August 30 - September 5, 2009
Friday, Sep. 4
Friday's jobs report had very few surprises - and in a way, that was the disappointing part. Perhaps we were looking for a few encouraging signs.
Lighter Labor Day travel, Macerich sells Denver mall, Hilton hotel workers push for union, and As the Broadcom Turns.
August jobs report generally falls within the econsensus estimates; economist Mark Zandi puts it this way: "The job market is in for a slog."
Thursday, Sep. 3
There's Angelo Mozilo and Jimmy Cayne, of course, but what about Nancy Pelosi, Viagra, Botox and the BlackBerry?
Firing of American Apparel workers offers a reminder of how indiscriminate the immigration laws continue to be. And just don't break the law in Phoenix!
Inquiring minds want to know more about the SEC's incompetent handling of the Madoff case.
Jobs cut over immigration status, SAG staffers got pay raises despite budget woes, HMO turndown rates in CA, and is Mrs. Puck the next Bill Gates?
Wednesday, Sep. 2
As faltering growth begins, that catch phrase keeps popping up among pundits and economists - even if no one understands its ramifications.
SEC watchdog has found that three agency exams and two investigations of Bernie Madoff's business were not competently handled.
We're seeing a few signs that local projects put in the deep freeze due to financing problems are being thawed out.
Don't be fooled by better retail numbers this fall. They only look good when compared with 2008.
Supermarket price wars, life after clunkers, CA debt sale is set, and Bette Davis condo for sale.
Tuesday, Sep. 1
There's lots of nonchalance down in Baja for a powerful storm that will be hugging the coastline through tomorrow.
The 50 largest construction projects in L.A. County have a combined cost of almost $10 billion, though much of the financing came before the recession.
The owner of the OC Register cited debts of more than $1 billion and assets of $500 million to $1 billion.
The star of "Everybody loves Raymond" returns to TV in a new TNT drama that will be shot locally, thanks to the state's tax credit.
More M&A talk in Hollywood, gripes over fire coverage, BofA offers to return a little bailout $$, and Toyota accused of concealing evidence.
Monday, Aug. 31
SD Union-Tribune finally scraps its old-fashioned paste-up production for a souped-up pagination system.
The communications setup isn't just a stray TV antenna or two - it's a monstrous collection of towers, dishes and buildings.
Several area radio stations without backup sites at other facilities could be especially vulnerable.
Whether the acquisition by Disney turns out to be a good move is nothing more than a guess at this early stage.
Disney acquires Marvel, Mt. Wilson threat unclear, Zell might stay on at Tribune, and Apple reportedly under investigation.
I want to express my appreciation for all the heartfelt expressions of sympathy on the passing of my mom.
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The funeral for Mark Lacter will be held Sunday, Nov. 24 at 12 noon at Hillside Memorial Park, 6001 W. Centinela Avenue, Los Angeles 90045. Reception to follow.
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