Ruben's Bakery & Mexican Food in Compton, a family-run business that survived the Rodney King riots and the pandemic, was devastated by a mob of over 100 people during an illegal street takeover. The crowd robbed the bakery, causing an estimated $70,000 in damages. This incident has significantly impacted the bakery's operations, especially ahead of the busy Three Kings Day. Despite the setback, the community has shown support through donations and city officials have contributed to the restoration efforts. The family aims to reopen and continue serving their traditional pastries for the holiday.
The Eugene Weekly, a longstanding free newspaper in Oregon, ceased publication and laid off its staff due to significant financial damage caused by an employee's embezzlement. The theft resulted in unpaid bills and unmet financial obligations, including $70,000 owed to the printer and unfulfilled employee retirement contributions. Despite the setback and ongoing police investigation, the newspaper's editor and community supporters are determined to revive the publication, with fundraising efforts already underway.
The Eugene Weekly, an Oregon-based newspaper, was forced to lay off its entire staff and cease its print edition after discovering that a former employee embezzled $90,000 and left the paper with over $100,000 in unpaid bills. The financial crimes unit is investigating, while the paper's staff continues to work unpaid to maintain the website and has started a GoFundMe campaign to revive the publication. The incident highlights the broader issue of local news outlets closing across the U.S., impacting community connections and contributing to political polarization.
