Author: Golden State Review Contributor

On March 17, 2024, an increasing number of Los Angeles residents participated in Urban Farming Day, a growing movement that has seen more city dwellers turn to cultivating their own food in small spaces like balconies, rooftops, and even repurposed vacant lots. As concerns about food security and sustainability grow, urban farming is quickly becoming an innovative solution for many, offering not only fresh produce but a sense of community and environmental responsibility. Urban farming has gained traction in Los Angeles as a response to several pressing concerns, including rising food prices, environmental impact, and the need for local food…

Donald Trump has officially secured the Republican Party’s nomination for the 2024 presidential election, positioning himself as the frontrunner in the race for the White House. His strong performance in key primary states—such as Georgia, Mississippi, Washington, and Hawaii—has given him the delegate count necessary to lock down the nomination. These wins underscore his enduring dominance within the GOP and set the stage for what promises to be a contentious and high-stakes showdown in the general election. Dominance Through Strategic Wins Trump’s path to the Republican nomination was bolstered by a series of decisive victories across several battleground states, with…

SF Library Expands 24/7 Digital Services Amid Record Usage San Francisco, CA — The San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) announced the expansion of its digital services to operate 24/7, following a record year of e-book and online resource usage. New features include live virtual tutoring, access to rare archival materials, and an upgraded app for seamless borrowing. City Librarian Michael Lambert highlighted the program’s importance: “The library is evolving to meet the needs of a digital-first generation, ensuring accessibility for everyone.” Patrons can now access over 2 million digital items, reinforcing SFPL’s reputation as a leader in modern library services.

On March 15, 2024, the U.S. stock market reached an all-time high, marking a significant milestone amid growing optimism about the country’s economic recovery. The surge was fueled by strong quarterly earnings reports from major corporations, positive employment data, and investor confidence in the resilience of the American economy. Key Players: Jay Powell, Chairman of the Federal Reserve, played a key role in the market’s confidence. Under his leadership, the Federal Reserve has maintained interest rates at historically low levels, stimulating growth and encouraging investment. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, was another notable figure whose company’s strong performance contributed significantly…

Cable Car Fare to Increase for First Time in Over a Decade San Francisco, CA — Riding one of San Francisco’s iconic cable cars will soon cost more, as the city announced its first fare hike in 12 years. Starting in July, a single ride will increase from $8 to $10, with monthly passes also seeing a slight uptick. Officials say the increase is necessary to cover rising maintenance costs and ensure the long-term viability of the historic transit system. “We’re committed to preserving this beloved piece of San Francisco’s history,” said SFMTA spokesperson Claire Choi. Tourists and locals have…

In recent years, California has firmly established itself as a leader in the plant-based dining revolution. What started as a niche movement has rapidly gained mainstream traction, with restaurants across the state adopting plant-forward menus that prioritize vegetables, grains, legumes, and other plant-based ingredients. As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, the demand for plant-based options continues to rise, and California’s food scene is adapting accordingly. Plant-based dining is no longer a trend limited to vegans and vegetarians; it has evolved into a culinary approach that appeals to a broad audience, including meat-eaters who are increasingly interested in reducing…

In his third State of the Union address, President Joe Biden outlined a vision for a nation grappling with significant political and social challenges. The speech came at a moment of profound division within the U.S., and Biden seized the opportunity to promote a message of hope, resilience, and national unity. Addressing both domestic and international concerns, Biden emphasized the importance of experienced leadership and underscored the nation’s need to reaffirm its commitment to democracy, peace, and prosperity in an increasingly turbulent world. Defending Democracy Amidst Political Chaos A major theme of Biden’s speech was his staunch defense of truth,…

On March 15, 2024, a new study revealed that meal kit services have now become a mainstream staple in American households, with over 25% of the U.S. population subscribing to one or more meal kit services. As people continue to seek convenience without sacrificing quality, meal kits are transforming the way we approach home cooking. From pre-portioned ingredients to easy-to-follow recipes, these services have revolutionized home dining, catering to busy individuals, families, and even culinary enthusiasts. Meal kits have gained immense popularity, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, when more people were forced to cook at home due…

The 2024 San Francisco International Film Festival (SFIFF) made a grand return on March 15, showcasing the very best of global cinema. Held at the historic Castro Theatre in San Francisco, the festival opened its doors with an eagerly anticipated screening of Echoes of Tomorrow, a science fiction drama directed by veteran filmmaker Sarah Thorne. This year’s festival celebrates its 67th anniversary and promises a diverse range of films, from experimental shorts to high-budget international features, reflecting both the innovative and traditional aspects of modern filmmaking. Opening the event were several prominent figures, including Tory Hatcher, the festival’s executive director,…

On March 15, 2024, the Getty Museum in Los Angeles unveiled its much-anticipated exhibition, Art of the West, a profound exploration of California’s complex and evolving relationship with its natural landscape through the eyes of some of the state’s most iconic and contemporary artists. This exhibition, which showcases works from legendary figures like Edward Weston, Ansel Adams, and Georgia O’Keeffe, offers a fresh perspective on California’s diverse landscapes—ranging from its rugged coastline and towering mountains to the lush valleys and expansive deserts that have shaped the state’s identity and culture for centuries. The Art of the West exhibition is divided…