Grand Canal To Be Restored

Grand Canal To Be Restored

The Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday approved funding to restore the Grand Canal as storm-water runoff has eroded the slope along its banks in the last few years.

The $396,000 project will repair the slope and construct catch basins at the intersections of seven streets along the canal. When storm-water flows over the sidewalk, it erodes the slope that supports the sidewalk, creating a hazard to pedestrians. The catch basins will redirect the runoff and prevent further erosion.

"Since I came into office in 2005, the restoration of Ballona Lagoon and Grand Canal has been one of my top priorities," said Councilmember Bill Rosendahl in a statement. "Working with the Silver Strand and Marina Peninsula neighbors and developers, significant improvements have been made that not only protect these valuable resources, but ensure that everyone will have full access." 

Half the costs are funded by the Gas Tax and the remainder was diverted from various city improvement projects. A construction start date has not yet been set.

When Did Bare Breasts Become Taboo?

When Did Bare Breasts Become Taboo?

A French judge ordered the magazine Closer to turn over topless photos of Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, on Tuesday. Attorneys for the magazine argued unsuccessfully that the photographs were not an invasion of privacy because bare breasts are no longer taboo in Europe. When did bare breasts become taboo in Western civilization?

Space Shuttle Endeavour Begins Its Final Flight

Space Shuttle <cite>Endeavour</cite> Begins Its Final Flight

Early Wednesday morning, the Space Shuttle Endeavour began its final flight. And despite the piggybacked, decidedly sub-orbital nature of the journey, this one has millions of people around the country buzzing with excitement.