U.S. consumer confidence edged up in July, reflecting a modest boost in short-term optimism, according to the latest report from the Conference Board. The U.S. consumer confidence index rose to 97.2 in July, up from a revised 95.2 in June. Despite the slight increase, the index remains lower than levels seen a year ago, signaling…

California homeowners insurance rates are expected to rise by an average of 21% in 2025, according to a recent report by Insurify. This follows a 10% increase in 2024 and brings the average annual premium in the state from $2,424 to $2,930—a $509 jump by year’s end. While much of the increase is linked to…

The Federal Reserve held rates steady at 4.25% to 4.5% during its July meeting, continuing a pause that began earlier this year. The decision marks the fifth straight meeting without a change to the federal funds rate, as the Fed navigates rising inflation and a slowing job market. Fed Chair Jerome Powell said the economy…

  The U.S. GDP rebound in the second quarter of 2025 signals a return to growth, driven by improved trade balances and steady consumer spending. Much of the rebound stemmed from a significant drop in imports, which boosted net exports and helped lift the headline figure. At the same time, consumer spending remained resilient, and…

During a recent lunch hour at the Jack Crippen Senior Center, the El Monte Police Department (EMPD) teamed up with Thrifty Ice Cream and AltaMed to serve local seniors with more than just dessert. Officers scooped out classic Thrifty Ice Cream to attendees while raffle prizes and giveaways brought excitement and cheer to the afternoon.…

Students at Rio Hondo College now have a new, hot meal option available at all hours of the day and night, thanks to PizzaForno’s growing presence across Southern California campuses. Known for its fully automated pizza ovens, PizzaForno Rio Hondo made its debut earlier this summer at the college’s police shooting academy range, with a…

Managing daily stress doesn’t require special equipment, long schedules, or big commitments. With simple practices like breathing exercises, gentle stretches, and family gratitude sharing, parents and children can build resilience and strengthen emotional health together. These mindful stress tools for kids can also help adults reset in the moment—before stress builds or tempers flare. Incorporating…

El Monte Union High School District’s (EMUHSD) ongoing partnership with Beat the Streets (BTS) Los Angeles continues to create opportunities for student-athletes to shine, with six students — including two recent graduates from the Class of 2025 — proudly representing their schools and community at the 2025 Beat the Streets National Camp and Duals, held…

A stolen Cessna aircraft reported missing from a Los Angeles County airport in La Verne was located early Monday morning at the San Gabriel Valley Airport in El Monte, according to police. The El Monte Police Department responded swiftly after receiving a regional law enforcement alert regarding the stolen plane. The alert prompted officers to…