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ANTELOPE VALLEY NEWS


Extension of Smoke Shop Moratorium in Lancaster
LANCASTER, CA — In response to growing concerns about illegal activity and public safety issues tied to smoke shops, the Lancaster City Council has moved decisively to tighten oversight of tobacco-related businesses. On October 28, the council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1144, establishing an interim 45‑day moratorium on the opening of new smoke shops and the expansion of existing ones. City officials described the temporary halt as a necessary pause—an opportunity to step

Richard Sykes
Dec 19, 20253 min read


Palmdale Standoff Ends Peacefully After Dramatic Pursuit
PALMDALE, CA — A tense standoff gripped a Palmdale neighborhood Thursday night after a police pursuit ended in a violent crash and a barricaded suspect situation. The incident unfolded around 7 p.m. near Avenue R and 35th Street East , drawing a massive law enforcement response and forcing residents to shelter in place. The truck jumped the curb, snapping off a fire hydrant and slamming into two parked vehicles. It's believed the driver was possibly still inside the truck a

Richard Sykes
Dec 12, 20252 min read


Ring in 2026 with Style: Big Shotz Bar & Grill Hosts a Glamorous New Year’s Eve Extravaganza
LANCASTER, CA: Big Shotz Bar & Grill, in Lancaster, is pulling out all the stops for its 2026 New Year’s Eve Extravaganza, promising an unforgettable night of gourmet dining, live entertainment, and festive celebration. Set beneath the glow of golden string lights in an elegant outdoor heated tent, the event will take place on December 31, 2025, at 227 W. Pillsbury Street. Cocktail Hour & Gourmet Buffet Doors open at 5:00 PM, kicking off with a cocktail hour from 5:00 to 6:00

Richard Sykes
Dec 11, 20252 min read


The Rock Inn: Where Every Stone Tells a Story—Now Up for Sale
LAKE HUGHES, CA —Nestled deep in the Angeles National Forest, in the quiet mountain town of Lake Hughes, stands a fortress of stone that has been welcoming travelers, locals, and dreamers for nearly a century, and that fortress is now for sale for the first time in a half-century. Septuagenarian Rock Inn proprietor Warren St. John served his last free Thanksgiving meal for Lake Hughes, California community members last week as he is retiring after 20 years of running the hist

Richard Sykes
Dec 4, 20254 min read


Herradura Hats: Crafting Western Tradition in the Antelope Valley
LANCASTER, CA — In the western edge of Lancaster, one local craftsman is working to keep a timeless tradition alive. At Herradura Hats , founder Alex Torres is bringing authentic cowboy hat shaping and Western craftsmanship back into the spotlight — one custom-made piece at a time. Full interview with Alex Torres from Heredera Hats. A Passion That Started at Home Alex’s journey began in the most unexpected place: his bedroom. “I used to shape cowboy hats in my bedroom,” he

Brian Lawrence
Nov 19, 20253 min read


Lancaster Police Lead Major Multi-Agency Traffic Enforcement Operation
LANCASTER, CA — The Lancaster Police Department (LPD) led a major multi-agency traffic enforcement operation across the city today, stepping up efforts to curb speeding, distracted driving, and other behaviors that endanger road users. Lancaster City Council photographed with the law enforcement officers involved in the traffic enforcement operation that was conducted in Lancaster involving 7 agencies on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Nearly 40 officers from seven agencies pa

Richard Sykes
Nov 12, 20252 min read


Major Traffic Collision: Elizabeth Lake Road
ANTELOPE VALLEY, CA --A major traffic collision early Sunday morning disrupted life in the Antelope Valley, California, as emergency crews rushed to Elizabeth Lake Road and Godde Hill Road following a serious crash. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of injuries and damages. The Incident At approximately 6:10 AM on November 9, 2025, a traffic collision occurred at the intersection of Elizabeth Lake Road and Godde Hill Road in Antelope Valley. 1 The California H

Richard Sykes
Nov 9, 20252 min read


A Little LA County Bear History
ANTELOPE VALLEY, CA — Did you know the bear on California’s state flag was inspired by a real one? Back in 1911, the designers used “Monarch,” the last grizzly bear kept in captivity at Golden Gate Park, as their model. Artist representation of "Monarch", which was adopted for use on the State of California flag. But by 1916, grizzly bears — also called brown bears — had basically vanished south of the Tehachapi Mountains. That October, people camping around Crescenta, Tuju

Richard Sykes
Nov 5, 20253 min read


Palmdale Launches Emergency Food Drive as CalFresh Benefits Pause
PALMDALE, CA — With CalFresh benefits on hold and thousands of local families facing uncertainty, the City of Palmdale is stepping up to make sure no one goes hungry. Starting Monday, Nov. 3 , South Antelope Valley Emergency Services (SAVES) will shift into emergency mode to distribute food to residents who need help. SAVES will be running drive-thru food pickup only to keep things moving quickly and safely. Distribution happens Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Richard Sykes
Nov 4, 20252 min read


Final Salute: Palmdale Hosts the Last Display of the AV Wall Honoring Vietnam Veterans
The City of Palmdale invites residents and visitors alike to take part in a historic and heartfelt farewell as the AV Wall—a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.—is presented for its final public display.

Richard Sykes
Nov 4, 20252 min read


Two Tracks Beer & Wine: A Journey from the Colombian Navy to Craft Perfection in Lancaster
LANCASTER, CA – When you step into Two Tracks Beer & Wine , you’re immediately met with warmth — not just from the rustic decor or the aroma of hops and oak barrels, but from the owners themselves, Renato and Rosa Balestas , whose passion and perseverance are woven into every bottle and pour. Renato and Rosa Balestas From the Navy to the Vine Born and raised in Colombia, Renato Balestas’ journey to the Antelope Valley began oceans away. After serving eight years in the Col

Brian Lawrence
Nov 3, 20253 min read


19-Year-Old Killed in Halloween Party Shooting in Lancaster
A Halloween celebration in Lancaster took a tragic turn early Saturday when a 19-year-old man was shot and killed outside a party. Deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to the 100 block of West Avenue I around 12:45 a.m. after reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found the young man suffering from gunshot wounds to his upper body. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators say a fight broke out at a nearby business hosting a

Richard Sykes
Nov 3, 20251 min read


REFI SNACKS 5-Year Anniversary Party on November 15
ANTELOPE VALLEY, CA -- Refi Snacks is excited to announce that they will be hosting a spectacular 5-Year Anniversary Party on November 15th. This momentous celebration will take place at the vibrant Lucky Luke Brewing Patios, located at 610 W Avenue O, Palmdale, CA 93551. This event marks a significant milestone for Refi Snacks, and they are eager to share this joyous occasion with their loyal customers and the local community. The anniversary party promises to be an unforget

Richard Sykes
Oct 27, 20252 min read


LCB and Happy Hours Bring a New Energy to Lancaster’s Craft Beer Scene
Local Craft Beer (LCB), one of the region’s most recognized independent breweries, has officially joined forces with Happy Hours Bar & Grill.

Brian Lawrence
Oct 24, 20254 min read


Colder Weather is Coming: How Antelope Valley Residents Can Prepare Their Homes
As the Antelope Valley transitions from the extreme heat of the summer into the quickly cooling climate of fall (followed quickly by the crisp chill of winter), residents across Lancaster, Palmdale, and surrounding communities are bracing for the seasonal shift.

Richard Sykes
Oct 23, 20253 min read


Road Construction in Palmdale: Location Updates
PALMDALE, CA – A number of road construction projects are underway in the City of Palmdale through October 26. The accompanying list and map show where these projects are underway and what is being done. Please remember to slow down in construction zones and be prepared for possible delays. Current road repair locations in the City of Palmdale. ITEM NUMBER LOCATION DESCRIPTION 1 Laidlaw Ln. from Redwood Ave. to end of cul-de-sac Intermittent shoulder closure of the No. 1

Richard Sykes
Oct 22, 20254 min read


Bravery Brewing: Where Craft, Community, and Camaraderie Meet
LANCASTER, CA — Tucked away just off 8th Street West, Bravery Brewing isn’t just a brewery — it’s a community hub. For more than a decade, owners Brian and Kara Avery have built a space where craft beer, camaraderie, and local pride blend together seamlessly. With its veteran ties, artisan approach to brewing, and signature basset hound mascot “Watson,” Bravery has become a beloved Antelope Valley staple. Beth Samuel and Brian Avery A Passion Born from Film Sets and Homebre

Brian Lawrence
Oct 17, 20253 min read


Native American Celebration Returns to Antelope Valley Indian Museum This Weekend
ANTELOPE VALLEY, CA — The Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park invites the community to its annual Native American Celebration this weekend, October 18–19, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The event promises a vibrant showcase of Indigenous culture through dance, storytelling, art, and traditional foods. Location :15701 East Avenue M, Lancaster, CA 93535Free parking is available on-site The Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park What to Expect : Traditional B

Richard Sykes
Oct 16, 20251 min read


Dog Leads Authorities to Human Remains in Palmdale Desert
PALMDALE, CA — A quiet Sunday afternoon in the high desert turned grim when a resident walking their dog stumbled upon a human skull near a junkyard in unincorporated Palmdale off 124th Street East and Pearblossom Highway. The discovery has prompted a homicide investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Deputies responded to the call around 12:22 p.m. after the dog led its owner to the remains. The area, located near Speed Motors Auto Repair and Body, is kn

Richard Sykes
Oct 15, 20251 min read


The Antelope Valley Buzzes with Fall Festivities, Local Markets, and Cultural Celebrations
ANTELOPE VALLEY, CA -- From pumpkin patches to Native American storytelling, Antelope Valley is alive with community spirit this October. Residents across Lancaster, Palmdale, and surrounding towns are embracing the season with events that celebrate local culture, creativity, and connection. Fall Fun and Family Favorites Prancer’s Farms in Palmdale is hosting its annual fall celebration, complete with hayrides, corn mazes, and a pumpkin patch that’s perfect for family photos.

Richard Sykes
Oct 13, 20252 min read
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