Elson Trinidad
Born and raised in Los Angeles (watching KCET since toddler-age), Elson Trinidad has been a KCET contributor since 2012, covering Asian/Pacific Islander communities and local environmental issues, and in 2014 wrote and curated KCET's 50th Anniversary section. He is also an accomplished singer/musician, community activist, historian, and nonprofit professional.
On December 16, 1997, the $1.3 billion Getty Center museum opened on the hills above Brentwood, establishing itself as a bold new addition to Los Angeles' art landscape.
In December 1996, KCET steered onto the Information Superhighway with the launch of the KCET.org website.
On February 1, 1996, KCET witnessed its second major transition of leadership as outgoing President and CEO William H. Kobin retired, and his successor, Al Jerome, took over.
On January 16, 1995, PBS premiered "The Puzzle Place," a children's series co-produced by KCET, which featured a multi-racial cast of puppet characters that celebrated diversity and positive social interaction.
On November 8, 1994, California voters passed Proposition 187, which prohibited illegal immigrants from using public social services in the state, touching off a legal battle over its constitutionality.
In April 1994, The KCET Store of Knowledge opened its first location at the Glendale Galleria, the result of a revenue-generating joint venture for the station.
On January 17, 1994, a magnitude 6.7 earthquake centered near Northridge rocked Southern California and claimed the lives of 57 people, injured over 9,000, and caused $20 billion in damage.
On October 2, 1993, the Los Angeles Central Library re-opened to the public after seven years of fire damage repair and the construction of a modern expansion wing.
On October 11, 1992, "Storytime," the popular, star-studded KCET children's series focusing on reading and later shown nationally on PBS, made its debut.
On April 29, 1992, six days of rioting, violence, protests, arson fires, looting and civil disobedience broke out in Los Angeles following the acquittal of four LAPD officers who beat motorist Rodney King the year before.
On January 14, 1992, KCET's longtime signature evening news and public affairs program, "Life & Times," made its debut.
On November 7, 1991, L.A. Lakers All-Star Earvin "Magic" Johnson announced he had tested positive for HIV and was to retire from professional basketball.