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Millions of Californians become eligible for vaccination next week. Also this morning: Reporters are detained during the Echo Park Lake protests, an anonymous racist note is being sent to Asian-run businesses throughout the state, and bioluminescent algae are again visible at several SoCal beaches. It’s Friday. It’s almost the weekend. First though, some news.
Morning News Rundown
Approximately a dozen people were arrested last night while protesting the removal of unhoused individuals residing at Echo Park Lake. An L.A. Times reporter was detained along with two reporters from Knock.LA. All three were subsequently released, though the LAPD offered no reason for the detainment. [CBS Los Angeles]
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California is massively expanding vaccine eligibility starting next month. On April 1, all residents 50 years and older will be eligible. On April 15, the state will open vaccination to all residents 16 years and older. The City of Long Beach has announced that they’re opening up vaccination to 50+ individuals effective immediately, a full week before the rest of the state. [We Like L.A.]
An anonymous letter filled with expletives and racist slurs has prompted outrage after Asian business owners in San Bernardino, Riverside, and Sonoma counties all received copies. [LAist]
USC has agreed to pay $1.1 billion to settle claims lodged against campus gynecologist George Tyndall for alleged sexual abuse that took place over decades. More than 710 women had previously filed claims against Tyndall seeking damages in excess of $800 million. [Los Angeles Times]
Bioluminescent algae are making appearances at multiple SoCal beaches. The subtle pinkish glow produced by the algae has appeared recently off the coast of Laguna Beach and Newport Beach. The effect is believed to be caused by a chemical defense mechanism triggered within the algae as they are swept through crashing waves. [LAist]
The OC Fair is returning in 2021 with a plan that includes capacity limits and restrictions on daily attendance. The fair, which was canceled last year for the first time since World War II, will run from July 16 through August 15. [KTLA]
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