the roots of Mexican identity in Mongrels, Bastards, Orphans and Vagabonds: Mexican Immigration and the Future of Race in America.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle of KPCC and his film critics give us their advice on what to see at the theaters this weekend.
FRESH 'N EASY'S PROMISE FULFILLED?
Ten new "Fresh and Easy" stores are opening this month. The word was the British grocery company would put stores in poor neighborhoods that sorely need quality produce. But so far only two out of ten stores are are in low-income communities, and none are in south L.A. Toni Guinyard takes a closer look at this new grocery chain.
BROKAW ON THE '60s
Former NBC news anchor Tom Brokaw looks back at the '60s, the decade that changed America and is still debated today. He does it through the experiences of scores of Americans, everyone from Gloria Steinem to Karl Rove. Val Zavala talks with Brokaw about the parallels between what the country was going through then and now.
THE BIRTH OF COOL
Those kidney-shaped coffee tables your parents loved are popular again. Mid-century modernism took off in southern California, launched in part by local designers. A new exhibition at the Orange County Museum of Art explores "Birth of the Cool" in all its fun facets. Vicki Curry gets a tour from the exhibition's curator.
O.C. SHERIFF's DRAMATIC FALL
He served for three decades in O.C. law enforcement and was celebrated as a rising star. Now O.C. Sheriff Mike Carona is facing corruption charges that could put him behind bars. Roger Cooper looks at the events that have gripped Orange County ever since federal indictments against their top cop were handed down earlier this month.
HARBOR KING HOSPITAL FUTURE
This week the LA County Supervisors will narrow down the list of health care companies who are interested in running the troubled King Harbor (formerly King Drew) Medical Center. The hospital was dubbed "killer King" and shut down by federal inspectors. But avoiding future mistakes mean understanding what went wrong. Our kitchen table conversation includes Larry Aubry long-time Watts resident and activist, commentator Joe Hicks and David Lehrer of Community Advocates.
PAINTER PATSSI VALDEZ
Her work is rich with color and movement, capturing the essence of Mexican-American homelife as she sees it. Dan Guerrero goes to the studio of this acclaimed artist to see her latest work and discover her surprising past.
RIPPLE EFFECT FROM THE HOUSING SLUMP
The real estate slump is putting the brakes on more than just houses in Orange County. As O.C. Reporter Roger Cooper explains the slow down could impact O.C.'s great park and public coffers as well.
NOBEL LAUREATE'S ADVICE FOR GETTING AHEAD
In 1962 James Watson shared the Nobel Prize for figuring out the structure of DNA. Now at age 79 this outspoken scientist has some advice on how to get ahead whether you're a student or a university president. Val Zavala talks with Watson about his new book, Avoid Boring People.
PONCHO SANCHEZ
He's a legend of Latin Jazz but this Grammy-winning conga drummer is much more than a percussionist. Val Zavala got a chance to talk with Sanchez ... and more importantly, to listen to him play!
MANDARIN TEACHERS
One in five Chinese citizens is learning English, getting ready for the global economy. But too few Americans speak Chinese. Now a few southern California public schools are getting students interested in Mandarin. Where do they start? With some native speaker from abroad. Sam Louie reports.
KEN BURNS ON "THE WAR"
Veterans day is Monday and this weekend KCET present a marathon broadcast of The War. Val Zavala sits down with Ken Burns to learn how he got into filmmaking and what challenges he faced when tackling a subject as large as World War II.
LAUNCHING YOUNG SCIENTISTS
American students rank 8th among 35 industrial countries when it comes to science literacy. It's especially low among minority youth. Enter Hal Walker whose acumen played an important role on the first trip to the moon. As Toni Guinyard discovered he and his wife are tackling our science literacy problem one student at a time.
BAD RAPS FOR SHARKS
Four humans died from shark attacks worldwide in 2005. A hundred million sharks are killed by humans each year. One who escaped such a fate is now the latest resident at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. This husky, 45-pounder is the only bull shark on the U.S. West Coast. But don't be fooled by the name. This "bull" is a female.
LAUNCHING SATELLITES FROM SEA
A Long Beach company has found a new used for an old oil platform – a launch pad for commercial satellites. But can an upcoming launch redeem Sea Launch from an earlier fiery disaster. Roger Cooper takes a look at his fascinating and expensive enterprise.
ROAD TO 9-11
The name Osama Bin Laden is a household name in America. But most Americans have not heard of a man named Ayman al Zawahiri. He is the Egyptian doctor described as Osamas evil mentor. Val Zavala talks with Pulitzer Prize winner author, Lawrence Wright, author of The Looming Tower: Al-Qaeda and the Road to 9-11.
JULIUS SHULMAN L.A.'s IMAGE MAKER
He defined architectural photography and made L.A. modern homes famous the world over. At age 97 Julius Shulman is still taking pictures and has two exhibits showing his recent and classic work. Vicki Curry talks with Shulman about his illustrious career.
REHAB WORTH THE MONEY?
The saying goes: "You get what you pay for." But is that true when it comes to drug rehabilitation programs? L.A. is home to some of the world's most luxurious and expensive rehab centers. But does paying as much as $65,000 to detox increase your chances of ending up clean and sober? Sam Louie found both happy and unhappy clients.
COMPUTER RECYCLING
Before you go out and buy your kids a new computer, how about getting rid of the old one the green way. Only about 11% of all obsolete computers are recycled. Val Zavala visits a computer recycling business that will be glad to take your old e-waste. (Saturday, Nov 10th SoCal recyclers is holding a pre-holiday electronics recycling event at Manhattan Beach. Visit socalrecyclers.com for info.)
JULIUS SHULMAN L.A.'s IMAGE MAKER
He defined architectural photography and made L.A. modern homes famous the world over. At age 97 Julius Shulman is still taking pictures and has two exhibits showing his recent and classic work. Vicki Curry talks with Shulman about his illustrious career.
DRIVING FORCE
How far would you be willing to go to inspire students? A group of school bus drivers is going the extra mile to motivate students. Nearly two dozen trips and thousands of miles later, Toni Guinyard goes along for the ride as the group plans its next excursion. Destination: college.
WGA STRIKE
Ready for some reruns? There will be plenty of them to watch with 12,000 TV writers are on strike. What's keeping members of the Writers Guild of America and the TV producers apart? For a better understanding of the conflict Saul Gonzalez talked with Ray Richmond, TV critic and entertainment columnist for the Hollywood Reporter.
FIRE TOWER
Sharp eyes keep watch over Southern California forests for the earliest plumes of smoke. And some of the most dedicated watchers are volunteers. People who are willing to rough it high in a watch tower often spending nights miles away from the comforts of home. Reporter Sheryl Kahn wanted to see what it takes, so she made the climb to the Black Mountain watchtower in the San Bernardino National Forest.
CHURCHES AND FIRES
Several churches fell victim to the recent wildfires. But religious organizations of all denominations are reaching out to fire victims beyond their own congregations. Saul Gonzalez tells us the relief effort goes well beyond spiritual support.
SEX OFFENDER WITH NO PLACE TO LIVE
The law requires sex offenders to register and puts restrictions on where they can live. But are they too strict? Did the law intend to make parolees homeless? Hena Cuevas has the story of one rapist in Ventura who was forced to pitch a tent.
POLITICIANS' PRIVATE LIVES
Should politicians have to pay a price for lapses in ethics and indiscretions? Is it relevant to their jobs? That's the question for our kitchen table guests former L.A. Times editor, Bill Boyarsky, and government watchdog Bob Stern, along with David Lehrer of Community Advocates.
BLOCKBUSTER BOOSTER
Are you a fan of documentaries, independents and low-budget art films? Los Angeles Times film critic Kenneth Turan believes there are more than a few big-budget blockbusters that are also worth your while. He talks with Vicki Curry about his new book, Now in Theaters Everywhere.
KING CLINICS OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Contrary to public perception patients are still being treated at the former King Drew Medical Center, now King MACC. It was the ER and hospital that was closed. But as Toni Guinyard reports numerous out patient clinics are still open and welcoming patients in need of everything from stitches to chemo.
GROWING PAINS
Southern Californians are watching their neighborhoods change before their eyes the growing population, single family homes being replaced by apartments and condos, traffic getting worse, and the quality of life deteriorating. Since we can't stop growth, can we be smarter in the way we plan for it? That's the topic around our Kitchen Table, as Los Angeles City Planner Gail Goldberg and Bob Stern of the Center for Governmental Studies join David Lehrer of Community Advocates.
SHE COULD HAVE SUNG ALL NIGHT
Marni Nixon was the beautiful singing voice we heard coming out of Natalie Wood, Audrey Hepburn and Debra Kerr in classic movie musicals. Now she steps into the spotlight with a one woman show. Val Zavala talks with Nixon about what is like to be the dubber for movie stars and how it helped her build a long and successful career.
POT WARS
California's legalization of medical marijuana puts it at odds with federal drug laws. Jeffrey Kaye goes along with law enforcement teams who search out and destroy pot patches in U.S. forests.
TOO FEW STUDENTS
For years we've been hearing about overcrowded classrooms. Now a different trend is emerging – declining enrollments. In fact, half the districts in California are facing a drop in the number of students. That presents some serious new problems. What's causing the decline? Val Zavala gets answers from Mary Boger, a member of the Glendale school board.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle and his film critics size up American Gangster, Martian Child and Before the Devil Knows You're Dead.
AVOCADO FARM FIRES
The wildfires may give a boost to home construction. But agriculture will be feeling the pain for years to come. Avocado growers were hit especially hard. Hena Cuevas goes to northern San Diego county where the $100 million dollars avocado industry is concentrated.
TOO FEW ANTIBIOTICS
Part of the war against drug-resistant infections is the development of new antibiotics. But over the past several years there has been a decline in the number of antibiotics drug companies are producing. Why? It has to do with profits. Toni Guinyard talks with Dr. John Edwards, head of infectious medicine at Harbor UCLA Medical Center.
STORIES OF A LIFETIME
They've lived full lives and have wonderful stories to tell. But how do you turn experiences into ten-minute monologs? That's where professional storyteller Barbara Clark comes in. Toni Guinyard goes to Vineyard Recreation Center in midtown L.A. for the final performances of this senior citizen story telling class. (L.A. Storytelling Festival this Nov. 10th)
AMONG THE ASHES
More than a dozen homes were lost in Modjeska Canyon in Orange County – the results of an arsonist. Sam Louie walks through the charred neighborhood talking with firefighters, evacuees and residents who narrowly escaped.
BURNING QUESTIONS
Most wildfires are considered a natural disaster, but many say they are un-natural. Val Zavala talks with San Bernardino Sun Reporter George Watson who says successful fire-suppression has led to bigger, more destructive blazes.
A NEW SPIN ON SPIDERS
Arachnophobiacs stay away. But the rest of us will be fascinated by the many orb weavers inhabiting the spider pavilion at the Natural History Museum of L.A. County. Val Zavala talks with the bug man, Brent Karner, whose love of spiders is contagious.
FIRES' ECONOMIC IMPACT
How much impact will the firestorm have on southern California's economy? Will the damage prove a drag on the economy? Will home rebuilding give it a boost? Hena Cuevas talks with Jack Kyser, of the L.A. County Economic Development Corporation.
BAKING BREAD FOR DAY OF THE DEAD
Halloween is not just about costumes and candy. In the Latino community, the Day of the Dead just wouldn't be the same without a certain kind of bread. Val Zavala goes to one of the oldest and best-known bakeries in East Los Angeles.
THE RECOVERY BEGINS
Firefighters who are still working to contain the remaining blazes at the end of long bruising week. In the meantime, fire victims are taking the first in a long series of steps to rebuild their houses and their lives. KCET's Jeffrey Kaye reports.
TRACKING DOWN ARSONISTS
The ferocious Santa Ana winds and an accomplice in on fire. Arsonists are suspected of starting the Santiago fire in Orange County that burned more than 20,000 acres. But what are they chances they'll catch him? Pretty slim according to fire officials who say they are notorious hard to track down. Philip Bruce looks back at an arson fires that continues to frustrate investigators.
CLAIMS ABOUT INSURANCE CLAIMS
You may have read stories about fire victims who risk losing their coverage if they put in a claim. But a spokesperson for the insurance industry says not true. To find out more about insurance coverage in the wake of wildfires Val Zavala talked with Candyss Miller of the Insurance Information Network. (IINC. org)
PRESIDENT BUSH VISITS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
President Bush arrives to view the extent of the massive damage from the wildfires. More than 1300 homes destroyed and a record number of evacuees has taxed resources. How well has the federal government responded? KCET's Jeffrey Kaye reports.
POLITICS OF WILDFIRE RELIEF
The President's visit triggers several questions: How does the government's response to the firestorm compare to the much criticized response to Katrina? What did federal agencies learn? How much of a difference does class and race make? Val Zavala talks to political analyst Sherry Bebitch Jeffe on the politics of disaster relief.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle of KPCC and his film critics take a look at Dan in Real Life, Slipstream and Jimmy Carter: Man from Plains.
WILDFIRES CONTINUE
We bring you the latest fire events across southern California from KCET's Jeffrey Kaye.
MORE AIR POWER
Why is a huge air bomber carrying cargo instead of dropping water on fires? Other technology like night vision goggles and GPS could also help. Why isn't it available to firefighters? Hena Cuevas talks to the head of a non-profit group trying to bridge the bureaucratic gap between firefighting tools and the front lines.
TO REBUILD OR NOT TO REBUILD
Over the next few months more than a thousand fire victims will have to decide whether to rebuild. Most will rebuild. So what should they do differently? Philip Bruce went to San Bernardino in the aftermath of the 2003 fire to look at what lessons to be learned from the Waterman Canyon fire.
FOUR-FOOTED BRUSH CLEARERS
When faced with a serious brush clearance challenge the Getty Center calls out the goats. Hena Cuevas meets the goat herder behind this low-tech fire safety team.
WILDFIRES SPREADING
Wildfires from Ventura County to the Mexican border have produced a record number of evacuees in California. Hundreds of thousands have been forced from their homes. The hardest hit is San Diego. KCET's Jeffrey Kaye looks at how they are coping in San Diego and across southern California.
MAKING TOUGH CHOICES
Firefighters often have to choose which house to protect and which house to leave to the whims of the fire. How do they decide? Hena Cuevas goes to Malibu to find out how firefighters size up houses that consider "defensible."
COMMUNICATING DURING A DISASTER
Getting the right information is tough during wildfires. But we found one Topanga community that is way out in front. They have created their own radio network to make sure people know what's really going on. Could other communities follow suit? Bob Jimenez finds out how and why they did it.
AND ON TOP OF THE WINDS -- DROUGHT
It's not just the hot Santa Ana winds that are wreaking havoc. It's the extremely dry conditions that have been developing over the past year. Hena Cuevas talks with JPL climatologist, Bill Patzert, about the drought that could last for many more years. f San Bernardino and got a tour from county supervisor Dennis Hansberger in the aftermath of the Waterman Canyon fire of 2003.
WILDFIRES RAGING
Firefighters knew it would be bad and it is. Tens of thousands of acres burned, homes lost, people evacuated, roads and schools closed. As Hena Cuevas reports, the only thing predictable about the hot Santa Ana winds is that they WILL usher in the most dangerous part of the fire season.
PREPARING FOR THE WORST
We've heard fire officials tell time and again – don't wait to be prepared for a disaster. But how many communities really have it together? We go to Topanga Canyon where a model plan is in place. As Bob Jimenez tells us they learned the hard way.
GET READY FOR A LONG DROUGHT
The fires make it hard to believe that just two years ago that we had record rains. So how is it we're now in a serious drought? Hena Cuevas gets an explanation from climatologist Bill Patzert from JPL.
BOG, FOG AND CARNIVOROUS PLANTS
We revisit the huge plant science center at the Huntington in San Marino. It features three climates, hundreds of plants from gorgeous orchids to hungry fly traps. Val Zavala get a tour of this fascinating greenhouse learning center from garden director, Jim Folsom.
IT'S NOT ALL ROSY
Passport to the World's Celebrations is the theme for the 2008 Rose Parade. One of the announced floats is designed to celebrate the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Human rights advocates are outraged. They accuse the Chinese government of continual human rights violations, including the persecution and imprisonment of members of the Falun Gong spiritual movement. Hena Cuevas looks into what happens when parades and politics collide.
HUMAN RIGHTS UNDER FIRE
Has the war on terrorism also launched an attack against human rights? The head of Amnesty International, Larry Cox, argues that anti-terrorism measures have provided cover for repressive action and the undermining of human rights i.e. Guantanamo and Hussein's rushed execution. Val Zavala talks with Cox who says it's time to put U.S. policies back on track.
WOODSTOCK WEST
It's been called one of the most important events of the Civil Rights Movement. Wattstax was a day-long concert held at the Los Angeles Coliseum in the early '70s. The concert was a mix of soul music, politics and empowerment for a community still recovering from the Watts Riots. Vicki Curry talks with Charmaine Jefferson, executive director of California African-American Museum about the 35th anniversary of Wattstax. [Wattstax: I am Somebody! is on exhibit at the museum through October 28. Go to www.caam.ca.gov for info]
ROLLIN' ON THE RIVER
Could it be that the one of the better ways to see the Los Angeles river is from a car? That's just one of the tours you can take to get a closer look at L.A.'s forgotten waterway. You'll be surprised to learn it's not just a concrete channel. Joe Linton of Friends of the L.A. River shows us the scenic spots that may surprise you. (www.folar.org for info on tours)
PALOMAR LIGHT POLLUTION
Scientists at Palomar Observatory in north San Diego County are having a hard time doing their job. Light pollution from urban areas is obstructing their view of the heavens. What can cities do about it? Roger Cooper says a fair amount if they are willing.
STAPH INFECTIONS
Staph infections have been around for centuries. But a new, more virulent strain of staph bacteria is turning up in places you wouldn't expect, and it resists treatment with known antibiotics. Toni Guinyard talks with health officials about whether they are concerned, and whether we need to be.
FILMWEEK
Larry Mantle and his panel of critics look at the new box office contenders. This week's films include Things We Lost in the Fire, Rendition, Reservation Road, and Gone Baby Gone.
SAVE OUR H2O
Long Beach is already taking drastic measures and other cities across Southern California may soon follow suit. Experts say we're headed into a drought and now is the time to enforce strict water saving rules. But it's not just the lack of rain that's producing a water crisis Orange County reporter Roger Cooper found out it also involves a tiny fish.
CHALLENGES ON THE HOME FRONT
A marine who goes to Iraq leaves his family facing problems and challenges. Wives often have a hard time handling the stress emotionally and financially. That's where a special military ministry comes in. Saul Gonzalez goes to Camp Pendleton where the war is taking its toll.
GO RIGHT TO THE SOURCE
It was one of the most popular shows on television in the early 1960s, and it's gained legions of new fans on cable. It's about a horse who can talk. And over the years Mr. Ed kept Americans entertained and wondering, "How did they get that horse to move his lips?!" Val Zavala got some answers straight from Wilbur's mouth.
DISAPPEARING DAIRIES
There's a land grab going on in the San Gabriel Valley. Dairy farmers are being offered good money from developers. Milk cows are turning into cash cows. But what does it mean for dairy farmers who lease their land? Where will they go? Sam Louie meets one farmer who has a hard decision to make.
THE PROMISE OF SIGHT REGAINED
Life was going just fine for Terry Byland. He had a good job, nice family, a good middle class life. And then got word that within a matter of years he would be completely blind. Life as he knew it was over. But then a new technology came along, one that he is helping to advance. It gives him back some of his sight and offers a bit of light at the end of the tunnel. Val Zavala has his story.
3-D REVOLUTION
Hollywood is making another attempt at 3-D. You may remember the first time moviegoers would go into a theater and put on those wacky glasses. Well now filmmakers are trying out a whole new technology. Hena Cuevas takes us to a company on the cutting edge of 3-D.
COLLATERAL DAMAGE
The failure of King Harbor Hospital may have an impact no one saw coming. Many of Southern California's minority doctors graduated from Charles Drew University, and for decades, the University depended on King Harbor (formerly King Drew) to train its students. Now those students are leaving the area to seek training elsewhere. Toni Guinyard looks at the relationship between the two institutions, and the potential brain drain from the Hospital's closure.
JOHN DEAN
The man who implicated members of the Nixon administration during Watergate examines the current state of the federal government, and finds damage everywhere he looks. Saul Gonzalez talks with John Dean about his latest book, Broken Government: How Republican Rule Destroyed the Legislative, Executive and Judicial Branches.
HOMEGIRL CAFΙ
They gave up gangbanging to wait tables and learn to cook. The Homegirl Cafe in Boyle Heights offers fresh Mexican fare and a fresh start in life for young women. Val Zavala visits the restaurant (which got a great review in the L.A. Times) and met one woman who is serving meals instead of time.
TROUBLE BY THE SEA?
Its name conjurs up images of surf, sand and celebrities ... but environmentalists see a very different image of Malibu. They see hundreds of pipes draining onto public beaches from private homes. The City of Malibu says the pipes are legal; environmental groups are threatening to sue. Sam Louie combs the beach for some answers.
LEARNING GAP
What's holding back minority students in California schools? The latest scores show African Americans and Hispanics lag behind even in well-off communities. Could the problem be grounded in cultural values? Joe Hicks of Community Advocates moderates a lively debate at our Kitchen Table between Austin Dragon, President of the Southern California Republican Club and John Rogers of UCLA's Institute for Democracy, Education and Access.
CRIMES SEEN
They span eight decades of criminality from mobsters to modern day gangbangers. They are the photos from the LAPD archives mug shots, crime scenes, and of course murder victims. Want a peak? Vicki Curry got one when she headed down to the LAPD photo files.
GOING OVERSEAS FOR MEDICAL CARE
A woman from Culver City flew to Thailand for surgery and it wasn't cosmetic surgery. The procedure cost her about half of what it would have in the U.S. But how did she know if the doctors could be trusted? Hena Cuevas looks at a growing trend Americans getting less costly medical care overseas.
THE CLEANEST STREET IN LOS ANGELES
It's only a couple blocks long in a modest neighborhood between the L.A. River and the 5 freeway. But it's the cleanest street in the city, after an $800,000 renovation. What kind of clean? Val Zavala talks with Larry Smith of North East Trees who explains.
FILMWEEK on LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle and his film critics give us the skinny on the new Hollywood releases.
YOUNG PRINCIPAL DELIVERS HIGH SCORES
An elementary school in Carson is proving that minority students from a poor neighborhood can test just as high as their affluent counterparts. And what's the catalyst behind this success? A first-time principal who took the reins when she was only twenty-seven. Sam Louie has her story.
ELIMINATE TAX ON CORPORATIONS?!
That advice comes from would you believe it one of America's foremost liberals, Robert Reich. The former Secretary of Labor and now an economics professor at Berkeley. Reich says if we want to clean up corporate culture, hating Wal-Mart won't work. So what will? Val Zavala continues her conversation with Reich about his new book Supercapitalism.
NOT YOUR TYPICAL HOME REPAIRS
It's been over 13 years since the Northridge quake and repairs are finally finished on an Encino home. Why did it take so long? Vicki Curry takes us to Los Encinos Adobe for a look at this a historic site and how the quake may have been a blessing in disguise.
PASADENA'S RACIAL TENSIONS
It would seem the City of Pasadena has it all... great architecture, universities, museums and a vibrant downtown. But it also has something that most people don't see tensions between two minorities. Black-Brown tension has surfaced in recent months in a series of attacks on Latino men. Sam Louie looks at what's behind these attacks and how Pasadena is responding.
ROBERT REICH ON CORPORATIONS
Corporations are not human beings. That is the message economist and writer Robert Reich would like all Americans to understand. And since they aren't people, don't expect corporations to be kind and generous or to have a conscience. Val Zavala spoke with former labor secretary Reich, who was a guest of TownHall Los Angeles, about how supercapitalism is threatening democracy, and about his proposed solution.
BOWER'S MUSEUM
This small Orange County museum has built an international reputation with displays of ancient treasure from around the world. Vicki Curry went to Santa Ana to find out how the staff of the Bowers Museum manages to pull off such coups.
IN CASE OF NUCLEAR ATTACK
A nuclear attack on southern California is hard to imagine. Some people are paid to imagine it, and to come up with a response. But as Toni Guinyard found out, just figuring out who should be in charge is a challenge.
SPYING BLIND
Six years after 9/11, is the U.S. any better prepared to thwart terrorist attacks? Saul Gonzalez talks with national security expert Amy Zegart about her new book, Spying Blind: The CIA, the FBI, and the Origins of 9/11. Zegart says the intelligence agencies may have changed in the wake of 9/11, but asks whether what they've done is enough to meet the threat?
FOUND ART
Artist George Herms finds beauty in the things other people throw away. He has spent 50 years taking the things that come across his path and turning them into art. Vicki Curry talks with this practitioner of the artform known as "assemblage" about his days in LA's Beat scene, and his newest venture, a jazz opera. (Herms work is part of an exhibit currently at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. For more info: www.lacma.org)
TIGHTENING IMMIGRATION HIRING LAWS
I.C.E. officials (formerly the INS) are cracking down on employers who hire undocumented workers by looking closely at social security numbers that don't match names. It could result in thousands of workers being fired. A coalition of unions, farmers and other employers are challenging I.C.E. in court. Roger Cooper takes a look at the impact of this new anti-illegal immigration effort.
FORECLOSURE ADVICE
There are some things homeowners can do if they see trouble ahead in making their mortgage payments. Sometimes acting early can save your home. And if foreclosure is unavoidable, there are ways to soften the blow. Val Zavala talks with CPA Michael Eisenberg.
TRUANTS ON TRIAL
The Huck Finn notion of hookey are gone. Today truancy is often the first step to prison. Can putting truants on trial help? David Okarski goes to Orange County to see how one community is tackling its truant problem.
POST TRAUMATIC STRESS IN CHILDREN
Post traumatic stress disorder is usually associated with soldiers in a war zone. But now researchers are finding it in a very different population school children. Many have witnessed accidents, domestic violence, even murders. So how do we treat them? As Toni Guinyard tells us PTSD is very different when it impacts children.
SOUTH GATE CORRUPTION
He could win the prize for the most corrupt politician in modern times in the L.A. area. But youve probably never heard his name. He is Albert Robles. He's now behind bars, but not after nearly bankrupting the small town of South Gate. Val Zavala talks with author Sam Quinones who tells the story of brazen corruption, one of many in his new book Antonio's Gun and Delfino's Dream.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
A look at Michael Clayton, The Darjeeling Limited, and Lust, Caution.
RIPPLE EFFECT FROM THE HOUSING SLUMP
The real estate slump is putting the brakes on more than just houses in Orange County. As O.C. Reporter Roger Cooper explains the slow down could impact O.C.'s great park and public coffers as well.
NOBEL LAUREATE'S ADVICE FOR GETTING AHEAD
In 1962 James Watson shared the Nobel Prize for figuring out the structure of DNA. Now at age 79 this outspoken scientist has some advice on how to get ahead whether you're a student or a university president. Val Zavala talks with Watson about his new book, Avoid Boring People.
A NEW SPIN ON SPIDERS
Arachnophobiacs stay away. But the rest of us will be fascinated by the many orb weavers inhabiting the spider pavilion at the Natural History Museum of L.A. County. Val Zavala talks with the bug man, Brent Karner, whose love of spiders is contagious.
SEX OFFENDER WITH NO PLACE TO LIVE
The law requires sex offenders to register and puts restrictions on where they can live. But are they too strict? Did the law intend to make parolees homeless? Hena Cuevas has the story of one rapist in Ventura who was forced to pitch a tent.
POLITICIANS' PRIVATE LIVES
Should politicians have to pay a price for lapses in ethics and indiscretions? Is it relevant to their jobs? That's the question for our kitchen table guests former L.A. Times editor, Bill Boyarsky, and government watchdog Bob Stern, along with David Lehrer of Community Advocates.
SOLVING MYSTERIES FROM WWII
World War II is on a lot of Americans' minds this week. Especially those who have lost loved ones and still don't know how they died. That's where Bill Beigel comes in. He's an expert at solving military mysteries. Val Zavala talked with this detective who can uncover details even the military didn't know.
LONG LIFE FOR 'FELIX THE CAT' SIGN?
Next to the Hollywood sign, it just may be the most recognized sign on the L.A. landscape. It's the Felix the Cat sign that hovers over the car dealership on Figueroa. Now it has been declared a historical landmark and is protected. But that has the owners of the car dealership upset. Why? Sam Louie takes a look at feud over Felix.
GOOGLE EARTH LOOKING UP
We all know Google Earth, the website that lets us look down on any spot on the planet. Now Google is looking upward, letting us explore the universe like we would our own neighborhood. Vicki Curry talks to two Cal Tech scientists who helped make Google Sky a reality.
DOGGY HEAVEN
Cris Franco's visit to a dog park is the winner of this year's L.A. Area Emmy for light feature. He visits a park in Laurel Canyon to see why this puppy park is such a draw for canines and their owners.
IMMIGRATION RAIDS: FEAR OR ENFORCEMENT?
Are they enforcing immigration laws? Or targeting Latino communities? I.C.E. agents have launched raids. (ICE is the new INS.) Officials say they are arresting people who have defied deportation orders. Critics say they are terrorizing Latino neighborhoods. Whats really happening? Roger Cooper went along on a pre-dawn raid to see the operation up close.
SEX OFFENDERS: THOUGHTS VS. DEEDS
The case of the self-proclaimed pedophile, Jack McClellan, has raised intriguing and emotional questions. Can a person be charged for obscene thoughts or plans expressed on the internet? A fascinating debate unfolds between two sharp legal minds: constitutional law professor Eugene Volokh, and attorney Anthony Zinnanti who won a restraining order against McClellan.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle of KPCC radio and his film critics give up their advice The Kingdom, Feast of Love, Trade and Great World of Sound.
Thursday's Life & Times was pre-empted by the Republican PBS All-American Presidential Forum moderated by Tavis Smiley.
COMPETITION FOR OFFICERS
L.A. needs police officers. But so do many other cities across America. How far will cities go to get the best candidates? NewsHour correspondent Jeffrey Kaye takes a look at recruitment challenges.
IN SEARCH OF WATER
The Phoenix Lander is on its way to the red planet in search of water. Scientists will be thrilled if they find it. Sam Louie talks with to mission director Barry Goldstein of JPL.
PRESIDENTIAL GIFTS
What do people – dignitaries and the common folk – give to a president? We get an eyeful when Vicki Curry visits the Reagan Library for a look at its permanent collection of gifts to President Ronald Reagan.
HOOPNOTICA
If you wait long enough everything old will be new again. That is certainly the case for the hoola hoop. Hena Cuevas checks out a fun and unusual class by Rayna McInturf.
MANDARIN TEACHERS
One in five Chinese citizen is learning English, getting ready for the global economy. But too few Americans speak Chinese. Now a few southern Californian public schools are getting students interested in Mandarin. How do they start? Four teachers from China is a beginning. Sam Louie reports.
KEN BURNS ON "THE WAR"
All this week Americans veterans are re-living WWII through Ken Burns epic The War. Despite the controversy among Latinos, Burns is still America's premier documentary maker. Val Zavala talks with Burns about how he got into filmmaking and the art of documentaries.
L.A.'s ECCENTRIC SIMON RODIA
He was one of L.A.'s most creative and eccentric characters. Simon Rodia was the Italian immigrant with the tall imagination, the builder of the Watts Towers. This weekend is the 31st Simon Rodia Watts Towers Jazz Festival. Val Zavala meets a filmmaker who spent years producing a detailed documentary on the life of Simon Rodia.
HISTORY VS. HIGH RISES
Universal Studios wants to expand, but part of the expansion would overshadow an important part of California history, crowding it between two high rises. Critics ask if this is any way to treat our history? Hena Cuevas takes a look at how the future threatens to dwarf the past.
MEXICAN MAFIA INFLUENCE SPREADING
One of the most powerful gangs in the country is not on the streets of Los Angeles. It's in our prisons. Despite being behind bars the Mexican Mafia is responsible for hundreds of gang killings each year. Now a new book looks at how the Mexican Mafia is corrupting gang prevention programs and even some local politicians. Saul Gonzalez talked with author Tony Rafael, a Los Angeles writer who has spent ten years researching gangs.
GOING FOR A BOTTLE CAP RECORD
Danny Ginsberg's mother once suggested he curb his boredom by collecting bottle caps. Now, after decades of collecting, Danny is aiming for a place in the Guiness book of world records. And when you see how many bottle caps he has he just might make it.
UNITED WAY CHANGING COURSE
The United Way is one of the best known charities in the country. Now United Way of Greater L.A. is making some big changes. It is focusing its millions of charitable dollars on one key issue poverty. But that means that many non-profits will go empty handed. Toni Guinyard takes a look at this strategic shift in philanthropic giving.
WHAT DOES AL QAEDA REALLY BELIEVE?
Its been six years since 9-11. What do Americans really know about what Al Qaeda and Osama Bin Laden want? There are the usual issues Israel, western decadence, occupation of Iraq. But now writings never before translated reveal more disturbing objectives. Val Zavala talks with Raymond Ibrahim, editor and translator of the The Al Qaeda Reader.
WHICH WAY FOR NASA?
The space shuttles days are numbered. It will be retired in three years. What will take it's place? NASA is working on new vehicles and equipment to allow astronauts to walk on planets. But critics say billions spent on manned missions is not the wisest use of money. Tom Bearden (NewsHour) takes a look at the direction and uncertainties in NASA's next chapter.
KING CLINICS OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Contrary to public perception patients are still being treated at the former King Drew Medical Center, now King MACC. It was the ER and hospital that was closed. But as Toni Guinyard reports numerous out patient clinics are still open and welcoming patients in need of everything from stitches to chemo.
GROWING PAINS
Southern Californians are watching their neighborhoods change before their eyes – the growing population, single family homes being replaced by apartments and condos, traffic getting worse, and the quality of life deteriorating. Since we can't stop growth, can we be smarter in the way we plan for it? That's the topic around our Kitchen Table, as Los Angeles City Planner Gail Goldberg and Bob Stern of the Center for Governmental Studies join David Lehrer of Community Advocates.
FILMWEEK ON LIFE & TIMES
Larry Mantle and critics review the latest big screen releases, including The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford; Into the Wild, and The Jane Austen Book Club.
NUCLEAR POWER PUSH
There have been no new nuclear power plants built in California for three decades, but that may soon change. Reports of global warming have spurred new interest in alternative energy sources. Should the state life its moratorium on new nuclear plants? Roger Cooper explores whether Californians are ready to warm up to nuclear power.
FISCAL WAKE-UP CALL
U.S. Comptroller David Walker is traveling the country to sound the alarm over the federal budget. He warns that the combination of an aging population, rising healthcare costs and a drop in personal savings signals an impending crisis. Hena Cuevas talks with Walker about Medicare, Social Security, and the challenges facing the next president. Walker was a guest speaker at TownHall Los Angeles (townhall-la.org).
BOG, FOG AND CARNIVOROUS PLANTS
We revisit the huge plant science center at the Huntington in San Marino. It features three climates, hundreds of plants from gorgeous orchids to hungry fly traps. Val Zavala get a tour of this fascinating greenhouse learning center from garden director, Jim Folsom.
IT'S NOT ALL ROSY
Passport to the World's Celebrations is the theme for the 2008 Rose Parade. One of the announced floats is designed to celebrate the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Human rights advocates are outraged. They accuse the Chinese government of continual human rights violations, including the persecution and imprisonment of members of the Falun Gong spiritual movement. Hena Cuevas looks into what happens when parades and politics collide.
HUMAN RIGHTS UNDER FIRE
Has the war on terrorism also launched an attack against human rights? The head of Amnesty International, Larry Cox, argues that anti-terrorism measures have provided cover for repressive action and the undermining of human rights i.e. Guantanamo and Hussein's rushed execution. Val Zavala talks with Cox who says it's time to put U.S. policies back on track.
WOODSTOCK WEST
It's been called one of the most important events of the Civil Rights Movement. Wattstax was a day-long concert held at the Los Angeles Coliseum in the early '70s. The concert was a mix of soul music, politics and empowerment for a community still recovering from the Watts Riots. Vicki Curry talks with Charmaine Jefferson, executive director of California African-American Museum about the 35th anniversary of Wattstax. [Wattstax: I am somebody! is on exhibit at the museum through October 28. Go to www.caam.ca.gov for info]
ROLLIN' ON THE RIVER
Could it be that the one of the better ways to see the Los Angeles river is from a car? That's just one of the tours you can take to get a closer look at L.A.'s forgotten waterway. You'll be surprised to learn it's not just a concrete channel. Joe Linton of Friends of the L.A. River shows us the scenic spots that may surprise you. (www.folar.org for info on tours)
BRITISH-OWNED SUPERMARKET COMES TO SOCAL
Socal supermarkets have survived a bitter strike, competition from Wal-Mart, and strained labor relations. Now a British company, Tesco, is opening a dozen "Fresh & Easy" stores in L.A. County. Will they succeed? And will they fulfill the promises they are making to communities? Toni Guinyard talks to Tesco officials and community leaders who plan to hold Tesco to its promises.
MATTEL RECALL AND LEAD DANGER
Mattel's recall of almost 10 million toys points to the latest hazardous product to come out of China. The concern this time is lead in the paint on the toys. How does lead harm children and how do parents detect lead poisoning? Val Zavala talks with pediatrician Dr. Robert Adler from Childrens Hospital Los Angeles and Director of the California Lead Prevention Project.
EDWARD WESTON'S EVOLUTION
In the early 1900s master photographer Edward Weston established his career in Glendale, California. But he is best known for his nudes, then his stunning landscapes from Mexico and across America. Assistant curator, Brett Abbott from the Getty gives us insight into the fascinating evolution's of Weston's images.
SO THAT'S WHO INVENTED THE POST-IT
It was a persistent employee to brought us the post-it. What a smart idea. He must be rich. Right? Cris Franco brings us the story of Mr. Post-it.
BELMONT BOONDOGGLE
It was supposed to cost $45 million. Now the projection for the new high school near downtown has swollen to $400 million the most expensive high school in the nation. It is no longer called Belmont Learning Center. The new name is Vista Hermosa. But can a new name erase a troubled past? Sam Louie has the story.
BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP WITH HISTORY
Just when you think our young people don't have a sense of history, high school students in Santa Mon
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