Southern California

Southern California is a region experiencing a variety of significant events. The area is home to a large Mexican American and Chicano population, reflected in the U.S. Postal Service's new lowrider stamp series, honoring the car culture's history originating in the American Southwest. UCLA's women's basketball team is currently ranked highly, following UConn, in the AP Top 25. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids have recently increased in Southern California, leading to protests and arrests. A powerful atmospheric river storm caused widespread flooding across the region, prompting states of emergency declarations in multiple counties, including Los Angeles and San Diego. NBA star Chris Paul, who played for the Los Angeles Clippers, has retired after a 21-season career. Finally, earthquake monitors in California are being studied for their potential to track incoming space junk by detecting sonic booms.