We stand at the precipice of a significant tectonic shift in our political system. Similar to the profound disruptions the newspaper, music and transportation industries underwent some years ago, our democratic system, which is designed to be a lagging social indicator, is struggling to find a working model for a...
Classic Blue Is Pantone Color Institute’s Color of the Year
NEW YORK — In these uneasy times, as we move along to a new decade, the Pantone Color Institute has reached back in time to calming, confident Classic Blue as its color of the year for 2020. The color is an anchor offering stability, constancy and connection, said Laurie Pressman,...
Syrians Hope US Troops Will Bring Revived Oil Fortunes
BEIRUT — As U.S. troops beef up in eastern Syria to protect oil fields, residents hope their mission will bring stability and prosperity to the remote and resource-rich region —and keep the Syrian government out. Their hopes reflect the expectations being piled onto the operation, even as President Donald Trump...
Werner: Don’t Blame Environmental Law for California’s Housing Crisis
California is facing a housing crisis of unprecedented proportions. Lower-income residents across the state must choose whether to pay for rent or food. People who can’t cover housing costs are forced to leave their homes, their neighborhoods and even the state. But as legislators resume discussions regarding policy solutions, we...
In Modesto, Uncle Shelby's Old House Is Now a Rental
Housing and the stability it promises can be hard to find in California. Take the family of Shelby Humphrey, my great uncle on my mom’s side. After the Second World War, he, his wife Doris, and their 10 children left Southern California for Modesto. They rented 17 different places while...