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👋 Welcome to Northridge Now - Issue #0058
Good Evening, Northridge! 🌙
A new LAUSD interim superintendent headlines tonight's edition as the district begins its leadership transition following Alberto Carvalho's resignation. We're also covering new testimony in the Woodland Hills murder-for-hire case, a major STEM investment at CSUN, a Pacoima mom's inspiring new nonprofit, the latest World Cup headlines, and everything happening around the Valley as the weekend approaches.
🔹 In Tonight's Issue:
🏫 LAUSD names Andrés Chait interim superintendent following Alberto Carvalho's resignation
⚖️ New court testimony alleges a $400,000 murder-for-hire payment in the Woodland Hills doctor case
🎓 CSUN receives more than $1 million to expand STEM technology and research opportunities
💙 A Pacoima mom launches a nonprofit supporting families with special needs families
🎆 Officials warn residents about illegal fireworks ahead of the Fourth of July
⚽ Plus: World Cup security updates, Team USA's next match, Mexico advances, free watch parties, this week's match schedule, farmers markets, local events, and more from around the Valley.
Whether you're winding down for the night or getting a head start on Thursday, here's everything you need to know from across the San Fernando Valley.
Let’s get into it 👇
📰 Valley News
🏫 LAUSD Names Andrés Chait Interim Superintendent
The Los Angeles Unified School District has selected Andrés Chait to serve as interim superintendent following Alberto Carvalho's resignation. Chait will oversee district operations while the school board begins the search for a permanent superintendent.
🔹 Key Details:
Chait was appointed by the LAUSD Board of Education as interim superintendent.
He will lead the district during the transition period.
Officials say district operations and summer programs will continue without interruption.
The board will begin a nationwide search for a permanent superintendent.
The appointment provides temporary leadership for the nation's second-largest school district during the transition.
👉 Full Story: ABC7
🔄 Follow-Up Reports
⚖️ Court Testimony Details Alleged Murder-for-Hire Payments in Woodland Hills Doctor Case
New court testimony alleges the ex-wife of a Woodland Hills doctor accused in a murder-for-hire case promised $400,000 to the suspected gunman following the physician's fatal shooting. The testimony came during ongoing court proceedings connected to the high-profile case.
🔹 Key Details:
Prosecutors presented testimony alleging a $400,000 payment was promised to the alleged shooter.
The case stems from the 2024 fatal shooting of a Woodland Hills physician outside his medical office.
Multiple defendants continue to face charges related to the alleged murder-for-hire plot.
Court proceedings remain ongoing as prosecutors continue presenting evidence.
The case continues to move through the Los Angeles County court system as additional testimony is presented.
👉 Full Story: Daily News
💙 Pacoima Mom Launches Nonprofit for Special Needs Families
A Pacoima mother has turned her family's experience raising a child with Williams syndrome into a new nonprofit dedicated to supporting parents of children with disabilities. The organization, Smiling Hearts WS, aims to connect families with resources, community support, and advocacy across Southern California.
🔹 Key Details:
Parents of children with Williams syndrome and other special needs can access support, educational resources, and community events.
The nonprofit was founded after the family's personal journey highlighted the need for stronger local support networks.
While inspired by Williams syndrome, the organization serves families across the broader special needs community.
Fundraising events will help expand programs and services for local families.
The nonprofit hopes to provide families with connection, encouragement, and practical resources while building a stronger support network throughout the San Fernando Valley.
👉 Full Story: San Fernando Valley Sun
📅 Local Business
🤝 Valley Referral Network - LeTip in Porter Ranch
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👉 Register to Visit or send this to someone who should: LeTip - Valley Referral Network
🌡️ Weather Report
⚖️ Sherman Oaks Construction Firm Reaches Tentative Settlement in Gender Bias Case
A Sherman Oaks-based construction company has reached a tentative settlement in a gender discrimination lawsuit filed by federal officials. Final approval of the agreement is still pending.
🔹 Key Details:
The lawsuit alleged female employees were subjected to discrimination in the workplace.
A tentative settlement has been reached between the company and federal officials.
The agreement remains subject to court approval.
Additional settlement terms are expected to be released after final approval.
The resolution would conclude the federal employment discrimination case if approved by the court.
👉 Full Story: San Fernando Valley Sun
🎆 Officials Warn About Illegal Fireworks Ahead of July 4
Southern California fire and law enforcement officials are urging residents to avoid illegal fireworks as preparations begin for Independence Day celebrations. Officials warn dry conditions significantly increase wildfire risks.
🔹 Key Details:
Illegal fireworks remain prohibited throughout Los Angeles County.
Fire officials cite heightened wildfire danger due to dry vegetation.
Injuries, structure fires, and brush fires increase each year around July 4.
Residents are encouraged to attend professional fireworks shows instead.
Authorities say reporting illegal fireworks can help reduce injuries and fire hazards during the holiday.
👉 Full Story: KTLA
The best HR advice comes from those in the trenches. That’s what this is: real-world HR insights delivered in a newsletter from Hebba Youssef, a Chief People Officer who’s been there. Practical, real strategies with a dash of humor. Because HR shouldn’t be thankless—and you shouldn’t be alone in it.
📍 Local Events
🍅 Weekly Farmers Markets & Food Events
🍅 FRIDAYS | Olive View Farmers Market
🕘 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 14445 Olive View Dr., Sylmar (Parking Lot A)
Stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally grown goods every Friday. EBT accepted.
🔗 More Info: Sylmar Neighborhood Council
🌮 FRIDAYS | Granada Hills Grubfest
🕔 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📍 Chatsworth St. between White Oak & Zelzah
Over 30 rotating food trucks, casual outdoor dining, and one of the San Fernando Valley’s favorite weekly traditions.
🔗 More Info: Facebook
🥬 SUNDAYS | The Vineyards Farmers Market
🕘 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 The Vineyards at Porter Ranch
Browse fresh produce, artisan foods, flowers, and local makers while enjoying one of the Valley’s premier weekend destinations.
🔗 More Info: The Vineyards at Porter Ranch
🌿 SUNDAYS | Toluca Lake Certified Farmers Market
🕘 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 4501 Talofa Ave., Toluca Lake
A lively market featuring farm-fresh produce, artisan vendors, prepared foods, live music, and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
🔗 More Info: TL Farmers Market
🥕 TUESDAYS | Sherman Oaks Farmers Market
🕑 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Westfield Sherman Oaks Parking Lot
Fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, prepared foods, and neighborhood vendors with relaxed community vibes. Rain or shine.
🔗 More Info: Facebook
🌻 WEDNESDAYS | Northridge Fashion Center Farmers Market
🕔 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Northridge Fashion Center
Enjoy fresh produce, artisan foods, desserts, flowers, and local vendors for a perfect midweek outing.
🔗 More Info: Northridge Fashion Center Events
📚 CSUN News
💻 CSUN Receives $1 Million for STEM Technology Expansion
California State University, Northridge has received more than $1 million in federal funding to expand technology and research opportunities through its Autodesk Technology Engagement Center. The funding will support new computers, equipment, and hands-on STEM learning resources for students across the San Fernando Valley.
🔹 Key Details:
The funding totals approximately $1.039 million for new computers, research equipment, and technology upgrades.
The investment supports makerspaces, STEM labs, and innovation programs at CSUN.
Officials say the project will also expand STEM opportunities for K-12 students throughout the Valley.
The funding was secured through Congresswoman Luz Rivas for Fiscal Year 2026.
University leaders say the investment will help prepare students for careers in engineering, technology, and other high-demand STEM fields.
👉 Full Story: Daily News
🎖️ Top World Cup Stories
🚁 More Than 300 Drones Seized Around World Cup Stadiums
Federal officials say more than 300 drones have been confiscated near World Cup venues since the tournament began as authorities continue enforcing no-fly zones around stadiums.
🔹 Key Details:
Drone restrictions remain in effect around all World Cup venues.
More than 300 drones have been seized since the tournament started.
Officials warn unauthorized drone flights can interfere with security operations.
Violators could face fines and federal penalties.
Authorities continue reminding fans to leave drones at home when attending matches.
👉 Full Story: ABC7
⚽ Balogun's World Cup Performance Drawing European Attention
United States striker Folarin Balogun is attracting increased interest from several of Europe's top clubs after an impressive World Cup performance.
🔹 Key Details:
Balogun has continued to raise his profile during the tournament.
European clubs are reportedly monitoring his performances closely.
His scoring ability has helped strengthen the U.S. attack.
Strong World Cup performances often influence transfer interest following the tournament.
Balogun remains one of the key offensive players as the U.S. prepares for the knockout stage.
👉 Full Story: ESPN
⚽ Free World Cup Watch Parties Pop Up Across SoCal
Don't have tickets? Fans can still be part of the World Cup excitement through a series of free public watch parties being held across Southern California. Organizers are planning large-screen broadcasts, entertainment, and community events as the region welcomes matches throughout the tournament, giving local soccer fans plenty of ways to join the celebration.
👉 FREE Events: LA Daily News
⚽ Ochoa Helps Mexico Finish Perfect Group Stage
Veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa made a late appearance as Mexico completed a perfect World Cup group stage, finishing atop its group without dropping a point.
🔹 Key Details:
Mexico finished the group stage with a perfect record.
Ochoa entered late to help preserve the result.
The victory secured first place in the group.
Mexico advances to the knockout stage with momentum.
The win keeps Mexico unbeaten as the tournament moves into the elimination rounds.
👉 Full Story: ESPN
The World Cup Has a Market for Every Match.
From the group stage to the final, trade real outcomes on Kalshi, official regional partner of the Argentine National Team. Who wins, who advances, who takes the trophy. Peer-to-peer, no house, cash out anytime. Get $10 free.
Trade responsibly.
⚽ FIFA World Cup Schedule: June 25–27 ⚽
Thursday, June 25
🇨🇼 Curaçao vs. Ivory Coast — 1:00 PM PT
🇪🇨 Ecuador vs. Germany — 1:00 PM PT
🇯🇵 Japan vs. Sweden — 4:00 PM PT
🇹🇳 Tunisia vs. Netherlands — 4:00 PM PT
🇵🇾 Paraguay vs. Australia — 7:00 PM PT
🇹🇷 Türkiye vs. United States — 7:00 PM PT
Friday, June 26
🇳🇴 Norway vs. France — 12:00 PM PT
🇸🇳 Senegal vs. Iraq — 12:00 PM PT
🇨🇻 Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia — 5:00 PM PT
🇺🇾 Uruguay vs. Spain — 5:00 PM PT
🇪🇬 Egypt vs. Iran — 8:00 PM PT
🇳🇿 New Zealand vs. Belgium — 8:00 PM PT
Saturday, June 27
🇭🇷 Croatia vs. Ghana — 2:00 PM PT
🇵🇦 Panama vs. England — 2:00 PM PT
🇨🇴 Colombia vs. Portugal — 4:30 PM PT
🇨🇩 Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan — 4:30 PM PT
🇩🇿 Algeria vs. Austria — 7:00 PM PT
🇯🇴 Jordan vs. Argentina — 7:00 PM PT
👉 Full Schedule and Scores: ESPN
⚽ Top 10 Places to Watch the World Cup in the SFV
Looking for the perfect spot to catch the match? From dedicated soccer pubs to neighborhood favorites, here are 10 San Fernando Valley locations worth checking out during the World Cup.
🍻 Game Changer Brewhouse – Sherman Oaks
One of the Valley's best game-day destinations, featuring plenty of screens, craft beer, and an energetic sports crowd.
🏆 Best Ball | Food Drinks Sports – Van Nuys
A modern sports bar built for watching big games, with excellent viewing angles and a lively atmosphere.
🍔 Taps Valley Gastropub – Northridge
A reliable local favorite with great food, drinks, and plenty of TVs for catching every minute.
🍺 HQ Gastropub – Woodland Hills
Popular for major sporting events thanks to its vibrant atmosphere and elevated pub menu.
⚽ Springbok Bar & Grill – Van Nuys
A longtime soccer hotspot known for attracting passionate fans and showing international matches.
🌮 The Local Peasant – Sherman Oaks
A relaxed neighborhood gastropub offering quality food, drinks, and a comfortable place to watch with friends.
🍕 Rocco’s Tavern – Studio City
Big screens, pizza, cold drinks, and a high-energy sports environment make this a tournament favorite.
📺 Brewz Sports Cafe & Grill – Canoga Park
A casual West Valley staple with plenty of TVs, beer on tap, and a laid-back game-day vibe.
🍻 The Thirsty Merchant – Valley Village
Craft beer, good food, and a neighborhood atmosphere perfect for settling in for a match.
🏟️ Yard House – Northridge
While not soccer-specific, its extensive TV setup, huge beer selection, and central location make it a dependable choice.
💡 NNN Tip: Popular matches can fill up quickly, so call ahead to confirm the game will be on and whether reservations are recommended.
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