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Buyers of Apple’s new Vision Pro headset are finding it can be a major hassle if they lose their passcode.
The company is telling users who forget their code — typically a series of digits — that they’ll have to bring the device to a store or mail it to AppleCare customer support if they want to get it working again. Apple will then erase and reset it.
The issue is one of a few early customer-service snags surrounding the $3,499 (roughly Rs. 2,90,000) device, which went on sale Friday. The company’s support staff also has been fielding questions from users struggling to set up Optic ID — an eye-scanning tool for logging into the device — and the built-in Apple Music app.
The passcode problem could be particularly frustrating. When customers enter their passcode incorrectly too many times, the headset will be disabled. If users still can’t recall their passcode after a waiting period, they’ll need to send it back to Apple to be reset, according to guidance given to the company’s support staff. At that point, all content on the device will be erased.
It’s a quirk that doesn’t exist with Apple’s other products. The company’s smartwatch, for instance, has a mechanism that lets users set it up again if a passcode is forgotten.
It’s possible that Apple makes software changes in the near future that would allow the passcode to be reset without needing to send the product back. An Apple spokeswoman didn’t respond to a request for comment.
On Apple’s community forum, one customer said he spoke to an agent who was flooded with calls about the problem. “He’s had to deal with a lot of angry customers after telling them their only recourse is to return to the store,” the user wrote. “He said Apple Support was really caught off guard by this and apologized for not being better prepared.”
One complication with the Vision Pro is it doesn’t have a USB-C port that lets users plug it into a Mac for troubleshooting. The company did release a special strap for developers to be able to attach the headset to a Mac last week, but that accessory costs about $300 (roughly Rs. 24,900) and isn’t meant for consumers.
The Vision Pro is Apple’s first major new hardware category since it began selling smartwatches almost a decade ago. The device isn’t expected to be a blockbuster product — partly due to its hefty price tag — but curious customers streamed into Apple stores over the weekend to try it out. The product’s reception has been generally positive, with reviewers praising its immersive video playback and productivity features.
Apple unveiled its first mixed reality headset, the Apple Vision Pro, at its annual developer conference, along with new Mac models and upcoming software updates. We discuss all the most important announcements made by the company at WWDC 2023 on Orbital, the Gadgets 360 podcast. Orbital is available on Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and wherever you get your podcasts.
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All beaches in Long Beach and Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro are closed to swimmers and surfers Tuesday due to sewage spills that may have poured millions of gallons of contaminated material in the ocean.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced Monday afternoon that about 1 million gallons of sewage had discharged occurred at an unspecified location around 6 a.m., sending untreated sewage into the Dominguez Channel, which leads to the area near Cabrillo Beach. The sewage flow was eventually halted.
The circumstances of the sewage discharge were not immediately known.
As a result, health officials declared the ocean water at Cabrillo Beach off-limits until bacteria levels return to acceptable levels.
Later in the day, however, Long Beach health officials announced that the spill into the Dominguez Channel may have involved as many as 5 million gallons. As a result, Long Beach issued a water closure order for all beaches.
Long Beach officials said an additional spill in Commerce also occurred Monday, involving another 40,000 gallons of sewage that flowed into the Los Angeles River and ultimately the ocean.
Health officials had already issued a warning for people to avoid all ocean water in the county due to bacterial runoff from the rain storm.
Updated Los Angeles County beach closure information is available by calling 800-525-5662 or online. Long Beach recreational beach water quality information is available at 562-570-4199 or here.
LOS ANGELES — Two years ago, in his own words, Ezra Frech set a goal to make a Division I track and field team.
Two years later, he tugged on a USC hat in front of a wall of Team USA jerseys – and made history, yet again.
Frech, a Paralympian and world record holder in the T63 high jump, announced to his 131,000-plus Instagram followers on Monday that he has committed to USC’s track and field team. According to Team USA, the 18-year-old Frech is the first above-the-knee amputee in history to commit to a Division I track program.
“I’m excited to continue my academic and athletic career competing against able-bodied athletes at … the University of Southern California,” Frech said in an Instagram video, unzipping his jacket to reveal a USC shirt. “Let’s go, Trojans! Fight on, baby!”
It’s a truly monumental get for USC track coach Quincy Watts, as Frech will join USC following the Paris Summer Olympics. That will be his second stint as a Paralympian, as Frech finished fifth in the men’s T63 high jump with a mark of 1.80 meters (5 feet, 9 inches), before setting the world record at the 2023 Para Athletics World Championship at 1.95 meters (6 feet, 4 inches).
According to his website, Frech was born with congenital limb differences and missing fingers, having his left leg amputated when he was 2½ years old and a toe transplanted to his left hand. He’s since become a widespread inspiration and viral sensation, documenting his track journey through his social media accounts. In 2013, he and his father Clayton founded Angel City Sports, an organization that provides equipment and clinics for para-athletes. The organization has hosted the Angel City Games, an event for adaptive sports and athletes with disabilities, annually since 2015.
At the end of the day, the caption on his Instagram announcement spoke for itself.
If you had trouble getting gas during a very rainy Monday, you weren’t alone. Here’s why that may have been the case.
KABC
LOS ANGELES (KABC) — If you had trouble getting gas during a very rainy Monday, you weren’t alone.
Eyewitness News received reports from several people saying they pulled into a gas station, only to find pumps cordoned off and out of service.
So what’s the problem?
One gas station attendant told us it’s the rain. He says the pumps have sensors to detect gas leaks. When too much water gets in, it triggers the sensors even though there is no leak. That shuts down the pumps.
The attendant said it’s just a matter of getting someone in to drain the water to get the pumps working again.
Burroughs High has announced it has hired 36-year-old Laron Johnson as its new football coach. He will also be the head track coach.
Johnson, who replaces Jesse Craven, is no stranger to the Pacific League as he is a graduate of John Muir High in Pasadena.
“We’re very excited. The transition has been great. I’m looking forward to an amazing year,” Burroughs Principal Kenny Knoop said of Johnson, who will be a substitute teacher in the Burbank Unified School District as he works on obtaining his teaching credential.
Johnson comes to Burroughs after having served as the head coach at La Puente High the past two seasons. The Warriors went 8-3 this past season and were 3-7 the previous year.
He was the head coach at Temple City in 2021, when the Rams went 0-10.
Johnson said he did not play college football and began coaching right after graduating from high school. He said he has been an assistant at La Canada, Mark Keppel, Marshall of Pasadena and Temple City highs.
“Every head coach I have been with was really helpful in helping me grow,” Johnson said. “I like the situation at Burroughs because our athletic director is a former head coach and our principal is a former defensive coordinator. The Knoops are amazing guys. They have been very helpful. The boosters are amazing. This is a place I can’t wait to start working for.”
Johnson said he has a masters degree in Human Development and is working on becoming a social studies teacher.
On a foggy January morning in his hometown nestled in Northern California wine country, state Sen. Mike McGuire was at an elementary school doing a dance called the “wheelbarrow” and explaining insurance policy to children who were more eager to talk about their 4-H pigs.
The Sonoma County Democrat then rushed off, driving past rolling green hills and dewy vineyards, to have coffee with firefighters who are banking on him to help a region that has been repeatedly devastated by wildfires and often feels overlooked by state leaders.
At the Healdsburg Fire Department, a staffer struggled to get McGuire out the door in time so that he could make it to a Chamber of Commerce event three hours north in Eureka. There, he would partake in a hobby perfectly suited to his sense of urgency and penchant for squeezing as much as he can into the time he has: auctioneering.
New California Senate leader Mike McGuire dances with children at Alexander Valley School in Healdsburg on Jan. 26. (Mackenzie Mays)
“Mike is the Energizer Bunny of California politics. He gets around, he walks the district. It is a hallmark of his approach,” said David McCuan, a political science professor at Sonoma State who taught McGuire there more than 20 years ago. “He believes that hard work and perseverance can offset any challenges he might have.”
Now, McGuire, who was sworn in as the new leader of the California Senate on Monday, will need to harness that energy as he takes on his biggest challenge yet — guiding the Legislature’s upper house as the state grapples with an estimated $38-billion budget deficit. The Senate leader plays a powerful role negotiating the state budget with the governor and the Assembly speaker, making it one of the most influential positions in state government.
At a swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol on Monday, McGuire vowed to “buckle down” and right the budget in the same way that Californians struggling financially are forced to “live within their means” and make sacrifices in their personal spending.
“We know that tough decisions lie ahead,” McGuire said in an emotional speech on the Senate floor that at times drove him to tears. “We are going to protect our progress.”
McGuire was sworn in as he held his squirmy 2-year-old son and stood alongside his wife, a school principal in Healdsburg. Monday’s event played up the small-town hospitality of McGuire’s rural district, with signs that welcomed attendees to “come on in and stay awhile.”
Gov. Gavin Newsom, former Gov. Jerry Brown, California Supreme Court Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero and past Senate leaders including John Burton attended the ceremony. Many from McGuire’s district were also in attendance, including his eighth-grade math teacher.
Despite the budget woes on the horizon, McGuire painted a picture of a resilient California that leads the nation in several policy areas, including climate change and abortion access, even in bad financial times.
“No matter what you watch on cable news, we are America’s economic engine,” he said Monday.
Time is of the essence. McGuire has until 2026 to make his mark as Senate president pro tem; at that time he will be forced out of the Legislature by term limits.
In 1998, when he was 19 years old, Mike McGuire became the youngest person elected to the school board in Healdsburg, the bucolic Sonoma County town where he grew up. He later became the city’s youngest mayor.
(Josh Edelson / For the Times)
He said to expect the Senate to prioritize counties’ “successful implementation” of CARE Court, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s mental health reform plan that could force some people living on the streets to receive treatment.
“No matter if you live in Crescent City, or in downtown L.A., you want the homelessness crisis solved. It’s unacceptable, and the state and our communities must do better,” McGuire said.
But speaking to reporters at the Capitol after Monday’s ceremony, McGuire declined to give details on the plan or signal what is to come otherwise from the Senate this year, saying he still needs to meet with his fellow lawmakers.
Often seen jogging through Capitol corridors to make it to one of several committees he sits on and wearing headphones on the Senate floor so as not to miss a call, McGuire is vowing to pare down his trademark multi-tasking and “laser focus” on issues including affordable housing, fentanyl and retail theft.
His fellow lawmakers from both political parties joked Monday about his stamina, saying they didn’t know he had a desk on the Senate floor because he never sits.
For six months, McGuire has been on the road, traveling to speak with voters beyond his coastal district, which spans seven counties from the Bay Area to the Oregon border. In the month of December alone, he met with climate activists in Sacramento, public transit advocates in San Francisco, business owners in Fresno, wine experts in Sonoma County and homeless advocates in Humboldt County.
“If I have to eat another gas station hot dog, I don’t know what I’m going to do,” he joked.
He’s not up for reelection. It’s just what he does.
“He feeds off of this. It’s not a game, it’s authentic,” said James Gore, a Democratic member of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors who plans to run for McGuire’s seat when his time is up in 2026.
California Sen. Mike McGuire hugs a firefighter in Healdsburg, where he lives.
(Josh Edelson / For The Times)
His breakneck pace started decades ago with a string of record firsts. In 1998, he became the youngest person elected to the Healdsburg School Board at age 19 in the bucolic town where he grew up. Then he became the city’s youngest mayor. He went on to serve on the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors and by 2014, he was in the state Senate.
McGuire started working in high school at a radio station to help his family make ends meet. He was raised by his mother and grandmother — a hard-nosed prune farmer whom McGuire credits for his career.
“She taught me to be the hardest-working person in the room,” he said of his grandmother. “She told me that there are smarter people than you out in this world and you’ve got to work together.”
But in some ways, McGuire’s appointment comes as a surprise. He represents a rural district in a powerful position long held by senators from major cities. He is a straight white man helping lead a state that is predominantly Latino amid calls for more diversity in Democratic politics.
Former California Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), left, hugs her successor, Sen. Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg).
(Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)
“It speaks to his leadership,” said Sen. Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach), vice chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus. “Regardless of the identity politics, I really think that he supersedes that with his policies. More than anything, it’s his style of collaboration that is appreciated.”
McGuire nodded to progressive ideals for greater diversity in political representation in his inaugural speech Monday, as both legislative houses — and the governor’s office — are currently led by men.
“Here in the Senate, we look more like the communities we proudly represent,” McGuire said, noting that there are more women and more people of color serving in state office than ever before and vowing to work with minority caucuses to promote their issues.
McGuire gave labor unions credit on Monday, saying that “in California, we go to the mat for the rights of workers.” But in a Democratic supermajority Legislature where unions have a lot of sway, McGuire has not always voted with organized labor. In 2016, he did not support a bill that expanded overtime pay for farmworkers, voicing concerns about the impact on small farmers.
Republicans, too, describe McGuire as a fierce collaborator, negotiator and moderator with no off switch.
“He’s just very hardworking and he’s always on the move. I would say if there was competition for the position, whoever that was wouldn’t have been able to keep up with him in the first place,” Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones (R-Santee) said, noting that he “vigorously” disagrees with many of his policy stances.
McGuire, who warns he sounds “hokey” when he talks about loving his work, said “I’m not big on labels” when asked about being considered a moderate on some issues in the liberal California Legislature. “I’m all about action. My only focus is on delivering results,” he said.
As for what happens when his term is over, McGuire has raised more than $800,000 for a campaign for state insurance commissioner in 2026.
Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, holds his son Conner as he is congratulated by state Supreme Court Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero after being sworn in as Senate President Pro Tempore, Monday, Feb. 5, 2024, at the Capitol in Sacramento, Calif. McGuire was joined on the dais by his wife, Erika, left, and Calfornia Gov. Gavin Newsom, right.
(Hector Amezcua / Sacramento Bee via Associated Press)
But his supporters back in his hometown of Healdsburg are certain that his aspirations are bigger than that.
McGuire dodged a question about his plans after the state Senate, saying, “It’s not what’s keeping me up at night.”
As someone who seemingly fills every hour of his calendar, two years is “an eternity.”
Back at Alexander Valley School in Healdsburg, McGuire was speedily teaching 10- and 12-year-olds accustomed to wildfires about “home hardening” and public risk insurance models in his auctioneer voice. He demanded a countdown while he packed in his answers to the children’s questions.
“Time me 60 seconds,” he said. “I want to beat the recess bell.”
Zonta Club of Burbank Area members Cindy Koudsie, Ellen Portantino, Kelli Potts, Joy Collins-Brodt, Britt Vaughan, and Gloria Salas.
During its January 30 meeting, the Burbank City Council approved a groundbreaking ordinance in the fight against human trafficking. This new mandate compels a wider array of local businesses to display information that assists victims of forced labor and sexual exploitation, bolstered by strict enforcement protocols. This initiative is crucial for raising awareness, targeting traffickers, and offering vital support to victims.
This legislative change was driven by the advocacy efforts of the Zonta Club of Burbank Area. Demonstrating their dedication at the city council session where the matter was not heard until after midnight, Gloria Salas, incoming Governor for Zonta International District 9, Joy Collins-Brodt and other members underscored their commitment to eradicating human trafficking, aligning with the global mission of Zonta Clubs. In a related effort, the local chapter also hosted a Human Trafficking Forum at the Burbank Buena Vista Library on January 27 to heighten community awareness.
“Ensuring that these informative posters are displayed in local hotels, beauty salons, eateries, and various businesses is a testament to Burbank’s resolve in combating labor and sexual trafficking,” said Salas.
The Burbank City Council’s recently passed legislation bolsters the fight against human trafficking. It mandates that an expanded group of businesses not only display information on trafficking but also adhere to training requirements. Additionally, the ordinance sets up a system for compliance checks, inspections, and investigations, overseen by the Building and Safety Division with support from Zonta Club volunteers. This framework aims to raise public awareness, provide victim support, and ensure adherence to the law, imposing fines for repeated violations.
Joy Collins-Brodt moderated the Human Trafficking Forum hosted by Zonta Club on Jan. 27. Also pictured are Patrick Erlandson and Sandy Esparaza.
Collins-Brodt, an experienced nonprofit leader and advocate for victims, recognizes the Burbank and Los Angeles’ area particular vulnerability to human trafficking due to its hospitality industry and transient visitors. She pointed out the lack of awareness among businesses regarding their statutory duty to inform the public about trafficking and agreed that volunteer efforts were key to bridging this awareness gap. She posed a rhetorical challenge, “If not us, then who?”
Ray Johal, Burbank’s Senior Assistant City Attorney, during his address to the council, delineated human trafficking as a violation of personal freedom, whether for forced labor or services, including both sexual and labor exploitation of undocumented individuals and minors. He referenced a U.S. Department of State report that identified California as having the highest number of trafficking victims in 2023, with 2,122 cases recorded. Johal also addressed common misconceptions, highlighting that traffickers can be part of organized crime, small family businesses, or even family units, and utilize various means for recruitment, including online platforms.
Mayor Nick Schultz commended Salas and her fellow Zonta Club members for their dedication in advancing the ordinance. “It’s a testament to how community members can drive significant change,” Mayor Schultz said.
Salas’ efforts in advocating for this ordinance have established a collaboration between the Zonta Club and the city for the ordinance’s implementation, which includes distributing notifications and conducting annual business compliance reviews, thus easing the workload on city staff.
The work comes naturally to the Zonta Club of Burbank Area, which hosted a Human Trafficking Forum on January 27 to raise awareness of the issue. The event featured an array of speakers—a survivor, a law enforcement official, and frontline advocates—who provided insights on protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children.
Deputy Attorney General Nick Schultz emphasized the role businesses play in combating human trafficking at the Jan. 27 forum.
In his capacity as Deputy Attorney General, distinct from his mayoral duties, Nick Schultz spoke at the forum. He underscored the critical need for businesses to join the fight against the lucrative and fast-growing crime of human trafficking. Collins-Brodt steered the dialogue as moderator, while Nayeli May from Journey Out highlighted their survivor-led approach to supporting victims in their transition to safety.
Patrick Erlandson of FatherCon challenged misconceptions about men’s roles in trafficking, advocating for positive support. Additionally, Sergeant J.H. Walker from the Los Angeles County Human Trafficking Taskforce emphasized the importance of investing in prevention for young girls.
Survivor and advocate Sandy Esparza, representing ZOE International, shared her harrowing journey, bringing a stark reminder that trafficking occurs in plain sight and escape is rare. State Senator Anthony Portantino’s attendance underscored the policy implications of the forum.
Salas is recognized for her activism spanning various community efforts. Kelli Potts, President of the Zonta Club, expressed profound appreciation for Salas’ contributions: “This is a massive leap forward in the fight against this terrible crime. We owe a ton of gratitude to Gloria for her dedication and leadership on this issue. She keeps motivating us to make a real difference in our community and beyond.”
“We’re ready to hit the ground running,” Salas said, noting that Zonta Club will partner with nonprofit Journey Out to receive training on how to spot signs of human trafficking and may also partner with organizations such as the Burbank Business & Professional Women and Glendale Soroptimists to help spread the word.
“This ordinance sends a clear and strong message to the perpetrators that we will not tolerate this insidious crime in our city and to the victims, who are adults as well as minors, that they have a pathway to safety and freedom,” Salas said.
Sunday, SoFi Stadium was awarded eight games in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup.
In the months leading up to Sunday’s announcement, reports had SoFi Stadium either being passed over by FIFA or limited in the number of games the stadium would host.
“There was a lot of chatter around the field size, which all of it was unfounded,” Rams chief operating officer Kevin Demoff said Monday. “Nearly every NFL stadium that exists in this tournament is undergoing some kind of renovation for FIFA to accommodate their field size, which is larger than a friendly match that you would host, for Copa America or Gold Cup, which we’ve hosted successfully.
“I think a lot of that was driven by the competition amongst cities to try to knock stadiums down. When you have a stadium as attractive as SoFi Stadium and people competing for events, I think that was driven by other cities, than it was the reality of FIFA.”
SoFi Stadium will host five group stage games, including two for the USMNT. The stadium will also host two games in the Round of 32 and one quarterfinal game.
SoFi’s renovations are underway. Otto Benedict, Senior Vice President of Facility and Campus Operations for SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park, said that construction began Sunday night.
“SoFi Stadium was designed to host a FIFA regulation pitch size, so with our system we have in place now, we will fit a 65 meter (x 105 meter) pitch into our stadium,” he said. “In conversations with FIFA and their needs around auxiliary space for the field, we’re going to expand that and modify our seating system to include a couple more rows in each corner so that we can get to the 73-plus meter distance that FIFA has requested.”
The renovations will create more space to fit the larger field required by FIFA. The first phase, according to the AP, is “replacing concrete in the corners of the lower bowl with bleacher risers that can be rolled back during soccer matches.”
“We’re taking a 90-day sprint for the first phase of construction,” Benedict said. “Then we’ll go back to our normal configuration and go through our concert season and special events this summer and the NFL season.
“Then in ’25, we’ll go back to do some different work there, build out our field for the first time, we’ll have a natural grass field that’s going to be designed to FIFA’s specifics, do some events and testing around that and then we’ll jump into ’26, which will be here before we know it.”
Benedict said there will be an opportunity to add in temporary seating if needed for the World Cup. Also during the tournament, SoFi will adopt the new name “Los Angeles Stadium” due to FIFA’s regulations that prohibit sponsors’ from representing venues.
SoFi Stadium has hosted several soccer events recently, with each drawing more than 70,000.
“It’s been a fun process, it’s been a long process,” said former Galaxy president Chris Klein, who is also co-chair of the L.A. host committee. “Almost seven years to get to this point and we have another 2 1/2 to go. At the outset, we talked about hosting some of the biggest games in the 2026 World Cup and our focus was on the opener for the United States and hosting our men’s national team to open the World Cup.
“We obviously know the final is a big deal as well, but to be able to welcome the world and our country at such an important time for soccer in the United States and to be able to build events around the opening, we’re extremely excited and happy with how things rolled out yesterday (Sunday). The clock starts now to kick off the World Cup in the United States.”
SoFi will also host games in the Copa America this summer, serving as another test for what things might look like for the World Cup.
“It’s been a long, long, bumpy, twisting, winding road to this point,” said LAFC co-president and L.A. committee co-chair Larry Freedman. “When I think about growing up at what might have been the dawn of global football in the U.S. when the North American Soccer League was around and seeing the game grow and never quite catch on at the highest level and I think about Chris (Klein) and the story he tells playing on various levels of our national teams and seeing this sport grow and grow in this region.
“It started with the L.A. Galaxy and all of their rich and great history and then you get LAFC and now Angel City Football Club on the women’s side and you feel how important the game is in this market and this region and to connect it now with the biggest tournament in all of sports, it’s pretty exciting.”
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 is currently scheduled to sunset at the end of 2025, meaning significant changes are on the horizon for taxpayers. Businesses need to be aware of a number of changes to current tax laws and take advantage of ways that they can maximize tax savings and minimize future tax liabilities. Taxpayers should note changes to the qualified business income (QBI) 20% deduction (Sec. 199A), and plan to maximize bonus depreciation and estate and gift tax exclusion benefits.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR BUSINESS
Currently, small business owners with pass-through income are eligible to deduct up to 20% of their QBI on their tax returns. In general terms, QBI can be defined as the business’s net profit, excluding capital gains, dividends, interest, and foreign income.
Starting in 2026, the QBI deduction will no longer be available. It is in the best interest of eligible businesses to accelerate income from 2026 into 2025 and 2024. To the extent revenue can be accelerated in 2024 and 2025 or expenses can be deferred into 2026, the business will be able to benefit from the deduction provided by QBI.
Businesses are strongly encouraged to maximize bonus depreciation before the provision expires on December 31, 2026. Certain fixed assets, including computer equipment and software, office furniture, machinery, some vehicles, and qualified property, can be deductible expenses.
For tax year 2024, 60 percent of eligible purchases can benefit from bonus depreciation. For the years 2025 and 2026, the percentage of bonus depreciation declines to 40 percent and 20 percent, respectively. From an income tax perspective, it would be best to accelerate tax deductions as much as possible.
Finally, married business owners filing jointly should take estate and gift tax exclusions into thoughtful consideration. They will need to determine whether it makes sense to top off their lifetime gifts above the expected post-2025 exemption amount of approximately $7 million before they lose the excess exemption between $7 million and $12.92 million. Any difference between the current higher exemption amounts and the post-2025 reduced amounts will be lost if not used.
On the bright side, one of the few TCJA provisions that will not expire at the end of 2025 is the corporate tax rate, which is a flat 21% regardless of amount of corporate taxable income. The permanent change to the corporate provisions positively impacted economic growth by increasing jobs and business investment, and is expected to continue.
OTHER STRATEGIES TO CONSIDER
In addition to the above, there are several strategies that businesses can use to minimize future tax liabilities and offset the changes coming with the end of the TCJA.
For example, businesses can consider investing in research and development (R&D) activities. The R&D tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in income tax liability that is available to businesses that engage in qualified research activities. The credit can be used to offset regular tax liability or alternative minimum tax (AMT) liability.
Businesses can also consider investing in energy-efficient equipment and facilities. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 provides tax incentives for businesses that invest in energy-efficient equipment and facilities.
Another option is to look into state and local tax incentives. Many states and localities offer tax incentives to businesses that invest in their communities. These incentives can include tax credits, tax exemptions, and tax abatements.
DON’T PUT OFF ASSESSING YOUR TAX STRATEGIES
Now is a critical time to assess your strategies for maximizing tax savings and minimizing future liabilities. By implementing strategies like accelerating income, maximizing bonus depreciation, and taking advantage of estate and gift tax exclusion benefits, you can put your business in a much more advantageous position ahead of the coming changes. If you choose to wait, you will find your options much more limited, and you run the risk of seeing your tax liability increase dramatically year over year.
CONSULT WITH YOUR TAX ADVISOR
The best course of action to offset the changes coming with the end of the TCJA will vary from business to business. The most important step you can take is to consult with your tax advisor as soon as possible, so that you can start implementing the strategies necessary to minimize the negative impact of the coming tax code changes.
Mike Amerio is managing partner for Lucas Horsfall. Learn more at LHMP.com.
The Los Angeles Business Journal was excited to host the 2024 Economic Trends virtual discussion event on Thursday afternoon, February 1st.
The event featured two lively virtual panel discussions featuring leading experts on the hottest topics on the minds of LA area business leaders at the start of this year. The panels offered an insightful look back on the unprecedented challenges and silver linings of the past few years while providing a deep dive into the economic trends we are facing moving forward into 2024.
Our outstanding group of panelists and moderators examined the issues as they shared their experiences and predictions for the year to come. The panels this year focused on an overall outlook for 2024 and the latest perspectives on the direction the real estate market is going, with expert insights and analysis about the impact current trends are likely to have on the overall economic climate.
TRENDS TO EXPECT IN 2024
The Trends panel featured Mike Amerio, managing partner at Lucas Horsfall; Chris Baron, regional president for Banc of California; Stephen Cheung, president and chief executive officer for the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC); Kerra Diener of Withum; and Kandee Lewis, CEO/ president of the Positive Results Center and civil and human rights commissioner for the City of Los Angeles.
Each of the experts weighed in on a variety of hot real estate issues and talking points, including:
• Potential new tax laws
• Potential sunsets in 2026 and how they will affect businesses
• The latest update on employee retention credit and potential IRS audits
• Why it is critical to involve Black Women in the conversation of economics, and finances to bridge disparity gaps
• The effects of artificial intelligence on diverse communities
• The impact nonprofits have on the future of economic trends
• Entrepreneurs’ and business owners’ out-look on the economy
• The biggest challenges facing LA businesses
• The impact of the State’s deficit to the local region
• The sectors/industries that are trending to do well in 2024
• Global trends/situations to keep an eye on locally
•…and much more!
Immediately following the eye-opening outlook conversation, the Los Angeles Business Journal audience was treated to an equally in-depth and timely group roundtable on what real estate trends we can expect to see in the coming 12 months.
2024 REAL ESTATE OUTLOOK
The Real Estate Outlook panel featured Sean Fulp, vice chair, West Region Capital Markets for Colliers; Jim Kruse, the president of brokerage, greater LA, for Kidder Matthews (who also served as moderator); Karri Novak, vice president, project development for Suffolk; Kevin Sher, partner, real estate for Greenberg Glusker; and Roger Yang, partner and building, construction & real estate industry leader for KPMG.
Each of these professionals weighed in on a number of discussion topics, including:
• Where the vacancies are in the LA market • The depth of the sublease market in LA • How WeWork’s bankruptcy is impacting Los Angeles • How the government’s space usage affects transaction activity • Which indicators signal positive change/growth for the future of office in Los Angeles and beyond
• How the ULA in Los Angeles and other so-called “mansion taxes” have affected commercial real estate investment and development
• Whether the slowdown trend in Los Angeles in multifamily investment and development will continue during 2024
• The state of industrial development
• The effect EV mandates might have on commercial real estate
• How business leaders feel about the interest rate environment in 2024
• How businesses are adapting their policies to talent and return to office
• How are sustainability goals are affecting the built environment
Many thanks to our excellent panelists, who took the time to share their insights on the biggest headlines and where the market is going in 2024.
OUTLOOK PANEL
Mike Amerio Managing Partner Lucas Horsfall
Chris Baron Regional President Banc of California
Stephen Cheung President and Chief Executive Officer Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC)
Kerra Diener Withum
Kandee Lewis CEO/President Positive Results Center Civil and Human Rights Commissioner City of Los Angeles
REAL ESTATE PANEL
Sean Fulp Vice Chair, West Region Capital Markets Colliers
Jim Kruse President of Brokerage for Greater Los Angeles Kidder Mathews
Karri Novak Vice President, Project Development Suffolk
Kevin Sher Partner, Real Estate Greenberg Glusker
Roger Yang Partner, Building, Construction & Real Estate Industry Leader KPMG
Economic Trends Communities of Color are Facing in 2024 and Beyond If only I had a crystal ball to accurately predict the future. Unfortunately, I do not! However, I can rely on my expertise and instinct, conduct research, and read and speak to people and organizations I believe are credible and knowledgeable (thank you, Cynthia M. Ruiz and Kellie Todd Griffin)…Read More
Donald Trump, left, and President Joe Biden during the final presidential debate at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, on Oct. 22, 2020.
BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI | AFP | Getty Images
Donald Trump on Monday said he wants to debate President Joe Biden “immediately” — but the Democratic incumbent quickly brushed off that idea.
“I’d like to call for, immediately, debates,” Trump said on “The Dan Bongino Show.”
“I’d like to debate him now because we should debate,” said the former president, who is the front-runner for the Republican Party’s presidential nomination. “We should debate for the good of the country.”
Biden dismissed the idea.
“Well, if I were him, I’d want to debate me too,” Biden told reporters at a boba shop in Las Vegas when asked about Trump’s challenge. “He’s got nothing else to do,” Biden added.
The exchange reflects both sides’ view that Trump and Biden are all but guaranteed to be their respective parties’ nominees, even though the primary season is ongoing.
It also reflects their debate strategy so far this election cycle.
Trump has skipped every Republican primary debate. He continues to ignore calls from his top remaining challenger, former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley, for a face-to-face showdown.
Biden has likewise not participated in any debates with the handful of long-shot Democratic contenders challenging him for the party’s nomination.
Read more CNBC politics coverage
Trump in Monday’s interview with Bongino also bashed Biden for declining, for the second straight year, to be interviewed by the television network broadcasting the Super Bowl.
Biden participated in an interview for the Super Bowl in 2021 and 2022, continuing a tradition followed by other presidents. But he skipped doing that interview last year, and passed on doing it this year.
“He can’t do it, because he can’t talk,” Trump said of Biden.
The Biden campaign did not immediately respond to CNBC’s request for comment on Trump’s remarks.
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The 49ers are NFC Champions for the eighth time and are now set for a rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII. If you want to help rep Niner Empire, there’s still time to gear up before the game. Here are some jerseys, t-shirts, hoodies and other apparel to help celebrate the Red and Gold in their Quest for Six.
Men
Fanatics released their 2023 NFC Champions Locker Room Trophy Collection. 49er Faithfuls can commemorate this win with their t-shirts and pullovers.
San Francisco 49ers Nike 2023 NFC Champions T-Shirt
This officially licensed crewneck comes in one color- anthracite and sizes S-5XL. If you prefer a light-weight long sleeve, this t-shirt will be great for you.
San Francisco 49ers Fanatics Branded 2023 NFC Champions Hometown Pullover Hoodie
This hoodie is made of 60% Cotton and 40% Polyester Fleece. If you want something warm and cozy, this is a midweight option suitable for moderate conditions.
Brock Purdy San Francisco 49ers Nike Super Bowl LVIII Carbon Fashion Game Player Jersey
In Week 17’s game against the Commanders, Quarterback Brock Purdy broke the 49ers single-season passing record last held by Jeff Garcia in 2000. He’s proved the critics who called him a ‘game manager’ wrong this year. What better way to celebrate Super Bowl 58 than by repping this record-breaking rookie quarterback?
Women
Christian McCaffrey San Francisco 49ers Nike Women’s Super Bowl LVIII Game Jersey
This is the most popular women’s jersey on Fanatics, and you can get it right in time for game day using the code: 24SHIP
Kansas City Chiefs vs. San Francisco 49ers WEAR by Erin Andrews Women’s Super Bowl LVIII Matchup Cropped Pullover Hoodie
This cropped hoodie is perfect for football fans who are just excited about this year’s matchup. I love the crop style of the hoodie and the screen print design on the front. If you’re spending the night out for the game, this hoodie can be paired with a leather jacket, jeans and heels for a more elevated look. Or you can dress this down with leggings and a pair of your favorite tennis shoes.
Want something you won’t see everybody wearing? Etsy has the cutest vintage-style 49ers sweatshirts and t-shirts to rock this Superbowl.
Kids
I love the design and crewneck collar of this youth’s 49ers shirt. This is an inexpensive way to gift your tiny 49ers fan.
Youth Nike Brock Purdy Scarlet San Francisco 49ers Game Jersey
If your son or daughter is a 49er Faithful, a new jersey would be a great surprise to gift them this year.
Team Fan Apparel NFL Youth Gameday Hooded Sweatshirt
This classic game-day hooded sweatshirt can be worn at school, at practices or at home.
Accessories
San Francisco 49ers Rock Em Socks Unisex
If you’re a 49ers fan from the bottom of your heart, bring it down to the soles of your feet with these themed socks.
San Francisco 49ers New Era Super Bowl LVIII Side Patch 39THIRTY Flex Fit Hat
If you’re more subtle when it comes to showing love for your favorite team, a hat is a great option.
* By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave Localish.com and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these products with you, Localish is not endorsing these products. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
Two men suspected of selling cocaine at a homeless encampment in the Westlake district were arrested, the Los Angeles Police Department announced Monday.
Rampart Area Narcotics Enforcement Detail investigators and members of the Rampart Area Gang Impact Team served a search warrant in the 1400 block of North Sierra Bonita Avenue, between Sunset Boulevard and Fountain Avenue, in Hollywood on Wednesday, which led investigators to a recreational vehicle parked in the 900 block of South Beacon Avenue, between Ninth Street and Olympic Boulevard, in the Westlake district, adjacent to a homeless encampment, police said.
Based on the investigation, it was determined that the recreational vehicle was not being used by any unhoused individual as a living quarter, but instead was being used for the sole purpose of engaging in narcotics sales and consumption, according to police.
During the service of the search warrant, 439.4 gross grams of powder cocaine, 29.2 gross grams of cocaine base, an unregistered handgun, and $147,987 in U.S. currency were seized, police said.
Tony Walden, 55, of Los Angeles, was arrested on suspicion of possession of cocaine for sale. Marlon Price, 56, of Los Angeles, was arrested on suspicion of possession of cocaine base for sale, according to police.
Anyone with information about this crime or these similar crimes is asked to call the Rampart Area Narcotics Enforcement Detail at 213-484-3674.
Calls during non-business hours or weekends should be directed to 877-527-3247. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222- 8477.
1. The economy is strong—how much will the Federal Reserve really move? What recession? The Q4 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) print showed the U.S. economy grew at a 3.3% annualized pace, more than economists expected. More notable is that the strength came as inflation continued its decline. As the first data reads of 2024 have trickled in, investors have pared back their expectations to a more reasonable 140 basis points from the prior 170 basis points Over the year, we expect markets and the Fed’s own forecasts to keep growing closer together.
2. Corporates are back in action — but how big is the turnaround? The last couple of years have been weak for corporate activity — whether you look at earnings or merger and acquisition activity. Now, with less economic uncertainty and (potentially) lower interest rates, the tides seem to be turning. As the Q4 2023 earnings reports continue, we think we’ll end up seeing profit growth for the quarter.
Barragan
3. While U.S. stocks notch highs, China’s are at decade lows — is there a turning point ahead? China has announced a number of measures to support its economy and markets. Some wonder if there could be an inflection point, given all the bad news priced in: Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index has been hovering around Global Financial Crisis levels, and India just topped Hong Kong as the world’s fourth-largest stock market. We think more forceful stimulus measures, or a comprehensive plan to rescue the property sector, is needed for a turnaround.
4. 2024 is the year of elections — what does a Trump versus Biden rematch mean? Former President Trump has now claimed victory in both the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary. Thus, it looks like we’re racing towards a Biden versus Trump rematch. We await more details on what both candidates’ policy platforms will look like. However, having this much information this early in the election cycle means there may be fewer possible outcomes for which markets need to calibrate.
5. Geopolitical flashpoints — what’s the spillover? After most gauges of supply chains normalized from unprecedented COVID-era disruption, the situation in the Red Sea has complicated the picture. Some question if that brings renewed inflation risks, as hundreds of giant container ships are forced to take a lengthier detour. Shipping costs have now risen for seven straight weeks. Such geopolitical tensions are concerning and warrant monitoring, but so far it appears the disruptions in the Red Sea just make trade more difficult.
Rick Barragan is the Managing Director, Los Angeles Market Manager, for J.P. Morgan Private Bank. r.barragan@jpmorgan.com | (310) 860-3658 privatebank.jpmorgan.com/los-angeles
Rebecca Haussling has joined Wellnest as the Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs. Wellnest is celebrating a century of hope and healing in Los Angeles. Rebecca is a seasoned communications and marketing professional, with over 15 years’ experience in nonprofit and for-profit sectors. Before joining Wellnest, Rebecca was the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at AbilityFirst.
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Bridgette Flint, an accomplished marketing professional, to the role of Marketing Manager at Mileage Quest, a dynamic tech startup poised for unprecedented growth. Drawing on a proven track record in account management and social media, Bridgette is eager to contribute her strategic vision to elevate Mileage Quest’s brand presence and market position.
In her previous roles, Bridgette successfully managed and monetized accounts for high-profile social media clients and influencers across multiple platforms such as: YouTube, TikTok, Netflix, Instagram, and prestigious modeling agencies.
Through meticulous data analytics and collaboration with cross-functional teams, she played a pivotal role in generating over $1.8 million in revenue and achieving a remarkable 17% increase in overall engagement.
With a B.B.A in marketing from Loyola Marymount University, Bridgette’s educational background complements her practical expertise. This academic foundation, in combination with hands-on experience, positions her as a well-rounded professional capable of driving marketing strategies that yield tangible results.
Her skill set encompasses a range of key areas including account management, social media strategy, content planning, and branding. In addition to technical proficiency in video/photo editing and various digital platforms, Bridgette brings a results-driven mindset, creative thinking, and a commitment to achieving marketing excellence.
As Bridgette takes on the role of Marketing Manager at Mileage Quest, she is excited about the opportunity to lead the charge in shaping the company’s marketing strategy. With a forward-thinking team and innovative approaches, her collective goal is to position Mileage Quest as a frontrunner in the competitive tech industry. Confident that her experience, skills, and strategic mindset make her the ideal candidate to contribute to Mileage Quest’s success, Bridgette looks forward to leveraging her expertise to propel the brand to new heights and achieve unparalleled milestones in tech marketing.
The latest atmospheric river megastorm inundating Southern California with precipitation and high winds — prompting evacuations from mudslides and causing widespread road flooding — brought eye-popping rain totals by Monday morning.
Rainfall topped 10 inches in some areas of Los Angeles County in two days, easily surpassing the average amount recorded for the entire month of February, according to the National Weather Service.
“And February is our wettest month,” said Ryan Kittell, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard. He noted this storm is “significant.”
As of 8 a.m. Monday, downtown Los Angeles had recorded 5.62 inches of rain over the previous 24 hours. The February average is 3.80 inches.
Historical records won’t be confirmed until the storm passes, and there are still multiple days of rain forecast. But Kittell said that Sunday had already become the region’s 10th-wettest calendar day since record keeping began in 1877. The two-day rainfall tally is expected to break the top five in history, he said, pointing out that the heaviest rain fell late Sunday and early Monday.
And there’s still more rain to come, with another 1.5 to 3 inches expected across the L.A. Basin. Higher elevations — which already had recorded the highest rain tallies — could see 3 to 6 more inches, Kittell said.
“It’s pretty relentless; nothing of the intensity we saw last night, but the rains really are not letting up until, possibly, Thursday,” Kittelll said. “But it should be generally light in nature. The one caveat is we do have a chance of thunderstorms, so if we do get a thunderstorm, we could get a brief, heavy downpour.”
Here are the highest rain tallies for select cities across Southern California as of 8 a.m. Monday. The totals include rain that began late Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica Mountains, at the Topanga fire station: 10.67 inches
Bel-Air: 10.46 inches
Sepulveda Pass, near the Skirball Cultural Center: 10.28 inches
Santa Monica Municipal Airport: 5.58 inches
Brentwood: 9.90 inches
Inglewood: 4.96 inches
Los Angeles International Airport: 3.27 inches
Downtown Los Angeles: 5.95 inches
Woodland Hills: 6.73 inches
Malibu Canyon: 8.06 inches
Van Nuys Airport: 6.04 inches
Eagle Rock Reservoir: 4.05 inches
Los Angeles Valley College: 7.41 inches
San Gabriel Dam: 6.26 inches
Harbor City: 4.83 inches
Pomona: 5.73 inches
Areas with higher elevation saw greater totals, Kittell said, as the hills and mountains act as a ramp to push air up and squeeze out the storm’s moisture.
Areas along the coast have recorded some of the lowest totals, with 2.78 inches reported at Long Beach’s airport, 2.55 inches in Manhattan Beach and 2.59 in Rancho Palos Verdes.
Santa Barbara and Ventura counties:
Matilija Canyon near Ojai: 8.52 inches
Ojai: 4.38 inches
Oxnard: 1.85 inches
Thousand Oaks: 3.58 inches
Lake Casitas: 4.93 inches
Montecito: 5.04 inches
Carpinteria: 4.2 inches
Santa Barbara: 4.39 inches
Across much of San Bernardino, Riverside and Orange counties, rain tallies remained generally below 3 inches Monday morning, but those regions are expecting the worst of the rainfall throughout the day Monday and into Tuesday. San Diego County is not forecast to see heavy rain until Monday evening into Tuesday, though predictions there have been more moderate.
Kitchell Corporation is pleased to announce the promotion of Dianne Lee from Executive Director to Vice President of Strategic Initiatives for the Corporation. This promotion is a reflection of her contributions and commitment to the growth and expansion of the organization. With over two decades of diverse expertise, Dianne brings a wealth of knowledge and a robust network to the executive leadership team.
ISEC, INC. ANNOUNCES THE PROMOTION OF ANDREW BIGGS TO VICE PRESIDENT
Andrew Biggs of ISEC, Inc. has been promoted to Vice President. Andrew has been with ISEC for 18 years, previously serving as Regional Manager of the Southern California region. As Vice President, Andrew will oversee all aspects of business in the Southern California and San Diego markets.
Esplanade Builders, Inc. is pleased to announce the promotion of Roberto Calderon, to serve as the Vice President of the Industrial Construction Division.
Calderon will be responsible for the day-to-day operations and management for this division.
“Roberto’s promotion is a testament to his commitment to being a positive and impactful leader to his team. He embodies Esplanade’s core values by leading through collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth within our corporation,” said Christian Sorenson, President and CEO.
Mr. Calderon has over 16 years of experience in senior level management of all phases of industrial construction, from new tilt-up developments to existing industrial building repositioning’s and large scale site/tenant improvements. He is a great asset due to his extensive knowledge in pre-construction services, due diligence administration and management, estimating, and business development.
