It's Thursday and Kevin's returning today so here are just a few tidbits to get things started:

They might not be able to say yea or nay on that early retirement plan for union workers, but the LA City Council lost no time in imposing furloughs and layoffs on the civilian workforce. LAT

If UC officials get their way, students will be forking over 30 percent more for tuition. AP via Daily Breeze

A 472-carat emerald considered "one of the finest existing emerald crystals in the world" is on display in Santa Ana. OC Reg

Run afoul of the law in the OC? Just $75 and a voluntary DNA sample could help set you free. LAT

The LA Daily News has launched an E-dition.

Off-Ramp host John Rabe has a new blog.

Singer Chris Brown started his court-mandated community service and yes, it was a media circus. AP

What's the hottest link on LATimes.com at this very second? A piece about voyeurs in an elevated park in NYC peeking into windows in hopes of seeing naked people. So much to be proud of, on so many levels.

As ever, you call follow LAO on Twitter, read Mark at LA Biz Observed and follow his tweets, and visit Here in Malibu and follow my tweets.

Thanks from both Mark Lacter and me for all your tips and emails and kind words. We had a blast writing on the front page of Kevin's remarkable blog.