Greater LA

Comedy clubs and TV tapings are shut down, so local comedians are connecting with audiences online. “Comedians are going to find ways to be comedians however they can. I saw that SNL was canceled and I jokingly said, ‘You know what, I'll do it myself.’ And then before I knew it, that seemed like not the worst idea,” says LA standup comic Ian Abramson.

The earth is getting a break while we all stay out of planes, trains, and automobiles to hunker down at home. If we can do this for a pandemic, why not for climate change?

California has deemed cannabis dispensaries an essential business under the state’s “Stay at Home” order. Dispensaries continue to serve patients and customers across Los Angeles, with some new precautions in place.

The crowded, unsanitary conditions on Skid Row are a breeding ground for disease.  Now the area has its first confirmed case. A driver for the Union Rescue Mission has been hospitalized and is on a ventilator. Eight people who have had direct contact with him have been quarantined off-site, and another 100 workers and residents are quarantined on the third floor of the homeless shelter. 

A lot of places are closed, and you are likely home. That is unless you work for an “essential’ business.” That word conjures up images of grocery stores and hospitals. But what about horseback riding facilities or private jet companies?

Barbara Ferrer, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, talks about the latest numbers and projections for LA County as we battle COVID-19. We also hear from one Postmates driver who recently tried to make 100 deliveries in five days.

When everyone is at home and practicing safe social distancing, how is the government going to count each person for the 2020 Census? Hear how the U.S. Census Bureau plans to overcome counting challenges because of COVID-19.

What are renters and landlords doing when rent is due on April 1? One LA City Councilman is fighting for a rent freeze. Also, big chain movie theaters may have deep enough pockets to close for now, but smaller theaters are struggling.

Today’s entire show is about how Angelenos are helping their neighbors during the coronavirus pandemic. One Huntington Park bakery is offering free bread to kids each day. Filmmaker Lulu Wang is collecting protective gear for local hospitals. A Santa Monica resident is offering to run errands for his neighbors. 

Due to COVID-19, LA County’s criminal and civil trials are suspended, while entire courthouses are shut down. How is the court system that oversees the largest population of jail inmates in the world faring?