The Massive Thomas Fire Has Been Devastating for California’s Farmers

How the fire hurts

California’s gigantic and dangerous Thomas Fire has burned an incredible amount of pure acreage, while immediately endangering the homes and lives of many folks from Santa Barbara down past Ventura and Santa Paula. But as the LA Times points out, the fire’s effects on the agricultural industry could be much worse (and longer-lasting) still.

Speaking with a number of farmers across Ventura County, the Times discusses the pure devastation of the wildfire, particularly as it affects specific niches like the avocado industry. It’s a sad, tragic tale, but ultimately one with hope for the chance to rebuild and come back even stronger.

Ice cream arrival

Highland Park’s tiny new Afters Ice Cream is now up and running, opening earlier this month on the sly. The very small shop at 5711 Figueroa doesn’t carry the same footprint or scope as the company’s other locations across Southern California.

The follow-up

Vivian Ku and the team behind Pine & Crane are getting closer on their upcoming York Boulevard restaurant space, which will offer something different than the casual Taiwanese restaurant in Silver Lake. And as The Eastsider reports, they’ve even subtly expanded their square footage.

4Saints rises

Palm Springs has a new rooftop destination to know about, says Food & Wine, as 4Saints arrives with stellar views of the entire valley. Add this newcomer to the list of burgeoning restaurant names trying to make a go of it in slowly changing Palm Springs.

Boyle Heights loves coffee

Primera Taza in Boyle Heights has started working with farmers in Mexico directly and sustainably to bring bagged and roasted coffee beans back to the States. Now they’re for sale, low-key packaging and all.